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Parole OFC

What Type of Positions Can an Parole Officer Hold?

Most parole officers work for local, state, and/or the federal government.  A bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in criminal justice, psychology, corrections, social work, sociology, counseling, or business administration is required in most states to pursue a career in this field.  Promotions to higher paid positions or positions with seniority require professional experience and often require a master’s degree in one of the above fields.  Federal parole officers commonly have an additional requirement of one-year of graduate level work in social work, psychology, or counseling.  Most parole officers begin as trainees, and will receive supervised on-the-job training for at least six months.

There are a number of requirements that must be met in order to obtain employment as a parole officer.  They include:

Some states require a parole officer work for 2-years (at the very least) in a corrections or counseling position before being considered for employment as a parole officer.

Learn more abouthow to become a parole officer.

Jobs Settings & Functions That Provide Positions for Parole Officers

Nearly all parole officers will work for a government agency at the local, state, or federal level, such as the US court system and the Department of Justice.  Some individuals will work in private offices, many travel to offenders homes, and/or some will choose to work specifically with juveniles at correctional facilities for non-adults.

Ways for a Parole Officer to Increase His/Her Salary

Aspiring parole officers, and those who have graduated with a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, psychology, corrections, social work, sociology, counseling, or business administration will find a great deal of competition upon entering the field.  Individuals, who wish to increase their salary and advance on the job, should consider earning a master’s degree from an accredited college or university.  If an individual wishes to work specifically with a particular population, such as juveniles or sex offenders, he or she must complete additional training.  Internships while attending college, experience working with youths and adults and volunteering are all recommended ways to get ahead and secure employment in this field.

Attributes Employers Often Look For When Hiring a Parole Officer

Because parole officers can work with dangerous individuals, and in dangerous situations or environments, it is necessary to have a number of attributes to succeed in this filed.  Just a few, include:

Networking Opportunities and Organizations for Parole Officers

In addition to networking with professors while in college, getting to know local law enforcement personnel, volunteering, and during internships, there are a number of associations to gain valuable information about becoming a parole officer.

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