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If you’re looking to embark on a new career, the Kern County Sheriff’s Department has some arresting information: They’re currently recruiting for deputy sheriff trainees.

“We’re interested in individuals who have the qualities of honesty and integrity, and who have a desire to serve the community. We can work with everything else,” said Sgt. Ed Komin, a spokesman for the Kern County Sheriff’s Department.

Komin said trainees must complete the Basic Peace Officer Academy — 25 weeks of physical and mental conditioning.

“I’d say it’s similar to military basic training, but even more intense academically,” said Komin.

Upon graduation, trainees are promoted to the position of deputy sheriff. From there, the career possibilities are many.

Komin said deputy sheriffs can advance vertically all the way to undersheriff, or horizontally to serve on the SWAT team, as an undercover narcotics agent, or helicopter personnel.

In terms of gender and ethnicity, Komin said that in a perfect world, deputy hirees would reflect the Kern County population, which — according to the U.S. Census Bureau — is about half men and women; 45 percent Hispanic; 43 percent white; 6 percent black.

Salary: $3,213-$3,923 approximate monthly equivalent paid biweekly. Additional 7 1/2 percent pay for night shift.

Progressive Retirement Program: 3 percent for each year of service to be collected at 50 years of age.

Qualifications: High school graduate or GED. Must have driver’s license and be 19 years old by filing date.

Other Requirements: Must pass a rigid medical examination with minimum standards for vision (20/100 uncorrected in each eye correctable to 20/20), hearing (no hearing deficiency), weight must be proportionate to height and character (must have a reputation for being trustworthy and honest).

Essential Functions: Attend and successfully complete the Basic Peace Officer Academy. Complete introduction and indoctrination training which may include assignments to various divisions within the Sheriff’s Office. Fulfill all requirements necessary for appointment to position of Deputy Sheriff 1. May be assigned to shift work, weekends and holidays. Assignments may include pre-employment polygraph examination and psychological evaluation.

Apply online at: www.co.kern.ca.us/person or in person at Kern County Personnel (1115 Truxtun Ave.)

Deadline: Accepting applications through June 20, 2008.

For more information, call Ed Komin 391-7605.

Recruitment Meetings:
• June 2, Wasco: Wasco City Hall, 746 Eighth St. 6-8 p.m.
• June 10, Bakersfield: KCSO Headquarters, 1350 Norris Road, 6-8 p.m.
• June 16, Ridgecrest: C.C.C. Library, 3000 College Heights Blvd. 6-8 p.m.