Deputy Chief Probation Officer

Deputy Chief Probation Officer Santa Barbara, CA County of Santa Barbara, CA Career Opportunity Known for its collaborative culture and stellar reputation, the Probation Department is seeking a Deputy Chief Probation Officer (DCPO) to join its outstanding executive team. Under the direction of the Chief Probation Officer, the DCPO will plan, organize and direct the activities of a Division in the Probation Department. As a member of the executive team, a DCPO is responsible for embracing innovation and providing vision and guidance to meet the challenges of the present and shape the Department of the future, while maintaining or exceeding the current standard of excellence. The DCPO is an at-will assistant department leader position which serves at the pleasure of the Chief Probation Officer and is exempt from the civil service system. The selected DCPO is anticipated to initially oversee either Adult Community Supervision Services or Adult Pretrial and Court Services. The position requires an executive who can effectively manage a broad and demanding portfolio while maintaining strong relationships throughout the County. The DCPO will participate in numerous countywide and multidisciplinary workgroups and must be available to travel regularly throughout the County and beyond. Key Responsibilities The Deputy Chief Probation Officer serves as a senior member of the Department’s executive team and has broad responsibility for leading, managing, and administering assigned functions and programs. Key responsibilities include: Leading the development and implementation of departmental goals, objectives, policies, procedures, service levels, and staffing priorities for assigned areas. Assisting in the overall management of the Probation Department, including budget development, expenditure oversight, staffing, equipment, and resource planning. Directing major probation functions and activities and ensuring assigned operations are carried out effectively and in accordance with applicable laws, policies, and court requirements. Selecting, developing, motivating, and evaluating staff; supporting employee development and addressing performance and disciplinary matters in consultation with the Chief Probation Officer. Evaluating service delivery, workload, organizational structure, and internal processes; identifying opportunities for improvement and directing implementation of approved changes. Monitoring legislative, regulatory, technological, and professional developments that may affect Department operations and implementing appropriate policy and procedural changes. Preparing and presenting reports, management updates, and special projects to the Board of Supervisors and other stakeholders; responding to complex and sensitive public or organizational issues. Representing the Department in professional and organizational settings and serving as Chief Probation Officer in the Chief’s absence, as assigned. The Department is also advancing several significant organizational and technology initiatives. Current efforts include modernization of its case management system; implementation of an artificial intelligence solution to support report summarization for investigators; replacement of the Juvenile Justice Center scheduling system; and a number of capital improvement projects. The executive team must also continually respond to evolving legislative requirements affecting probation and community corrections. The Department’s executive team operates in a highly collaborative environment and values thoughtful discussion, shared responsibility, and consensus-based decision-making. Team members are expected to contribute their perspectives openly, support one another, and work collectively toward decisions that best serve the Department and the community. The culture is professional, supportive, and focused on achieving results without individual agendas. The Department is recognized for its forward-thinking approach to probation, strong professional reputation, and commitment to innovation and progressive practices. Its executive leadership is well respected within the profession and values collaboration, thoughtful change, and high standards of service. DCPOs may choose to be armed, but it is not required. Top areas of focus of this DCPO will be: Personnel management and development Succession planning Budget preparation and management Promoting countywide collaboration and partnership Leading and/or participating in high-level multi-department project planning and implementation Ensuring the provision of quality work product to the Chief and stakeholders Preparing presentations for and appearing before the Board of Supervisors Leading and participating in countywide and multidisciplinary workgroups Navigating legislative and policy changes affecting probation services Advancing technology, infrastructure and organizational improvement initiatives Maintaining an innovative and industry-leading workforce The position is open due to the retirement of the incumbent. About County of Santa Barbara, CA Santa Barbara County is located approximately 100 miles north of Los Angeles and 300 miles south of San Francisco, with Ventura and San Luis Obispo bordering either side, often referred to locally as the “Tri-Counties.” Eight incorporated cities are located within the County: Santa Barbara, Santa Maria, Lompoc, Goleta, Carpinteria, Guadalupe, Solvang, and Buellton. Established on February 18, 1850, as one of California’s original 27 counties, Santa Barbara County has grown into a vibrant region known for its cultural heritage, natural beauty, and strong sense of community and resilience. The mild climate, picturesque coastline, scenic mountains, and numerous parks and beaches make the County a popular tourist and recreational area. The Department The Santa Barbara County Probation Department is dedicated to promoting public safety and fostering positive change in our community. The Department operates four