Successful completion of high school and a law enforcement academy, as well as practical law enforcement experience, are usually required to become a sheriff. In many areas, the sheriff is an elected official, and becoming a sheriff in these areas requires some political experience. In other places, the position is filled by appointment, with public officials selecting a sheriff based on their skills and qualifications. After working in other areas of law enforcement, such as military policing, it is possible to transition to a sheriff’s department.
Sheriffs serve their communities in a variety of ways, with a focus on public safety and assisting law enforcement with investigations. In some areas, the sheriff also serves as the coroner and is responsible for investigating suspicious deaths. A person who wishes to become a sheriff must first complete high school. Some sheriff’s departments prefer to hire people with two or four year degrees in fields like criminal justice and sociology, so this is something to think about.
Applicants for sheriff’s office positions must be physically fit. Passing a fitness test and meeting some basic blood pressure and weight requirements are usually required. Candidates must also pass an entry-level law enforcement exam and pass a background check. Some sheriff’s offices hire people who have no prior law enforcement experience and send them to a training academy. Others seek applicants with academy degrees or law enforcement experience.
If an applicant does not have prior law enforcement experience and training, she will not be considered for the position of sheriff. Instead, the department will offer a deputy sheriff position. After completing a probationary period, the new hire will join the sheriff’s department and begin gaining experience in order to progress through the department’s various pay grades and positions.
When the position of sheriff is up for election, candidates must file paperwork indicating their intent to run for office and run a successful political campaign. Having the support of the outgoing sheriff, as well as recommendations from community organizations, is beneficial. To connect with the electorate and secure votes, the sheriff may need to run campaign ads, attend local events, and use other tools. Voters will value experience and a proven track record, as well as awards such as medals.
In cases where the sheriff is not elected, the best way to advance to the position of sheriff is to work your way up through the ranks. Deputies must maintain high standards of professionalism and obtain commendations that will be recorded in their files in order to establish a record of conscientious, thoughtful, and attentive service. Candidates from within the department can apply for sheriff positions when they become available. It is also possible to apply directly from another department or agency, though candidates who are already familiar with a department’s procedures and the area may be given preference.