Chief Probation Counselor

GENERAL DESCRIPTION:

This position performs a variety of supervisory and probationer case management tasks.  Duties may include, but not be limited to, assigning, coordinating, instructing, monitoring, and participation in the day-to-day work performed by Probation Counselors.  Court documents will require ongoing review and regular audits will be conducted for Probation Counselors' work. This position will supervise the pre-trial misdemeanor intervention program and other speciality programs. 

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

The following statements describe the principal functions of the job and its scope of responsibility but should not be considered an all-inclusive list of work requirements.  
• Supervises the day-to-day work performed by an assigned group of Probation Counselors and assigns cases and instructs/trains employees in proper methods and procedures for performing work; checks and approves work in progress and upon completion; conducts performance evaluations; promotes good relations and morale among all staff members.
• Supervises, coordinates and monitors the processing of all probation documents; approves and signs violations of probation and terminations; reviews and approves modifications, termination orders; reviews, approves, and/or notarizes all violation memorandums and orders to show cause.  
• Updates the status whether case is terminated, modified, or given another court date. 
• Assists Probation Counselors in reviewing and discussing the procedural matter pertaining to all casework and case files.
• Responds to requests from associated criminal justice agencies or authorized agencies such as the State Attorney's office, Judges, or rehabilitation centers, etc.
• Audits Probation Counselor's casework at least quarterly to ensure accuracy, completeness, and compliance with established policies and procedures; prepares summary report of findings and provides constructive feedback and praise to enhance performance of Probation Counselors and support staff.
• Conducts orientation and training programs.
• Recommends new methods and procedures to enhance program operations.
• Interprets and explains procedures, answers specific questions, and resolves operational problems. 
• May schedule departmental staff meetings. 
• Assumes the responsibilities of other positions as needed. 
• Trains all Probation Counselors on established computer procedures.
• Monitors all information entered into the Corrections software to ensure accuracy of data input. (i.e. client status, and case information).  
• Monitors a case load when temporary shortage of personnel exists.
• Attend violation of probation hearings. 
• Observe drug screen as needed by the lab.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

• Knowledge of criminal justice principles and practices.
• Knowledge of court procedures and legal terms 
• Knowledge of the principles and practices of effective supervision and motivation of personnel.
• Knowledge of the principles and practices of effective management.
• Knowledge of general bookkeeping and recordkeeping practices and procedures.
• Knowledge of the Clerk of the Circuit Court partial pay system. 
• Ability to process data from case files in order to advise Probation Counselors regarding recommendations to the court with limited or no supervision. 
• Ability to work with the public encompassing all types of behaviors.
• Ability to interview clients and to obtain pertinent information.
• Ability to prepare and maintain accurate and complete case notes and client records.
• Ability to plan, organize, and prioritize work in order to accomplish work in compliance with quality standards and deadlines.
• Ability to build and maintain effective and professional working relationships with clients and community agencies.

PHYSICAL SKILLS:

•Ability to meet attendance requirements.
•Ability to read, write, and communicate.
•Limited amount of physical effort required associated with walking, standing, lifting and carrying light objects (less than 25 lbs.) 5-10% of work time.
•Duties are usually performed seated.  Sitting may be relieved by brief or occasional periods of standing or walking.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

Two years college or technical school degree from an accredited college or university in Social Work, Sociology, Psychology, Criminal Justice, or a related field (Bachelor's degree preferred),and five years progressively responsible experience working in a corrections program with at least two years as a Probation Counselor or any equivalent combination of training and experience which provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.

LICENSES, CERTIFICATIONS, OR REGISTRATIONS:

Valid Notary Public Certification
Must possess and maintain a valid Florida Driver license.
DOT Drug Screen Collector Certificate

OTHER JOB-RELATED REQUIREMENTS:

         Disaster Essential.

THE HIGHLANDS COUNTY BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS
Does not Discriminate on the basis of age, race, sex, religious belief, color, national origin, disability/handicap, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, genetics or any other legally protected group/class. We are proud to be a drug free workplace. Screening tests for illegal drug use may be required as a condition of employment