Position Title: Special Deputy Sheriff – Volunteer
Agency: Guernsey County Sheriff’s Office
Service Type: Volunteer, Sworn Reserve (OPOTA Certified)
Reports To: Assigned Supervisor / Division Commander
Serve Guernsey County With Your Certified Skills
The Guernsey County Sheriff’s Office relies on OPOTA-certified volunteers to enhance public safety and strengthen community partnerships. Special Deputies use their professional training in service to the county, supporting full-time personnel during events, emergencies, and ongoing operations. In addition to volunteer service, qualified Special Deputies may also work paid special-duty details when such assignments are available and authorized.
Your Role as a Guernsey County Special Deputy
Special Deputies provide meaningful support in both volunteer and compensated capacities. Depending on training, certification, and assignment, volunteers may assist with:
-
Patrol support and community-policing activities
-
Major public events such as the county fair, parades, school functions, and safety outreach
-
Emergency response including severe weather incidents, road closures, crashes, and search-and-rescue operations
-
Traffic control, scene security, and crowd management
-
Limited enforcement actions consistent with OPOTA certification and office policy
-
Reporting observations, assisting deputies on calls as appropriate, and representing the Sheriff’s Office professionally
-
Maintaining required qualifications and in-service training
-
Eligible participation in paid special-duty details, including event security, traffic management, or other assignments approved by the Sheriff’s Office
Who We’re Looking For
We seek OPOTA-certified individuals who want to continue serving without a full-time commitment. Candidates must:
-
Hold valid Ohio OPOTA Basic Peace Officer certification
-
Be at least 21 years old
-
Have a valid Ohio driver’s license
-
Pass background and agency screening
-
Be physically capable of assigned duties
-
Demonstrate professionalism, integrity, and teamwork
Prior law-enforcement, military, or public-safety experience is helpful but not required beyond OPOTA certification.
Training and Support
Special Deputies receive agency-specific instruction even after OPOTA certification, including:
-
Orientation to GCSO policy and operational standards
-
Communications and radio procedures
-
Firearms and defensive tactics refreshers
-
Emergency-response protocols tailored to Guernsey County
-
Ongoing in-service requirements
Uniforms and equipment are issued according to policy.
Time Commitment
Special Deputies serve in a flexible volunteer capacity that respects personal schedules. Opportunities include:
-
Community events and service details
-
Ride-along support
-
Required training or qualification sessions
-
Emergency call-outs
-
Optional compensated special-duty assignments, depending on availability and the volunteer’s standing within the program
Your Impact on Guernsey County
Serving as a Special Deputy allows you to:
-
Strengthen emergency and event response capability
-
Support large public gatherings
-
Provide trained assistance during critical situations
-
Build relationships within the community
-
Use your OPOTA certification to directly benefit county residents
-
Take part in both volunteer service and paid special-duty opportunities
Join the Team
If you’re an OPOTA-certified individual who values professionalism, service, and community safety — and would like the flexibility of volunteer work along with opportunities for paid assignments — the Guernsey County Sheriff’s Office welcomes your interest in becoming a Special Deputy Sheriff.
