The Erie County Personnel Department announced July 7 that written civil service examinations for Police Officer and Deputy Sheriff – Criminal are scheduled for Oct. 17, 2026. The application deadline is Sept. 2, 2026.
The written test for both tracks will be administered at the same time but will produce separate civil service lists. Candidates who pass the Deputy Sheriff – Criminal exam may be eligible for hiring by the Erie County Sheriff’s Office; those who pass the Police Officer exam may be eligible for hiring by town or village police departments across Erie County. Applicants who want to be considered for both career paths must submit applications for both exams. There is a $30 application fee for each exam.
“This written examination is the starting point for candidates interested in protecting our communities in a law enforcement role,” said Dr. Brian Bray, Erie County Personnel Department Commissioner. He said candidates who pass the written exam will also need to pass a physical agility test (push-ups, sit-ups and a 1.5-mile run) and, if reachable on the civil service list, undergo background and psychological evaluations by the hiring agency.
Who can apply
- Must be at least 19 years old on or before Oct. 17, 2026 (note: candidates are not eligible for appointment until age 21).
- Maximum age to apply is now increased to applicants up to their 43rd birthday.
- Must be a U.S. citizen, have a valid New York State driver’s license, and possess a high school diploma or equivalent plus one of the following: 60 college credits; or 30 college credits plus one year of military service; or an acceptable equivalent combination of education and service. Current students may sit for the exam and complete required credits before appointment.
How to apply
Applications must be completed and submitted by Sept. 2. The $30 fee for each exam can be waived for applicants who are unemployed, receiving public assistance, or enrolled in certain job training programs with appropriate documentation.
For the full, official exam announcements, requirements and application instructions, visit the Erie County Civil Service page: https://www3.erie.gov/employment/applications-due or contact the county Personnel Department at (716) 858-8484. The county contact listed with the press release is Peter Anderson (Peter.Anderson@erie.gov).
