Community Supervision Officer

Competition #: 43862

Department: Justice

Location: Halifax and Dartmouth

Type of Employment: Term

Union Status: NSGEU - NSPG

The Correctional Services division within the Department of Justice is tasked with the management and execution of community and custody-based programs and services for both adults and youth. This division encompasses two primary areas: community corrections and correctional facilities. Each of these areas is further divided into specific activities that significantly impact the targeted demographic.

Community Corrections operates 22 offices throughout the province, overseeing the supervision of adults and youth who are serving community-based sentences. These sentences include probation, conditional sentences, custody, and various forms of supervision. Probation officers also monitor individuals released from custody on conditional terms and prepare pre-sentence investigations to aid the Courts in their sentencing decisions. The role includes facilitating evidence-based programs and supporting specialized courts focusing on domestic violence, mental health, and wellness, as well as engaging in Restorative Justice casework and collaborating with community justice organizations.

Four adult correctional facilities and one youth center ensure the safety and security of individuals in custody while providing programs aimed at addressing dynamic criminogenic factors to facilitate successful reintegration into the community.

Nova Scotia Correctional Services employs an evidence-based methodology in both Community Corrections and custodial environments. Core Correctional Practices (CCP) serve as the foundational approach guiding rehabilitation and reintegration strategies implemented within Correctional Services. Through CCP, staff can effectively engage with, manage, and foster change within the target populations.

As a Probation Officer, your role will involve delivering community corrections services for adults and youth (12 years and older). Key responsibilities include utilizing an electronic case management system, preparing investigative reports for the courts, attending court sessions, supervising individuals under community-based dispositions, and maintaining collateral contacts with employers, educational institutions, families, and others to support the supervision process. You will manage, administer, supervise, and enforce a caseload of community corrections for both adults and youth.

Your duties will also encompass the implementation of community-based programs for individuals under supervision, such as Adult Restorative Justice, Community Service, and Fine Option programs, along with making appropriate agency referrals. Additional responsibilities may include public speaking, developing and/or supervising Volunteers-in-Corrections, and promoting community correctional programming and partnerships.

What You Will Be Doing:

• Prepare Presentence Reports as requested by the Court to assist in determining suitable dispositions.
• Oversee individuals on Court orders to ensure adherence to mandated conditions.
• Investigate breaches of Conditional Sentence Orders, preparing and serving necessary documentation.
• Maintain ongoing file documentation for effective case management.
• Address crises involving individuals under supervision and their families using intervention techniques and suicide prevention strategies.
• Investigate and charge individuals under supervision for violations of Court Orders, applying for and providing supporting documentation for the revocation of Suspended Sentences as necessary.
• Facilitate and deliver operational programs, including:
  • Adult Restorative Justice
  • Fine Option
  • Community Service Work
  • Prisoner Release
  • Electronic Supervision
  • Student Placements
  • Volunteers in Corrections

To be considered for this position, you should possess a Bachelor's degree along with one year of relevant experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Preferred qualifications include a degree in Social Sciences, prior experience with an understanding of criminal behavior and family dynamics, and familiarity with relevant federal and provincial legislation.

You must demonstrate sound judgment, impartiality, and strong decision-making skills, as daily decisions significantly impact the lives of individuals under supervision, their families, and the community. Excellent organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills are essential, along with the ability to make accurate assessments related to investigative reports and the overall supervision of individuals serving community-based sentences. A strong teamwork ethic is expected, along with the ability to function effectively as part of a team and build a robust network of accessible community resources. Self-direction and the ability to accept supervision, adhere to policy, and seek guidance when necessary are also crucial.

Access to reliable transportation is required.

Equivalency may include, but is not limited to:

• Master's Degree in a related field
• A two-year certificate/diploma in a related field plus three years of relevant experience

Applicants relying on education and experience equivalencies must clearly demonstrate such equivalencies in their application.

Depending on employment status and union agreements, the Government of Nova Scotia offers a comprehensive range of benefits, including a Defined Benefit Pension Plan, Health, Dental, Life Insurance, General Illness, Short and Long Term Disability, Vacation, and Employee and Family Assistance Programs.

• Normal work week consists of 35 hours.
• Occasional overtime may be required.
• Role entails significant mental demands due to daily exposure to violence, substance abuse issues, and other high-risk behaviors from those under supervision.
• Increased physical demands may arise from unpredictable behaviors during community visits and interviews in correctional settings.
• Prolonged periods of sitting at a computer may be necessary.
• Travel is required for community visits, court attendance, and other obligations, which may involve driving in various weather conditions.

Three opportunities are available: one in Halifax and two in Dartmouth. The appointment status ('term', 'temporary', or 'casual') will depend on the successful candidate's start date.

Candidates must be prepared to respond to other Community Corrections Offices in the coverage area as operational requirements dictate.

During the interview process, candidates will receive a Pre-Employment Questionnaire (PEQ). If selected for the final phase of the competition, candidates must submit the completed questionnaire in advance. This questionnaire focuses on honesty and integrity, and all questions must be answered accurately and truthfully. Any dishonesty or non-disclosure will result in disqualification from the application process.

• Career Development opportunities, including access to guidance, tools, resources, and ongoing training for every stage of your career.
• An engaging workplace where employees feel valued, respected, and connected.
• A variety of career paths available.
• Department-specific flexible working schedules.

Pay Grade: PR 06 - PR 13

Salary Range: $1, $3,107.16 Bi-Weekly

Employment Equity Statement:

The goal is to establish a diverse workforce that reflects the citizens served at all job levels. The Government of Nova Scotia has an Employment Equity Policy and encourages applications from Indigenous People, African Nova Scotians, Other Racially Visible Persons, Persons with Disabilities, and Women in under-represented occupations.

This position is part of a bargaining unit initially restricted to current civil service employees represented by the Nova Scotia Government Employees Union (NSGEU).