The Pennington County Sheriff’s Office is now seeking above average applicants to join our Law Enforcement team. We offer a variety of assignments, expedited career tracks and progressive leadership.
As a representative of the Sheriff, the Deputy Sheriff I protects life and property for the citizens of Pennington County. As a member of the Law Enforcement team, the Deputy Sheriff I promotes positive relationships with the public and works to strengthen relationships with other professional organizations.

Candidates can look forward to working for a highly supportive community nestled in the beautiful Black Hills of South Dakota. The Black Hills boasts spectacular scenery, endless recreation for all seasons and a great place to raise a family. We have a strong and growing economic base of agriculture and tourism with regional assets such as Ellsworth Air Force Base, Monument Hospital and the Sanford Deep Underground Science and Engineering Laboratory. The Blacks Hills have a thriving arts and culture scene that encompasses the values and history of our region.

Deputies work 10-hour shifts bid on a 6-month rotation. 50% prior service is applied to all opportunities after two years with our team. You are welcome to contact us with any questions prior to application. 605-394-6113, ask for Kim!

Please view our job description (Download PDF reader) for complete position details.

• Patrolling the county for prevention and suppression of crime, enforcement of laws (federal, state and local) and ordinances, investigation of illegal or suspicious activities and ensuring the protection of life and property.
• Responds to calls relayed by radio, including domestic disputes, arrests, burglaries, traffic accidents, lost or missing persons, and stranded motorists.
• Carries out investigations of assigned cases; collects evidence; identifies and apprehends offenders; interviews complainants; victims; witnesses and suspects; conducts follow-up investigations as required.
• Responds to crime scenes; examines crime scene to identify and collect evidence; photographs scenes; lifts fingerprints and makes composites.
• Locating and making physical arrests of law violators or active warrant subjects.
• Interviewing witnesses/suspects and preparing written reports and appearing in court as a witness.
• Transporting or escorting prisoners to courtrooms, prisons/jails or medical facilities.
• Assisting in serving civil process and court orders.
• Maintaining ability to testify as a credible witness in court.
• Performing additional duties as assigned.

Testing Process: Applicants are required to meet minimum physical agility standards and a passing score of 70% on our written exam prior to an interview. The physical agility standards can be found on our website (Download PDF reader).
Education: High school diploma or GED
Age: Minimum 21 years of age
Experience: Prior LE experience
Licensure: Valid South Dakota Driver's License within 90 days of state residency.
Certification: Must have SD Law Enforcement Certification; OR be reciprocity eligible

Background Standards: Please review our background requirements through this link (Download PDF reader).