N.J. Stat. § 30:8-17.1
Except as otherwise provided in R.S. 30:8-15, in any county where the sheriff assumes the custody, keeping and charge of the county jail or jails and all prisoners therein, as provided by R.S. 30:8-17, the sheriff may appoint some fit person to be the keeper or warden of the jail or jails of the county, who shall serve at the pleasure of the sheriff, shall hold his office for the term of one year and until his successor is appointed and qualified in his place and may be reappointed to subsequent one-year terms.
To be considered for appointment as keeper or warden an applicant shall have at least three years of supervisory experience in the field of corrections and shall possess those qualities necessary for the effective and efficient administration of a penal institution.
The position of keeper or warden established pursuant to this act is placed in the unclassified service of the civil service.
This act shall not affect the term of office or employment of any person who, as of the effective date of this act, holds a position as keeper or warden.
N.J.S. § 30:8-17.1