County Probation Program Manager at Polk County BoCC

COURT SERVICES DIVISION - COUNTY PROBATION PROGRAM MANAGER

PG 21/EXEMPT

SALARY RANGE: $67,433.60  

Employee Benefits

• Direct Deposit, Bi-Weekly Pay Checks
• Medical, Dental, Vision
• Life Insurance
• FRS Retirement
• 10 Paid Holidays
• Paid Time Off
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Education Incentives
• Deferred Compensation Plan
• Wellness Incentives
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Free Employee Gym
• Free Employee Health Clinic

MAJOR FUNCTION: Provides leadership, supervision, and administrative oversight for the County’s Misdemeanor Probation and Electronic Monitoring Programs. Manages associated initiatives including Problem Solving Courts, Domestic Violence Probation, and the Alcohol Monitoring Program. Reports directly to the Division Director.

ILLUSTRATIVE DUTIES:

Program Oversight and Leadership

• Directs daily operations of Misdemeanor Probation, Electronic Monitoring, and related programs.
• Supervises branch supervisors, professional, and support staff.
• Develops and enforces policies and procedures in compliance with local, state, and federal regulations.
• Participates in the development and oversight of new initiatives, as assigned by the BoCC.

Personnel Management
• Coordinates interview panels, selects candidates, and manages onboarding.
• Assigns, monitors, and evaluates staff work.
• Provides training, mentorship, and guidance on complex or sensitive cases.
• Manages personnel issues including discipline, performance reviews, and scheduling.

Court and Interagency Collaboration
• Acts as liaison between County Probation and court officials, law enforcement, attorneys, and other stakeholders. Participates in hearings (e.g., violation of probation, Rule to Show Cause, felony cases, Problem Solving Courts).
• Assists courts by gathering documentation and recommending sentencing options.
• Ensures staff provide clear and professional testimony.
Program Coordination and Support
• Maintains the Treatment Referral Directory and approves external providers.
• Represents the agency on interagency groups such as the Domestic Violence Task Force and Fatality Review Committee.
• Coordinates and maintains worksite placements for community service assignments.

Administrative Functions
• Prepares reports, memoranda, and correspondence.
• Assists in preparing the division’s annual budget.
• Conducts and participates in staff meetings, trainings, and community presentations.
• Represents the division at public events and workshops.
• Serves as Acting Director in the Division Director’s absence.

KNOWLEDGE, ABILITIES AND SKILLS:

Leadership & Program Management
• Strong ability to develop, implement, and manage strategic goals, policies, and procedures for multiple programs.
• Skilled in staff development, including hiring, training, supervision, and discipline.
• Proficient in identifying and integrating best practices into existing operations.
Criminal Justice Expertise
• In-depth knowledge of Florida Statutes and regulatory frameworks governing misdemeanor probation services.
• Familiarity with probation, court, and jail procedures, including confidentiality standards and recordkeeping requirements.
• Ability to remain informed on criminal justice trends and incorporate them into practice.
Operational & Interpersonal Skills
• Skilled in case management, problem-solving, and developing sentencing recommendations.
• Effective communicator, both written and verbal, with strong public speaking ability.

Capable of building and maintaining productive relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
• Excellent judgment, decision-making, and initiative in high-stakes environments.
Administrative Competence
• Competency in preparing reports, managing budgets, and interpreting performance metrics.
• Ability to research, analyze data, and implement actionable solutions.
• Proficient in coordinating interagency efforts and facilitating cooperative partnerships.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Bachelor's degree from an accredited four-year institution in a related field.
Minimum of five (5) years of experience in criminal justice or probation, including three (3) years in a supervisory or administrative role within a criminal justice agency.
Equivalent combinations of education, training, and experience may be considered.
Valid Driver’s license required; must obtain a Florida license upon employment. Must maintain a clean driving record to operate an assigned county vehicle.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:
• Due to the high public trust placed in this position, punctuality, professionalism, and ethical conduct are essential.
• Subject to fingerprinting and background investigation to determine fitness and moral character.
• Must successfully complete a pre-employment psychological evaluation.
• Employment is contingent upon passing a Level 2 background screening (FDLE), which must be maintained throughout employment.
• Must have reliable transportation and an active telephone; on-call availability is required.
 

All employees will be required to work before, during, or after an emergency. During an emergency, employees may temporarily be assigned to work and perform duties outside the normal scope of their position, location and work schedule to fit the needs of the County and its citizens.