Probation Officers and Correctional Treatment Specialists
Job Outlook
Employment of probation officers and correctional treatment specialists is projected to grow 4 percent from 2014 to 2024, slower than the average for all occupations.
Employment growth depends primarily on the amount of state and local government funding for corrections, especially the amount allocated to probation and parole systems.
However, because community corrections is viewed as an economically viable alternative to incarceration in some cases, demand for probation officers and correctional treatment specialists should continue. Parole officers will continue to be needed to supervise individuals who will be released from prison in the future.
Job Prospects
Many job openings will result from the need to replace those who leave the occupation each year due to the heavy workloads and high job-related stress. Job opportunities should be plentiful for those who qualify.
Probation Officers and Correctional Treatment Specialists
Percent change in employment, projected 2014-24
Counselors, social workers, and other community and social service specialists
12%
Total, all occupations
7%
Probation officers and correctional treatment specialists
4%
Note: All Occupations includes all occupations in the U.S. Economy. Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Employment Projections program