how to
join wcso
A career in law enforcement is a big commitment. The hiring process, no matter where you go, should reflect that.
We’ll support you at every step, from your first application to well beyond retirement.
Minimum
Requirements
A high school diploma or GED
To meet physical and medical standards for law enforcement roles
A valid driver’s license
No felony convictions
U.S. citizenship or the ability to obtain it within 18 months
Recruit deputies must be at least 21 years of age by hire date. There are no other age restrictions.
Different
Applicant Steps
Steps for Entry-Level Applicants
Just getting started? Here’s what to expect:
Apply – Submit your application online- Written Test – Take the NTN or PST law enforcement exam. Applicants with a bachelor’s degree do not need to take the exam.
- Physical Abilities Test – Complete the state-standard fitness test.
- Background Check – We review your history, references, and readiness
- Job Shadow & Ride-Along – See the work and meet the team
- Interviews – Talk with our team about fit and next steps
- Conditional Offer – Pending final evaluations
- Medical & Psychological Evaluation – Final stage before onboarding
STEPS FOR LATERAL APPLICANTS
To qualify, you’ll need:
Must have at least one year of full-time equivalent (2080 hours) experience as a Police Officer or Sheriff’s Patrol Deputy.- Experience must be within 12 months prior to application submission.
What to expect:
Apply – Submit your application online- Background Check – We review your history and references
- Job Shadow & Ride-Along – Spend time with the team and see the work
- Interviews – Meet with our team and discuss your fit
- Conditional Offer – Pending final evaluations
- Medical & Psychological Evaluation – Final stage before onboarding
Find out what makes WCSO a Balanced place to work.
career paths
WCSO offers more than one way to build a career.
Jail deputies manage safety and daily operations, with opportunities in areas like classification, transport, and supervision.
Patrol helps keep people safe on the roads, responds to emergencies, builds trust, and takes on specialized assignments like K9, investigations, and training.
Professional staff support the agency through roles in records, admin, wellness, and peer support.
READY TO APPLY? START YOUR NEXT STEP.
Experience
the work
first.
Have Questions?
