Deputy Sheriff Recruit

Deputy Sheriff Recruit

Salary

$25.51 - $32.74 Hourly

Location

Eureka, CA

Job Type

Full-time

Job Number

26-00002

Department

Sheriffs Office

Division

221 - Sheriff

Opening Date

07/07/2026

Closing Date

Continuous

• Description
• Benefits
• Questions

DEFINITION

Deputy Sheriff Recruit

When you work for the Humboldt County Sheriff's Office, you aren't just another employee, you are family. Our family is growing and we want YOU to join! We are looking for people who like to stay busy, can multi task and have excellent communication skills while still being able to understand and maintain confidentiality standards.

Why work for the Humboldt County Sheriffs Office:

• Opportunities for growth and career advancement
• Numerous specialty positions
• Overtime availability, hazard pay, uniform allowance, and benefits
• PERS retirement
• Medical, vision, and dental insurance
• Paid leave

Please Note:

• The successful candidate for this position will be required to receive a passing score on the Peace Officer Standards and Training Entry-Level Law Enforcement Test Battery exam (PELLETB). The County of Humboldt proctors PELLETB exams on a bimonthly basis.

• This recruitment is open until filled. Human Resources reserves the right to close this recruitment at any time.

• The successful candidate for this position will be required to undergo a detailed background investigation.

• Evening, night and weekend work may be required.

NOTE: This position is intended to prepare candidate for the position of Deputy Sheriff I. Incumbents in this position will attend a P.O.S.T. approved basic academy which will be paid in full by the Sheriffs Office. Incumbents may advance to Deputy Sheriff I after successfully completing the academy and meeting the entry level qualifications for Deputy Sheriff I. Prior to appointment candidates must successfully complete a background investigation, polygraph, physical health examination and a psychological evaluation.

DEFINITION

Under immediate supervision, actively participates in the P.O.S.T. (Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training) prescribed police academy training program; performs all related learning and testing activities; performs a variety of routine to complex field and administrative activities in support of police services and programs for the County Sheriff's Office; provides comprehensive non-sworn staff support to Sheriff's Office supervisory and management personnel on a wide variety of law enforcement programs, projects, and services; responds to public requests and performs related duties, as assigned.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED

Receives immediate supervision from assigned supervisory or management personnel. Exercises no direct supervision over staff.

CLASS CHARACTERISTICS

This is the trainee level class in the Deputy Sheriff series. Incumbents learn County systems, operations, practices, policies, and procedures. This is a non-sworn classification and upon successful completion of the P.O.S.T. approved academy, a Deputy Sheriff Recruit may be promoted to the Deputy Sheriff I classification.

EXAMPLES OF DUTIES

Management reserves the right to add, modify, change, or rescind the work assignment of different positions.

• Accompanies Deputy Sheriff on patrol of assigned areas and in response to suspicious activity and emergency calls for service; accompanies Deputy Sheriff in the enforcement of state and local laws and ordinances, issuance of verbal warnings and citations, and pursuit and apprehension of suspects.
• Assists with coordination of crime scene control and investigation, including conducting interviews and interrogations, identifying witnesses, and collecting and preserving physical evidence.
• Assists in the preparation and documentation of cases; completes, prepares, and maintains reports, logs, and records.
• Assists with traffic accident investigations; provides traffic and crowd control as necessary.
• Learns and applies knowledge of the County of Humboldt's Sheriff's Office organization, rules, and regulations.
• Learns principles and techniques of patrol procedures, community service, crime prevention, and public relations.
• Learns and applies knowledge of enforcement and procedural aspects of criminal law, arrest and control techniques, crowd control, and the enforcement of those laws.
• Learns principles and techniques of proper use and maintenance of firearms.
• Learns vehicle operation including the Vehicle Code.
• Learns basic criminal investigation processes and techniques, including the identification, collection, and preservation of evidence, courtroom testimony, and interviewing witnesses.
• Learns and practices physical fitness and defense techniques programs.
• Learns and practices first aid and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge and ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Knowledge of:

• Basic functions, principles, and practices of law enforcement agencies.
• Basic principles of record keeping.
• Techniques for providing a high level of customer service by effectively dealing with the public, vendors, contractors, and County staff.
• The structure and content of the English language to effectively perform the work.
• Modern equipment and communication tools used for business functions and program, project, and task coordination, including computers and software programs relevant to the work performed.

Ability to:

• Learn functions, principles, and practices of law enforcement agencies.
• Learn police terminology and law enforcement codes.
• Understand, interpret, and apply all pertinent laws, codes, regulations, policies and procedures, and standards relevant to work performed.
• Learn and understand the organization and operation of the County and of outside agencies as necessary to assume assigned responsibilities.
• Effectively use computer systems, software applications relevant to work performed, and modern business equipment to perform a variety of work tasks.
• Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing, using appropriate English grammar and syntax.
• Establish, maintain, and foster positive and effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.

Minimum Qualifications:

Any combination of training and experience that would provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required qualifications would be:

Equivalent to completion of the twelfth (12th) grade or GED.

Licenses and Certifications:

Must possess a valid US driver's license upon date of application. Must obtain California driver's license prior to hire date per California DMV regulations.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• Mobility to work primarily in a patrol and field environment and to maintain P.O.S.T. physical standards; to respond to emergency situations and apprehend suspects; to frequently walk, run, stand on uneven terrain, and climb and descend structures to access crime scenes and to identify problems or hazards; to frequently bend, stoop, kneel, reach, and climb to perform work; and to work in a secondary office or station environment, and use standard office equipment, including a computer.
• Strength and stamina to apprehend, lift, carry, push, and pull victims, suspects and equipment as determined within P.O.S.T physical standards, which may include the use of proper equipment.
• Vision and manual dexterity to operate vehicles including emergency response vehicles in all conditions, often at a high rate of speed in emergency situations; to maintain firearms qualification and to read printed materials and a computer screen.
• Finger and manual dexterity is needed to operate police services equipment and firearms, and to access, enter, and retrieve data using a computer keyboard.
• Hearing and speech to communicate in person, before groups, and over the telephone or radio.

ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS

• The principal duties of this class are performed in a field environment with exposure to criminal offenders, mentally ill individuals, and persons potentially infected with communicable diseases.
• Outdoor conditions with exposure to loud noise levels, cold and hot temperatures, inclement weather conditions, moving vehicles, and hazardous physical substances and fumes.
• Also includes an office or station environment with moderate noise levels, controlled temperature conditions, and no direct exposure to hazardous physical substances.
• Employees may interact with upset staff and/or public and private representatives in interpreting and enforcing departmental policies and procedures.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

• Must be willing to work emergencies and on evenings, weekends, and holidays. Must be willing to work with convicted criminals.
• Some departments may require pre-employment screening measures before an offer of employment can be made (i.e. background screening, physical examination, etc.).

WORKING CONDITIONS & ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

HOW TO APPLY

A complete, original application must be filed for each position you are interested in applying for. Applicants must apply online through the County's automated application system at https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/humboldtcountyca.

Applications must be submitted no later than the final filing date and time listed on the job flyer.

It is important that your application shows all the relevant education and experience you possess. Human Resources staff does not consider or review resumes or attachments. Incomplete applications will be rejected.

Please read the job requirements section of the announcement. Be sure you meet these requirements since they will be carefully evaluated during the selection process.

Your performance in any employment examinations will be compared with the performance of others who take the tests. The examination results will be emailed to you as quickly as possible.

SELECTION PROCEDURE

The County utilizes a set of rules to ensure that our hiring processes are fair and equitable. Applications will be screened and those considered qualified will be invited to appear for an oral and/or written examination. Meeting the requirements does not guarantee inclusion into the selection process. Depending upon the number of applications received, the selection process may consist of additional application screening, written and/or practical exam(s), oral interview, or any combination thereof.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How long does it take to fill out the application?

• You should allow 30 - 45 minutes to fill out your application.

Can I change my application after submitting it?

• No. Once an application has been submitted, it is final. Applicants may submit a new application with updated information during the filing period if they wish. Only the most recent application submitted will be considered. All other applications will not be considered.

How long until I hear back from you and how can I check for updates on my application?

• You may receive communications regarding your application at different stages of the selection process. Important updates will be sent to the email address listed in your governmentjobs.com account at the time of notification. To ensure you dont miss any critical information, we recommend keeping your email address current and regularly checking both your inbox and junk mail folders throughout the process. You can also log into your governmentjobs.com account at any time to check your application status. If you have any questions about your applications progress, please contact the County of Humboldt Human Resources Personnel Division at 707-476-2349 or personnel@co.humboldt.ca.us.

Will I be informed if I am not selected for an interview / Oral Exam?

• Yes, you will be informed via email if you are not selected for an interview / Oral Exam.

OUR COMMITMENT TO DIVERSITY, EQUITY, AND INCLUSION

Research indicates that individuals in protected classes can be less likely to submit a job application. The County of Humboldt is dedicated to building a diverse, inclusive, and authentic workplace where our employees are free to bring their full selves to work each day in an environment that allows them to reach their full potential. The County Board of Supervisors has made organizational commitments to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) and the County is working to ensure that these commitments are reflected in all we do. The County recognizes that certain populations (BIPOC, Disabled Persons, Veterans, LGBTQIA+ community members, etc.) face systemic and structural challenges which may inhibit their ability to satisfy every requirement of the position. In recognition of these structural and systemic factors, the Human Resources Department understands that experience can be gained in many ways - oftentimes, outside of formal institutions - and strives to take a holistic approach in assessing an applicant's qualifications for a position.

If you're excited about this role but your past work experience doesn't align perfectly with every qualification in the job description, we strongly encourage you to apply.

REASONABLE ACCOMMODATIONS

The County of Humboldt is committed to providing equal access and opportunities in its programs, activities, and employment, and does not discriminate on the basis of mental or physical disabilities. The Human Resources Department is located in the Humboldt County Courthouse, which has an accessible entrance on 4th Street. Accessible parking is available adjacent to the 4th Street entrance and on the 4th Street side of the K Street lot. Special testing arrangements may be made to accommodate disabilities or religious convictions. If invited to an examination and you are in need of a reasonable accommodation, please contact Human Resources immediately at (707) 476-2349 so arrangements can be made.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

The county is an equal opportunity employer. We enthusiastically accept our responsibility to make employment decisions without regard to race, religion or religious creed, color, age, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, marital status, medical condition, mental or physical disability, military service, or any other classification protected by federal, state, or local laws or ordinances.

MEDICAL EXAMINATION

A pre-employment medical examination provided by the County may be required upon offer of employment.

OTHER EXAMINATIONS

Some positions also require psychological evaluation and/or extensive background investigation.

LICENSES

Some classifications require possession of valid professional and/or technical licenses. Some classifications may require the possession of a valid California driver's license.

PROBATIONARY PERIOD

Persons appointed to regular County positions serve a probationary period. This is normally six (6) months but could be up to one (1) year. All designated safety employees serve a one-year probationary period.

EMPLOYMENT ELIGIBILITY

It is the County's intention to hire only those workers who are authorized to work in the United States, pursuant to the Immigration Act of 1990. If you are offered employment, you will be required to verify your eligibility to work in the United States. For law enforcement positions you will be required to verify your U.S. citizenship or legalized status.

DISASTER SERVICE WORKERS

All County of Humboldt employees are designated Disaster Service Workers through state and local law (California Government Code Section 3100-3109). Employment with the County requires the affirmation of a loyalty oath to this effect. Employees are required to complete all Disaster Service Worker-related training as assigned, and to return to work as ordered in the event of an emergency.

THE PROVISIONS OF THIS BULLETIN DO NOT CONSTITUTE AN EXPRESS OR IMPLIED CONTRACT. THE COUNTY OF HUMBOLDT RESERVES THE RIGHT TO MAKE NECESSARY MODIFICATIONS TO THE EXAMINATION PLAN IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE HUMBOLDT COUNTY MERIT SYSTEM RULES.

Please Note: Extra Help positions are non-benefitted but may be eligible to purchase health insurance upon meeting the hours worked requirement under the Affordable Care Act (ACA).

RETIREMENT

The County participates in the CalPERS retirement system, with both the County and the employee making contributions toward the employee's retirement.

CalPERS Retirement Program:

• Tier I: Up to 12/31/2012: 3% @ 50
• Tier II: Post 1/1/2013: 2.7% @ 57

Please note that these are the tiers available at the County of Humboldt. Tier determination is made by CalPERS. Please reach out to Personnel if you have questions regarding tier placement.

COMPREHESIVE BENEFITS PACKAGE

Our generous benefits package includes:

• Health Insurance

• Medical: Multiple plan options available through CalPERS

• County covers majority of employee premium and contributes to dependent coverage

• Additional Insurance Coverage

• Dental: Full premium coverage for employees and all dependents

• Vision: Full premium coverage for employees and eligible dependents

• County-Provided Benefits

• Life Insurance

• Longevity Pay

• Educational Reimbursement

• Deferred Compensation

• Employee Assistance Program

• Bus Pass Program

Optional Benefits

Employees may elect to purchase additional coverage including:

• Supplemental Life Insurance with guaranteed issuance period at time of hire
• Flexible Spending Accounts

VACATION

1 - 3 completed years of service = 12 days (192-hour cap)

4 - 10 completed years of service = 15 days (240-hour cap)

11 - 15 completed years of service = 20 days (320-hour cap)

16 - 20 completed years of service = 25 days (400-hour cap)

21+ completed years of service = 30 days (480-hour cap)

HOLIDAYS

Employees earn 15 paid holidays per year (specific dates included in their specific Memorandum of Understanding (MOU)), including 3 personal holidays.

SICK LEAVE

Employees earn 12 sick days per year with an unlimited cap on sick day accumulation.

PUBLIC SERVICE LOAN FORGIVENESS

The County is a Public Service Loan Forgiveness certified employer.

INCENTIVE PAY

County employees may be eligible for additional incentive pay, such as on-call pay, shift differential pay, locked facility pay, or annual uniform allowance, as defined in their specific MOU.

EDUCATIONAL INCENTIVE PAY

Additional pay for obtaining P.O.S.T above and beyond that required by job class.

SPECIAL ASSIGNMENT PAY

Additional salary increase for specialty assignments (Field Training Officer, Rotational Criminal Investigations Division, and Bomb Squad).

Please visit the County of Humboldt Human Resources website at Human Resources | Humboldt County, CA - Official Website for more information on benefits, labor agreements, and job opportunities.

01

To qualify for a Deputy Sheriff Recruit position, you must have a qualifying T Score of 42 or higher on the Peace Officer Standards and Training Entry-Level Law Enforcement Test Battery exam (PELLETB). Have you taken a PELLETB written examination and received a T Score of 42 or higher within the last 3 years?

• Yes
• No

02

If the answer to question #1 is "no", you will be required to take the County of Humboldt-administered PELLETB as part of this recruitment process. Please select "yes" to indicate understanding of this statement.

• Yes
• No

03

This position requires driving on behalf of the County of Humboldt. Do you possess, or can you obtain, a valid California drivers license, prior to your date of hire per California Department of Motor Vehicle regulations?

• Yes
• No

04

Any other coursework, training or experience you would like to add that directly relates to this position.

Required Question

Employer County of Humboldt

Address 825 5th Street, Room 100

Eureka, California, 95501

Phone 707-476-2349