Probation Aide

Definition

Under close supervision, incumbents learn to apply the principles and techniques of probation work; supervise and counsel individuals detained in, committed to, or sheltered in one of several County juvenile institutions; supervise minors assigned to Work Project; and provide close supervision of minors placed on home supervision.

Distinguishing Characteristics

The class of Probation Aide is distinguished from the Probation Assistant class in that Probation Aides are typically hired as temporary replacements for regular Probation staff who are absent due to vacation, sick leave, military duty, leave without pay, or other reasons.

Examples of Duties, Knowledge, and Abilities

NOTE: The following duties are typical of those performed by most incumbents in this class. Other related duties may also be performed; not all duties listed are necessarily performed by each individual.

DUTIES:

Home Supervision Assignments:

1. Supervises the conduct and welfare of juveniles under jurisdiction of the probation officer or the Juvenile Court; interviews juveniles and parents, and explains the nature and conditions of release.

2. Supervises juveniles to effect compliance with conditions of release and evaluates adjustments to home, school and community.

3. Confers with supervisor regarding juveniles' progress and need for modification or revocation of home supervision status.

4. Prepares case reports relating to disposition and progress of juvenile with recommendation for continuation, modification or termination of status.

5. Maintains case folders, record of contacts and other records relating to cases.

Institutional Assignments

1. Reviews files, unit logs, medication requirements and restriction sheets for background data and treatment guidelines.

2. Provides care, custody and control of a group of juvenile offenders detained in a Probation Department facility.

3. Monitors group and individual activities through supervision of work and recreation, and records significant observations of these and other group interactions.

4. Counsels juveniles individually and in groups regarding behavior.

5. Enforces order and the disciplinary policies and procedures of the institution.

6. Writes behavioral and progress reports and other significant data on juveniles for department and court information.

7. Assists in planning, organizing, and conducting recreational and leisure time programs.

8. Teaches games and work skills.

9. Supervises personal hygiene, cleanliness and housekeeping habits.

10. Maintains security of the institution.

11. Conducts body and room searches for contraband.

12. Inspects equipment and facilities for damage and safety.

13. Transports and escorts juveniles under custody conditions.

14. Remains alert to potential problems and unusual behavior of juveniles.

15. Responds to emergencies, including escapes and attempted escape, and takes action to control disturbances and behavior problems of juveniles.

16. Communicates juvenile's activities and observations to appropriate supervisors.

KNOWLEDGE OF:
• Principles and techniques applicable to the care and rehabilitation of juvenile delinquents;
• The growth, development, needs and problems of minors
• Symptoms of behavior disorders
• Group dynamics
• Codes, standards and regulations governing are and treatment of juveniles in juvenile hall, camps, ranches or schools
• Principles of investigation and laws governing search, seizure and preservation of evidence
• Counseling techniques
• Basic housekeeping techniques
• Hygienic standards
• Motivational techniques
• Crisis intervention
• Self-defense
• Appropriate use of force and security techniques
• Rights and liabilities of peace officers

ABILITY TO:
• Secure the respect and confidence of adolescents
• Cope with hostility and aggressive behavior
• Work well as a member of a team
• Exercise good judgment and act calmly in emergency situations
• Recognize subtle changes in behavior
• Read, write, and speak English at a level necessary for satisfactory job performance
• Prepare concise and clear reports
• Maintain records
• Communicate with individuals from a variety of socioeconomic backgrounds
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships
• Meet all physical requirements of the position

Minimum Qualifications

Equivalent to an Associate of Art degree (60 semester units or 90 quarter units), from an accredited college or university.

Note: Up to one year of the required education may be substituted by experience in full-time, or equivalent part-time, paid law enforcement or correctional work in a probation agency, parole agency, or correctional institution on the basis of 173.6 hours = 21.7 days = 1 work month = 3 semester or 4.5 quarter units.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

Compliance with government Code: In accordance with California Government Code, Section 1031, each employee shall meet the following minimum standards:

a. Be a citizen of the United States or a permanent resident alien who is eligible for and has applied for citizenship. Any permanent resident alien shall be disqualified from holding the position if his or her application for citizenship is denied.

b. Be at least 18 years of age.

c. Be fingerprinted for purposes of search of local, state, and national fingerprint files to disclose any criminal record. In addition, a classifiable set of fingerprints shall be furnished to the Department of Justice and to the Federal Bureau of Investigations.

d. Be found to be free from any physical, emotional, or mental condition that might adversely affect the exercise of the powers of a peace officer.

Criminal History And Background Check:
Appointees must pass a criminal history and background check. Pursuant to California Government Code, Section 1029, the conviction of a felony is grounds for disqualification from an appointment. Pursuant to Sacramento County Civil Service Rules, candidates found having been convicted of a felony will be disqualified.

Physical Requirements:
Incumbents will frequently perform a wide variety of physical tasks such as standing, walking, running, stooping, bending, climbing stairs and lifting of individuals which requires strength, coordination, endurance, and agility. In addition, there may be occasional contact with hostile individuals, and incumbents may be subjected to physical and verbal abuse while restraining individuals.

Drivers License:
Possession of a valid California Driver License, Class C or higher, is required at the time of appointment.

Note: Failure to maintain the appropriate valid California Driver License may constitute cause for dismissal from the class under applicable Civil Service Rules or applicable bargaining agreement.

Hours of Work:
Incumbents in this class must be willing to work irregular hours, holidays and weekends.

Probationary Period and Class History Information

Six (6) Months