Deputy Sheriff

Job Description

This position is located in Sioux Falls, SD

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 around 216,000. 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 the largest city in South Dakota.

We are actively building an eligibility list for several anticipated vacancies in 2026. Whether you are ready to start soon or planning your next career move in early 2027, now is an excellent time to apply and be considered for future opportunities with our team.

We Offer You:

• GREAT WAGES! The hiring range is $32.16/hr - $35.45/hr with a full earning potential up to $47.65/hr PLUS regular opportunities for pay increases. With good performance, new officers will receive up to 5% increases in pay after the first, second, AND third year IN ADDITION to annual increases.
• NIGHT SHIFT DIFFERENTIAL! $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 15-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 retirement through the 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.

How You Will Make an Impact

As a Minnehaha County Deputy Sheriff, you will work to keep our communities safe by patrolling throughout the county to investigate illegal or suspicious activities. You will conduct thorough investigations and interview victims and witnesses to ensure every voice is heard. As a Deputy, you will enforce traffic laws to promote roadway safety and assist victims at accident scenes to protect and support those in need. You will uphold the justice system by serving warrants and legal documents, performing civil process procedures, and locating individuals with arrest warrants to maintain public safety. Your quick response to dispatch calls and skill in mediating disputes will help restore order and provide timely assistance to our community members. Your outreach efforts as a Deputy Sheriff will build strong relationships, foster trust, and enhance the overall well-being of our communities.

Click here to read the full Deputy Sheriff Job Description.

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. Full list of requirements is listed on the Deputy Sheriff Job Description.

***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.