Probation Counselor

GENERAL DESCRIPTION:

Supervises, tracks, monitors, records, and evaluates the progress of assigned probation clients ensuring that all assigned clients follow their terms and conditions of probation and are not involved in further crime. Searches out the needs of the clients and makes available to them the community resources that will help them meet their needs (i.e. job referrals, alcohol counseling, welfare).

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

The following statements describe the principal functions of the job and its scope of responsibility but should not be considered an all-inclusive list of work requirements.

• Ensures that all assigned clients are following their terms and conditions of probation by going over conditions of probation with the client in an initial interview and monitoring their progress by meeting with clients on a regular basis (typically monthly) in order to track and document their progress as required.
• Outlines conditions of probation with clients to ensure they have a clear understanding of the requirements they must meet according to the court's instructions; obtains clients signature for the conditions of probation; provides clear and specific instructions regarding actions that must be taken by client prior to their next appointment.
• Gathers and verifies client intake information; interviews client to learn as much as possible about the client and to determine special conditions or needs of the client and to establish goals; refers clients to agencies, schedules appointments as needed, and provides agency with necessary information and paperwork; directs client to community service as required.
• Completes court-ordered paperwork containing pertinent information for all clients; ensures the accuracy, completeness and timeliness of the information recorded; ensures that the State Attorney’s Office receives all necessary documents. Close out Client’s file, ex: revoked, satisfactory and unsatisfactory after Judge signs the paperwork.
• Documents, codes, and tracks monies received from the client maintaining accurate and complete accounting records; completes the restitution and fine forms regarding the same; ensures receipt of payments and maintains acceptable collection rate range.
• Notifies the court when a client violates probation conditions; prepares warrants when necessary; completes required paperwork and submits the same to the court; provides recommendations to the court with regard to violations of probation based on the data collected and successful termination of cases. Document Client’s file of arrests and releases from incarceration.
•Prepares and maintains accurate and complete case notes for all client appointments; observes clients behavior and records all pertinent information about the client; outlines the procedures taken and information explained during the course of appointments.
•Issues and coordinates Notice of Hearings; initiates and completes the necessary paperwork and schedules appointment with the client in order to fully explain the procedure.
•Builds and maintains professional relationships with community agencies; prepares and distributes required paperwork and release forms to assist agencies providing services and assistance to clients; ensures all information provided is in compliance with established policies and procedures.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES: •Knowledge of criminal justice principles and practices.
•Knowledge of court procedures and legal terms in order to assist judges and instruct clients.
•Knowledge of effective communication and motivation practices.
•Knowledge of general bookkeeping and recordkeeping practices and procedures.
•Knowledge of time management practices and procedures.
•Ability to testify in court and provide observations and recommendations regarding defendant's probation conditions and/or termination of probation.
•Ability to work with the public encompassing all types of behaviors.
•Ability to interview clients and to obtain pertinent information.
•Ability to prepare and maintain accurate and complete client records.
•Ability to build and maintain effective and professional relationships with other agencies and defendants.
•Ability to maintain the confidential nature of the client's cases as outlined by the established policies and procedures.

PHYSICAL SKILLS:

Ability to meet attendance requirements.
Ability to read, write and communicate.
Ability to communicate clearly and effectively both orally and in writing.
Duties are usually performed seated. Sitting may be relieved by brief or occasional periods of standing or walking.
Limited amount of physical effort required associated with walking, standing, lifting and carrying light objects (less than 25 lbs.) 5-10% of work time.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

Two years college from an accredited college or university in Social Work, Criminal Justice, Sociology, or a related field and two years progressively responsible experience in a court system or probation, parole, social casework or counseling or any equivalent combination of training and experience which provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.

LICENSES, CERTIFICATIONS, OR REGISTRATIONS:

Must possess and maintain a valid Florida Driver License.

OTHER JOB-RELATED REQUIREMENTS:

Disaster Essential.

THE HIGHLANDS COUNTY BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
Does not Discriminate on the basis of age, race, sex, religious belief, color, national origin, disability/handicap, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, genetics or any other legally protected group/class. We are proud to be a drug free workplace. Screening tests for illegal drug use may be required as a condition of employment

Department:	Misdemeanor Probation
Reports to:	Chief Probation Counselor
Pay Grade/Salary Range:	107 - $42,229.09 - $67,566.55 (hourly - $20.30 - $32.48)