How much does a probation officer make?

They interview people on probation, check in by phone or at the office, and may visit homes or workplaces, oversee drug tests, and connect clients with help. They also write progress reports and may testify in court.

Did you know? Some U.S. probation officers use electronic monitoring to track a person's movement in the community, not just meet them face to face.

In the U.S., earn a bachelor’s degree, often in criminal justice or psychology; agencies may require exams, background checks, and applicants to be 21. Then complete government training and any certification test; some trainees train for up to a year.

School needed: Usually a bachelor's degree

Good for people who like helping and teaching and keeping things organized

Why does pay differ?

In the U.S., pay can differ by location and employer—for example, local government, state government, and health-care employers have different pay patterns. Experience, extra credentials, and more complex duties or added responsibility can also affect pay.