N.J. Stat. § 40A:9-117.8
Every duly appointed employee holding permanent civil service status in a title the functions of which encompass the performance of duties set forth in section 1 of this act, may apply to the sheriff for appointment as a sheriff's officer within 30 days after the effective date of this act, and shall be so appointed to the corresponding level sheriff's officer title and be granted permanent civil service status upon meeting the training qualifications for the position of sheriff's officer. Training may be waived at the discretion of the sheriff, if the applicant has graduated from a police training school or has 10 or more years in the position held by the employee immediately prior to appointment as a sheriff's officer.
If no application is made, the employee's title shall remain in effect, together with all duties, benefits, privileges and powers pertaining thereto. If application is made and the applicant shall fail to meet the qualifications for sheriff's officer within a reasonable period as the Civil Service Commission shall prescribe, the employee's title shall remain in effect as if no application had been made.
N.J.S. § 40A:9-117.8