The Clark County Sheriff's Office differs from other county departments in that it is governed by the Revised Code of Washington, 41.14, Civil Service for Sheriff's Office. Civil Service requires additional components in the recruiting process.

Civil Service eligibility list

Candidates who successfully pass the written and physical ability exams will be ranked according to final scores and placed on an eligibility list. The list will be certified by the Clark County Civil Service Commission.

Veteran's preference

Veteran's preference will be granted to qualified candidates, per RCW 41.04.005. Each will have either 5 percent or 10 percent added to their final score prior to list ranking for all Sheriff's Office positions, in accordance with RCW 41.04.010 and 73.16.010. To claim veteran's preference, candidates must attach a DD214 military discharge form to their application.

Background interview / investigation

The Sheriff's Office conducts a comprehensive investigation based on information provided in a candidate's Personal History Statement covering the high school years to the present. 

Final interview

The top five candidates who pass all phases of the recruitment process are considered for employment.

Post-offer process

Depending on the position, the post-offer process can involve the following: polygraph examination; drug screen; medical examination; physical ability test; and psychological examination.

NOTE: A polygraph examination is conducted as a part of the interview process with the background investigator.

Clark County Sheriff's Office employment qualifications

You cannot be a Clark County Deputy Sheriff, Corrections Deputy or support staff employee if:

• You cannot obtain a valid Washington state driver’s license.
• You do not have a high school diploma or GED.
• You will not be 21 years old at time of hire. (CJTC requirement) (18 years old for Support Staff)
• You are not a U.S. citizen or a lawful permanent resident. (RCW requirement)
• You have been convicted of DUI within the past three years or have two or more DUI convictions. A diversion or similar action is a conviction.
• You have been convicted of Reckless Driving or Attempting to Elude within the past three years.
• You have been convicted of any act of domestic violence assault.
• You have been dishonorably discharged from any branch of the U.S. military. (Civil Service Rules 7.07h)
• You have been convicted of a felony. (RCW Chapter 9.96.a)

You may not be hired as a Clark County Deputy Sheriff, Corrections Deputy or support staff employee if:

• Your traffic record shows a continuing and recent pattern of poor decision-making.
• You have been convicted of driving while suspended or revoked within the past three years.
• You have been convicted of any crime involving controlled substances.
• You have been convicted of a misdemeanor within the past three years.
• You have used any illegal substances other than marijuana within the past three years.
• Your personal life shows a history of poor judgment and refusal to confront problems (Examples: Non-payment of child support, ignoring overdue bills, etc).
• You have recently or are currently misrepresenting yourself or ignoring any laws. (Examples: Not paying taxes, using a false address for school tuition purposes, etc).
• You have provided controlled substances to others or been involved in long-term criminal activity.
• Your work history shows a pattern of unexcused absences, discipline or discharge. (Civil Service Rules 7.07d)
• People who know you have doubts about your honesty, integrity or character.
• You are not available and willing to work any shift