Pre-Trial Release Specialist

About the Role

The Center for Justice Innovation seeks five Pre-Trial Release Specialists for the Onondaga County Pretrial Release Program (OC-PRP), which provides an alternative to pretrial detention and bail. The program ensures individuals facing criminal charges attend court appearances and avoid rearrest while remaining in their communities. Specialists play a key role in delivering high-quality services to participants and meeting court obligations.

Responsibilities

• Court & Arraignments:
  • Appear in daily arraignments, including nights and weekends, to provide program information and orientation to newly mandated participants.
  • Track cases and complete court-based data entry for newly released participants.
  • Provide written and verbal case updates to the court, including compliance reporting.
  • Ensure newly released participants are scheduled for program intake or re-release check-in.
  • Maintain professional communication with justice system stakeholders.
• Participant Intakes & Assessments:
  • Conduct interviews with defendants to collect relevant information.
  • Complete intake forms and assessments accurately and timely.
  • Determine eligibility for pretrial release and make recommendations to the court.
  • Conduct risk assessments and complete required documentation.
  • Gather and verify collateral information from family members, employers, and service providers.
• Case Management & Supervision:
  • Provide supervision for participants according to their assigned level.
  • Identify and address barriers to compliance and court attendance.
  • Provide holistic case management and service referrals.
  • Maintain accurate and timely data entry and case documentation.
  • Monitor electronic monitoring compliance and communicate with vendors and court personnel.
  • Submit timely reports to the court.
• Program Collaboration & Community Partnerships:
  • Collaborate with community service providers to coordinate referrals.
  • Maintain relationships with justice system partners.
  • Participate in team meetings, case reviews, and staff trainings.
  • Represent the program at community events and professional meetings.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree and minimum 1 year related experience, preferably in criminal justice, or 3-4 years’ criminal justice experience as an equivalency.
• Experience in pretrial, court-based, or criminal legal systems strongly preferred.
• Experience with substance use treatment, mental health services, or trauma-informed approaches preferred.
• Detail-oriented with strong organizational and time management skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Professional demeanor and culturally responsive communication skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft and Google suites.

Position Details

Type: Full-time, in-person. Weekend and evening hours required as needed.
Shifts: Rotating between 8am - 4pm, 8:30am - 4:30pm, or 9am – 5pm.
Location: Syracuse, NY.
Compensation: $52,000 - $53,000, commensurate with experience.

Benefits

• Comprehensive healthcare, dental, and vision insurance.
• Short-term and long-term disability, life insurance.
• Flexible spending accounts, including commuter FSA.
• Mental health services through Talkspace and Ginger.
• 403(b) retirement plan with employer contribution.

The Center for Justice Innovation is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion. We encourage applications from women, people of color, LGBTQ+ individuals, and those with prior justice system involvement.