On Saturday, June 3, the Monongalia County Sheriff’s Office will be testing for the position of entry-level deputy sheriff.
The test consists of two parts. The first part is a physical standards test that will take place at 10 a.m. at the West Virginia University Track, beside the Coliseum. During the test applicants will be required to complete 18 properly executed push-ups within one minute, 28 properly executed sit-ups within one minute, and complete a mile and a half run within 14 minutes and 36 seconds.
Those who pass the physical standards test will move on to a written examination that will be held on the same day at 1 pm in the Multi-Purpose Room of the Monongalia County Sheriff’s Office, 116 Walnut St. in Morgantown.
Anyone who is already a certified law enforcement officer will only be required to take the written examination test.
Officials with the department said they last tested in March with approximately 15 people signed up to take the test – about half actually showed up for the testing. That already reduced candidate pool then has to pass the test and all background checks required, which doesn’t always happen.
Many local police departments, as well as departments across the nation, continue to struggle with recruitment.
According to information from the International Association of Chiefs of Police, approximately 78% of law enforcement agencies reported having difficulty recruiting qualified candidates in recent years. While no one cause is thought to be the reason for the low numbers, the association believes some of the reasons are changes to the public perception of law enforcement and generational work values with younger people hoping for more flexible work hours and guaranteed time off.
The Monongalia County Sheriff’s Department has made efforts to make positions with the department appealing, including a starting salary of $48,800, which increases to $50,000.00 after one year of service, with overtime available and all uniforms and equipment provided.
They also have a structured pay scale for promotions and longevity, paid health insurance and paid holidays, vacation and sick leave. The department also boasts a nice work environment in a new building with fully equipped men and women’s workout and locker rooms, break rooms on all floors, individual work areas, a training room and a take home car.
Advancement into specialty areas such as swat/sniper, K-9 units, detectives, accident re-constructionists, and firearms and self-defense instructors will also be available.
If you are interested in a career with Monongalia County Sheriff’s Department you can find a PDF employment packet on the website at www.monsheriff.com/employment.html.
Department officials said applications will be accepted up until the physical agility test begins on Saturday and can be brought directly to the testing site at the WVU track.
If you are interested or have questions about the testing or hiring process, contact the Monongalia County Sheriff’s Office at info@monsheriff.com or 304-291-7260.
