If your interest in criminology parallels your enthusiasm for nature and the outdoors, a career as a Fish and Game Warden would suit you well. Fish and Game Wardens police state and national parks, enforcing outdoor recreation and hunting regulations. They balance the needs of the visiting public with the safety and integrity of the area’s ecosystem and wildlife. Wardens patrol their jurisdiction daily aid visitors, intercept poachers, confiscate unauthorized weapons and seize captured wildlife. They are also active in educating the public about the land and its preservation. If you enjoy nature and people, are willing to seek higher education and can maintain a high fitness level, then pursuing the steps to become a Fish and Game Warden may be for you.
Before signing up for criminology classes, do your homework. Each state has different requirements for education, age and fitness levels. All states will do a mental and physical examination as well as an extensive criminal and background check. Research your state’s requirements and testing deadlines.
If you are still in high school, focus on upper-level science and communication classes. These will prepare you for the science track you will need in college to be a contender in the competitive Game Warden job market. They will also prepare you for working with the public on the job.
Most states require applicants to hold a four-year degree or its equivalent in the form of an associate’s degree and at least two years of related work experience. Most applicants will have earned a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. To be competitive, major in wildlife and fisheries management, environmental science, biology, criminal justice or a similar course of study. If you wish to pursue an associate’s degree first and apply those credits toward a bachelor’s degree, ensure the credits are transferable.
To truly compete and to be considered for advancement to higher pay, rank or position, obtain a Bachelor or Master of Science. The turnover rate in the game warden field is low, while the number of applicants annually surpasses openings. Seeking a high education and excelling in your studies will get you noticed.
Step out of your education comfort zone and expand your studies. Learn all you can about outdoor recreation, hiking, hunting, camping, wildlife, as well as law enforcement. Whenever possible, seek hands-on experience through college internships, apprenticeships, volunteer work, entry-level positions or simply heading out into nature. Contact your local wildlife preservation agencies or criminal justice school for opportunities.
Contact your state’s Department of Human Resources for information on where to submit your Fish and Game Warden application. There are numerous departments on the state level that employ qualified candidates for related positions, so keep an open mind. On the federal level, send your application to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Also submit applications to the National Park Service, Bureau of Land Management, National Forest Service, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Bureau of Reclamation, and Department of Health for Game Warden and other positions.
While waiting for a position to open up, update your application and resume as needed and keep it on file with each department. Keep fit and stay informed on the latest in your field of interest. While applications are accepted frequently, testing may occur only ever other year. Be sure to complete all testing requirements. Once accepted, congratulations! Now work hard in the training program and probationary year. Remember, the field is competitive, and there are any number of applicants coveting your position. Continual fitness exams and performance evaluations will let your employers know that you are the right person for the Fish and Game Warden career.
Below is a interesting and informative video from the State of California that gives a great overview of what a Fish and Game Warden actually does.
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