In the second of our Role Insights series, where we look at some of our roles at Corrections and help to break them down for jobseekers, we look at the role of probation officers.  

Probation officers work with people on community-based sentences, supporting their rehabilitation and ensuring they follow the conditions of their order or sentence.

What do probation officers do? 

Probation officers make up a significant proportion of our workforce in the community.  

Probation officers manage community-based sentences, and is a role that involves a mix of administrative tasks/report writing, coupled with working with people on sentences, their whānau, and justice/social sector organisations. The main goal of the probation officer is to reduce reoffending, both by connecting people to social supports and motivating positive decisions (rehabilitation) and by managing risk.  

“Our mahi is not as straightforward as people think - it has so many layers to it. A prime example of this is a woman I managed on an Extended Supervision Order (ESO) and all the agencies we had to tie in, all of the meetings, visits, etc. that go into just one person to try and inspire change. Our mahi goes beyond compliance, it’s long term and impactful work. We look at the bigger picture and try to give people hope and the tools to change.” – Probation Officer 

“Our whānau is a tight-knit community of dedicated and talented professionals committed to motivating, rehabilitating, accountability, and fostering a safer society.” – Probation Officer 

What makes a great probation officer?  

To manage both the administrative and the people-centred aspects of the role, probation officers are ideally organised relationship-builders, with empathy and strong communication skills. Having a growth mindset, resilience, and the ability to self-reflect is also important. 

“The skills and attributes of a good probation officer are being approachable, showing empathy and an open mind while being able to apply problem solving and professional decision-making skills”- Service Manager 

Challenges and rewards 

The probation officer role can be challenging at times, as probation officers may deal with a range of complex circumstances and behaviours. However, there is also reward in this when probation officers can support people to make positive progress in their life. The reward of someone stopping offending or making positive changes has impacts not only for the individual, but also for the wider community.  

“Challenges come hand in hand with this role, but the joy of being a part of someone’s successful rehabilitation journey serves as a great motivation for me.” – Probation Officer 

Career progression 

Working as a probation officer is a career, with a clear pathway for progression. Opportunities include becoming a senior practitioner working on more complex cases, a practice leader mentoring staff, or stepping into a management role. Some probation officers also apply their frontline expertise to an advisory role at National Office. 

"There are endless opportunities within the department, and it isn't always about 'climbing the ladder'. It can be about 'branching out'." – Probation Officer