Deputy Sheriff

Summary

The Pottawattamie County Sheriff's Office will conduct written and physical examinations for the position of DEPUTY SHERIFF on Saturday, May 9, 2026. Those interested must apply online first to be eligible for the written and physical exam. Once an online application is submitted, additional information will come through email and/or text correspondence. We strongly encourage applicants to sign-up to receive text messages during the application process.  

for the Civil Service Examination Notice and maps for testing location on Saturday, May 9, 2026.

A Deputy Sheriff is responsible for the performance of law enforcement duties in an effort to protect life and property, enforce local, state and federal laws and to prevent, detect and/or investigate criminal activity.

Embarking on a career with the Pottawattamie County Sheriff's Office offers a diverse experience in Law Enforcement. Whether patrolling rural or urban areas, working in Civil or Court Security Divisions, or pursuing special assignments, you’ll contribute to making a difference by building partnerships with the communities we serve.

Patrol an assigned area to prevent and/or detect violations of local, state and federal laws. Apprehend individuals responsible for criminal activity according to established policies and procedures to prevent further harm, damage or danger to property or the public. Conduct investigations of criminal activity according to established procedures. Complete detailed and accurate reports and other official records that document a Deputy’s activity or involvement in all incidents.

Serve and enforce legal documents, warrants or related official criminal or civil papers including warrants, subpoenas, court orders, writs, garnishments and summons. May be assigned to work in a specialized area of law enforcement including D.A.R.E., criminal investigation, accident investigation, firearms instruction or the K-9 unit. Prepare accurate initial reports or documents for the County Attorney, Judiciary or Clerk of the Court regarding the filing of charges against suspects in criminal activity.

Perform appropriate activity according to established departmental procedure that protects those in immediate danger of injury or death at the hands of another person or persons. Respond to incidents of injury or accident and summon or administer medical or other aid. Provide testimony in court proceedings as necessary. Transport prisoners to and from detention facilities according to established procedures. Restore and maintain order in areas of individual, family or public crisis.

Perform community relations functions through performance of duties or as assigned. Operate and maintain assigned departmental vehicles and equipment according to established procedures. Perform other duties as directed or as the situation dictates.

General knowledge of and ability to perform basic mathematical calculations. Good knowledge of and ability to utilize correct grammar, spelling and punctuation in preparing required reports. Ability to understand and apply the basic principles and techniques of law enforcement. Ability to understand and follow both oral and written instructions. Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing, and to complete standardized report forms and compose brief descriptive narratives.

Ability to utilize sound independent judgment in stressful and emergency situations. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with the general public, law enforcement agencies, prisoners, government officials, supervisors and fellow employees. Ability to maintain the confidentiality of all departmental communications, documents and correspondence. Ability to type accurately using a typewriter, word processor and/or personal computer.

Graduation from an accredited high school or successful completion of the high school GED test. Must obtain certification as required by the Iowa Law Enforcement Academy within twelve months of the date of hire. Sheriff’s Office applicants are encouraged to read minimum qualifications for employment before submitting an application. Applicants must successfully pass the written exam and physical agility test to be placed on the eligibility list.

If you are a veteran and qualify for veteran's preference points, you will be required to bring a copy of your DD-214 or your active duty military identification card with you to the written examination.

Apply Online

Sheriff's Office

$32.52 - $44.75/hour

Full-time

Sheriff's Office: 1400 Big Lake Road, Council Bluffs

2/1/2026