Adult Community Corrections (ACC) plays a vital role in balancing public safety with opportunities for positive change. As the law enforcement arm of the Maine Department of Corrections (MDOC), we are responsible for supervising all adults on probation and parole across the entire state. These vacancies are specifically responsible for region 1, Cumberland & York Counties. This position may offer some scheduling flexibility in work location and hours after successful completion of field training.

As a Probation Officer, you will support accountability, encourage positive change, and uphold public trust. You will work directly with adults under court supervision while collaborating with courts, community partners, and colleagues. This role requires independent decision-making, sound professional judgment, and ethical action in all situations. You will apply policies to real-world cases, manage multiple priorities, act fairly and objectively, respect individual rights and dignity, maintain confidentiality and professional boundaries, and continually develop your skills to provide effective supervision and support.

We welcome applications from new college graduates and early-career professionals. Degrees in criminal justice, social work, psychology, sociology, human services, or other relevant fields, as well as practical experience in structured, or client-focused, or safety-oriented roles, can provide a strong foundation for success in this position.

Successful candidates must pass an extensive background investigation, and complete firearms training after hire. Must have no convictions or disqualifying conduct involving Murder, Class A–D crimes, or offenses under Maine Criminal Code chapters 15, 19, 25, or 45 (or equivalent offenses/conduct in another jurisdiction).

Licensing/Registration/Certification Requirements:

• Possession of a Class C Maine Driver’s License.

• Firearm-carrying position. Successful completion of the Maine Criminal Justice Academy’s annual firearms qualification is required prior to completion of the new hire academy. Successful completion of annual firearms qualifications, and yearly participation in firearms skill building, are also required.

• Successful completion of Methods of Arrest Restraint and Control training (M.A.R.C) prior to graduation from new hire academy. Yearly participation in MARC refreshers.

• Yearly participation in Situational Use of Force Training.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Education, training, internships, volunteer experience, or work experience performing duties related to at least one of the following: probation/parole; public safety; military; or social services.

• At least 21-years-old.

• Possess a High School Diploma or equivalent (HiSET, GED, etc.).

*Preference will be given to those candidates possessing a degree in criminal justice, criminology, social sciences, psychology, or related field.*

Responsibilities:

• Guide, supervise, and manage adults assigned to MDOC, released to the community, or other forms of community release

• Assess individual risks and needs

• Prepare pardon and presentence investigation reports for the court

• Perform interstate compact duties and participate in community reentry and release planning

• Maintain accurate case records and enter data into computerized case management systems

• Use professional judgment to balance public safety with client rehabilitation

Desirable Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities:

The following knowledge and skills are helpful for success in this role but are not required prior to hire. Probation Officers receive training and mentorship to develop these abilities on the job.

Knowledge of (or ability to learn):

• Maine criminal code and court procedures

• Community‑based social service resources

• Evidence‑based supervision practices

• Investigative practices

• Motivational interviewing techniques

Ability to:

• Guide adult clients effectively

• Communicate clearly and professionally, both verbally and in writing

• Build respectful, professional relationships with clients, colleagues, and community partners

• Apply sound judgment and casework principles, methods, and techniques in complex or stressful situations

• Objectively assess information and make informed decisions

• Administer assessment tools to make individual, situational determinations

• Balance public safety responsibilities with client accountability and growth

• Work independently while remaining connected to a team

• Maintain detailed case records and individualized supervision plans

• Develop client-specific knowledge and expertise to support positive outcomes

• Act appropriately and maintain control in high-stress or aggressive situations

• Operate a motor vehicle and use standard computer applications

About Maine Department of Corrections:

The MDOC is removing the stigma of corrections for the betterment of all Maine communities. Through the ‘Maine Model of Corrections’, we promote the safety of our staff and residents while reducing barriers to meaningful rehabilitative opportunities. We facilitate restorative justice practices that equip justice-involved residents and clients with the skills they need to become contributing members of society upon release, including treatment, education, and job training.

BENEFITS:

No matter where you work across Maine state government, you find employees who embody our state motto—"Dirigo" or "I lead"—as they provide essential services to Mainers every day. We believe in supporting our workforce's health and wellbeing with a valuable total compensation package, including:

• Work-Life Balance – Rest is essential. Take time for yourself using 13 paid holidays, 12 days of sick leave, and 3+ weeks of vacation leave Vacation leave accrual increases with years of service, and overtime-exempt employees receive personal leave.

• Health Insurance Coverage– The State of Maine pays 85%-100% of employee-only premiums ($10,523.28 - $12,380.40 annual value), depending on salary. Use this chart to find the premium costs for you and your family, including the percentage of dependent coverage paid by the State.

• Health Insurance Premium Credit– Participation decreases employee-only premiums by 5%. Visit the Office of Employee Health and Wellness for more information about program requirements.

• Dental Insurance– The State of Maine pays 100% of employee-only dental premiums ($350.40 annual value).

• Retirement Plan– The State of Maine contributes 19% of pay to the Maine Public Employees Retirement System (MainePERS), on behalf of the employee.

• Gym Membership Reimbursement– Improve overall health with regular exercise and receive up to $40 per month to offset this expense.

• Health and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts– Set aside money pre-tax to help pay for out-of-pocket health care expenses and/or daycare expenses.

• Public Service Student Loan Forgiveness– The State of Maine is a qualified employer for this federal program. For more information, visit the Federal Student Aid office.

• Living Resources Program – Navigate challenging work and life situations with our employee assistance program.

• Parental leave is one of the most important benefits for any working parent. All employees who are welcoming a child—including fathers and adoptive parents—receive six weeks of fully paid parental leave. Additional, unpaid leave may also be available, under the Family and Medical Leave Act.

• Voluntary Deferred Compensation– Save additional pre-tax funds for retirement in a MaineSaves 457(b) account through payroll deductions.

• Learn about additional wellness benefits for State employees from the Office of Employee Health and Wellness.

There's a job and then there's purposeful, transformative work. Our aim is to create a workplace where you can learn, grow, and continuously refine your skills. Applicants demonstrate job requirements in differing ways, and we appreciate that many skills and backgrounds can make people successful in this role. As an Equal Opportunity employer, Maine State Government embraces a culture of respect and awareness.

We are committed to creating a strong sense of belonging for all team members, and our process ensures an inclusive environment to applicants of all backgrounds including diverse race, color, sex, sexual orientation or gender identity, physical or mental disability, religion, age, ancestry, national origin, familial status or genetics. If you’re looking for a great next step, and want to feel good about what you do, we’d love to hear from you. Please note reasonable accommodation is provided for qualified individuals with disabilities upon request.

Thinking about applying?

Research shows that people from historically excluded communities tend to apply to jobs only when they check every box in the posting. If you’re currently reading this and hesitating to apply for that reason, we encourage you to go for it! Let us know how your lived experience and passion set you apart.

If you are unable to complete the online application, please contact the Human Resources representative listed on the job opening you are interested in applying for. They will work with you for an alternative method of submitting.