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.