PAROLE COUNSELOR APPRENTICE STATE PAROLE BOARD
Parole Counselor Apprentice State Parole Board is non-competitive, meaning the state checks your education and experience against the spec instead of ranking you on a test.
You can qualify with a bachelor's degree or, if you do not have one, by piling up more experience instead. Pay on the FY2026 schedule runs $58,818 to $85,742.
How to get hired
- Parole Counselor Apprentice State Parole Board is non-competitive, so there is no ranked exam. You qualify by meeting the education and experience stated in the specification.
- Apply directly to the hiring agency when a vacancy is posted. The agency verifies that you meet the minimum requirements.
- Because there is no eligible list, hiring timelines are set by the agency rather than by a statewide certification.
Read the official specification at NJ Civil Service Commission.
Official job specification
The text below is the official specification published by the New Jersey Civil Service Commission. The plain-language summary and analysis above are derived from it by NJ Civil Service Navigator.
Definition
Under the close supervision of a Principal Parole Counselor, or other supervisory officer at the State Parole Board, in a two (2) year training program, receives formal and on-the-job training to review and maintain inmate case files, calculate parole eligibility dates, and schedule parole hearings for state inmates housed in state and county correctional facilities; does other related duties as required.
Examples of work
Under close supervision, as an apprentice and productive worker: Learns how to perform mathematical calculations to determine parole eligibility dates for an assigned caseload of inmates; provides inmates their actual parole eligibility date within 90 days of their admission to the State prison. Under close supervision, reviews weekly computer-generated lists to determine which inmates are eligible for parole consideration and submits the names of eligible persons for publication to each County Prosecutor's office for review. Learns how to assist the Principal Parole Counselor with the coordination of the Initial Parole Hearing process; certifies pre- parole packages for accuracy and completeness, schedules hearings and provides supportive services to the Hearing Officer. Learns how to provide assistance to the Board Panel prior to and during panel hearings; prepares case files and other relevant materials, verifies that all pre-hearing processes have been completed, ensures the adequate operation of recording equipment, and ensures that the panel hearing proceeds in accordance with state and agency rules and regulations. Under close supervision, conducts interviews at various stages of the parole process to provide information to inmates who may be eligible for parole; provides advice and assistance to inmates concerning parole eligibility and parole plans. Learns how to review and prepare responses to inmate correspondence regarding the parole process within a specified time frame. Establishes and maintains computer records and paper files. Will be required to learn how to utilize various types of electronic and/or manual recording and information systems used by the agency, office, or related units.
License
Appointees will be required to possess a driver's license valid in NJ only if the operation of a vehicle, rather than employee mobility, is necessary to perform essential duties of the position.
Knowledge, skills and abilities
Knowledge of the methods used to gather and analyze information. Ability to learn how to identify the problems encountered in interviewing and counseling inmates regarding parole eligibility. Ability to learn the resources and techniques needed to assist the inmate population. Ability to learn how to interpret laws, rules, and regulations and apply them to specific situations. Ability to learn how to conduct interviews and to provide advice and assistance to inmates. Ability to learn how to evaluate individual cases and identify problem areas. Ability to communicate with inmate population. Ability to learn how to perform complex mathematical calculations. Ability to learn how to review, analyze, and interpret material or parole cases for preparation of reports and evaluations. Ability to learn how to establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with those interested or involved with the work of the program. Ability to learn how to prepare correspondence and reports. Ability to establish and maintain records and files. Ability to learn how to utilize various types of electronic and/or manual recording and information systems used by the agency, office, or related units. Ability to read, write, speak, understand, and communicate in English sufficiently to perform duties of this position. American Sign Language or Braille may also be considered as acceptable forms of communication. Persons with mental or physical disabilities are eligible if they can perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodation. If the accommodation cannot be made because it may cause the employer undue hardship, such persons may not be eligible. ADVANCEMENT: Appointee's work performance will be reviewed and rated semi-annually during the two (2) year apprenticeship program. Upon successful completion of the apprenticeship program, appointees will be eligible for advancement to the title of Senior Parole Counselor, State Parole Board in accordance with Civil Service Commission procedures. The inability of an employee in the Apprentice title to attain the required level of performance stipulated in each of the twelve (12) month training periods shall be considered a cause for separation from employment.
Note
The examples of work for this title are for illustrative purposes only. A particular position using this title may not perform all duties listed in this job specification. Conversely, all duties performed on the job may not be listed. Applicants must meet one of the following or a combination of both experience and education. Thirty (30) semester hour credits are equal to one (1) year of relevant experience. Four (4) years of professional experience in the field of criminal justice, social work, or related areas. OR Possession of a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university. "Professional experience" refers to work that is analytical, evaluative, and interpretive; requires a range of basic knowledge of the profession's concepts and practices; and is performed with the authority to act and make accurate and informed decisions.