Qualifications for entry-level deputies
Basic Qualifications for All Applicants
- You need to be a lawful permanent resident or citizen of the United States at the time of application;
- You must have the ability to read, speak, and write the English language fluently;
- You must be at least 20 years of age at the time of application; age 21 on the date of hire;
- You must have a Washington State driver's license, or be able to obtain one by the date of hire;
- You must have a high school degree or GED;
- You must meet KCSO medical standards, as determined by a medical exam following an offer of employment; and
- You must be able to pass the background investigation. (We have provided a short self-screening background questionnaire that will help us determine whether you meet some basic background qualifications. This is attached to Deputy Sheriff Job Application and must be filled out as a part of the application package.)
- See list of disqualifying behaviors at left, click 'disqualifiers'
Additional Qualifications for Lateral Entry Applicants with Previous Experience
- Experience as a full time commissioned police officer with at least 12 months of active patrol;
- Successful completion of probation as a commissioned officer with a city, county or state police or sheriff's department;
- Less than a two-year break in service from a former police officer position; and
- Academy training that meets or exceeds the Washington State Criminal Justice Training Center's standards.
Basic Skills You'll Need To Be a Law Enforcement Officer
- Am I able to speak clearly and listen to others well? Can I write a report with grammatically correct English?
- Do I read and comprehend well to learn the laws and procedures of law enforcement in the academy?
- Do I have a good memory to recall what I've learned and what I've witnessed in incidents?
- Am I able to follow maps and find my way around?
- Do I have excellent physical fitness?
- Do I have basic computer skills?