Deputy Sheriff - Lateral
Qualifications
Knowledge of:
- Working knowledge of laws pertaining to search and seizure; rules of evidence and basic criminal law; use and care of standard police firearms; law enforcement vehicular and foot patrol techniques. Some knowledge of techniques of criminal investigations; and court procedures in criminal and civil cases; and community-oriented policing.
Skill/Ability to:
- Understand, interpret and apply State and local laws and departmental policies; 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; and engage in community-based policing, relationship building between law enforcement and community residents, and collaborative problem solving.
Lateral Sheriff Overview
- $25,000 hiring bonus + 40-Hours advanced vacation (upon completion of Field Training)
- 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
- Sheriff’s Deputies rotate among a variety of assignments including law enforcement, crime
prevention and crime detection activities; serve civil papers; perform coroner functions; act as bailiff and perform other duties as required
Experience:
- Possession of a valid P.O.S.T. Basic Certificate awarded by the California Commission on
Peace Officer Standards and Training AND current employment as a peace officer performing general law enforcement duties for a California city, county or the state.
Other Requirements:
- Must be available and willing to work varying hours, nights, weekends, holidays and special events as scheduled
- Must possess and maintain a valid California Driver’s License
- Ability to pass a full background investigation.
- Must be at least 21 years of age
Environmental Conditions:
- Exposure to variable temperatures and weather conditions; confined work spaces; 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; 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.

