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Sheriff Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Shelby County

Counselor B (Sheriff)

Memphis, TN · On-site

$16.50 - $20.50/hr

Position Summary Works under general supervision to assist in implementing individual and group counseling programs within the Sheriff's Department. Pay Grade: 43 Salary Commensurate with Experience ...

Shelby County

Dispatcher (Sheriff)

Memphis, TN · On-site

Position Summary Works under general supervision of an assigned supervisor in the Communications Center of the Shelby County Sheriff's Office. Operates computer based multi-key telephone instruments ...

Clark County, Washington

This Sheriff's Office position is governed by State Civil Service laws, which requires specific recruitment and testing procedures. This recruitment will be used to create one-year eligibility list ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsSheriff JobsSheriff Jobs in Tennessee

Sheriff information

See Tennessee salary details

$76.7K

$102.5K

$141.6K

How much do sheriff jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for sheriff in Tennessee is $102,450.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $88,900.00 and $109,800.00 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.

More about Sheriff jobs

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

The most popular types of Sheriff jobs in Tennessee are:

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

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

What job categories do people searching Sheriff jobs in Tennessee look for?

The top searched job categories for Sheriff jobs in Tennessee are:

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Sheriff jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Sheriff job openings:

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

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

Sheriff jobs near you
Infographic showing various Sheriff job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $102,450 per year, or $49.3 per hour.

Appointed Professional Register (Sheriff)

Shelby County

Memphis, TN • On-site

$14.50 - $17.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago

Job description

Position Summary

This position is for individuals who are interested in being considered for Appointed Professional opportunities within the Shelby County Sheriff's Office. All required duties will be performed within the assigned divisions of the Sheriff's Office.

Positions are only available when there is a vacancy within the hiring department. As positions become available, applications will be considered based on experience, education and special requirements.

If your application is considered for an Appointed assignment, the hiring department will contact you.

Minimum Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree or an equivalent amount of experience in Law Enforcement and/or Jail Operations.
  • PROOF OF EDUCATION IS REQUIRED.
     

Duties and Responsibilities

  • Works under general supervision to perform a variety of professional duties that will require the use of independent judgement, skill processing, and communicating specific information regarding departmental operations in Law Enforcement, the Jail Division, and some Administrative roles.
     

Disclaimer
This position is subject to a background check for any convictions that have a substantial relationship to potential job duties. Only convictions that are substantially related to potential job duties will be considered and will not automatically disqualify the candidate.

Shelby County Resident Disclaimer 

All employees hired after September 1, 1986, must be residents of Shelby County and shall continue to reside in the County as a condition of their employment. The residency requirement shallnotapply to certain public safety/civil service employees. This means exemption from this policy is in effect for the following departments and positions: (1) Sheriff Deputy Patrol Officers, Deputy Jailers and Dispatchers, employed by the Sheriff Department, (2) Correction Officers employed by the Division of Corrections, (3) Firefighters, Paramedics and Dispatchers employed by the Shelby County Fire Department. The residency exemption for public safety/civil service employees does not include Appointed positions with Sheriff's Office, Division of Corrections or the Fire Department. 

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