Probation officers and correctional treatment specialists monitor and work with probationers to prevent them from committing new crimes.

Probation officers and correctional treatment specialists work with probationers and parolees, some of whom may be dangerous. Workers may be assigned to fieldwork in high-crime areas or in institutions where there is a risk of violence or communicable disease. As a result, the work can be stressful and dangerous.

Probation officers and correctional treatment specialists usually need a bachelor's degree. In addition, most employers require candidates to pass oral, written, and psychological exams.

The median annual wage for probation officers and correctional treatment specialists was $49,360 in May 2015.

Employment of probation officers and correctional treatment specialists is projected to grow 4 percent from 2014 to 2024, slower than the average for all occupations. Limited state and local government funding for corrections will temper employment growth. However, job openings should be plentiful because many people leave the occupation each year.

Explore resources for employment and wages by state and area for probation officers and correctional treatment specialists.

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