Exam Process
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Examination Process
Application Process
Anyone meeting minimum qualifications may apply for open positions. Applications are available only when eligibility lists are being established and may be obtained from the Sheriff's Department, Jail, or Civil Service Office. Positions that are currently open are listed on the site. When applying, carefully read the announcement and submit ALL requested forms and information by the closing date.
Exams
Applicants meeting minimum qualifications will be invited to the exam. The exam process varies with each classification. Exams are purchased and meet National Standards. Successful applicants will be ranked on the eligibility list based on their exam score. Field deputy and corrections deputy positions require a physical ability test. All positions involve an oral exam.
Background Investigation Process
Prior to appointment, an applicant must successfully complete a thorough sheriff's office background investigation. The background investigation may consist of, but is not limited to:
Personal history statement
Personal history check including an interview as well as criminal, credit, and reference checks
Polygraph
Psychological examination
Certification of Eligibility Lists
When a vacancy exists, the sheriff's office requests certification of the applicable eligibility list and is given the top three names on the list. Those candidates are interviewed, and the hiring authority selects one to hire. Appointment is contingent upon passing a medical examination.Oral panel evaluations
A limited number of top qualifying applicants from the written exam are often invited to the oral panel evaluation. The oral panel evaluation is designed to elicit responses that will demonstrate your knowledge, skills, and abilities relevant to the position for which you applied. Oral evaluation exams are used to test for interpersonal and communication skills, and for content knowledge. The questions are often asked, and the answers rated, by a panel, usually comprised of several subject matter experts.Civil Service register
Candidates who successfully pass all portions of the testing process are placed on a list with other candidates eligible to be hired for positions in that job classification. This list is called an “eligible register” or “eligible list,” which is used to fill vacancies that occur in that classification over, typically, the next 12 months. Candidates are listed in the order of their final composite grade, which includes final exam scores, plus any points added for veterans’ preference (RCW 41.04.010 as amended).Eligible list
If a vacancy occurs and your name is listed in the highest group of scores being considered, you will be contacted and informed of the next steps in the hiring process.
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Last updated on 02/14/08