Probation Officer: P&P District #2 Norfolk #P0251 in Norwich

Join the Virginia Department of Corrections and be part of a team that transforms lives and strengthens public safety. As a Probation Officer, you will play a critical role in helping individuals reintegrate successfully into their communities, balancing accountability with opportunity and justice with compassion. This position directly supports the Department’s public safety mission by supervising and monitoring adults placed on probation, parole, or post-release supervision. You will use evidence-based practices, strong communication skills, and professional judgment to promote pro-social behaviour and reduce recidivism, enhancing both individual outcomes and community safety.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide day-to-day supervision to adults under regular or intensive probation, parole, or post-release supervision, ensuring compliance with conditions set by the Courts or Parole Board.
• Assess criminogenic and treatment needs using validated tools; develop individualized supervision and case plans that address risks and build strengths.
• Use evidence-based practices, such as motivational interviewing and cognitive behavioural techniques, to encourage positive change and accountability.
• Partner with treatment providers, employers, and community organisations to connect individuals with services and resources that support rehabilitation and long-term success.
• Conduct home and community visits as appropriate to supervision plans and case needs.
• Prepare pre-sentence investigations, sentencing guidelines, and progress reports accurately and on time; testify in court and provide professional sentencing recommendations.
• Monitor compliance and take appropriate corrective action, including recommendations for revocation when necessary to protect public safety.

Why Join Us

• Purpose-Driven Career: Make a meaningful impact every day by helping individuals rebuild their lives and keeping communities safe.
• Professional Growth: Receive comprehensive training in evidence-based practices and access to advancement opportunities across the Department.
• Competitive Benefits: Participate in the Virginia Law Officers’ Retirement System (VaLORS), a defined benefit plan with enhanced retirement options for hazardous duty positions. Eligible to retire at age 60 with five years of creditable service, or as early as age 50 with 25 years. A reduced benefit is available at age 50 with five years of creditable service.

Ideal Candidate

We’re seeking professionals with integrity, sound judgment, and a strong sense of purpose, individuals who serve with humility, lead with passion, and work together to strengthen public safety across the Commonwealth. The ideal candidate balances accountability with empathy and is committed to helping others make lasting change. Join a mission that matters. Protect communities. Inspire hope. Advance your career with the Virginia Department of Corrections.

Sign on Bonus

$5,000 split payment, $2,500 payable within 30 days of hire and $2,500 payable after successful completion of employee probationary period.

Minimum Qualifications

• Individual counselling experience and/or casework with adults including direct delivery of services.
• Working knowledge of the criminal justice system, case management and counselling techniques that may include Motivational Interviewing and other evidence-based practices.
• Demonstrated ability in writing reports and working with people in conflict with the legal system, to interpret and apply policies and procedures, and to communicate effectively orally and in writing.
• Capable of independent judgement and action.
• Ability to work with diverse groups of probationers, co-workers and community-based organisations.

Additional Considerations

• Advanced Knowledge in Rehabilitation Counseling, Psychology, Sociology/Social Work, Criminology, Administration of Justice and Public Safety or related field.
• Experience and skill in Microsoft Office products.
• Bi-lingual and Multi-lingual applicants are encouraged to apply.
• The selected candidate must be eligible and successfully obtain required VCIN certification.

Special Instructions

You will be provided a confirmation of receipt when your application and/or résumé is submitted successfully. Please refer to “Your Application” in your account to check the status of your application for this position. If selected as a finalist with the VADOC, candidates can expect the following: Background Investigation Requirements All applicants are subject to a background investigation. Investigations may include fingerprint checks (State Police, FBI); local agency checks; employment verification; verification of education (relevant to employment); credit checks; and other checks based on the position. Drug Testing Requirements Applicants applying to a designated safety sensitive position are subject to a pre-employment drug screen. Marijuana use is prohibited for positions that require possession of a firearm or a Commercial Driver’s License in the performance of official duties such as Corrections Officers, Probation Officers, Tractor Trailer Drivers and others.

Application Requirements

Application and/or résumé for this position are only accepted electronically through the Commonwealth of Virginia’s Electronic Recruitment System. All applications should be submitted by 11:55pm on the closing date for the position. Mailed, emailed, faxed, or hand delivered applications and/or résumés will not be accepted. The decision to interview an applicant is based solely on the information received for this position from the electronic application and/or résumé.

Layoff Preferences

Applicants who possess an Interagency Placement Screening Form (Yellow Form) or a Preferential Hiring Form (Blue Form) as issued under the Department of Human Resources Management (DHRM) Policy 1.30 Layoff (Commonwealth of VA employees only) MUST attach these forms when submitting their state application and/or résumé.

EEO Statement

VADOC is an EEO employer and is committed to supporting workforce diversity, equitable opportunities and inclusivity. Reasonable accommodations are available upon request. VADOC values our Veterans and encourages all to apply and receive preference in the hiring process. AmeriCorps, Peace Corps, and other nation service alumni are also encouraged to apply.

In support of the Commonwealth’s commitment to inclusion, we are encouraging individuals with disabilities to apply through the Commonwealth Alternative Hiring Process. To be considered for this opportunity, applicants will need to provide their AHP Letter (formerly COD) provided by the Department for Aging & Rehabilitative Services (DARS), or the Department for the Blind & Vision Impaired (DBVI). Service-Connected Veterans are encouraged to answer Veteran status questions and submit their disability documentation, if applicable, to DARS/DBVI to get their AHP Letter.