Deputy Juvenile Probation Officer

Overview

Deputy Juvenile Probation Officer I - )

This position is open until filled. The first review of applications will be Monday, January 5, 2026. Required documents must be submitted on the State of Montana Careers website: resume (with dates of employment and supervisor’s name/phone number for each position), cover letter, and three professional references. Documents not requested will not be considered in the recruitment process. The Judicial Branch is an equal opportunity employer with encouragement for women, minorities, and people with disabilities to apply.

This is professional human services and social work involving the direction, supervision, and guidance of juveniles on probation and/or in placement outside the home. Work includes collaborating with juveniles, their families, school staff, and representatives from social services and law enforcement agencies to support family welfare, protect youth, and prevent delinquency and chemical dependency. The role may include duties in specialized areas such as youth drug court programs or restitution.

Supervision may involve activities such as setting curfew limits, arranging counseling and evaluations, coordinating family-based services, or removing youth from unsafe situations. Work is performed under close supervision initially and progresses to greater independence. Evaluation is conducted by a chief probation officer through case reviews and annual performance assessments.

• Evaluate case, police, and arrest reports to determine the validity of charges and refer appropriate cases to the county attorney; conduct intake hearings for youth who violated the law.
• Perform initial assessments of youth to determine risk, mental health, and chemical dependency needs; interview youths, families, victims, school personnel, and service providers to gather information and recommend placements or treatments.
• Prepare timely court reports with findings and recommendations; testify in court as needed.
• Provide ongoing counseling and goal setting with assigned youth; coordinate with parents and conduct home visits; develop case plans based on initial assessments.
• Gather information, prepare reports, and present before the youth placement committee after adjudication and before disposition.
• Supervise youth on formal or informal probation and monitor compliance with conditions (school, employment, counseling, community service, restitution).
• Provide crisis intervention and facilitate placement as families address problems.
• Participate in internal or community committees to advise on policy or program development; may work in a specialized area such as youth drug court or restitution.

• Primarily office environment with safety precautions typical of offices. May involve exposure to violent or non-compliant youth or family members and on-call requirements for evenings and weekends.

• Prolonged sitting, standing, bending, stooping, reaching, climbing stairs; lifting and carrying light to medium objects; driving long distances in various weather conditions.

• Knowledge of youth probation principles and related court procedures; understanding of child/adolescent development and family dynamics.
• Ability to persuade youths and families to engage in positive behavioral changes; prepare accurate reports with findings and recommendations; document contacts and observations.
• Ability to interpret and apply the Montana Youth Court Act and Interstate Compact for Juveniles; organize time and manage workload; maintain confidentiality.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team and communicate clearly in writing and verbally; work with diverse stakeholders including youth, families, schools, judges, and agencies.
• Ability to manage conflicts and handle emotionally charged situations; proficient with word processing software.

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in Behavioral Sciences, Human Services, or Criminal Justice.
• One year of experience in law enforcement, criminal justice, youth services, or social services.
• Valid Montana driver’s license or…