Deputy Sheriff - Academy Grad
Qualifications
Knowledge of:
- Some knowledge of human motivation and behavior; the functions of a local law enforcement agency; and Community-oriented policing
Skill/Ability to:
- Understand, interpret and apply State and local laws and departmental policies and procedures; react quickly and calmly in emergency situations and adopt an effective course of action; follow oral and written instructions; operate firearms safely and skillfully; obtain information through interview, interrogation and observation; write clear and accurate reports; establish and maintain effective relationships; Perform a variety of active public safety duties involving strenuous physical activity, such as pursuing and restraining suspects and lifting injured persons; engage in community-based policing, relationship building between law enforcement and community residents, and collaborative problem solving; and normal color vision and unrestricted peripheral vision. If no corrective lenses worn, vision of at least 20/20. If glasses worn, uncorrected vision of at least 20/100, correcting to 20/20. If soft contact lenses are worn, vision of at least 20/200, correcting to 20/20 with one year minimum of successful contact lens use.
Deputy Sheriff - Academy Grad
- 2026 Hiring Bonus: $15,000
- Salary Range ( likely includes initial incentive and differential pay):
- Hourly Rate: $52.32-$84.10
- Monthly Salary: $9,068.80 – $14,577.33
- Medical benefits + all uniforms paid for
- Under general supervision, perform law enforcement, crime prevention and crime detection activities; serve civil papers; perform coroner functions; act as bailiff; and perform other work as required.
Education:
- Graduation from high school, attainment of a satisfactory score on a G.E.D. test or a two year or four-year degree from an accredited college or university AND possession of an approved academy
completion certificate issued by a California P.O.S.T. Certified Basic Academy.
Special Qualifications:
- Possession and maintenance of a valid Class C California Driver License. Ability to pass a full background investigation
Environmental Conditions:
- Exposure to variable temperatures and weather conditions; confined workspaces; heights; two-way radio noise; strong, unpleasant odors; infections which might cause chronic disease or death; dust and pollens; chemical irritants; possibility of experiencing bodily injury and/or burns; and contact with a diverse population.
- Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT)
- Bomb Team
- Detective (Persons, Property, Sexual Assault, Special Enforcement)
- Fentanyl Crisis Response Team
- SCARE (Santa Cruz Area Regional Enforcement)
- K9 Unit (Detection and Emotional Support)
- Drone Team
- Recruitment & Hiring
- Community Policing
- Crisis Negotiation Team
- Wellness Team
- Air Support Unit (fix-wing airplane)
- Focused Intervention Team (FIT)
- Sheriff’s Resource Officer (SRO)
- Internal Affairs
- Civil Process
- Field Training Officer
- Court Security
WE'RE HIRING
Take care of your future and your family by becoming part of the Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s team.
Start your career with the Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s Office and join a team of dedicated professionals committed to service, integrity, and community.

