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Join the NYC Department of Probation



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Build a Career That Strengthens New York City

At the NYC Department of Probation (DOP), our work goes far beyond supervision. Every DOP employee plays a role in supporting safer, stronger, and more connected communities. Whether you’re interested in working directly with clients, supporting operations, or designing new community programs, there’s a place for you at DOP. We’re looking for talented, dedicated individuals who want to make a difference across a wide range of fields — from social work, law, and education to communications, IT, finance, and administration.

Career Opportunities

DOP offers rewarding career paths for both civil service and non-civil service positions.

Examples of roles include:

  • Probation Officers – Work directly with individuals on probation, helping them make positive changes and meet their goals.
  • Community Coordinators – Develop partnerships, programs, and events that connect probation clients to opportunities.
  • Program and Policy Analysts – Evaluate outcomes, design initiatives, and inform data-driven decisions.
  • Operations and Administrative Staff – Support HR, finance, procurement, fleet, and facility management.
  • Budget and Finance Professionals – Manage agency budgets, oversee financial planning and reporting, ensure fiscal compliance, and support strategic resource allocation.
  • Information Technology Staff – Maintain critical systems, data tools, and case management platforms.
  • Creative and Communications Professionals – Lead campaigns, digital outreach, and visual design for agency initiatives.
  • Legal Professionals – Attorneys and legal analysts contribute to policy development, ensure compliance with laws and regulations, represent the agency in legal matters, and support justice reform initiatives.


The Role of a Probation Officer

Probation Officers serve as a bridge between the courts and the community. They promote accountability while helping individuals access education, treatment, and employment 
opportunities.

Typical responsibilities include:

  • Conducting investigations and preparing reports for the courts.
  • Supervising clients and monitoring progress toward rehabilitation goals.
  • Providing guidance, counseling, and referrals to social services.
  • Collaborating with schools, law enforcement, and community agencies.
  • Maintaining case records and making recommendations to the courts.


Minimum Requirements:

Candidates must meet the civil service qualifications set by the Department of Citywide Administrative Services (DCAS) below:

  1. A graduate degree in social work, education, law, sociology, psychology, criminology, rehabilitation counseling, or a closely related field.
  2. A Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) degree plus one year of full-time casework or counseling experience.
  3. A baccalaureate degree (with at least 30 credits in social or behavioral sciences) and two years of full-time experience in counseling, law enforcement, education, or human services.
  4. An equivalent combination of education and experience. (Thirty graduate semester credits may substitute for one year of experience.)


Additional Requirements:

  • Must be at least 21 years old at the time of appointment.
  • U.S. citizenship is required.
  • Must possess and maintain a valid New York State driver’s license.
  • Must qualify for Peace Officer status and complete all required training.


Other Roles at DOP

For non-Probation Officer roles (administrative, community engagement, IT, and others), please visit the NYC Jobs page for current openings and qualifications.
Apply for other DOP Opportunities


Who We're Looking For

DOP seeks candidates who are:

  • Committed to fairness, equity, and public service.
  • Skilled in communication and problem-solving.
  • Able to collaborate with people from diverse backgrounds.
  • Passionate about improving lives and communities.


Why Work at DOP

  • Serve your city and see the impact of your work.
  • Enjoy professional development and career advancement.
  • Join a mission-driven agency focused on innovation and equity.
  • Access excellent City employee benefits, including healthcare, pension, overtime, and paid time off.


How to Apply

Most DOP positions are hired through the NYC Department of Citywide Administrative Services (DCAS). Visit nyc.gov/jobs and search for “Probation” or “Department of Probation.” For competitive titles such as Probation Officer, check the DCAS Exams page for open exam announcements.

*The next Probation Officer exam filing period is scheduled for March 2026.


DOP is an equal opportunity employer. For Language Interpretation services please contact us via webform or call: 212-510-3875

Sign up for our Probation Careers Mailing List.

DOP benefits package includes:

Workforce Diversity

DOP seeks to maintain a diverse workforce made up of individuals with a wide range of characteristics and experiences.

Diversity in race, ethnicity, gender, age, religion, ability, and sexual orientation, are key components in recruiting staff to effectively serve the needs of people on probation and NYC communities.

Visit the NYC Diversity and Equal Employment Opportunity page to learn more

The business of the New York City Department of Probation (DOP) is helping to build stronger and safer communities by supervising people on probation and fostering opportunities for them to move out of the criminal justice system through meaningful education, employment, health services, family engagement, and community participation.

The Department of Citywide Administration Services (DCAS) has the most up-to-date information on obtaining employment with the City of New York.

DOP is an equal opportunity employer.

55-a Program

Section 55-a of the New York State Civil Service Law allows a qualified person with a certified mental or physical disability to be hired into competitive civil service positions without having to take an exam.

For more information, visit the Department of Citywide Administrative Services website.


Internships

Visit our Internships and Volunteer Opportunities page to learn more and apply for an opportunity.