COLUMBUS, OH - The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Wildlife will begin accepting applications on April 1 for its next wildlife officer training school. Applications will be accepted through April 19 for at least 12 new wildlife officer positions.
Wildlife officer duties include: enforcing fish and game laws, serving warrants, and conducting pollution investigations. They also conduct educational programs, advise landowners on dealing with wildlife and keep local conservation clubs updated on wildlife projects and regulations. Wildlife officers have statewide jurisdiction and often work alone.
Wildlife officers face a challenging job, and one that offers a tremendous variety of duties. An abiding love of the outdoors is the driving force for our officers , said Patricia Mayes, personnel administrator for ODNRs Division of Wildlife.
To be considered for the wildlife officer training school, applicants must have at least a two-year college degree in fish and wildlife management, criminal justice, environmental law enforcement, or a related field of study. Applicants must be at least 21 years of age, have a valid drivers license, be able to swim 100 yards in five minutes and tread water for five minutes.
After the applications are received, candidates who meet the minimum qualifications will be invited to take a civil service examination to be offered June 1 in Columbus. The top scoring candidates will then go through interviews and pre-employment evaluations. Those who are selected as cadets will attend the wildlife officer academy lasting about six months. During the school, cadets will not only attend peace officer training, but will study wildlife law enforcement, fish and wildlife management techniques and information and education skills.
Wildlife officers can be assigned to any county in the state.
To receive an application package for the wildlife officer positions, call 1-800-WILDLIFE or visit ODNRs web site at Ohiodnr.com
For Further Information, Contact:
Patricia Mayes or Vicki Mountz, ODNR Division of Wildlife
(614) 265-6300
-or-
Andy Ware, ODNR Media Relations
(614) 265-6882