Section 502 of the County Charter designates all positions as classified unless they are specifically exempted. The positions that are exempted are:
- The County Manager and one principal assistant.
- Department heads.
- Persons employed to render professional, scientific, technical, or expert services on a temporary basis for a specific project.
- Resident physicians employed in clinics, institutions, and hospitals.
- Persons required possessing a license to practice law.
- Two deputy sheriffs in the office of the Sheriff.
- Special officers or investigators in the offices of the Sheriff and the District Attorney.
- One person holding a confidential position to each elected board or commission, including the Board of Supervisors.
- One person holding a confidential position to each elected department head.
- Legislative staff to members of the Board of Supervisors.