Deputy Sheriff

Why Join Our Team

The Minnehaha County Sheriff's Office is accepting applications to join our patrol team as a Deputy Sheriff to provide law enforcement services throughout the County, including several surrounding towns. Previous law enforcement experience is not required and a comprehensive training program will be provided. Being a Deputy Sheriff with our organization means upholding the Minnehaha County Sheriff's Office mission to preserve public safety and quality of life in Minnehaha County.

Minnehaha County is located in the southeastern corner of South Dakota at the crossroads of Interstates 90 and 29. It is the most populous county in the state with an estimated population of just over 213,000. Minnehaha County is home to many thriving communities and is a vibrant blend of cities, peaceful small-town settings, and rural neighborhoods. Residents and visitors alike enjoy our beautiful parks, walking and biking paths, major medical facilities, and variety of cultural centers.  The Minnehaha County Sheriff’s Office is located in the heart of historic, downtown Sioux Falls which is also the largest city in South Dakota.  Minnehaha County received THREE #1 rankings by NICHE in 2024:  Best County for Families in South Dakota, Best County for Young Professionals in South Dakota, and Healthiest County in South Dakota.  

This is a great time to apply!  We are actively hiring and also preparing for expected openings in 2024.  Whether you're ready to start now or need some additional time, we welcome your application.

We Offer You:

• GREAT WAGES!  The hiring range is $29.38/hr - $32.45/hr with a full earning potential up to $42.57/hr PLUS regular opportunities for pay increases.  With good performance, new officers will receive up to 5% increases in pay after the first and second year IN ADDITION to annual increases. 
• NIGHT SHIFT DIFFERENTIAL! Now paying a $1.00/hr night shift differential!
• RETENTION BONUS!  A Deputy Sheriff newly hired into our organization is eligible to receive $1,000 at 9 months, 18 months, 27 months, and 36 months of service with good performance.
• BILINGUAL PAY!  Specialty pay for bilingual officers who pass a language proficiency exam.
• 15 SHIFTS A MONTH!  12 hour shifts mean full-time pay and benefits by only working half the month PLUS Fri/Sat/Sun off every other week.
• DIVERSE SPECIALIZATIONS!  Crisis Negotiations, SWAT, Fugitive Task Force, EMT, Criminal Investigations, School Resource Officers, Community Engagement Committee and more!
• THOROUGH FTO EXPERIENCE!  After graduating South Dakota's 13-week law enforcement academy, our Field Training Officers instruct new Deputies through an intensive 14-week training program.  Newly hired Deputies who are already law enforcement certified jump right into FTO!
• COMPREHENSIVE BENEFITS!  Generous PTO and extended sick leave programs, health/dental/vision/life insurance, paid holidays, and South Dakota Retirement System.
• EMPHASIS ON MENTAL AND PHYSICAL WELLBEING!  Annual mental health visits are provided to officers to confidentially discuss concerns or issues with a professional.  Additional sessions are offered by the County for officers and family members along with access to financial resources, legal advisors, work and lifestyle support, and educational resources.  The Sheriff’s Office has an onsite workout facility and strong partnerships with local gyms.  The County also offers gym reimbursement, wellness challenges, and health and fitness education throughout the year.
• COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT!  We believe in a community oriented policing approach which allows our Deputies to be actively involved in our schools, local parades, and town celebrations.  Check out our Facebook page!

Keywords: law enforcement, justice, certified officer

This posting may also be used to staff other vacancies at a lower pay grade.

SALARY: $29.38 - $32.45 Hourly

CLOSING DATE: 6/17/2024 5:00 PM CST.  All applications must be submitted by 5:00 p.m. on the date the position closes.

How You Will Make an Impact

Investigate illegal or suspicious activities. Conduct investigations. Interview victims and witnesses. Gather evidence. Enforce traffic laws. Maintain traffic flow at accidents. Assist accident victims. Investigate the cause of accidents. Issue citations. Serve warrants, subpoenas, complaints, and summonses. Perform civil process procedures including executions, foreclosures, lock-outs, civil paper service, and collection of fees. Locate and take individuals into custody on arrest warrants. Complete and maintain accurate records and report concerning crimes, incidents, information, traffic accidents, etc. Conduct staff training and development. Respond to dispatch calls. Mediate disputes. Respond to questions, complaints and requests for information and/or assistance from the public, media, legal, and medical staff, various agencies, etc. Administer first aid and CPR. Maintain and safely and appropriately use weapons, vehicle, and equipment. Provide testimony when required. Provide traffic control and police protection for special events. Provide community outreach. Attend meetings and ongoing trainings.

What You Need to Succeed in this Role

Applicants must meet one of the following minimum requirements for education/work history:

• Two years of college or vocational school (48 credit hours); or
• Two years of work experience as a certified law enforcement officer; or
• Two years of active, full-time military experience; or
• Four years of military reserve experience; or
• Four years of professional work experience.

Must be a minimum of age 21 at the time of hiring. Must be eligible for certification under the South Dakota Law Enforcement Officers Standards and Training Commission. Must pass a written examination. Basic knowledge of the principles, policies, procedures, codes, laws, and statutes of law enforcement operations. Ability to make appropriate decisions quickly and with tact and impartiality. Must maintain ability to be a credible witness in court. Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with coworkers and the public. Ability to maintain a professional appearance and demeanor.

***In addition to the online application, applicants must attach documentation including a college transcript, proof of law enforcement certification, or DD214 to verify their minimum qualifications. Documents may also be presented directly to Human Resources.***

EEO Statement

Minnehaha County is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion or creed, national origin or ancestry, citizenship, sex or gender including pregnancy, sexual orientation and gender identity, marital status, age, disability, veteran’s status, genetic information, or any other legally protected status.  Arrangements for accommodations required by disabilities can be made by contacting Human Resources at (605) 367-4337.