Correctional career preparation

When pursuing a career in law enforcement, do not be afraid to talk to current Sheriff’s Correctional Deputies about their experiences and what their day-to-day duties and responsibilities are. Get involved with the ride-a-long program with the Santa Clara County Sheriff’s Office to get a firsthand look at what Sheriff's Correctional Deputies do during the course of their shift.
Whether one chooses to become a Deputy Sheriff or a Sheriff’s Correctional Deputy, the journey is bound to be educational and rewarding. Serving the public and contributing to community safety is a noble endeavor, and the experiences gained along the way are invaluable.
To prepare for a career in law enforcement an applicant needs to recognize the mental, physical and physiological stress that are involved in a day-to-day basis. Applicants should prepare to be faced with situations that test their physical and emotional state.
Setting and achieving goals
Sheriff Correctional Deputies should demonstrate the ability to set and achieve personal and professional goals. Candidates for Sheriff’s Correctional Deputy positions can best place themselves for consideration through continuing achievement in the workplace, educational environment, volunteer activities, and/or community involvement. Candidates should demonstrate initiative and the ability to follow through on all commitments without constant supervision and detailed instruction. You have the opportunity to demonstrate your ability to set and achieve goals, work in a diligent, reliable, and conscientious manner in accordance with specific rules and policies, and your readiness for, and commitment to, public service through the following:
Advancement in the workplace through promotion or increased responsibilities
Completing work as required and on schedule
Meeting high standards for punctuality and attendance
Meeting family obligations
Educational achievement
Involvement in volunteer or community improvement activities
Easily meeting unpredictable or unexpected challenges
Personal history statement and background investigation
Completion and submittal of a Personal History Statement (PHS) is the next step of the background investigation. The PHS requires compilation of extensive biographical information, fingerprinting, and an interview with a background investigator. The background investigation will also include checks of employment, police contacts, financial, education, and military records, and interviews with family members, neighbors, supervisors, co-workers, and friends. You will be evaluated on your past behavior and current disposition and the extent to which your behavior demonstrates positive traits that support your candidacy for a career in law enforcement. Please have all your required documents ready with copies, during this interview.