Entry-level Applicants:

If you are interested in applying for a deputy position at the Sheriff's Office, and have never been employed in law enforcement before, this is for you.

Application Process (third-party site)

See what Sheriff Mark Nelson has to say about being a sheriff's deputy here.

Lateral-entry Applicants:

If you are interested in applying for a deputy position at the Sheriff's Office, and have previously worked as a law enforcement officer, this is for you.

Application Information

Qualifying lateral applicants:

• are a graduate of a recognized basic policy academy

• have full-time employment as a general duty law enforcement officer

• have not separated from service for more than twelve (12) months

(click on Application Information for further description)

For all other positions or openings with the Sheriff's Office, please contact us directly at 360.577.3092, or write to the Cowlitz County Civil Service Commission:

PO Box 390, Kelso, WA 98626. 

Thank you for your interest!