Become a Probation Officer

Probation Officers play a critical role in protecting Maine communities while supporting opportunities for positive change. As part of the Maine Department of Corrections’ Adult Community Corrections team, Probation Officers work directly with adults under court supervision—helping them remain accountable, build stability, and move toward successful reintegration.

In this role, you will balance public safety with rehabilitation by supervising clients in the community, assessing risks and needs, and collaborating with courts, treatment providers, and community partners. The work requires sound judgment, professionalism, and the ability to make independent decisions in complex situations. If you are motivated by meaningful public service and want to make a lasting difference in people’s lives, a career as a Probation Officer may be right for you.

Minimum Qualifications

• Education, training, internships, volunteer experience, or work experience performing duties related to at least one of the following: probation/parole; public safety; military; or social services.     
• At least 21-years-old.
• Possess a High School Diploma or equivalent (HiSET, GED, etc.). 

*Preference will be given to those candidates possessing a degree in criminal justice, criminology, social sciences, psychology, or related field*

Hiring Process

1. APPLICATION EVALUATION: HR will review your application.
   1. Application packets for those who meet the minimum qualifications will be forwarded to the Hiring Manager.
   2. The Hiring Manager will contact you to schedule an interview.
       
2. INTERVIEW PROCESS:
   1. Oral Board interview with three or more experienced staff.
   2. Candidates who are selected to move forward will receive a conditional job offer contingent on successful background checks.
       
3. EXPANSIVE BACKGROUND CHECKS:
   1. Interstate Identification Index (Triple I)
      • Fingerprint
      • Criminal history
   2. Juvenile history report
   3. DHHS history review
       
4. OFFER
   • Should there be more than one top candidate for a single opening, a second interview will be held with each.
   • A formal job offer is made to the selected candidate.

Training

1. Adult Community Corrections Academy
   • An 8-week academy based out of the Augusta Office, with other locations as dictated by the curriculum.
   • Includes firearms training and exposure to OC spray.
   • MDOC covers overnight stays for those travelling significant distances (ex. from Aroostook County)
      
2. Upon academy completion, you become a Sworn Probation Officer.
    
3. Post-Academy Field Training.
   • You are assigned a Field Training Officer to work closely with you for generally 6 months or more.