Assistant Probation Officer *Revised

The Position

This is a continuous filing exam. Next filing cut-offs are at 5:00 PM on: 1/9/26, 4/10/26, 7/10/26, 10/9/26.

Under supervision, learns to apply the principles and techniques of probation work; supervises and counsels individuals detained in, committed to, or sheltered in one of several County juvenile institutions; supervises minors assigned to Work Project; and provides close supervision of minors placed on home supervision.

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
• Applicable laws, rules, codes, standards and regulations governing the care 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 techniques
• Self‑defense techniques
• Arrest procedures
• Appropriate use of force and security techniques
• Rights and liabilities of peace officers
• Office procedures, methods, and equipment including computers and applicable software applications such as word processing, spreadsheets, databases, and other specialized applications related to area of assignment
• English usage, spelling, grammar and punctuation

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
• Communicate clearly and concisely, both verbally and in writing
• Analyze situations accurately and adopt an effective course of action
• Effectively organize and prioritize work assignments
• Prepare concise and clear reports
• Maintain records
• Communicate with individuals from a variety of socio‑economic backgrounds
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships

Minimum Qualifications: Graduation from an accredited four‑year college or university, preferably with a degree in criminal justice, social or another behavioral science.

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 or 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.

Note: If the minimum qualifications include an educational or certificate/license requirement, applicants must submit proof of requirements with the application. Failure to submit proof of requirements may result in disqualification from the examination. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable. For guidelines on submitting acceptable proof of educational requirements, please speak to someone in our office before the cut‑off date listed in this notice.

Note: If the word “experience” is referenced in the minimum qualifications, it means full‑time paid experience unless the minimum qualification states that volunteer experience is acceptable. Part‑time paid experience may be accumulated and pro‑rated to meet the total experience requirements.

Criminal History and Background Checks: Appointees must pass a criminal history and background check, and 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 to have been convicted of a felony will be disqualified.

License Requirement: A valid California Driver License, Class C or higher, shall be required at the time of…