Deputy Sheriff

Vacancy Announcement 

We are accepting applications for: Deputy Sheriff
Date Posted: October 27, 2025
Closing Date: Open until filled.                       

About the Position and Department:  A Deputy Sheriff is under the direct supervision of the Fallon County Sheriff. The Sheriff’s Office is committed to enforcing state law and providing professional law enforcement services that protect and preserve the Constitutional Rights of the citizens of Fallon County. This is a full-time, permanent position.

Position Overview:  This position is responsible for protecting the life and property of the citizens of Fallon County.

Required Education and Experience:  Employment with Fallon County requires a high school diploma or equivalent. Must be a citizen of the United States and be at least eighteen (18) years of age. The above knowledge, skills, and abilities are typically acquired through successful completion of the Montana Law Enforcement Academy and meet the other statutory qualifications in §7-32-2104 and §7-32-303, MCA. May not have been convicted of a crime which could have resulted in imprisonment in a federal or state penitentiary. Have not, within five (5) years immediately preceding the date of employment, been affiliated in any manner with a subversive organization. Be of good moral character, as determined by a thorough background screen. 

Candidates certified for employment must be willing to undergo and successfully complete an in-depth background investigation, finger printing, criminal history check, and a medical examination to determine physical and mental fitness for duty. Must complete and pass the MPAT (Montana Physical Abilities Test).

Required to attend, complete, and pass the twelve (12) week Montana Law Enforcement Academy and/or equivalency dependent upon prior certifications.

Preferred Education and Experience:  A minimum of one (1) year experience in a certified law enforcement position is preferred but is not required.

Additional Eligibility Qualifications: This position requires unsupervised contact with incarcerated individuals and is subject to a pre-employment criminal background check; successful candidates may not hold felony criminal convictions that could have resulted in imprisonment in a federal or state penitentiary or convictions for violent crimes. Applicants are required to disclose any and all misdemeanor and /or felony convictions as an adult; this includes pleading No Contest, Nolo Contendere, Guilty, or any conviction by a judge or jury.

Must reside or establish residence within Fallon County within thirty (30) days of employment. Extenuating circumstances may extend this date as approved by the Fallon County Sheriff.

Applicant Pool Statement:  If another department vacancy occurs in this job title within six months, the same applicant pool may be used for the selection.

How to Apply:  Applicants must complete the Standard Application for Position of Public Safety Officer in the State of Montana, available online at https://dojmt.gov/post/forms-and-other-documents. Applications and a complete job description are available at the Fallon County Sheriff’s Office or Human Resources office, 10 W. Fallon Avenue, Baker, Montana. Submit applications (resumes optional) to:  Fallon County Sheriff, PO Box 899, Baker, Montana, 59313. Questions may be directed to Sheriff Trenton Harbaugh 406-778-8132, Undersheriff Nic Eisele 406-778-8133, or HR Manager Julie Straub 406-778-8164. 

Fallon County Job Description

Fallon County is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to affirmative recruitment, diversity, and inclusion in the workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, religion, age, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, age, protected veteran status, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. Applicants with disabilities who need accommodation with the application or selection process should contact Human Resources.

 Job Overview
This position is responsible for protecting the life and property of the citizens of Fallon County.  Performs a wide range of tasks requiring continual exposure to hazardous and potentially life-threatening situations and conditions including but not limited to patrolling, responding to emergency calls and/or situations, conducting investigations and searches, serving civil documents, and providing security for court hearings/trials. Arrests suspects/violators of the law, forcibly if necessary, using handcuffs and other restraints. Attends court proceedings, providing testimony and security. Maintains custody, care and control of inmates incarcerated at the Fallon County Detention Center to ensure the safe and orderly operation of the facility as needed. 

Essential Functions
Public Safety – Patrol Fallon County via motor vehicle, by foot, or other means to preserve law and order, discover and prevent the commission of crimes, and enforce traffic, laws, and ordinances. Apprehend and arrest offenders for crimes committed under federal, state, and local laws and ordinances. Respond to calls for the protection of life and property, the enforcement of laws and ordinances, public service calls, and complaints including those involving automobile accidents, traffic hazards, misdemeanor and felony incidents, domestic disturbances, property control, civil complaints, and related incidents; investigate complaints and takes appropriate action, which may include the use of deadly or non-deadly force. Administer basic first aid as needed to preserve life. Control and mitigate people under the influence of drugs or alcohol or other potentially hostile situations. Respond to variety of emergency situations including fires and EMS calls; directs traffic at emergency situations and special events; provides traffic and crowd control at events.

Prepare and serve search and arrest warrants; serve and execute legal documents such as subpoenas, summons, complaints, writs of attachment, execution, and restitution to assist in facilitating legal proceedings. Conduct or assist in sale of attached property, collect fees due the County accordance with statute and Fallon County Sheriff Policy and Procedures.

Contact and cooperate with other law enforcement agencies in matters relating to the apprehension of offenders and the investigation of offenses; may respond to requests for assistance from agencies outside the County for mutual aid in the suppression of civil disturbances, apprehension of criminals, or other related requests.

Attend court proceedings to maintain security and order in the court; remove disorderly persons when necessary. Provides testimony in courts and at hearings; prepares and presents case evidence. 

Investigations – Conduct investigations at incident scenes to determine what, if any, crime has been committed, ensuring adherence to statute and Fallon County Sheriff Office Policy & Procedures. Conduct searches, seizing and preventing the circulation of illegal controlled substances and/or contraband. Identify, collect, preserve, process, and log evidence. Interview victims, witnesses, and suspects. Prepare investigative reports and case information. Works in partnership with the County Attorney’s Office to obtain and file criminal complaints on arrested subjects.

Coroner – In accordance with Montana Code Annotated, perform timely resolution of death investigations, determining cause and manner of unattended deaths. Complete information for death certificates and all required paperwork such as but not limited to subpoenas.

Public Relations – Establish and preserve good relationships with the public; answer questions concerning local and state laws, procedures, and activities of the office; make presentations before a variety of public groups to promote crime prevention activities and to enhance public understanding of law enforcement activities.

Administrative – Perform a variety of administrative and other types of duties in support of law enforcement services, programs, and activities. Initiate and complete reports, legal documents, and other required paperwork; prepare a variety of reports including those on activities, operations, arrests made, and unusual incidents observed. Utilize Office specific software program for record management. Complete brand inspections as needed. Attend meetings and trainings as needed.

Detention Center – In the absence of a Detention Officer, will supervise, monitor, and maintain awareness of the movement and location of adult male and female inmates housed in the Detention Center. May complete a variety of other tasks such as but not limited to processing inmates in and out of facility by conducting visual searches, physical pat search, fingerprinting, photographing, and entering personal data into facility specific program. Conduct cell and inmate searches. Dispense prescription and over the counter medications in accordance with established protocol. Transport inmates to scheduled appointments. Escort inmates to court hearings.

Competencies
The knowledge, skills, abilities, and other characteristics to perform this work include but are not necessarily limited to: Accountability, Active Listening, Adaptability, Attention to Detail, Commitment, Communication – Oral & Written, Criminal Justice System, Computers, Confidentiality, Court Procedures, Criminal Investigation Procedures and Techniques,  Crisis Intervention, Critical Thinking, Dependable, Detention Operations, Emergency Services, Firearms, First Aid, Flexibility, Geography, Interpersonal Relationships, Interview Techniques, Law Enforcement Principles & Procedures, Leadership, Livestock Brands,  Montana Code Annotated, Problem Solving, Professionalism, Public Relations, Sensitivity, Stress Management, Vehicle Operations, and Teamwork.
This position requires significant knowledge of the principles, practices, and techniques of law enforcement; the laws, rules, and regulations enforced by the Sheriff’s Office; the geography and topography within the County jurisdiction; modern procedures and methods employed in crime detection and investigation; court procedures in criminal and civil trials; criminal behavior patterns and the social factors underlying criminal behavior; first aid methods and their applications; and the use and care of firearms and other non-lethal weapons and restraints. Strict adherence to maintaining confidentiality with law enforcement sensitive information. Knowledge of care, collection and preservation of evidence. Ability to utilize sound reasoning, as well as ability to make sound decisions. Ability to make forcible arrests and engage in foot pursuits. Ability to operate a motor vehicle on a variety of terrains, in a variety of conditions, and at a variety of speeds. Ability to read, interpret, understand, and apply statutes, ordinances, rules, and regulations.

Ability to engage in critical thinking and to analyze situations quickly and objectively. Must be able to recognize actual and potential danger and to determine the appropriate course of action. Ability to cope with stressful situations firmly, tactfully, and with respect to individual rights.

Must be skilled in active listening, speaking, critical thinking, social perceptiveness, negotiation, judgment, and decision making while interacting with the community in often tense and volatile situations. Skill in subduing individuals in a physical confrontation bearing duty equipment. Ability to relate effectively to others in tense and/or hostile situations; ability to adapt quickly to changing conditions which require diverse responses; ability to endure prolonged periods of physical and mental stress. Comprehensive knowledge of and ability to utilize computer and Microsoft programs. Participate in continuous training to enhance law enforcement skills including firearms proficiency, apprehension and arrest techniques, investigative skills, and general law enforcement skills. Ability to prioritize workload; meet deadlines; accept direction; carry out directives; and comply with policies, rules, and regulations.

This position must communicate accurately and effectively orally and in writing, utilizing appropriate grammar and spelling. Demonstrate strong interpersonal skills and professionalism to effectively interact with a variety of personalities and demands of the public; ability to explain detailed and complicated information in simple, understandable terms. Must listen actively and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences. Communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will understand; explain rules and procedures clearly. Possess excellent customer service and interpersonal skills to resolve questions and concerns using good judgment and discretion. Respond to requests for service and assistance with courtesy and respect. Demonstrate the ability to interact courteously and effectively with all County employees including Commissioners, elected officials, department heads, and the public. As part of our workforce, maintains consistent communication with all County employees, our customers/patrons, and the public via County owned communication systems including but not limited to email, office phone, work cell phone, text, and SMS/IM.

Demonstrate initiative, common sense, and good judgment. Ability to work with little direct supervision; to understand, interpret, and follow instructions and directives. Self-directed with ability to meet deadlines when unsupervised. Take accountability for your own actions. This position must function as part of a team, working for the betterment of the Sheriff’s Office, its mission and processes, and the public.

Safety
Safety is a primary duty and a personal responsibility. County employees are responsible for reading, understanding and following safety rules and procedures as identified within County Policy, our Safety Program as well as at each department/work location/JSA. This position is responsible for wearing PPE as identified in the JSA or when working in areas where there is danger of injury.  Responsible for wearing suitable work clothes as determined by the Fallon County Sheriff. Reports all injuries, hazards and/or near misses utilizing established reporting forms and procedures. Knows the location of first aid kits, fire extinguishers, and other safety devices. Attend all safety meetings including annual training. This position will not perform potentially hazardous tasks or use any hazardous material until properly trained.

Supervisory Responsibility
This position has no supervisory responsibilities.

Work Environment
This position will work in a variety of indoor and outdoor environments. This role performs work in a professional office environment and the Detention Center, using standard office equipment such as computers, telephones, photocopiers, and filing cabinets. Will utilize a County patrol vehicle a great deal. This work will result in performing a variety of duties outside and in a variety of inclement weather conditions including heat, rain, wind, snow, and ice. Exposed to a variety of grasses, weeds, trees, shrubs, flowers, and other sources of pollen.

Required Education and Experience
Employment with Fallon County requires a high school diploma or equivalent. Must be a citizen of the United States and be at least eighteen (18) years of age. The above knowledge, skills, and abilities are typically acquired through successful completion of the Montana Law Enforcement Academy and meet the other statutory qualifications in §7-32-2104 and §7-32-303, MCA. May not have been convicted of a crime which could have resulted in imprisonment in a federal or state penitentiary. Have not, within five (5) years immediately preceding the date of employment, been affiliated in any manner with a subversive organization. Be of good moral character, as determined by a thorough background screen. 

Candidates certified for employment must be willing to undergo and successfully complete an in-depth background investigation, finger printing, criminal history check, and a medical examination to determine physical and mental fitness for duty.

Must complete and pass the MPAT (Montana Physical Abilities Test).

Required to attend, complete, and pass the twelve (12) week Montana Law Enforcement Academy and/or equivalency dependent upon prior certifications.

Preferred Education and Experience
A minimum of one (1) year experience in a certified law enforcement position is preferred but is not required.

Additional Eligibility Qualifications
This position requires unsupervised contact with incarcerated individuals and is subject to a pre-employment criminal background check; successful candidates may not hold felony criminal convictions that could have resulted in imprisonment in a federal or state penitentiary or convictions for violent crimes. Applicants are required to disclose any and all misdemeanor    and /or felony convictions as an adult; this includes pleading No Contest, Nolo Contendere, Guilty, or any conviction by a judge or jury.

Must possess or obtain a Montana driver license within thirty (30) days of employment and have a good driving record. Will utilize a County vehicle and is subject to a pre-employment motor vehicle driving history review.

Must reside or establish residence within Fallon County within thirty (30) days of employment. Extenuating circumstances may extend this date as approved by the Fallon County Sheriff.

Applicants must be willing to travel to the Fallon County Sheriff’s Office located at 10 West Fallon Avenue, Baker, Montana for interviews.

Compensation
The hourly wage for a Deputy Sheriff is calculated on a percentage of the Sheriff’s base wage per 7-4-2508 MCA. A Deputy Sheriff will progress to the next wage step at the beginning of each new consecutive fiscal year. Our Fiscal Year 2025-2026 compensation schedule for a Deputy Sheriff is as follows:

Deputy Sheriff (at hire) (85% of Sheriff’s base): $33.53 per hour
Deputy Sheriff 1         (87.5% of Sheriff’s base): $34.52 per hour
Deputy Sheriff 2            (90% of Sheriff’s base): $35.51 per hour
Deputy Sheriff 3            (91% of Sheriff’s base): $35.90 per hour
Deputy Sheriff 4            (92% of Sheriff’s base): $36.29 per hour
Deputy Sheriff 5            (93% of Sheriff’s base): $36.69 per hour
Deputy Sheriff 6            (94% of Sheriff’s base): $37.08 per hour
Deputy Sheriff 7            (95% of Sheriff’s base): $37.48 per hour

This schedule is reflective of and will be adjusted for a Cost-of-Living Adjustment as approved by the Fallon County Commission.

After completion of the first year of employment, an employee becomes eligible to receive County Longevity. Longevity is $0.15 per hour every year, with $0.25 per hour every five years.

A Deputy Sheriff will also receive statutory longevity beginning on the date of the first anniversary of employment with the office in accordance with §7-4-2510 MCA.

After successful completion of Coroner’s training, a Deputy Sheriff will receive Coroner’s pay in the amount of $2000.00 per year, which is paid in monthly payments of $166.67.

This position requires enrollment in the Sheriff’s Retirement System with an established contribution rate for both the employee and the County.

Position Type/Hours of Work
This is a full-time, permanent position. This position will typically work nine (9) and ten (10) hour shifts. Scheduling will include evenings, weekends, and holidays. The work may require working longer than the scheduled shifts. Actual scheduled shifts may vary depending upon staffing and various situations. A Deputy Sheriff is subject to call-out at any time. May be required to travel outside the County to attend meetings or training.

Physical and Environmental Demands
The employee is required to carry a weapon and is exposed to potentially dangerous situations. Essential functions require sufficient physical ability to work in a law enforcement setting and an office setting; must be able to speak or hear. restrain or subdue individuals; walk, stand, sit, or run for prolonged periods of time; occasionally stoop, bend, kneel, crouch, reach, and twist; occasionally climb and balance; regularly push, pull, lift, and/or carry light to heavy weight; operate office equipment including use of computer keyboard; requires a sense of touch, finger dexterity, and gripping with hands and fingers; ability to speak and hear to exchange information; ability to operate a vehicle to travel to various locations; ability to operate and use specialized law enforcement tools and equipment including guns and handcuffs.

Exposure to a stressful environment; exposure to human blood, urine and other contagious sources and working both indoors and outdoors in all temperatures. The work requires frequent driving, occasional standing and walking on all types of surfaces and frequent reaching. Use of the hands is continuously required; applying pressure with the hands and forceful, repeated or sustained exertions are occasionally required. Running, jumping and climbing stairs, ladders and fences are activities required occasionally. Lifting, carrying and pushing/pulling of items weighing greater than 140 pounds are required occasionally. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate but may be very loud due to sirens, firearm training, etc. Requires hearing which falls within normal limits for both pure tone and speech, per audiogram.

Work in an office setting with artificial light, using a desk, chair, and computer.

The specific statements shown in each section of this description are not intended to be all inclusive. They represent typical elements and criteria considered necessary to perform the job successfully; employees are routinely required to address emerging employer requirements in alignment with individual work units and assignments of jobs which may result in additional or a change in duties/functions not identified. This job description does not constitute an employment agreement between the employer and employee; it is subject to change by the employer as the needs of the employer change.