Your Experience Counts
Already serving in law enforcement? Bring that experience with you. KCSO offers an accelerated path for lateral deputies, including hiring incentives and recognition of qualifying prior service.
In-State Laterals
Out-of-State Laterals
Additional Benefits
- Experience toward pay steps
- Increased leave accrual
- Earlier specialty eligibility
- Accelerated PTO/FTO
Your Next Chapter
At the King County Sheriff’s Office, this is more than a job. It’s a career built on purpose, challenge and the chance to do work that matters in one of the most diverse and dynamic regions in the country. From patrol and investigations to specialized teams, aviation, marine operations and transit, the opportunities to grow are almost limitless. If you’re looking for more responsibility, more variety and more ways to make an impact, this is where you’ll find it. This is what it means to be A Cut Above.
Laterals Welcome
You’ve already built the experience. Now put it to work somewhere with more opportunity. At the King County Sheriff’s Office, lateral deputies can bring their skills into an agency with diverse assignments, specialized teams, strong training and room to keep growing. Whether you’re looking for a new challenge, a better fit, or a career that can take you in more directions, King County gives experienced officers the chance to build on what they’ve already earned and take the next step: A Cut Above.
Special Assignments
Patrol is just the beginning. Build your experience and explore specialized assignments throughout your career to keep things new.
View All Special Assignments
- Air Support
- K-9
- TAC-30
- Marine & Dive
- Investigations
- Crisis Negotiation
- Bomb Disposal Unit
- Airport Rescue & Firefighting
- Sound & Metro Transit
- Honor Guard
Connected to Community
In King County’s contract cities, deputies get the chance to truly know the communities they serve. You’re not just passing through; you’re answering calls, solving problems, building relationships and becoming a familiar presence in the places that rely on you every day. It’s hands-on police work with real community connection, real responsibility and the opportunity to make an impact people can see.
Careers
Skillbridge
Your Career Starts Here
The hiring process for the King County Sheriff’s Office.
Still have questions?
Here are some common questions from people interested in starting a career with the King County Sheriff’s Office. You can also use the links below to talk with a recruiter.
What is the starting salary at King County Sheriff’s Office?
Entry-level Deputy Sheriffs start at $95,909 annually, or $46.11 per hour, in 2026. The current salary range extends up to $134,285 annually, with additional opportunities for specialty, education, patrol, longevity and language incentive pay.
How long before I can apply for a specialty?
It depends on the assignment. TAC-30 (SWAT) and many other specialty units generally require at least four years of experience, while most detective assignments require three to five years. Some opportunities, including Traffic, City Contracting, Metro/Sound Transit and School Resource Officer assignments, may be available after successfully completing probation. Qualified lateral deputies can apply previous law enforcement experience toward specialty-unit requirements.
Are there hiring incentives available?
Yes. KCSO currently offers lateral Deputy Sheriff hiring incentives of $40,000 for in-state laterals and $25,000 for out-of-state laterals. Additional benefits and incentive pay may also be available based on education, specialty assignments, longevity, patrol duties and qualifying foreign-language skills.
What are the minimum requirements to apply?
Applicants must be a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident, have a high school diploma or GED and be fluent in English. You must be at least 20 years old when applying and 21 by your hire date, have or be able to obtain a valid Washington State driver’s license, meet KCSO medical standards and successfully complete the background investigation.
Do you hire veterans?
Yes. KCSO welcomes veterans and active-duty service members. Eligible veterans can receive veterans’ preference points during the civil service hiring process, which are applied after successfully completing the oral board. The Basic Law Enforcement Academy may also qualify for G.I. Bill benefits once you are hired.