Probation Counselor II

About the role

This position works within the Probation Division and provides case management services and supervision of youth ordered on probation by the court. Monitors compliance with court-ordered conditions and requirements. Completes court-ordered investigations and writes reports. Attends court hearings and makes recommendations for disposition.

Responsibilities

• Counsels and treats clients through office and home visits to verify compliance with court-orders.
• Formulates treatment or rehabilitation plans for and presents written or oral recommendations for adjustment of behavior.
• Schedules payments, collects court costs and restitution, monitors urine tests, and supervises visits or exchanges according to court orders or other relevant agreements.
• Makes referrals for appropriate treatment or services when necessary, utilizing least restrictive interventions while building upon the youth and family’s natural supports.
• Works collaboratively with other agencies and service providers.
• Uses graduated sanctions when appropriate to address non-compliant behavior in lieu of formal court action, and incentives when desired behavior is demonstrated.
• Fills probation and/or court order violations and returns cases to court for non-compliance when appropriate.
• Supervises and visits youth at home, school, juvenile detention centers, treatment programs, and residential facilities.
• Follows policies and procedural guidelines set by the agency and the state Department of Juvenile Justice (DJJ).

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications: Any combination of education, experience, and training equivalent to a bachelor's degree in social/behavioral sciences, criminal justice, or education plus two years of professional experience in probation work, social work, criminal justice, juvenile justice, education, or counseling. A master's degree in the disciplines above may be substituted for one year of the required experience.

Preferred Qualifications: Experience in the use of evidence-based tools to assess needs of clients and their families. Experience in interviewing families and collecting collateral information in order to write pre-dispositional reports and to make recommendations to a Judge in a courtroom setting. Excellent interpersonal communication skills, and the ability to work with a diverse clientele of different ethnicities and socio-economic statuses. Ability to work and make decisions independently with minimal supervision. Experience with cross-agency collaboration and working with other service providers. Knowledge of local community-based resources for youth and families, and experience accessing services through the Comprehensive Services Act. Knowledge of the Code of Virginia, Department of Juvenile Justice (DJJ) standards, and local court service unit policy and procedures. Fully proficient in the use of DJJ's Balance Approach Data Gathering Environment (BADGE) or experience using other case management software. Prior experience as a Juvenile Probation Officer is preferred.