Deputy Sheriff - Lateral

Job Description

The Deputy Sheriff position includes performing police and custodial services in accordance with the mission, goals, objectives, and policies of the department, and in compliance with governing federal, state, and local laws. The deputy is responsible for the following essential functions:

• Receive requests from citizens and others for police assistance and inform appropriate personnel.
• Engage in routine patrol to determine the existence of actual or potentially troublesome crime‑related situations.
• Conduct preliminary and extended inquiries regarding possible law violations, obtaining and verifying factual information from involved persons.
• Determine existence of probable cause, identify and take suspects and offenders into physical custody.
• Complete all reports in accordance with departmental procedures.
• Present factual information in court on field observations and investigations of criminal cases.
• Serve civil and court process.
• Initiate public service activities and respond to requests from persons for information and assistance.
• Develop professionally by seeking to maintain or increase both academic and non‑academic police‑related skills.
• Maintain regular, reliable, and punctual attendance.
• Perform the physical requirements of the position and work within the established working conditions.

Knowledge of applicable federal, state, and local laws; knowledge of police‑related constitutional and judicial rulings; knowledge of the principles of police service; knowledge of modern investigative procedures and equipment; knowledge of evidence collection and preservation; knowledge of related criminal justice and social services systems; knowledge of emergency service procedures, rules, and regulations; knowledge of county characteristics. Ability to think quickly under stress in a logical and analytical manner;

ability to relate effectively to others in tense or hostile situations; ability to adapt quickly to changing conditions; ability to endure prolonged physical and mental stress; ability to comprehend and apply departmental policies, rules, and regulations; ability to communicate clearly, accurately, comprehensively, and concisely, both verbally and in writing. Possession of a valid Washington State driver’s license is required.

The Deputy Sheriff position requires a wide variety of physical activities including walking, standing, sitting, running, jumping, balancing, climbing, crawling, kneeling, bending, stooping, crouching, reaching, lifting, carrying, dragging, throwing, pushing/pulling, handling, digital dexterity, twisting, talking, hearing and seeing. Physical functions such as distinguishing colors, safely driving a vehicle with unassisted vision, accurately discharging a firearm, discriminating sounds and operating required equipment safely are essential.

The department provides reasonable accommodation to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these physical functions.

• Must be 21 years of age at the time of appointment.
• Must be a U.S. citizen and able to read and write in English.
• Must possess a high school diploma or GED.
• Must possess a valid Washington State Driver’s License.

Additional requirements to establish eligibility include a grade of 70% or better on the written examination and passing the physical examination through Public Safety Testing. Applicants must complete or have already completed the Washington State Criminal Justice Training Commission Basic Law Enforcement Academy within one year from hire. Background investigations, polygraph, and psychological tests are also required. Each Deputy Sheriff is individually responsible for maintaining peace officer certification status throughout employment.

• Health Insurance: medical, dental, and vision coverage for the employee and eligible dependents, with partial premium coverage for regular full‑time employees and possible partial coverage for some part‑time employees.
• Retirement Plans: enrollment in Washington State Department of Retirement Systems programs (PERS, PSERS, LEOFF) with contributions from both employee and county.
• Paid…