Probation Service Officer - Birmingham

Overview of the role

The Probation Service Officer (PSO) supports people on probation before and after sentence. The holder carries out assessment, sentence implementation, offender management and prepares reports, providing case‑management support using service procedures to enable professional judgement.

• Manage a caseload of offenders before and after sentence.
• Assess and manage risk.
• Provide information to courts and work with agencies across the justice system.
• Support offenders with practical advice on housing, employment and general wellbeing.
• Produce clear and accurate reports to tight deadlines.

• Personal qualities – empathy, patience, resilience, and organisation.
• Experience working with people who have social or personal difficulties.
• Strong writing and verbal communication skills.
• No degree required; personal experience and qualities are prioritised.
• Ability to work in a varied, mobile environment – office, court, team or prison.

The standard full‑time hours are 37 per week, Monday to Friday 09:00–17:00. The role may have hybrid working arrangements where business need allows; the position must be based in the UK.

The position is open to UK nationals, citizens of the Republic of Ireland, Commonwealth nationals with the right to work in the UK, EU/UK citizens with settled or pre‑settled status, and other individuals who meet the Civil Service nationality requirements.

• Annual leave starts at 25 days and increases to 30 days after five years.
• Local Government Pension Scheme via Greater Manchester Pension Fund.
• Access to training and development opportunities.
• Family‑friendly policies, flexible benefits and support for childcare.

The Probation Service operates under the UK Civil Service employment framework and is committed to fair and open competition through merit.