Employment

BECOME A 
KANAWHA COUNTY DEPUTY SHERIFF

Video Transcript

Every person you see here has made a decision. A decision to challenge themselves and answer the call to serve others. Today is their first step. The physical fitness test isn’t just about passing a standard. It’s about proving you have the determination, commitment, and heart to become a Kanawha County Deputy Sheriff. We’re looking for people who want more than just a job. We’re looking for men and women who want a career serving their community, protecting their neighbors, and making a difference every single day. As our county continues to grow, so does the need for dedicated deputies. Every vacancy we fill strengthens our ability to answer calls, keep our community safe, and be there when people need us the most. Now, the journey is not easy, but nothing worth doing ever is. We hope to see you wearing this badge someday and serving right beside us at the Kanawha County Sheriff’s Office.

Those interested in a position as a Deputy Sheriff must first submit an application online or to the Kanawha County Clerk’s Office at 409 Virginia Street East, Charleston WV 25301.  When a test is scheduled by the Kanawha County Civil Service Commission everyone who submitted an application will be notified by certified mail of the testing date and location.

NEXT TEST DATE IS OCTOBER 17, 2026

APPLICATION DEADLINE IS OCTOBER 9, 2026 at 4:00pm

APPLICATION TO BE A KANAWHA COUNTY DEPUTY SHERIFF

Salary

  • $55,016 (Deputy while in Academy)
  • $57,054.40 (After Academy Graduation and Certification)

The Kanawha County Sheriff’s Office offers a sign on bonus of
$15,000.00 for West Virginia Certified Police Officers

On the date of testing, a physical fitness and written test will be conducted.  Those that pass both will be added to a list of eligible candidates for hire.  Those candidates must pass a background investigation, psychiatric examination, medical examination, polygraph examination and in person interviews.

After one is hired as a Deputy Sheriff they must attend 16 weeks of paid training at the West Virginia State Police Academy, then complete a Field Training Officer program with experienced trainers on Road Patrol.

Please click the other links for more information on the hiring process

CIVILIAN EMPLOYEE POSITIONS

The Kanawha County Sheriff’s Office has civilian employees who assist in all its divisions.  If you are interested in helping fulfill our mission as a civilian employee, please download and complete the following application, and submit it to:  301 Virginia Street East, Charleston WV 25301.