Reserve Deputies

Minimum Requirements

• Minimum Age: 21 at time of acceptance into training academy (November).
• Must pass written test
• Must pass physical agility test (ORPAT)
• Must pass psychological exam and drug screening
• Must be in good physical health and pass physical examination as defined by Oregon Department of Public Safety and Standards (DPSST)
• Must have no criminal convictions and have an acceptable driving record.
• Must be a high school graduate or GED equivalent.
• Must have 20/20 vision (or correctable to 20/20) with any other vision requirements established by DPSST
• Must submit to a complete police background investigation.
• Must have no employment or school problem which could interfere with required duty time or court time.
• Must be employed in an occupation that does not result in a conflict of interest with the Sheriff's Office as determined by the Sheriff. Examples of such occupations include, but are not limited to: Police Officer for another agency, Reserve Officer for another agency, Private Investigator, Owner/operator of a security service, Taxi driver, Bartender, Owner of a liquor establishment, etc.
  

Application and Selection Process

Recruitment for Reserve applicants is posted on the Marion County Job Openings page.  Applications are first reviewed by Human Resources to ensure an applicant meets the minimum requirements to be a Reserve Deputy. Applicants are required to pass a written test, Oregon Physical Abilities Test (ORPAT) , oral board examination, a psychological exam, a background investigation, a driver license record check, drug screening, and physical examination.

Required Training

Applicants who successfully pass the selection process will attend the Mid Valley Reserve Training (MVRT) program, or similar training, which consists of over 300 hours of instruction and practical application in the Criminal Justice System, Motor Vehicle Law, Criminal Law and many other law enforcement related areas.  Academy attendees are required to be sponsored by a law enforcement agency as an active reserve.  The cost is $400 per student (includes ORS Criminal and Traffic Books and Classroom handouts and Class Polo Shirt).   Ongoing training to be successfully completed, as required.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the Reserve Academy held?  Two weekday evenings and some Saturdays.

When are interviews held?  Oral interviews will be held in the spring of each year.

Is the Reserve Program a Volunteer Program? Yes, it is generally a volunteer program. After graduation and commissioning, Reserve Deputies are required to devote 24 hours per month to the Reserve Division. Sixteen of these hours must be on regular patrol duty or community policing.

Do Reserves ever get paid for their work?  Throughout the year, some opportunities are available where Reserve Deputies may be paid. However, the primary function of the Reserve Division is to assist as a volunteer.