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Salary

How much does a Probation Officer make?

The average salary for a Probation Officer is $55,213 per year in the US.

Probation officers help keep communities safe by supervising individuals who have been convicted of crimes. Their salary often reflects their responsibility and the level of their work. On average, probation officers earn around $55,213 per year. This amount can vary depending on experience and location.

Probation officers typically start with a lower salary and can earn more as they gain experience. Here are some salary ranges to give an idea:

  • The lowest 10% earn about $33,238.
  • The middle 20% earn between $44,492 and $50,119.
  • The highest 10% earn more than $89,507.

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What are the highest paying cities for a Probation Officer?

Looking for a rewarding role as a Probation Officer can bring high rewards in certain cities. Dallas, TX tops the list with an average salary of $116,355, offering a strong financial incentive for those seeking this career. Sacramento, CA follows closely with an average salary of $115,652, making it another excellent choice for job seekers in this field. These cities present both high salaries and vibrant job markets, presenting a great opportunity for professionals in this area.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Probation Officer jobs, highlighting Dallas, TX with the highest at $116,355 and Richmond, VA with the lowest at $71,264.
  1. Dallas, TX
    Average Salary: $116,355
    In Dallas, working as a probation officer involves helping people turn their lives around. The city's diverse communities benefit from your work. Companies like The Salvation Army offer roles in this field.
    Find Probation Officer jobs in Dallas, TX


  2. Sacramento, CA
    Average Salary: $115,652
    Sacramento offers a unique opportunity to guide individuals towards positive change. The city's vibrant culture makes your job both rewarding and impactful. Local organizations such as the State of California provide career opportunities.
    Find Probation Officer jobs in Sacramento, CA


  3. Denver, CO
    Average Salary: $91,420
    Denver's job market for probation officers includes helping individuals reintegrate into society. The city's commitment to public safety makes it an exciting place to work. Companies like the City and County of Denver offer many roles.
    Find Probation Officer jobs in Denver, CO


  4. Grand Rapids, MI
    Average Salary: $88,168
    In Grand Rapids, you’ll assist people in making better choices. The city values community and personal growth, providing a supportive environment. Organizations such as Kent County offer promising positions.
    Find Probation Officer jobs in Grand Rapids, MI


  5. Boulder, CO
    Average Salary: $80,763
    Boulder provides a chance to make a real difference in people's lives. The city's focus on education and wellness aligns well with the goals of a probation officer. Boulder County employs many professionals in this field.
    Find Probation Officer jobs in Boulder, CO


  6. Minneapolis, MN
    Average Salary: $79,544
    Minneapolis offers a fulfilling career in guiding individuals away from criminal behavior. The city’s strong community spirit enhances the impact of your work. Employers like Hennepin County provide excellent opportunities.
    Find Probation Officer jobs in Minneapolis, MN


  7. Spokane, WA
    Average Salary: $78,454
    Spokane's role for probation officers focuses on rehabilitation and community support. The city's commitment to safety and justice makes this job very meaningful. Spokane County offers many roles in this area.
    Find Probation Officer jobs in Spokane, WA


  8. Phoenix, AZ
    Average Salary: $77,592
    Phoenix provides a dynamic environment for probation officers. The city's diverse population benefits from your efforts in promoting positive change. The State of Arizona offers various positions.
    Find Probation Officer jobs in Phoenix, AZ


  9. Pueblo, CO
    Average Salary: $71,813
    In Pueblo, you’ll work with individuals to help them improve their lives. The city’s strong community ties create a supportive workplace. Pueblo County employs many dedicated professionals.
    Find Probation Officer jobs in Pueblo, CO


  10. Richmond, VA
    Average Salary: $71,264
    Richmond offers a chance to impact the community positively. The city's rich history and strong support for public safety make it an ideal place to work. The Commonwealth of Virginia provides many opportunities.
    Find Probation Officer jobs in Richmond, VA

What are the best companies a Probation Officer can work for?

Job seekers interested in becoming a Probation Officer can look to top-paying companies such as the United States Courts and Fairfax County Government. These organizations offer salaries above $80,000, providing a competitive edge in this rewarding field. Other notable employers include the State of Vermont and Colorado Judicial Branch, which also provide strong compensation packages for Probation Officers.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Probation Officer jobs, highlighting United States Courts with the highest at $91,757 and State of Iowa with the lowest at $66,048.
  1. United States Courts
    Average Salary: $91,757
    United States Courts offers rewarding roles for Probation Officers. These professionals work across the country, ensuring individuals follow court orders. The average salary here is one of the highest.


  2. Fairfax County Government
    Average Salary: $87,142
    Fairfax County Government provides diverse opportunities for Probation Officers. They serve communities in Virginia, ensuring safety and compliance. The average salary is attractive.


  3. State of Vermont
    Average Salary: $82,955
    The State of Vermont hires Probation Officers to support the justice system. They work in various locations across the state. The average salary is competitive.


  4. Colorado Judicial Branch
    Average Salary: $74,343
    Colorado Judicial Branch seeks dedicated Probation Officers. They operate across Colorado, helping individuals reintegrate into society. The average salary is well-above average.


  5. New Jersey Courts
    Average Salary: $74,246
    New Jersey Courts employs Probation Officers to manage probationers. They work in New Jersey, ensuring compliance with court orders. The average salary is good.


  6. Virginia Department of Corrections
    Average Salary: $72,808
    The Virginia Department of Corrections offers roles for Probation Officers. They work in multiple locations in Virginia, supporting offenders. The average salary is competitive.


  7. State of Alaska
    Average Salary: $71,917
    The State of Alaska hires Probation Officers to manage offenders. They serve various communities across the state. The average salary is above average.


  8. Anoka County
    Average Salary: $70,271
    Anoka County offers roles for Probation Officers. They work in Minnesota, ensuring public safety and compliance. The average salary is solid.


  9. State of Michigan
    Average Salary: $67,357
    The State of Michigan provides opportunities for Probation Officers. They serve different regions across Michigan. The average salary is decent.


  10. State of Iowa
    Average Salary: $66,048
    The State of Iowa hires Probation Officers to work in various communities. They support offenders and ensure compliance. The average salary is good.

How to earn more as a Probation Officer?

Earning more as a Probation Officer can happen in several ways. One way is to get more education and training. This can include taking advanced courses or getting a higher degree. Training in special areas like mental health or substance abuse can also help. Employers often pay more for these extra skills.

Experience also plays a big role. Working as a Probation Officer for several years can lead to raises and promotions. Moving up in the job can bring higher pay. Working in a big city or a high-crime area might offer higher salaries. Being a good team player and having strong communication skills can help with promotions too. Joining professional groups and staying active in them can lead to more job opportunities and higher pay.

Here are five factors that can help increase pay:

  1. Higher education and specialized training
  2. Years of experience in the field
  3. Location and area of work
  4. Strong communication and teamwork skills
  5. Active participation in professional organizations

Currently 305 Probation Officer job openings, nationwide.

How's the job market for a Probation Officer in the US?

Learn what a Probation Officer does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Probation Officer today.
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Probation Officer
305 Job Openings