Q. How long will it take before I can begin my career with the CCSO?
A. Applications can be processed within 30 to 60 days.  It is up to the applicant how fast the process goes. 

An out-of-state applicant needs to set aside a minimum of one week for processing in Naples.  This time needs to be scheduled with Human Resources for the interview and testing to be arranged.

Applicants for non-certified positions can begin as a temporary member during processing.  Temporary members must pass skills testing and an oral interview prior to start date.  Temporary members can start as early as a week or two after they have submitted their application.

Q. What can I do to speed up the hiring process?
A. Read the application thoroughly.

Be sure you have included all of the needed documentation.  If you are missing a document, make a note that you are in the process of retrieving it. Be available for the interview and testing. 
Respond to phone calls, emails and letters promptly.

Q. I know many CCSO members. Can they help me through the hiring process?
A. They can give you information about the CCSO or provide you with a personal reference but all scheduling of interviews and testing must be made through Human Resources.

Q. What is an interview board and what kind of questions will be asked?
A. The interview includes a minimum of three CCSO members; a representative from Human Resources and at least two members of the division you are applying for.  We will ask you questions about your background, education, training and job history.  You will have an opportunity during the interview to ask us questions too.

Q. Will I be judged on my appearance?
A. First impressions are important.  You should appear in your best, clean clothing.  Jeans, tee shirts, provocative or revealing clothing and excessive or unusual jewelry are not recommended for an interview.

Q. I do not meet the requirements for a position as a Law Enforcement Deputy, can the CCSO help me?
A.  There are several career paths you can take to achieve this goal. You can gain 24 months of experience as a certified Jail Deputy and make the same salary and get the same benefits as a Law Enforcement Deputy.  You can also become a Dispatcher or Community Service Deputy for three years to become eligible to become a Law Enforcement Deputy.

Q. Is my driving record important?
A. Your driving record is important if you will be required to drive a CCSO vehicle.  Responsible driving habits are indicative of maturity and demonstrate concern for your safety and the safety of others.

Q. Does prior drug use eliminate me from consideration?
A. Applicants are reluctant to admit prior use.  More applicants are rejected because they did not tell the truth about prior drug use and experimentation.  We require that you have not used any marijuana within the past 12 months or any other illegal drug within the past 5 years.  See our drug policy to learn more.

Q. What is the “Number One” reason that an applicant is not offered a position?
A. Being untruthful is “number one.”  Each member may be called upon to provide testimony in court if involved in an incident. A member’s integrity should not be a weakness that can be questioned in court.  We expect applicants to able to provide accurate, complete and truthful information.  If we discover an applicant has been untruthful they will be rejected.  If you can’t recall exact dates, places and times, state “approximate” on the application or at the interview.

Q. What is the F-BAT or the CJ-BAT?
A. These are computerized, multiple choice, scenario based tests designed to help predict the success of an applicant in a certified position.  Most trainee applicants for a Florida certified position are required to take and pass the F-BAT or CJ-BAT within 4 years prior to attending the academy.  The test can be taken at various locations in the State of Florida and takes approximately two hours.

Q. How do I study for the F-BAT or CJ-BAT?
A. Studying is not recommended, however you may purchase a study guide on line here.

Q. What tests are given to applicants for non-certified positions?
A. Applicants for non-certified positions are given skills tests that are job-related and a general aptitude test. While you can brush up on your keyboarding skills, there is no “study guide” for these tests. Some applicants have used the GED study guide just to freshen up skills.

Q. I have applied other places. I would prefer to work at the CCSO. What if I get a commitment for another job?
A. You are the only person who can make that decision. We will not advise you to give up an offer for another job.  Until our process is complete, you will not be given a date of hire.

Q. If my application is processed and I complete all the tests does that mean I will get hired?
A. Most people who get hired have completed the entire process; however, we reserve the right to stop the process at any point if we discover you have been untruthful on your application.

Q. If I am not hired, will you tell me why?
A. In some cases the applicant is not hired simply because other applicants had skills, training, education or experience that better suited the needs of the position. Some applicants may be fully processed and not offered a position. We do our best to provide you with a response; however, there is no legal requirement that we provide you with information about our decision.

Q. If I am not hired, can I have my application back?
A. Your application becomes public record under Florida Public Records Law, Florida Statute 119. We must retain the public record for the minimum period of time required by law and make it available for viewing if a request is made. Portions of your processing are exempt from public disclosure, such as medical information.