Probation Officer

Competition #: 48970
Department: Justice
Location: Antigonish
Type of Employment: Permanent
Union Status: NSGEU - NSPG
Closing Date: 21-Jun‑26 (Applications are accepted until 11:59 PM Atlantic Time)

The Correctional Services division of the Department of Justice is responsible for the administration and operation of community and custody‑based programs and services for adults and young persons. The division includes community corrections and correctional facilities, each focused on specific target groups.

Community Corrections operates 22 offices from Yarmouth to Sydney. Probation officers supervise individuals serving community‑based sentences and prepare pre‑sentence investigations, facilitate evidence‑based programs, and collaborate with community justice agencies.

Four adult correctional facilities and one youth centre provide safety, security, and programs that address criminogenic factors to support successful reintegration.

Nova Scotia Correctional Services uses an evidence‑based approach, guided by Core Correctional Practices (CCP), to interact with, manage, and facilitate change for target populations.

As a Probation Officer you will provide community corrections services for adults and young persons (12 years of age and over). Your responsibilities will include using an electronic case management system, preparing investigative reports for courts, attending court, supervising individuals serving community‑based dispositions, and coordinating collateral contacts with employers, schools, family and others to support the supervision process. You will also manage community‑based programs (Adult Restorative Justice, Community Service, Fine Option) and make agency referrals as appropriate.

• Complete presentence reports as requested by the court to assist in determining appropriate dispositions.
• Supervise individuals on court orders to ensure compliance with court‑ordered conditions.
• Investigate violations when conditional sentence orders are breached; prepare and serve applicable documents.
• Record ongoing file documentation for case management.
• Respond to crises of individuals on supervision and their families using intervention techniques and suicide prevention protocols.
• Investigate and charge individuals on supervision with violations of court orders; apply and provide supporting documentation for revocation of suspended sentences as required.
• Facilitate and deliver operational programs such as:
  • Adult Restorative Justice
  • Fine Option
  • Community Service Work
  • Prisoner Release
  • Electronic Supervision
  • Student Placements
  • Volunteers in Corrections

Successful candidates hold a bachelor’s degree plus at least 1 year of related experience, or an equivalent combination of training and experience.

Asset qualifications include a degree in the social sciences, experience with criminal/deviant behavior and family dynamics, and knowledge of relevant federal and provincial legislation.

Applicants must demonstrate sound judgment, impartiality, and strong decision‑making skills. Excellent organizational, communication and interpersonal skills, as well as the ability to make accurate assessments for investigative reports and supervision, are essential. A strong teamwork ethic, understanding of community resources, and self‑direction are required. Reliable transportation is necessary.

• Bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree in a related field.
• A two‑year certificate/diploma in a related field plus three years of related experience.

Benefits include a defined benefit pension plan, health, dental, life insurance, general illness coverage, short and long‑term disability, vacation, and employee and family assistance programs.

• Normal work week is 35 hours per week.
• Overtime may be required on occasion.
• High mental demands due to extensive exposure to violence, substance use, and other high‑risk behaviors among those under supervision.
• High physical demands associated with unpredictable behaviors during community visits and correctional institution interviews.
• Extended computer use.
• Travel required for…