Deputy Sheriff 1-2 - Truro (Term)

About Us

The Court Services Division (hereinafter the Division) of the Nova Scotia Department of Justice is dedicated to excellent service and the provision of fair and accessible administration of justice, including court administration and security. The Division provides administrative support to the following courts: Nova Scotia Court of Appeal, Supreme Court of Nova Scotia (including Family Division), Provincial Court, Small Claims Court, Probate Court and Bankruptcy Court.

About Our Opportunity

As part of a team, Deputy Sheriffs are peace officers responsible for providing comprehensive support to all levels of the court on matters pertaining to court security, the transportation of Persons in Custody (PICs), jury management and court orders. As a Deputy Sheriff, you will be accountable for the timely, safe and efficient escort and transportation of PICs to and from correctional institutions, facilities, hospitals, police agencies and elsewhere. You will also be responsible for providing security to all levels of court.

Primary Accountabilities

• Maintain order and security in the court
• Maintain the proper operation of the cell block
• Ensure that PIC's and/or other detained persons are transported safely
• Ensuring that court orders relating to criminal and civil procedures are complied with, executed and/or served properly.
• Assisting to conduct Sheriff Sales and/or seizing real and personal property.
• Developing risk assessments regarding cases and individuals before the court, PICs being transported, and civil document services.
• Remaining proficient in all required use of force options and other physical skills.
• Creating factual reports and maintaining detailed and accurate records.
• Safekeeping Government vehicles, equipment, and the personal effects of PICs.
• Obtaining DNA and fingerprints as required.

Qualifications and Experience

• Completion of a recognized law enforcement training program or relevant college/university diploma/degree.
• High school completion and an equivalent combination of training and experience in a relevant environment (i.e. policing, sheriffs, law enforcement, military, corrections, security, etc.) may be acceptable.

The following are requirements in this position:

• A valid unrestricted driver’s licence
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Computer literacy, including email, word processing, and spreadsheets

The following would be considered assets:

• Training and experience in Use of Force (UOF), Crisis Intervention and De-escalation (CID) and Intermediate and/or Conducted Energy Weapons (CEW's)
• Training in defensive driving and the operation of emergency vehicles
• Understanding of the Criminal Code and/or Federal Statutes
• Knowledge of Courthouse operations
• Experience compiling written reports

Equivalency

One year of full‑time, directly related, work experience (policing, sheriffs, law enforcement, quasi‑law enforcement, military, corrections, security, etc.). Five years of continuous full‑time employment (does not need to be in a related field).

Benefits

Based on the employment status and union agreement, the Government of Nova Scotia offers its employees a wide range of benefits such as a Defined Benefit Pension Plan, Health, Dental, Life Insurance, General illness, Short and Long Term Disability, Vacation and Employee and Family Assistance Programs.

Working Conditions

• While there is no shift work associated with this position, there is potential for travel, overtime and disruptions to personal and family life due to position responsibilities, workload, and other unplanned activities
• Deputy Sheriffs may be required to perform highway driving, including during inclement weather
• Most of the work is contained in a courthouse where the climate is managed – some of this work is in a cell block which can be noisy and disruptive.
• Some of this work may require standing for periods of time in a court room
• As court issues can be emotionally charged there is the potential for violence/verbal abuse by aggressive persons
• There is potential for elevated risk when required to service court orders (i.e. evictions, property seizures, etc.)
• May be required to apply force while physically subduing PIC's and/or making arrests where back‑up may not be readily available
• Must use considerable tact, independent judgment and initiatives during frequent exposure to very emotional and/or potentially volatile situations
• Exposure to emotional and sensitive issues which may create a stressful environment that can be emotionally draining
• High demand for accuracy and attention to detail

What We Offer

• A favourable work‑life balance.
• Access to career guidance, tools, resources, and ongoing training.
• An engaging workplace where our employees feel valued and respected.

Pay Grade TE 21 - TE 23 Salary Range $2,310.54 - $2,944.94 Bi-Weekly

Employment Equity Statement

Our goal is to be a diverse workforce that is representative, at all job levels, of the citizens we serve. The Government of Nova Scotia has an Employment Equity Policy, and we welcome applications from Indigenous People, African Nova Scotians and Other Racially Visible Persons, Persons with Disabilities and Women in occupations or positions where they are under‑represented. If you are a member of one of these equity groups, you are encouraged to self‑identify on your electronic application.

Accommodation Statement

We are committed to providing an inclusive and accessible recruitment process. Candidates may request accommodations based on any grounds protected by the Human Rights Act. If you require an accommodation throughout the recruitment process, please contact us at competitions@novascotia.ca.