Sheriffs are responsible to uphold thelaw in a county or region. These professionals serve court orders, arrest criminals and make sure that citizens are safe. They handle various law enforcement tasks on daily basis.

Should I Become a Sheriff in New Jersey?

  • Education Required
  • Major Requirement
  • Training
  • Licenses/Certifications
  • Key Skills
  • Annual Mean Salary (2019)-National
  • Job Outlook(2018-2028)
  • Annual Mean Salary (2019)-New Jersey
  • High School Diploma to College Degree
  • Homeland Security, Law Enforcement or Criminal Justice
  • Required
  • Police officer certificate or licensure is required by state law
  • Problem-Solving Skills, Leadership Skills, Organizational Skills, Communication Skills, Empathy, Understanding of Human Behavior and Familiarity with Data Bases
  • $94,950 (First-Line Supervisors of Police and Detectives)
  • 5% (Police and Sheriff’s Patrol Officers)
  • $135,700 (First-Line Supervisors of Police and Detectives)

Sources:O*Net Online and US Bureau of Labor Statistics

Sheriffs are a bit different as compared to all others positions in law enforcement. Unlike others, they are elected to their position. These professionals serve the people and make sure public safety is being maintained. Sheriffs enjoy a fruitful salary package in the US.

Career Outlook

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, Police and Sheriff’s Patrol Officers are expected to experience a growth of 5%. The demand for these professionals has continued to increase asthey are needed to maintain peace and ensurecitizen’s safety. Professionals with advanced training find jobs faster than the rest.

Steps to Become a Sheriff in New Jersey

Become a Police Officer

The first step towards becoming a sheriff is to become a police officer. They are required to finish a police training program and earn a high school diploma to become eligible for the position of a police officer. Candidates have to a clear a background check as well.

Obtain an Undergraduate Degree

Having an undergraduate degree is a requirement of a few law enforcement agencies. Some police officers and aspiring sheriffs obtain either a bachelor’s or an associate’s degree to open up more advanced career options.

Obtain Work Experience

Prospective sheriffs gain work experience to become eligible for sheriff elections. They have to work in a law or a criminal justice related field for 1-5 years. Some candidates prefer to work on the police force.

Run for Office

Since it is a county-based position, candidates have to check with their county office to find out the requirements. In Cape May County, applicants have to be US citizens with sound mental and physical health. They are required to pass the written exam organized by the New Jersey Civil Service Commission and a few other exams. Once all the requirements are fulfilled, the applicant can file his application and organize his election campaign.

Getting Elected

Once a candidate gets elected, he has to sign a contract and swear an oath. The contract contains all the duties and responsibilities.

Obtaining Advanced Training

Some freshly appointed sheriffs obtain advanced training to get more knowledge about their role and responsibilities.

How Long Does It Take to Become a Sheriff in New Jersey?

Prospective sheriffs first have to become police officers. They can obtain a high school diploma or choose to get an undergraduate degree to fulfill the education requirements. Applicants are also required to gain work experience which may last from 1-5 years.

What Are the Requirements for Becoming a Sheriff in New Jersey?

Following are the requirements to become a sheriff in New Jersey:

  • Candidates must be US citizens and residents of the county they are applying for
  • Be 18 years old
  • Having a high school diploma or equivalent
  • Having a valid New Jersey’s Driver’s license
  • They need to have a good moral character
  • They must not have committed any crime

How Much Can I Make After Becoming a Sheriff in New Jersey?

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, First-Line Supervisors of Police and Detectives working in New Jersey were earning an annual mean salary of $135,700 in 2019.