Court Services Officer

$1,000 New Hire Incentive

Job

Agency:
Unified Judicial System, Sixth Judicial Circuit

Location:

Pierre, SD

Salary: $28.37 per hour

Closing date:
Open Until Filled

Supervises adults and juveniles on or anticipating probation by preparing presentence investigations and social histories; interviewing victims; assessing offenders’ risks and needs; making recommendations to the court for sentences and dispositions; developing treatment plans and linking offenders with appropriate community‑based services; and investigating, supervising, and counseling individuals to facilitate their personal, social, and economic adjustment in their communities. Travel is required.

This position will be required to work hours during evenings and weekends, as necessary.

• Assisting Judges in forming sentences and dispositions for offenders that provide accountability and punishment and encourage rehabilitation; and at the same time provide community safety.
• Referring offenders to services considering court orders, family dynamics, and individual difficulties and skills to facilitate their personal, social, and economic adjustment in their communities.
• Supervising probationers and diversion program participants by conducting visits at homes, work, schools, or elsewhere in their communities and by telephone; keeps precise records of all meetings; and obtains verification for completion of services to check on their progress and ensure compliance with court orders.
• Performing court duty and attending offenders’ hearings routinely to expedite court processes and assist individuals and agencies involved.
• Performing other work as assigned.

Bachelor’s degree in social sciences, criminal justice, or a related field; or an equivalent combination of related education and experience. Work experience in social services, corrections, domestic violence, disability services, drug and alcohol centers, treatment centers, group homes, or a related field is preferred. Successful completion of a criminal background investigation is required for employment.

• Knowledge: community service agencies and the services they provide; human behavior including dysfunctional behavior; interviewing techniques; de‑escalation techniques; addiction and issues that contribute to its cause; physical evidence that points to drug use; data collection and research techniques; court processes; counseling.
• Skills:
  
  organization and prioritization; time management; problem‑solving; motivation; creativity; self‑defense techniques; conflict resolution.
• Abilities: read and interpret non‑verbal cues; manage a caseload effectively; think independently, formulate plans of action, and remain flexible; communicate effectively both orally and in writing with a wide variety of people; establish and maintain professional boundaries; be a role model; be compassionate, sympathetic, empathetic, and caring as well as stern, persistent, and resilient; teach probationers about boundaries and hold them accountable for their actions;
  
  remain calm in stressful and volatile situations; prioritize court matters with deadlines and sentencing dates; use computer technology proficiently.

The State of South Dakota, Unified Judicial System offers a comprehensive benefits package consisting of 11‑13 paid holidays every year, extensive sick and vacation leave, paid family leave, military training leave, health and flexible benefits, regular working hours, continuing education opportunities, retirement benefits, and a great working environment.

The State of South Dakota, Unified Judicial System does not sponsor work visas for new or existing employees. All persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and complete an Employment Eligibility Verification, Form I‑9.

“An Equal Opportunity Employer”