NYC Probation Officer Trainee — 50 Openings, All Boroughs
NYC Department of Probation · Job ID 782108 · Title Code 51801 · Apply by December 4, 2026
50positions open
$47,603starting salary
$64,143max salary
Dec 4application deadline
⏰ Deadline: Applications close December 4, 2026. With 50 openings posted, this is one of the larger NYC government hiring rounds of the year — apply early.
The NYC Department of Probation (DOP) is recruiting 50 Probation Officer Trainees for its Divisions of Adult and Juvenile Operations across all five boroughs. This is a competitive civil service title (Classification: Competitive-1) with a structured training program and a clear career pathway to full Probation Officer status. Selected candidates will be assigned within the five boroughs based on departmental need.
📋 About the Role
Probation Officer Trainees work under close supervision while receiving formal training and hands-on experience in the field of probation. The role bridges the gap between law enforcement and social services — you’ll conduct court-ordered investigations, supervise individuals under community supervision, and connect people with resources that help reduce recidivism. This is meaningful, impactful public service work.
The NYC Department of Probation is recognized as a national leader in community supervision innovation, using evidence-based practices and community partnerships to improve outcomes for both probationers and the neighborhoods they return to.
🗂️ Key Duties & Responsibilities
Duties include but are not limited to:
- Conduct court-ordered investigations of criminal offenses to gather detailed information about the offense, the offender’s legal, economic, and psycho-social history, and the impact on the complainant or victim
- Prepare and submit written reports and recommendations using available technology
- Supervise probationers and provide supportive casework and counseling services
- Refer probationers to social, governmental, community, and other agencies that may assist in rehabilitation
- Make home visits to probationers and perform other field work
- Correspond with and visit relatives, community agencies, and employers to ensure probationers are adhering to conditions of probation
- Prepare and maintain case records using available technology
- Operate a motor vehicle as required for field assignments
- May be assigned to specialized units
- May be required to carry a firearm for certain assignments
🎓 Minimum Qualifications
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Education | Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college, including or supplemented by 30 semester credits in sociology, law, psychology, education, social work, criminology, rehabilitation counseling, counseling, guidance, or related courses covering contemporary, cultural, social, or psychological issues |
| Driver’s License | Valid NYS motor vehicle driver’s license — must be maintained for the duration of employment |
| Peace Officer Status | Must be eligible for and maintain Peace Officer status throughout employment |
| Residency | NYC residency is not required; however, you must reside in New York State |
| 55-a Program | Open to qualified persons with a disability eligible for the 55-a Program — indicate interest at the top of your resume and cover letter |
💡 Credit Requirement: Your 30 semester credits do not need to be a separate major — they can be part of your degree coursework or supplemental credits. Relevant fields include criminology, psychology, social work, counseling, sociology, education, and related disciplines.
💰 Salary & Benefits
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Starting Salary | $47,603 per year |
| Maximum Salary | $64,143 per year (not guaranteed) |
| Health Insurance | NYC employee health benefits plan |
| Retirement | NYC pension (defined benefit plan) |
| Paid Leave | Annual and sick leave per NYC civil service schedule |
| Student Loans | May qualify for Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) — see studentaid.gov/pslf |
| Career Pathway | Trainee → Probation Officer → Senior → Supervisor |
📚 Public Service Loan Forgiveness: NYC government positions are qualifying public service employment for PSLF. After 10 years of qualifying payments while employed full-time in public service, the remaining balance of your federal student loans may be forgiven. Visit studentaid.gov/pslf for details.
✅ How to Apply
Applications are submitted through the NYC government jobs portal (NYC.gov Jobs). Follow these steps:
- Click the apply link below to go directly to the Probation Officer Trainee posting on the NYC Jobs portal (Job ID 782108).
- Create or log in to your NYC Jobs account. If you don’t have one, registration is free and takes a few minutes.
- Complete the online application. Be ready to upload your resume, a cover letter (note the 55-a program at the top if applicable), and any supporting documents.
- Verify your 30 semester credits are reflected in your resume or transcript. Unofficial transcripts are generally acceptable at the application stage.
- Submit before December 4, 2026. Late applications are not accepted. Apply well before the deadline to avoid technical issues.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a civil service exam position?
Yes — the Probation Officer Trainee title is classified as Competitive-1 under the NYC civil service system. The posting notes “Exam may be required.” This means an exam may be held as part of the selection process, or candidates may be selected based on a competitive review of applications. Monitor the NYC Jobs portal and your email for next steps after applying.
Do I need to live in New York City?
No. Unlike many NYC government positions, this role does not require New York City residency. However, you must reside within New York State. If you live in a neighboring county (Westchester, Nassau, Suffolk, Rockland, Orange, etc.) you are eligible to apply.
What degree fields qualify?
Any bachelor’s degree qualifies, as long as it includes or is supplemented by 30 semester credits in a relevant field — sociology, law, psychology, education, social work, criminology, rehabilitation counseling, guidance, or related courses covering contemporary, cultural, social, or psychological issues. You do not need to have majored in one of these fields; you just need 30 qualifying credits somewhere in your academic record.
Will I be carrying a firearm?
Possibly — the posting states that Probation Officer Trainees may be required to carry a firearm for certain assignments. This is not required for all positions or assignments. As a Peace Officer under New York State law, you may be authorized to carry a firearm based on your specific unit and assignment.
Where will I be assigned?
Selected candidates will be assigned within the five boroughs (Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, The Bronx, Staten Island) based on the needs of the Department. You cannot request a specific borough at the application stage. The primary work location listed is 66 John Street in Manhattan, but field assignments occur across all boroughs.
What is the career progression after Trainee?
After completing the trainee program, you advance to the full Probation Officer title. From there, the NYC civil service ladder includes Senior Probation Officer, Probation Supervisor, and higher administrative titles. Longevity steps and union pay increases also apply once you’re in a career title. NYC probation positions are covered by DC37 (AFSCME District Council 37).
Apply Now — 50 Openings, Deadline December 4, 2026
Submit your application directly through the NYC Jobs portal. Job ID 782108 · Title Code 51801 · All Five Boroughs.
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