U.S. Probation Officer (More than one position may be filled)

POSITION OVERVIEW The United States Probation Office for the Western District of Arkansas is currently accepting applications for the position of United States Probation Officer. The United States Probation Office for the Western District of Arkansas serves 34 counties located primarily in the western half of the state. Please click "Learn more about this agency" for more information.

Duties REPRESENTATIVE DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES Gathers and verifies background information concerning persons charged with a federal criminal offense when they are arrested or summoned to the court. Information is gathered through interviews with defendant, arresting authorities, U.S. Attorney's office, family, and community members. Law enforcement automated criminal records systems are used to obtain and verify information. Drug testing and substance abuse assessments are performed. Evaluates information and prepares a report to the judge prior to the initial hearing with an assessment of flight risk and danger to the community. A recommendation regarding bail and/or release or detention of the defendant is included in the report. In formulating a recommendation, considers prior convictions, ability of defendant to post bond, community ties, possibility of substance abuse, and the risk of flight as well as the degree of danger to the community. Supervises those defendants that are released on bond when required. Makes regular telephone contacts, home visits, and community contacts as required by the condition of release and supervision plan. Ensures that defendant takes the required drug tests. Supervision intervention conducted with defendant to modify behavior to reduce potential for revocation. Assists those needing medical help, food, shelter, and other assistance by referring them to the appropriate community or governmental agencies. Coordinates and monitors defendant's contact with community resources. Notifies the court and the U.S. Attorney of any violations. Prepares petitions and/or reports to the court recommending revocation or modification of conditions of release. Attends court hearings (initial, detention or violations) to provide additional information and keeps abreast of the case status and requirements. Testifies when necessary to support violation reports. Conducts investigations and prepares reports for the Courts with recommendations for sentencing of individuals convicted of federal offenses. The preparation of these reports require interviewing offenders and their families, investigating the offense, prior record and financial status of the offender and contacting law enforcement agencies, attorneys, victims of the crimes, schools, etc. The purpose of these activities is to ascertain the offender's background, to assess the probability of future criminal behavior, to determine profit from the offense and any restitution, and to determine the offender's ability to pay fines and costs of prosecution, incarceration, and supervision. An integral part of this process is the interpretation and application of the U.S. Sentencing Commission Guidelines and relevant case law. Following the disclosure of the presentence report to the parties, analyzes any objections and determines appropriate course of action. Such actions including disputed issues and/or presenting unresolved issues to the court for resolution. Presents presentence report and sentencing recommendations to the court. Responds to judicial officer's request for information and advice. Testifies in court as to the basis for factual findings and guideline applications. Serves as resource to the court to facilitate proper imposition of sentence. Supervises offenders to maximize adherence to imposed conditions, reduce risk to community, and to provide correctional treatment. Maintains personal contact with offenders through office and community visits by telephone. Investigates employment, sources of income, lifestyle and associates to assess risk and compliance. Responsible for detection of substance abuse through assessment and counseling implements the necessary treatment or violation proceedings of appropriate offenders. Refers offenders to appropriate outside agencies such as medical and drug treatment facilities, employment and training. Initiates contacts with, replies to, and seeks information from persons and organizations (i.e., U.S. Parole Commission, Bureau of Prisons, and attorneys) concerning offenders' behavior and conditions of supervision. Detects and investigates violations and implements appropriate alternatives and sanctions. Reports violations of the conditions of supervision to the appropriate authorities; prepares written reports on these violation matters; and makes recommendations for disposition. Testifies at court hearings. Conducts preliminary interviews and other investigations as required. Maintains a detailed written record of case activity. Is responsible for such case records as are required by the Court, the Administrative Office of the United States Courts, and the Chief Probation Officer. Acknowledges the District as an evidence-based organization and supports evidence-based practices. Receives coaching and support to develop and sustain coaching skills and enhance skill development of evidence-based supervision. Performs such other duties as the Court may require. Salary

• $49,965 - $113,078/year

Qualifications Required Education / Experience Completion of a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with specialization in criminal justice, criminology, psychology, sociology, human relations, business or public administration, which provides evidence of the capacity to understand and apply the legal requirements and human relation skills involved in the position is required for all probation officer positions. In addition to meeting educational requirements, applicants must also have specialized experience or meet superior academic achievement requirements. Qualifying experience for the U.S. Probation Officer at the CL-25 requires one year of specialized experience, including at least one year equivalent to work at the CL-23 level and completion of the requirements for a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university. Qualifying experience for the U.S. Probation Officer at the CL-27 requires two years of specialized experience, including at least one year equivalent to work at the CL-25 level or completion of a master's degree in field of study closely related to the position, or a Juris Doctor (JD) degree. Qualifying experience for the U.S. Probation Officer at the CL-28 requires two years of specialized experience, including at least one year equivalent to work at the CL-27. Specialized Experience: Progressively responsible experience, gained after completion of a bachelor's degree, in such fields as probation, pretrial services, parole, corrections, criminal investigations, or work in substance abuse/addiction treatment. Experience as a police officer, custodial, or security officer, other than any criminal investigative experience, is not creditable. Education Please read the "Qualifications" section. Required Documents Please read the "How to Apply" section. How to Apply PROCEDURES FOR APPLYING Submit an application packet that includes: A letter of interest detailing your knowledge, skills and abilities that are relevant to the field of probation, pretrial services, investigations, counseling, and case management. A detailed résumé including education and previous employment. Name, address, and telephone number of three professional references. Official academic transcripts. Your most recent performance evaluation. A completed Application for Judicial Branch Federal Employment (Form AO-78). Completed application packets should be submitted electronically as one PDF document to Kara_Pittman@arwd.uscourts.gov with the subject line stated "24-ARWD-10 Probation Officer". Applications must be received by 4:00 p.m. on closing date. Incomplete application packets will not be considered. All application information is subject to verification. Participation in the interview process is at the applicant's own expense. Relocation expenses will not be provided. Due to the volume of applications received, only applicants who are interviewed will receive a written response regarding their application status.