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Sheriff Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

DEPUTY SHERIFF/DEPUTY SHERIFF-LATERAL

CA · On-site

$79K - $87K/yr

Sheriff's Department, CA Job Type: Permanent - Full Time Job Number: 25-2600013 Department: Sheriff Division: SO Patrol Opening Date: 09/15/2025 Bargaining Unit: DSA - 6 Job Summary The County of ...

Sheriff's Lieutenant

Nevada City, CA · On-site

$142K - $173K/yr

Nevada County Sheriff's Lieutenants plan and lead the activities of one or more major units of the Sheriff's Office. They provide leadership in the absence of the command-level manager and perform ...

Sheriff's Cadet

Auburn, CA · On-site

$22.38/hr

The Sheriff's Cadet program is a structured mentorship program designed to prepare individuals for a career in law enforcement. Cadets will train with the Sheriff's Office Youth and Community ...

Deputy Sheriff Recruit

Eureka, CA · On-site

$25.51 - $32.74/hr

Sheriff's Office Division: 221 - Sheriff Opening Date: 07/07/2026 Closing Date: Continuous DEFINITION Deputy Sheriff Recruit When you work for the Humboldt County Sheriff's Office, you aren't just ...

Deputy Sheriff Recruit

Eureka, CA · On-site

$25.51 - $32.74/hr

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 ...

Deputy Sheriff - I

Auburn, CA · On-site

$42.68 - $51.93/hr

The Placer County Sheriff's Office is currently accepting applications for Deputy Sheriff Trainee, Deputy Sheriff I, and Deputy Sheriff II. Please review individual job postings for the minimum ...

Deputy Sheriff - II

Auburn, CA · On-site

$49.52 - $60.41/hr

Deputy Sheriff - Trainee #2026-16300-01 Deputy Sheriff - I #2026-16321-01 Deputy Sheriff - II #2026-16322-01 Qualified applicants will undergo an extensive background investigation to determine if ...

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Showing results 1-20

Sheriff information

See California salary details

$83.4K

$111.4K

$154K

How much do sheriff jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for sheriff in California is $111,399.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $96,700.00 and $119,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a sheriff?

Sheriffs are elected or appointed law enforcement officials who are responsible for maintaining peace and enforcing the law within a county or jurisdiction. Their duties often include managing the county jail, serving legal documents, providing courtroom security, and patrolling rural areas. In many locations, sheriffs also oversee a team of deputies and support staff. The exact responsibilities of sheriffs can vary by state and county, but they play a vital role in the local justice system.

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

To thrive as a Sheriff, you need comprehensive knowledge of law enforcement practices, criminal justice procedures, and typically a combination of law enforcement experience and formal training, often with state certification. Familiarity with police databases, incident reporting systems, and evidence management technology is crucial. Strong leadership, decision-making, and interpersonal skills help a Sheriff effectively manage personnel and engage with the community. These abilities ensure public safety, uphold the law, and maintain trust in local law enforcement operations.

What does a sheriff do?

Sheriffs are elected or appointed law enforcement officers at the county level. They often have the same training and authority as police officers and may work alongside the local police department. Their exact job duties vary by state and county.

Sheriffs handle a variety of law enforcement tasks on a daily basis. They supervise their staff, creating schedules and delegating assignments. Sheriffs deliver and serve documents including court orders, eviction notices, and divorce papers to community members. Sheriffs may also take and respond to emergency calls in certain counties. Like other police officers, sheriffs patrol the area, work traffic detail, and may investigate car accidents. A sheriff also has the authority to investigate, arrest, process, and detain criminals. In some counties, the sheriff manages the local jail and communicates with regional courts regarding inmates.

What are some common challenges faced by sheriffs and how can new hires prepare for them?

Sheriffs often face challenges such as managing high-stress situations, balancing administrative duties with fieldwork, and ensuring effective communication within their teams. New hires can prepare by developing strong conflict resolution skills, staying physically and mentally fit, and familiarizing themselves with local laws and departmental protocols. Building relationships with both the community and team members is also crucial for success and career growth in this role.

What is the difference between Sheriff vs Deputy Sheriff?

AspectSheriffDeputy Sheriff
CredentialsTypically requires law enforcement training, certification, and election or appointment as sheriffRequires law enforcement training and certification; appointed or hired by sheriff
Work EnvironmentOversees county law enforcement, manages sheriff's office, and enforces lawsWorks under the sheriff, performs patrols, investigations, and law enforcement duties
Employer & IndustryCounty government, law enforcement agencies

In summary, a sheriff is an elected official responsible for overseeing county law enforcement, while a deputy sheriff is a sworn officer working under the sheriff's command. Both roles require law enforcement credentials, but the sheriff holds a leadership and administrative position, whereas the deputy sheriff performs operational duties.

What are the most commonly searched types of Sheriff jobs in California?

The most popular types of Sheriff jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Sheriff jobs?

Cities in California with the most Sheriff job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Sheriff jobs in CA?

For Sheriff jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Sheriff job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $111,399 per year, or $53.6 per hour.

Deputy Sheriff's Recruit

Dublin, CA

Full-time

Re-posted 15 days ago


Job description

Introduction

\r\n\r\n*NOW OFFERING A $10,000 HIRING BONUS*\r\nEffective August 9, 2020, paid incrementally over 4 years.\r\n\r\n\r\nTHIS IS A NEW CONTINUOUS EXAMINATION. The eligible list resulting from this examination will cancel any existing list and may last approximately one year but can be extended. This examination may be reopened as necessary, and the names of additional candidates merged onto the existing list according to the examination score.\r\n\r\n\r\nSupplemental Questionnaire: A properly completed Supplemental Questionnaire must be submitted with each application. Failure to submit the Application or Supplemental Questionnaire will result in disqualification.\r\n\r\n\r\nApplications and Supplemental Questionnaires must be in the possession of the Human Resource Services Department by 5:00 p.m. on the Last Day for Filing. Applications and supplemental questionnaires will only be accepted online.\r\n\r\n\r\nThe filing deadlines for the 2026 testing cycles are as follows:\r\n\r\n\r\n Tuesday, August 25, 2026\r\n Tuesday, September 22, 2026\r\n Tuesday, October 27, 2026\r\n\r\n\r\nWOMEN, MINORITIES, AND MILITARY VETERANS ARE STRONGLY ENCOURAGED TO APPLY.\r\n\r\n\r\nVeterans who pass the examination process and provide a DD214 that meets the County's criteria will receive additional points added to their final overall score.\r\n\r\n\r\n*If you have previously applied or started an application for theDeputy Sheriff's Recruit,Examination #25-8601-01, please contact the examination analyst, Elaine Lemi, atelaine.lemi@acgov.orgto reapply.In order to reapply, you must contact the analyst to have your previous application released back to you.DO NOT SUBMIT A DUPLICATE APPLICATION.The scores and dispositions of candidates for this examination will be merged with previous exam participants. If you previously submitted an application and choose to reapply, your new score/disposition will replace your current disposition. If you do not wish to change your score/disposition, you are not required to reapply to this examination. Candidates who received a qualifying score cannot participate in the examination within six (6) months of their disposition notice. Candidates who did not qualify may reapply sixty (60) days from their disposition notice. Candidates who failed any of the exam components (i.e., written, oral exam), may reapply sixty (60) days from the exam date. *\r\n\r\n\r\nPlease read the recruitment announcement in its entirety for important dates and information.\r\n\r\n\r\n

DESCRIPTION

\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nABOUT THE ALAMEDA COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE\r\nThe Alameda County Sheriff's Office is a full-service law enforcement agency accredited through the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA) for its law enforcement services, its Regional Training Center, and its Dispatch Unit; the American Society of Crime Laboratory Directors Laboratory Accreditation Board for its Crime Lab; the Bomb Squad Commanders Advisory Board for its Explosive Ordinance Unit. Additionally, the agency's health care provider, Wellpath, has experience working with the National Commission on Correctional Health Care (NCCHC).\r\n\r\n\r\nThe Sheriff's Office has a current budget of approximately $600 million and has over 1600 authorized positions, including in excess of 1000 sworn personnel. The agency's Chief Executive Officer is Sheriff / Coroner Yesenia L. Sanchez, who is assisted in the operation of the agency by Undersheriff April Luckett-Fahimi, Assistant Sheriffs Daniel McNaughton and Pace Stokes.\r\n\r\n\r\nThe Sheriff of Alameda County is responsible for a vast array of tasks and duties, including the following:\r\n\r\n\r\n Providing security to the Consolidated Superior Courts\r\n Operating the Coroner's Bureau\r\n Operating full-service criminalistics laboratory\r\n Performing Civil Process\r\n Operating a County Jail (Santa Rita)\r\n Operating the County Office of Emergency Services\r\n Providing patrol and investigative services to the unincorporated areas of Alameda County\r\n Pursuant to contractual agreements, providing patrol and investigative services to the City of Dublin, Oakland International Airport, Highland County Hospital, Social Services, and to the Alameda-Contra Costa Transit District\r\n Conducting a basic academy pursuant to Police Officer Standards and Training (P.O.S.T.) requirements. [Sheriff's Academy website]\r\n Providing Fish and Game enforcement\r\n Project Director of the Narcotics Task Force\r\n Serving as the Executive Director of the Sexual Assault Felony Enforcement (SAFE) Task Force\r\n\r\nFor more detailed information about the agency, visit: Alameda County's Sheriff's Office.\r\n\r\n\r\nTHE POSITION\r\nDeputy Sheriff Recruit is the entry-level law enforcement position for Alameda County. This classification exists solely for those attending the Sheriff's Office Peace Officers Standards and Training (P.O.S.T.) certified Basic Academy.\r\n\r\n\r\nThe Deputy Sheriff Recruit is a classification characterized by assignment to a P.O.S.T. Certified Academy. Under close supervision during this Academy, the Recruit will receive intensive academic instruction in law enforcement combined with rigorous physical fitness training. Upon successful completion of the Academy, recruits will be sworn in as Peace Officers and promoted to Deputy Sheriff I.\r\n\r\n\r\nFor more detailed information about the job classification, visit: Deputy Sheriff's Recruit (#8601).\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

\r\nEducation:\r\n\r\nGraduation from high school or possession of an acceptable equivalency certificate, such as the General Educational Development Certificate (State of California). *\r\n\r\n\r\nLicense:\r\nValid California State Motor Vehicle Operator's License by the time of appointment to Deputy Sheriff I.\r\n\r\n\r\nAge:\r\nMust be at least 21 years of age at the time of appointment to Deputy Sheriff I.\r\n\r\n\r\nCitizenship:\r\nCandidates are not required to be a US citizen but must be legally authorized to work in the United States under federal law. (SB 960)\r\n\r\n\r\n*According to the Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST), the minimum education is a United States high school graduation or passage of GED, or other approved equivalency test.\r\n\r\nNOTE: The Civil Service Commission may modify the above Minimum Qualifications in the announcement of an examination.\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS

\r\n\r\n\r\nThe most suitably qualified candidates will possess the following competencies:\r\n\r\n\r\nAbility to:\r\n\r\n\r\n Read, understand, interpret, and apply complex policies, rules, laws, and ordinances pertaining to law enforcement work.\r\n Write clear, concise, comprehensive reports.\r\n Accurately observe and remember names, faces, numbers, and events.\r\n Establish and maintain effective working relations with others.\r\n Use good judgment in emergency or critical situations.\r\n Communicate clearly and concisely, verbally and in writing.\r\n Perform routine clerical and record-keeping duties.\r\n\r\n\r\nSpecial Requirements\r\n\r\n\r\n A thorough background investigation and psychological examination will be made of all prospective Deputy Sheriff's Recruits. A record of any felony conviction will result in disqualification.\r\n Hearing must be normal in each ear.\r\n Using both eyes must have far vision of at least 20/100 without glasses, correctable to 20/20 with glasses. Must be free from color blindness and permanent abnormality in either eye.\r\n These standards are confined to far vision and color vision. There are additional standards which may apply to other possible specific visual deficiencies.\r\n Applicants must be in excellent physical condition with above-average strength, endurance, and agility and must meet California POST-approved safety member physical standards.\r\n\r\n\r\n

EXAMINATION COMPONENTS

***IMPORTANT TESTING INFORMATION - PLEASE READ IN ITS ENTIRETY***\r\n\r\n\r\nApplicants must complete the POST Entry Level Law Enforcement Test Battery (PELLETB) or the National Testing Network (NTN) Frontline Test. The acceptable pass point for the POST PELLETB is 42. The acceptable pass point for the NTN Frontline Test is 60% Video, 85% Reading, and 80% Writing. Scores should be dated no more than one year ago. Valid PELLETB t-scores or NTN scores must be on the agency's letterhead and reflect the date of the test. Scores must be uploaded under the 'resume' tab and submitted along with the application or submitted to the recruitment analyst, Elaine Lemi, at elaine.lemi@acgov.org.\r\n\r\n\r\nIn addition to the PELLETB or NTN, applicants must complete the Physical Abilities Test (PAT). The acceptable pass point for the PAT is 220when taken with the Alameda County Sheriff's Office. For WSTB PAT scores taken with outside agencies/jurisdictions, the acceptable pass point is 320*. Valid WSTB/PAT scores must be on the agency's letterhead and reflect the date of the test. Scores are valid for one year from the test date. Valid PAT scores must be submitted to the recruitment analyst, Elaine Lemi, at elaine.lemi@acgov.org.\r\n\r\n\r\n*Updated 2/3/2026\r\n\r\n\r\nIn order to be invited to the oral examination, applicants must submit both a valid t-score or NTN score and PAT score. Failure to submit both scores will prevent applicants from moving forward in the recruitment process.\r\n\r\n\r\nApplicants who have not taken either the PELLETB and/or PAT exams may take the exam with the Alameda County Sheriff's Office. To view upcoming test dates and register, visit: PELLETB and PAT Test Registration.\r\n\r\n\r\nPassing scores must be submitted to the recruitment analyst, Elaine Lemi, at elaine.lemi@acgov.org.\r\n\r\n\r\nTHE EXAMINATION WILL CONSIST OF THE FOLLOWING STEPS:\r\n\r\n\r\n A review of applications and supplemental questionnaires to verify possession of minimum requirements. Those applicants who possess the minimum requirements for the class will move on to the next step in the examination process*.\r\n An ORAL EXAMINATION which will be weighted as 100% of the applicant's final examination score.\r\n A thorough BACKGROUND INVESTIGATION and PSYCHOLOGICAL EXAMINATION will be made of all prospective Deputy Sheriff Recruits. A record of any felony conviction will result in disqualification.\r\n\r\n\r\n*Applicants must submit a valid PELLETB or NTN score and PAT score in order to move forward in the recruitment process.\r\n\r\n\r\nCANDIDATES MUST ATTAIN A QUALIFYING RATING ON EACH PORTION OF THIS EXAMINATION\r\n\r\n\r\nAlameda County utilizes a Civil Service Selection System founded on merit. Such a system is competitive and based on broad recruitment efforts and equal opportunity for qualified applicants to test in an examination process designed to determine the qualifications, fitness and ability of competitors to perform duties of the vacant position. Many of our recruitments are targeted and specific to the needs of a current vacant position, in which case, the eligible list may be exclusively used for that current vacant position. Other recruitments may be more broadly used for both current and future vacancies, or for other alternate jobs with comparable scopes of work.\r\n\r\n\r\nFor more information on the Civil Service Selection process, please visit the "What You Need to Know" section of our website, www.acgov.org/hrs.\r\n

Selection Plan

\r\n\r\nApplicants will be informed via e-mail with reasonable notice in advance\r\nof any examination process which will require their attendance. The following\r\ndates are tentative and subject to change based on the needs of the Agency:\r\n\r\nTENTATIVE SELECTION PLAN- For applications submitted by August 25, 2026,filingdeadline.\r\n\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n Deadline\r\n for Filing\r\n \r\n \r\n Continuous\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n Review\r\n of Applications and Supplemental Questionnaires for Minimum Qualifications\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n Continuous\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n Oral\r\n Boards\r\n \r\n \r\n Week of September 28, 2026\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n\r\n\r\nContinuous: All applications must be completed according to the instructions.\r\nIncomplete applications, and resumes in lieu of properly completed\r\napplications, will not be considered. Applications and supplemental\r\nquestionnaires will only be accepted electronically,via the County's\r\nonline application system by 5pm on the deadline for filing. Please note\r\nthatcompletingan application template is not the same as submitting\r\nan application for this position. To apply for the position, select the\r\n'Click Here to Apply' link on the announcement.\r\n\r\nIMPORTANT: Applicants must submit a valid PELLETB or NTN score and PAT\r\nscore in order to move forward in the recruitment process.\r\n\r\nThis is a new continuous examination. This examination may be\r\nreopened asnecessary,and the names of additional candidates merged\r\nonto the existing list according to the examination score.\r\n\r\nFor upcoming academy dates, please visit:ACSO\r\nBasic Academy.\r\n\r\nVeterans' Preference\r\nEach applicant entitled to veterans' preference as provided in the Alameda\r\nCounty Civil Service Rules who has served in the armed forces of the United\r\nStates during a war or campaign as defined by Section 1897 of the Government\r\nCode of the State of California and who has been discharged or released under\r\nhonorable conditions and wishes to claim such preference shall do so by\r\npresenting proof of his/her honorable discharge (DD214) from the armed forces\r\nof the United States, showing the dates of his/her military service. Each\r\napplicant entitled to Disabled Veterans' points as provided in the Alameda\r\nCounty Civil Service Rules, who wishes to claim such preference shall\r\nadditionally present proof of military-connected disability from the United\r\nStates Veterans Administration.\r\n\r\nU.S. military veterans (including applicants already employed by the County of\r\nAlameda) intending to claim preferential consideration pursuant to Alameda\r\nCounty Civil Service Rules must present proof of honorable discharge or release\r\n(DD Form 214) concurrent with this application but in no event later than the\r\nfinal step in the recruitment process (usually the oral interview.)\r\n\r\nTo claim veteran's preference, proof must be presented during check in on\r\nthe date of the applicant's scheduled oral interview. Failure to submit proof\r\nby this date will forfeit the applicant's claim to veterans' prefe...