HOW TO GET THERE
Typical pathway
A common path is to finish high school, then move into post-secondary studies in a field such as criminal justice, social work, psychology, or a related social service area, depending on the employer and province. Many students also build experience through volunteer work or entry-level roles with community agencies, schools, corrections, or youth programs. Strong communication, report writing, interviewing, and problem-solving skills are important. Some employers may prefer candidates with related field experience and knowledge of the justice system, rehabilitation, and community supports. Further training or employer-specific orientation may be needed after hire.
THE WORK
What you may do
Legacy duties
- Interview offenders, police, family, friends, school authorities and employers to prepare pre-sentence reports and assess offenders' prospects for successful reintegration into the community
- Plan rehabilitation programs with offenders, establishing rules of conduct, goals and objectives
- Refer offenders to community and social service programs, as required
- Supervise the terms of a probation order and attend court
- Interview probationers and parolees regularly to evaluate their progress in accomplishing goals and maintaining the terms specified in their probation contracts and rehabilitation plans
- Recommend remedial action or initiate court action when terms of probation or parole are violated
- May perform administrative duties and supervise support staff
- May participate in policy development.