Job Duties
Fish and game wardens serve as law enforcement agents for State and Federal fish and wildlife agencies, enforcing laws that are designed to protect and conserve fish and wildlife. They patrol various wilderness areas, they search for individuals who are breaking wildlife laws. When they find such an individual, they may choose to arrest them or give them a lighter penalty such as a warning or a citation. They may also confiscate any fish or game that is related to the law being broken. Fish and game wardens also observe and report on the condition of fish and wildlife within their jurisdiction. They also may supervise the work of other seasonal wildlife workers.
Beyond their typical duties, fish and game wardens may have additional responsibilities such as investigating wildlife crop damage or advising owners of preventative measures they might be able to take. They may investigate commercial fishing operations, issue hunting licenses, teach hunter safety courses, or help with controlled hunt operations. They may supervise or participate in rescuing individuals stranded in wilderness areas. And sometimes they may even give lectures at civic, sporting, and conservation events.
Job Skills
Fish and game wardens should have a strong, assertive, authoritative personality. They should also have a strong interest in law enforcement and experience hunting, fishing, camping, and hiking in wild areas.
Income
Fish and game wardens usually work for government agencies and earn salaries ranging from $2,244 to $3,467 per month. Hours are typically irregular and may include evenings and weekends.
Training and Education
A majority of fish and game wardens work for State Departments of Fish and Game. Qualifying tests for these departments are given once every two years and include sections on law enforcement, conservation, ecology of wildlife, and logical reasoning. A physical examination is usually required, as well as vision and hearing screening. Some fish and game wardens work for the U.S. Department of Fish and Wildlife Service. Applicants for Federal positions must have at least two years of college and a substantial number of credits in police or biological science.
Once a cadet is hired, they attend a fish and game law enforcement training program that is accredited by the Commission on Peace Officer Standards. High school courses that can help build a strong foundation for this career include biology, math, physical education, and team sports. From the Cadet position, fish and game wardens can advance to higher positions such as patrol lieutenant, patrol captain, and patrol inspector. Promotions are based on the results of competitive examinations, experience, and job performance.
Job Outlook
Between 2002 and 2012, employment of fish and game wardens is expected to increase about as fast as the average. While public interest in increased law enforcement in general is expected, budgetary constraints at the State level will result in only modest growth. These are very sought after positions, and competition is expected to remain very high. There will continue to be fewer jobs than there are qualified applicants.
To learn more about becoming a fish and game warden, please visit our section on schools offering Legal Training for more information.
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