Job Title: Deputy Sheriff / Police Officer
Location: Chautauqua County, NY
Employer: Chautauqua County Government – Office of the Sheriff / Local Police Departments
Salary: $28.85 – $53.07 per hour
Job Type: Full-Time, Civil Service Position (Future Vacancies)
Examination Number: #60065740
Examination Date: October 17, 2026
Application Deadline: September 9, 2026
Apply Online: https://chautauqua-portal.mycivilservice.com/
Position Overview:
The County of Chautauqua is currently accepting applications for the upcoming Deputy Sheriff / Police Officer Civil Service Examination. Successful candidates may be appointed to law enforcement positions in the Chautauqua County Sheriff’s Office, City of Dunkirk, City of Jamestown, or other towns and villages in the county.
This position involves law enforcement work focused on the protection of life and property, enforcement of laws, and apprehension of criminals. Officers perform patrol duties, conduct investigations, respond to emergencies, and may be assigned to courtroom or special security roles.
Key Responsibilities:
- Patrol assigned areas and enforce state and local laws and ordinances
- Investigate criminal activity and prepare written reports
- Respond to emergencies and calls for service
- Make arrests, testify in court, and ensure public safety
- Use independent judgment in high-pressure situations
- Collaborate with other law enforcement and public safety agencies
Minimum Qualifications:
- High School Diploma or GED
- Must be a U.S. Citizen
- Police Officers must be a legal resident of Chautauqua, Cattaraugus, or Erie County at least one month prior to appointment
- Deputy Sheriff applicants must be a legal resident of Chautauqua County at the time of appointment
- No felony convictions or disqualifying criminal history
Age & Eligibility Requirements:
- Applicants who are within 12 months of meeting the minimum age or attaining the minimum educational requirements following the date of examination, may take the civil service exam, but will be restricted from certification until such a time that the minimum age or educational requirements are met.
- Must be at least 20 years old to be appointed
- Military service may offset age requirements (as per Civil Service Law)
Testing & Examination Requirements:
This is a competitive civil service position that requires:
1. Written Exam (October 17, 2026):
- Situational judgment
- Language fluency
- Information ordering & sequencing
- Problem sensitivity
- Attention to detail
- Visualization and spatial orientation
2. Physical Fitness Test (Post-exam):
- Sit-ups (core strength)
- Push-ups (upper body endurance)
- 1.5-mile run (cardiovascular fitness)Candidates must pass the written test to qualify for the physical fitness test.
3. Medical and Psychological Exams
- Required for final appointment
4. Background Investigation
- Includes criminal, employment, and educational history
Application Process:
- Apply online at https://chautauqua-portal.mycivilservice.com/
- Application fee: $25 (non-refundable, credit/debit card only)
- Deadline: September 9, 2026
- Fee waivers are available for eligible individuals (see portal for details)
Veteran & Military Candidates:
- Eligible veterans may apply for Veteran’s Credit
- Military applicants may request alternate test dates if needed
Additional Notes:
- Candidates who pass both the written and physical exams will be placed on an eligibility list for future openings
- Tests are rated on a scale of 100, with a passing score of 70
- Preference in hiring may be given to residents of the hiring jurisdiction
- Candidates must meet all municipal police training standards within the required time frame
Chautauqua County is an Equal Opportunity Employer
We are committed to hiring and promoting individuals based on merit, without regard to race, color, religion, gender, age, disability, sexual orientation, or veteran status.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $28.85 - $53.07 per hour
Benefits:
- Dental insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Health insurance
- Health savings account
- Paid time off
- Retirement plan
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
