U.S. Pretrial Services Officer

REQUIREMENTS Excellent oral and written communication skills. Excellent problem-solving and interpersonal skills. Demonstrated computer skills (Windows-based software applications such as word processing, spreadsheets, electronic mail and web searches). Demonstrated ability to work with all levels of staff in a professional manner. Ability to follow safety procedures, including a minimum of 40 hours a year of safety training and optional firearms qualification and training. Ability to compile and summarize information within established timeframes. Ability to organize, prioritize work schedule; work independently with little supervision and to exercise discretion, sound ethics and judgment. Physical Requirement: The duties of a pretrial services officer require the investigation and management of criminal defendants who may present a physical danger to pretrial services officers and to the public. In the investigation, supervision, and treatment of defendants, these duties require moderate to arduous physical activity, including prolonged periods of walking and standing, physical dexterity and coordination necessary for officer safety, and use of self-defense tactics. On a daily basis, pretrial services officers face unusual mental and physical stress because they are subject to danger and possible harm during frequent, direct contact with individuals who are charged with committing federal offenses. As such, applicants to the position must be physically capable and able to handle moderate to arduous physical exertion. Pretrial services officers must possess, with or without corrective lenses, good distance vision in at least one eye and the ability to read normal size print. Normal hearing ability, with or without a hearing aid, is also required. Any severe health problems, such as physical defects, disease, and deformities that may constitute employment hazards to the applicant or others, may disqualify an applicant. Examples of health problems that may be disqualifying are an untreated hernia, cardiovascular disorders, serious deformities or disabilities of the extremities, mental health disorders, fainting and/or seizure disorders, metabolic disorders, bleeding disorders, pulmonary disorders, and marked speech abnormalities. As federal law enforcement officers, the selectee considered for this position will undergo a medical examination and drug screening, prior to appointment. Upon successful completion of the medical examination and drug screening, the selectee may then be appointed provisionally, pending a favorable suitability determination by the court. In addition, as conditions to employment, the incumbent will be subject to on-going random drug testing as deemed necessary by management for reasonable cause and may be subject to subsequent fitness-for-duty evaluations. The medical requirements and the essential job functions derived from the medical guidelines for pretrial services officers (and pretrial services officer assistants) are available for public review at https://www.uscourts.gov/. ADDITIONAL DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS Broad knowledge of the criminal justice system including experience with legal terminology and processes. Strong time management skills, be detailed-oriented, and have the ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously. Knowledge of automated/internet resources and systems available for conducting background checks, criminal histories, and other similar information (such as the National Crime Information Center). Skill in conducting legal research; analyzing and summarizing legal concepts; legal reasoning and critical thinking. Skill in dealing with difficult individuals; ability to counsel defendants to maintain compliance with conditions of their release. Experience with or willingness to learn risk assessment and evidence based practices. Willingness to put themselves in danger to protect the public and help reduce mass incarceration. Fluency in Spanish, Cantonese or Mandarin.
The United States Pretrial Services Agency for the Northern District of California is accepting applications for a Pretrial Services Officer. This position may be located in the San Francisco, Oakland, or San Jose office, depending on the needs of the agency. More than one position may be filled from this vacancy announcement. In addition, this position has promotion potential to CL-27 or CL-28 U.S. Pretrial Services Officer without further competition.