ZipRecruiter

Log In

2

Entry Level Sheriff Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

All JobsSheriff JobsEntry Level Sheriff JobsEntry Level Sheriff Jobs in Alabama

Entry Level Sheriff information

See Alabama salary details

$76.6K

$102.3K

$141.4K

How much do entry level sheriff jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level sheriff in Alabama is $102,311.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $88,800.00 and $109,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level sheriffs during their first year on the job?

Entry-level sheriffs often encounter challenges adjusting to shift work, handling high-pressure situations, and building trust within the communities they serve. They must quickly learn to balance enforcing the law with demonstrating empathy and professionalism, especially when dealing with sensitive or confrontational incidents. Additionally, adapting to the structured chain of command and collaborating effectively with more experienced colleagues can be a learning curve, but support and ongoing training are typically provided to help new sheriffs succeed.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level sheriff, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Sheriff, you need a high school diploma or equivalent, law enforcement academy training, and a solid understanding of criminal law and public safety procedures. Familiarity with police databases, radio communication systems, and incident reporting software is typically required. Strong interpersonal skills, integrity, and the ability to remain calm under pressure help you effectively interact with the community and handle stressful situations. These skills are crucial for ensuring public safety, upholding the law, and building trust within the community.

How long would it take to become an entry level sheriff?

Becoming an entry-level sheriff typically requires completing a police academy training program, which usually lasts several months, and gaining relevant law enforcement experience, often through prior roles such as a deputy or officer. The total time can range from 1 to 3 years depending on the individual's background and the specific requirements of the jurisdiction.

What is the difference between Entry Level Sheriff vs Entry Level Deputy?

AspectEntry Level SheriffEntry Level Deputy
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or GED, basic law enforcement trainingHigh school diploma or GED, basic law enforcement training
Work EnvironmentCounty or city law enforcement agencies, rural or urban areasCounty or city law enforcement agencies, rural or urban areas
Employer & Industry UsageCounty sheriff's offices, law enforcement agenciesPolice departments, sheriff's offices, law enforcement agencies
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Entry Level Sheriffs and Entry Level Deputies often share similar qualifications, work environments, and employer types. Both roles typically require basic law enforcement training and serve in county or city agencies. The main difference lies in terminology and jurisdiction, with sheriffs often overseeing county-wide law enforcement and deputies working under sheriff offices. Understanding these distinctions helps job seekers identify the right entry point in law enforcement careers.

How to become an entry level sheriff?

To become an entry-level sheriff, candidates typically need to meet minimum age and education requirements, pass a background check, and complete law enforcement training through a police academy or similar program. Some jurisdictions may require prior experience in law enforcement or related fields and obtaining relevant certifications such as CPR or first aid can be beneficial.

What does an entry level sheriff do?

An entry level sheriff is responsible for maintaining law and order within a county, enforcing local and state laws, and providing security in courts. Typical duties include patrolling assigned areas, responding to emergency calls, serving legal documents, and assisting with investigations. Entry level sheriffs may also transport prisoners, conduct traffic stops, and participate in community outreach programs. This position often serves as a starting point for a career in law enforcement, with opportunities for advancement based on experience and performance.
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Sheriff jobs in Alabama? For Entry Level Sheriff jobs in Alabama, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Sheriff jobs in Alabama look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Sheriff jobs in Alabama are:
Entry Level Sheriff jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Sheriff job openings in Alabama as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $102,311 per year, or $49.2 per hour.

Deputy Sheriff Cadet

Montgomery County Commission Human Resources Department - Sheriff

Montgomery, AL

$15.07 - $22.79/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

Salary Information

Compensation plans are based on a multi-step progression system. The pay range reflects the entry level and maximum salary potential in the assigned pay grade. \r\n**A starting salary may be negotiated and will be commensurate with education, training and experience in alignment with pay administration policies** \r\n

Nature of Work

The Deputy Sheriff Cadet is used\r\nas an entry level position into the Montgomery County Sheriff's Office. Cadets\r\nare assigned non-law enforcement duties and responsibilities. Cadets perform\r\nparaprofessional office and field support duties under supervision of a sworn\r\nmember or supervising civilian personnel in the Sheriff's Office. In addition,\r\nCadets will shadow different deputies in the performance of their duties as a\r\npart of training. Finally, Cadets will train in physical fitness in anticipation\r\nof the required physical agility test administered to qualify for Alabama Peace\r\nOfficers Standards and Training. Cadets are typically supervised by division\r\nsupervisors.\r\n

Minimum Qualifications

\r\nHigh school diploma or G.E.D.\r\ncertificate and at least 18 years old, but not older than 21 years of age. Must have current State of Alabama Driver's License.\r\n\r\n\r\nNOTE:Qualifying education, training and experience that provide the requisite knowledge, skills and abilities to perform the job will be considered.\r\n\r\n

Special Requirements

According to the APOST Commission, an applicant must have graduated and received a regular or advanced high school diploma as approved or recognized by the Alabama State Department of Education (see Alabama Administrative Code Rule 290-3-1-02). Correspondence or mail order high school diplomas or certificates are not acceptable.\r\nCadets are expected to compete with other applicants for the position of Deputy Sheriff Trainee in order to enter a law enforcement training academy no later than the age of 21. If Cadets are not successful in obtaining employment as a Deputy Sheriff Trainee, their employment as a Cadet will be severed. Upon completion of the academy, employees are required to live within a response time of thirty (30) minutes of the Montgomery County Sheriff's Office.\r\nApplicants who are offered employment will be required to undergo a medical examination by a physician designated by the appointing authority and successfully complete a drug test, and thorough background investigation prior to being employed. \r\nWORKING CONDITIONS: During the course of their work, Cadets at times will shadow deputies in the performance of their duties which may expose the candidate to potentially dangerous and adverse conditions and rotating shift work will be required.\r\n

Employment Type: NA

Apply