The Kern County Sheriff’s Office (KCSO) Regional Training Center (RTC), located at 962 Norris Road, serves as the primary hub for training across the entire department. The RTC hosts the Basic POST Academy for newly hired deputy sheriffs and the Standards and Training for Corrections (STC) Academy for newly hired detention deputies. In addition, the RTC provides training opportunities for allied agencies throughout California.

As Kern County’s only regional training facility, RTC staff conduct training for the POST and STC academies, Park Rangers, Community Service Technicians, PC 832 courses, EMT-B and numerous in-service programs. The center also supports a wide variety of specialized courses attended by both KCSO personnel and partner agencies. Our instructors bring expertise across many subject areas and are supported by professionals from allied organizations.

The KCSO Hart Park Range conducts quarterly firearms training for all sworn personnel, as well as entry level firearms instruction for both POST and STC academy recruits. The Range staff is highly trained and offers a comprehensive variety of courses, including perishable skills training, chemical agent instruction, and specialized firearms programs designed to maintain and enhance department proficiency.

The RTC also hosts multiple recruitment events each year, including academy testing for prospective recruits. Additionally, our staff coordinates the KCSO Community Academy, offering community members an inside look at daily Sheriff’s Office operations through evening classes and demonstrations.

KCSO partners closely with Cerro Coso College and Bakersfield College. Cerro Coso College will soon host a Reserve Level I Academy at the RTC, further expanding training opportunities. Our staff remains committed to delivering professional, high quality training services to meet the needs of our department and community.

For more information on the hiring process or to apply for sworn and non sworn positions, click the link below.