Entry Level Deputy

Position Summary

The Entry Level Deputy role is open to external applicants who are actively enrolled in a Basic Peace Officer Course (BPOC) at a licensed academy, hold a valid Texas Peace Officer License in good standing, or qualify for commissioning after completing BPOC. Candidates must ensure their Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE) training mandates are current and ready for commissioning. Successful applicants completing all pre-employment steps will be placed on an eligible hiring list, with class selections made by the chain of command based on this list.

Key Responsibilities and Process

• Complete pre-employment physical agility test including a one-mile run in 11:30 minutes or less, 10 sit-ups in one minute, and 5 push-ups in one minute.
• Pass firearm qualification and proficiency evaluations, including diagnostic and additional training as needed.
• Undergo a comprehensive law enforcement background investigation possibly including a polygraph.
• Participate in physical and psychological evaluations as stipulated by TCOLE licensing requirements.
• Submit all required documentation and complete a detailed Personal History Questionnaire (PHQ) for investigation purposes.
• Attend pre-selection interview with an assigned investigator.

Minimum Qualifications

• Active enrollment in a licensed BPOC program or holding a Texas Peace Officer License in good standing.
• Eligibility for commissioning upon BPOC completion.
• Valid Texas Driver’s License and current auto liability insurance.
• Pass all pre-employment physical agility, firearm, drug screening, and background checks.
• Meet visual and auditory standards, including correctable 20/20 vision, standard color vision, peripheral vision, and normal hearing range.
• Successful completion of Entry Level Deputy training is mandatory for employment.
• Applicants previously failing psychological evaluation must wait one year before reapplying.

Application and Additional Information

Applicants must submit a fully completed application documenting education, work experience, and veteran status. Required documents include Social Security card, driver’s license (front and back), proof of education (high school/GED/college transcripts), any relevant military discharge forms, and TCOLE Peace Officer license. Documents should be uploaded electronically during application, with originals required during background investigation along with three recent letters of recommendation.

The Harris County Sheriff's Office offers free advancement opportunities for TCOLE Peace Officer Certification through their academy. Certain citizenship exceptions apply for permanent residents who are honorably discharged veterans actively pursuing US citizenship.

Preferences

• Higher education such as a bachelor’s degree or above.
• Military service experience.