Research & Evaluation - Probation Specialist

JOB
Under general direction, independently plans, contracts, directs, administers and implements Probation legislative, public information, training, research, employment, education, re-entry and community-based programs.

DISTINGUISHING FEATURES

Probation Specialist positions are located in various divisions/units within the Probation Department. This is the full journey-level Probation class. Incumbents are typically subject-matter generalists who have demonstrated possession of the intellectual abilities, management tools, and personal qualifications to succeed in a variety of Probation-specific settings.

This classification requires knowledge of a variety of Probation programs and community resources, expertise in program design, evidence-based practices, national trends in correctional research, curriculum design and classroom delivery, public speaking, press, public and social media coordination, and group facilitation.

EXAMPLES OF DUTIES

NOTE: The following are the duties performed by employees in this classification. However, employees may perform other related duties at an equivalent level. Each individual in the classification does not necessarily perform all duties listed.

1. Continuously review national meta-analyses and research clearinghouses for evidence-based program models focusing on adult formerly incarcerated individuals that can be recommended, as well as correctional statistics and trends in Probation. Analyzes research data and applies evidence-based and best practices to Probation program designs, working independently and with external subject matter experts as necessary.

2. Analyze program data and provides guidance and recommendations in program areas as needed.

3. Conduct literature reviews and data analyses for RFP development for services for returning citizens and develops research reports as appropriate.

4. Conduct evaluations of existing AB 109 programs to measure their effectiveness.

5. Prepare new and revised policies and procedures for Probation based on research and data analyses.

NOTE: The following are the duties performed by employees in this classification. However, employees may perform other related duties at an equivalent level. Each individual in the classification does not necessarily perform all duties listed.

1. Continuously review national meta-analyses and research clearinghouses for evidence-based program models focusing on adult formerly incarcerated individuals that can be recommended, as well as correctional statistics and trends in Probation. Analyzes research data and applies evidence-based and best practices to Probation program designs, working independently and with external subject matter experts as necessary.

2. Analyze program data and provides guidance and recommendations in program areas as needed.

3. Conduct literature reviews and data analyses for RFP development for services for returning citizens and develops research reports as appropriate.

4. Conduct evaluations of existing AB 109 programs to measure their effectiveness.

5. Prepare new and revised policies and procedures for Probation based on research and data analyses.

6. Performs research, compiles and analyzes information/data regarding a variety of administrative, management and organizational issues; develops or assists in developing recommendations and/or course of action.

7. Reviews all incoming research reports and materials and notifies supervisors when appropriate research opportunities are available for staff.

8. Develops policies and procedures in the Probation Departments research areas, and provides guidance, recommendations and assistance to management in these program areas.

9. Independently develops Probation program alternatives, funding sources, service delivery organizations and other elements for integration potential with programs, prepares written reports, advises management and makes recommendations.

10. Interprets and applies a variety of policies, rules and regulations; provides information which may require tact and judgment to employees and others.

11. Acts as the County liaison and provides coordination with community-based organizations and other service providers, County departments, state or other funding sources and community and business organizations, interacts with various planning councils or boards, answers questions and provides training and technical assistance as required.

12. Develops independent recommendations for assigned program areas that are aligned with the Departments strategic plan.

13. Confers with management and provides technical advice on the potential impacts of new initiatives on such areas as organization, staffing, policy, training or operational processes, and to ensure smooth functioning of newly implemented systems or procedures. Performs budgeting and related work as required.

14. Prepares, or assists, in the preparation of a variety of management reports.

15. Represents the Probation Department in standing meetings with CBOs, local advisory committees, legislative, public information and training officers group and the Alameda County Correctional Training Officers group, and shares information with the appropriate staff.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Education:
The equivalent to graduation from an accredited four year college or university (180 quarter units or 120 semester units).

AND

Either I
The equivalent of two years of increasingly responsible full-time, journey-level professional experience developing or administering contracts, research, policy or program development, or training in a probation setting.

Or II
The equivalent of three years of increasingly responsible full-time journey-level professional experience in a criminal justice related field performing duties in one or a combination of the following or closely related areas: contracts and procurement; public information; training; budgeting; program planning; program evaluation; or policy analysis.

Substitution:
Possession of a Masters degree in business, public administration, social science or a related field to the program area to which assigned from an accredited college or university, may be substituted for two years of the required experience.

License:
Specific positions may require possession of a valid California drivers license. Specified positions may also require licensure or certification in the programmatic area to which assigned.

NOTE: The Civil Service Commission may modify the above Minimum Qualifications in the announcement of an examination.

KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS

NOTE: The level and scope of the following knowledge and abilities are related to duties listed under the Examples of Duties section of this specification.

Knowledge of:

• Principles and practices of operational, policy and programmatic research and analysis.
• Practices and techniques of administrative, statistical and programmatic analysis and report preparation.
• Principles, practices, funding sources and administrative requirements in the program area to which assigned.
• Principles and practices of program planning and evaluation.
• Principles and practices of direct client service delivery.
• Applicable federal, state and local laws, rules and regulations.
• Computer applications related to the work.
• Office administrative practices and procedures, including records management and the operation of standard office equipment.
• Basic budgetary and financial record-keeping techniques.

Ability to:

• Plan, monitor, and evaluate program and service delivery effectiveness in the programmatic area to which assigned.
• Identify programmatic and operational problems, investigate and evaluate alternatives and implement effective solutions.
• Interpret, explain and apply complex regulations, policies and procedures.
• Prepare clear, accurate and effective reports, correspondence, policies, informational brochures, and other written materials.
• Represent the department and the County in meetings with others and make effective presentations to diverse groups.
• Organize and prioritize work and meet critical deadlines.
• Maintain accurate records and files.
• Exercise sound independent judgement within established policies and guidelines.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of the work.