Deputy Sheriff Trainee

Deputy Sheriff Trainee Be an active part of safety and engagement in our community and become a Deputy Sheriff Trainee at the Sonoma County Sheriff's Office. Compensation and Benefits Starting salary up to $58.05/hour ($121,157/year) and a competitive total compensation package. Salary Advancement – A salary increase after 1,040 hours (6 months full‑time) for good performance; eligibility for a salary increase each year thereafter, up to the top of the salary range. Career Advancement – Opportunity to advance to Deputy Sheriff I (up to $61.20/hour) and Deputy Sheriff II (up to $67.42/hour) with time and good performance. Paid Time Off – Competitive vacation and sick leave accruals, 12 paid holidays, and an additional 8 floating holiday hours per year. Bilingual Premium Pay – Additional $0.90 per hour for basic/fluent bilingual positions. County Paid Health Premium Contributions – 100% premium contribution for the majority of employee‑only and employee plus family health plan options. Staff Development/Wellness – Annual benefit allowances up to $750 and ongoing education/training opportunities. Post‑Retirement Health Reimbursement Arrangement – County contributions to support post‑retirement health insurance/benefits. Retirement – A pension fully integrated with Social Security. Paid Parental Leave – Eligible for up to 8 weeks (320 hours) after 12 months of County employment. Additional Benefits – Excellent dental, vision, disability, life insurance, employee assistance program, professional development, and more. Student Loan Debt Relief – County employees may be eligible for Public Service Loan Forgiveness through the U.S. Department of Education. Training and Development As a Deputy Sheriff Trainee, you will attend a basic law enforcement academy covering criminal law, search and seizure, evidence, investigative techniques, patrol procedures, firearms, driver training, defensive tactics, and more. After being hired, passing the academy, and completing field training, you will work in 10‑ to 12‑hour shift rotations in the Patrol Bureau under the Sheriff's Office Law Enforcement team. Additional specialty assignments such as explosive ordinance detail, SWAT team, tactical response team, hostage negotiator, field training officer, dog handler, helicopter observer, internal affairs investigator, background investigator, and detective assignments are available after basic training and shift rotations. Qualifications The Sheriff's Office is seeking motivated individuals who thrive in team environments, demonstrate exceptional interpersonal, communication, and problem‑solving skills, possess cultural competence, remain calm under pressure, exercise sound judgment during emergencies, and commit to serving others with professionalism and integrity. Integrity and sound ethical judgment Adaptability and flexibility Physical fitness and readiness Resilience under pressure Self‑motivation and the ability to work independently Basic computer proficiency, including email and word processing Eligibility and Requirements Experience: None Education: Graduation from high school or possession of an acceptable General Education Development Certificate. License: Possession of a valid California Driver's License and a good driving record. Background Requirement: Incumbents shall not have been convicted of a felony in any state or jurisdiction, or be under current formal probation supervision. Citizenship Requirement: Permanent resident aliens must apply for citizenship prior to application for such employment. Ability to: Understand and follow oral and written directions, speak and write effectively; read, learn, and understand various laws, policies, rules, procedures, law enforcement techniques, and first aid; analyze situations and/or problems and calmly take quick, effective action in emergency and stress situations; undergo strenuous physical training; and successfully complete a structured academic training program. Application Process Applicants must complete the Supplemental Questionnaire. The selection procedure will consist of the following examinations: Application and Supplemental Questionnaire Appraisal Examination Persistent Progression Examination and Writing (PELLETB) – multiple‑choice written examination; pass required for placement. Minimum passing score: 70%. Spelling Vocabulary Clarity Reading Comprehension In‑person written examinations are tentatively scheduled for Thursday, August 20, 2026. To prepare, review the CA POST Applicant Preparation Guide and FAQs. Background Investigation Being part of the Sheriff's Office and required public safety necessitates a thorough background investigation, including prior work history, educational verification, public records searches, drug tests, polygraphs, and medical examinations. Deception during the process constitutes grounds for disqualification. The process may take 3–5 months. How to Apply Applications are accepted online at Paper applications may also be submitted by person, fax, email, or through the mail. All applications must be received by the deadline. Applications received after the recruitment closes will not be accepted. EEO Statement The County of Sonoma values diversity and is dedicated to creating a workplace environment that provides individuals with a sense of belonging. We are committed to having a diverse workforce that is representative of the communities we serve. The County is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer where all aspects of employment are based on merit, competence, performance, and business need. #J-18808-Ljbffr County of Sonoma (CA)