Do I apply for both positions at the same time?

Yes! The POST Entry Level Law Enforcement Exam is used as the pre-employment exam for BOTH classifications. You can complete both applications and take just one exam. You are strongly encouraged to apply for both classifications, because the Deputy Sheriff position is very competitive! Be sure to apply for both prior to taking the exam, otherwise you only qualify for that one position.

I am currently on active duty in the military; when should I start the process?

You should take the written test when you have eight months or less left to serve in the military. If you are stationed out of the area or state, plan on taking an additional 3 to 4 trips during the hiring process.

If I have questions about my background package and would like to speak to someone, who can I contact?

You may call the Background Unit at 858-974-2010.

What does the written exam entail?

The written examination includes the following sections:

• Reading Comprehension
• English Grammar
• Sentence Construction
• Vocabulary
• Spelling

The Sheriff’s Department initial exam does not include a written essay like the practice exam, but you will be asked to write an essay sometime through the process. There is no math on our exam.

https://post.ca.gov/portals/0/post_docs/publications/poWrittenPracticeTest.pdf

Do you accept other agencies T-scores?

If you possess POST PELLETB written exam results from another agency AND received a T Score of 42 or higher AND the letter is dated within 6 months prior our test date; you must submit these results via email to ProcessUnitEmail.FGG@sdcounty.ca.gov.

I just took an exam with another agency, how do I know if it was a California POST Exam?

You will have to contact the agency where the test was administered.  If you take two California POST exams within a 30-day period, your second exam will be void.

I'm a peace officer/have a current and valid POST certification/just graduated from a police academy, where do I begin my process?

You would not start from the beginning since you already have your certification.  You would qualify for the Lateral Program

I'm a peace officer from another state, how do I begin my process?

First, you would need to contact California POST to see if you qualify for a waiver.  Based on your training, they will determine whether or not you need additional training in order to qualify

If I work state corrections, and I have a corrections certificate, do I qualify for the lateral position?

No, you need the law enforcement Basic Level 1 POST certification

Given the 2013 California pension reform legislation, how will my retirement be impacted if I lateral from my current department to the San Diego Sheriff's Department after January 2013?

If you are first hired by the Sheriff’s Department on or after December 1, 2012, and establish reciprocity for a period of reciprocal service that began before January 1, 2013, you will be in Tier B. The benefit formula for Tier B members is 3% at age 55. If you do not establish reciprocity, you will be in Tier C. The benefit formula for Tier C members is 2.7% at age 57. To be eligible for reciprocity you must leave active membership in your previous California public retirement system and become a member with the San Diego County Employees Retirement Association (SDCERA) within six months. If you have additional questions regarding your tier or reciprocity please contact SDCERA at (619) 515-6800.

Pay Chart for Law Enforcement

Deputy Sheriff Cadet wage is based on a 40 hour work week. Deputy Sheriff steps two through eight is based on a 42.5 hour work week. Generally, it takes 5½ years from step 2 to step 8.

Upon graduating, you move to step 2. In one year, you move to step 3. Six months after that, you move to step 4. After that, step increases occur yearly.

Advancement from Basic POST to Intermediate and Advanced is based on education, training and experience.

Pay Chart for Detentions/ Court Services

Intermediate POST Requirements

Advanced POST Requirements

The preferred method of contact is e-mail to recruit@sdsheriff.org. You may also call the 24-hour recorded job line at (858) 974-2000. Written correspondence may be directed to:

San Diego Sheriff's Department

Recruiting Unit

9621 Ridgehaven Court

San Diego, CA 92123