Pre-Employment Testing
Testing Requirements by Position
| Position | Required Test | Minimum Passing Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Communications Operator | CritiCall (Administered by WCSO) |
Passing |
| Community Service Officer | Data Entry Testing (Administered by WCSO) | Passing |
| Corrections Officer | Empco Corrections | 70% |
| Corrections Officer | LCOPAT | Passing |
| Court Services Liaison | Data Entry Testing (Administered by WCSO) | Passing |
| Deputy Sheriff | MCOLES Certification Requirements | Certified / Certifiable |
| Drug Testing Agent | Data Entry Testing (Administered by WCSO) | Passing |
| Marine Safety Officer | Swim Evaluation (Administered by WCSO) | Passing |
Additional Information by Test
CritiCall (Communications Operator)
The CritiCall testing software was developed for and primarily used for the hiring of Dispatchers and Call Takers in the public safety field. While there are over 20 different tests available within the CritiCall software for an agency to test their applicants, each agency selects the modules that best fit their needs. Since there are so many possible combinations, even if you've completed a CritiCall test for another agency, it is likely different from the test you'll take with the Washtenaw County Sheriff's Office. Additional information and helpful preparation tips regarding CritiCall testing can be found on CritiCall's website.
Note: Applicants are limited to three (3) attempts to pass CritiCall before they are ineligible to continue. After three (3) unsuccessful attempts at passing CritiCall, they can reapply for the Communications Operator position after one (1) year from the date of their initial application.
Empco Testing (Corrections Officer)
Corrections: Effective March 1, 2013, the Michigan Sheriffs' Coordinating and Training Council (MSCTC) made this test a mandatory requirement for all Local Corrections Officer applicants. For additional information, test schedules, and to register for an upcoming test, please visit the Empco website.
Deputy Sheriff / Law Enforcement: As of October 2019, the Empco test is not required for Deputy Sheriff applicants who are MCOLES Certified or Certifiable, or who are currently enrolled in a police academy in Michigan.
Local Corrections Officer Physical Ability Test (LCOPAT) (Corrections Officer)
Effective March 1, 2014, the MSCTC implemented the LCOPAT as a mandated pre-employment testing requirement that was designed to simulate the physical aspects of the profession and allow applicants to demonstrate those physical requirements. Test scores are valid for one (1) year from successful completion of the test. Additional information, requirements, and scheduling information can be found on the Michigan Sheriffs' Coordinating and Training Council site.
Swim Evaluation (Marine Safety Officer)
This swim evaluation is conducted by the Sheriff's Office annually as part of the hiring process for the Marine Safety Officer position. The testing will include surface swim, water tread, water float, and swimmer assist exercises. The MSO position is typically posted towards the end of December to begin accepting applications for the following season. Applicants will receive additional information and instructions after submitting an application.