Fish and game wardens or conservation officers are peace officers who are commissioned in the state in which they perform their job duties. They ensure that applicable Fish and Wildlife Codes are obeyed and enforce state fishing, boating, and hunting laws and any federal laws that pertain to these activities. Fish and game wardens who gain experience and engage in continuing education may find advancement opportunities as a Field Training Officer (FTO) or in administration. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the states with the most jobs for fish and game wardens are Texas, New York, Georgia, California, and North Carolina. Metropolitan areas that lead the list with the most employment opportunities include Virginia Beach, Virginia; Atlanta, Georgia; and Baltimore, Maryland.
Career Description, Duties, and Common Tasks
Fish and game wardens protect the nation's wildlife from such illegal activity as poaching and trapping and assist visitors at federal, state, and local parks. These highly trained officers keep a close watch on fish and wildlife, looking for changes, such as pollution, to their environment. Fish and game wardens investigate criminal behavior related to fish and wildlife, write reports, make arrests, gather evidence, interview suspects and witnesses, and may be called to testify in court. They also assist other law enforcement groups when wildlife – such as cougars, bears, or coyotes – wander into residential areas. Fish and game wardens may also help during search and rescue operations.
Fish and game wardens in Ohio perform a critical role in enforcing laws related to hunting and fishing. In addition, these certified law enforcement officers work closely with biologists to help manage the populations of fish and wildlife. They also educate the public and keep them informed of current wildlife. Ohio Game Warden Salary. Game wardens in Ohio take home a great salary while pursuing a fulfilling career protecting fish and game of his or her state. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average game warden in the state of Ohio makes a median salary of $55,390 per year. Contact Info. How do fish and game warden salaries compare to similar careers? Fish and game wardens earn about the same as related careers in Ohio. On average, they make less than detectives but more than sheriffs. Officer Summit discovers a subject has warrants out for his arrest. Unfortunately, the subject isn't going to go down without a fight. Subscribe to Animal Pl.
Steps for Becoming a Fish and Game Warden
The minimum age requirement for fish and game wardens is either 18 or 21 years, depending on the state. Successful candidates must have a bachelor's degree, but some states will waive this education requirement if the applicant has a two year associate's degree in addition to law enforcement experience or full-time fish and/or wildlife experience. As there are usually more applicants for fish and game warden positions than there are job openings, a four-year degree can give an applicant an edge over other applicants. Once an individual is selected to become a fish and game warden, he or she undergoes further study at a training academy for approximately three to 12 months. Contact your state's Department of Fish and Game for information on local requirements and opportunities. If you would like to become a fish and game warden, you should expect steps similar to the following:
- Acquire the education and/or experience necessary for the position in which you are interested.
- Find and apply for an open fish and game warden position.
- Submit to a background check and fingerprinting.
- Pass a polygraph examination.
- Be drug tested.
- Be interviewed for the position.
- Get hired as a fish and game warden.
- Receive training on the job once hired.
Fish and Game Warden Job Training
Once an individual is selected to become a fish and game warden, he or she undergoes further study at a training academy for approximately three to 12 months. Individuals who earn a position as a fish and game warden with the federal government must complete a 20-week training program at the Federal Law Enforcement Agency in Glynco, Georgia; trainees spend the final two weeks in West Virginia. Training covers both wildlife law enforcement and criminal investigations, including such subjects as identification of wildlife and the proper use of firearms. Following successful completion of the training academy, fish and game wardens must shadow Field Training Officers (FTO) for 10 weeks to gain hands-on experience under the watchful eye of a seasoned fish and game warden before moving to their assigned location.
Other Helpful Skills and Experience
Fish and game wardens must be in good physical shape, must familiarize themselves with the outdoors and the laws contained in the Fish and Wildlife Code, and must study law enforcement policy and procedures. Previous experience working with wildlife, either in a paid or volunteer position, may enhance employment opportunities. Knowing how to drive a boat, a small airplane, or a tractor and understanding how to make basic repairs to motor vehicles are also beneficial.
Possible Job Titles for This Career
- Conservation Officer
- Refuge Officer
- Wildlife Control Agent
- Wildlife Enforcement Officer
- Wildlife Officer
Fish and Game Warden Salary and Job Outlook
The BLS reports that fish and game wardens earned an average annual salary of $57,710 as of 2018.1 The top 10% earned an average annual salary of $80,140.1 There were approximately 6,040 fish and game wardens working in the US in 2018, with the majority (5,260) employed in state government.1
Related Careers
Interested in other law enforcement careers?
Frequently Asked Questions
Question: What is the work atmosphere like for fish and game wardens?
Answer: Fish and game wardens must have an affinity for the outdoors because their “office” is the outdoors, regardless of the season or the weather.
Question: What kind of work schedule do fish and game wardens work?
Answer: Fish and game wardens generally work full time – which may include nights, weekends, and holidays – and should be prepared to work overtime when necessary.
Question: How long does the hiring process generally take?
Answer: After submitting an application, candidates should expect the entire process to take a minimum of a few months.
Question: Are there any risks with the job?
Answer: Yes. Candidates should be prepared for such risks as dealing with dangerous animals, poisonous plants, and hazardous materials.
Question: Are there any continuing requirements for working with the US Fish and Wildlife Service?
Answer: Yes. Fish and game wardens must initially pass a physical examination. A similar evaluation will be administered annually throughout employment. Fish and game wardens must pass the physical exam – which consists of a 1.5 mile-run, push-ups, sit-ups, and agility – to ensure they are still able to effectively do their jobs.
Additional Resources
- Association of Federal Wildlife Officers: A resource for wildlife officers, providing both educational and networking opportunities for those in the industry.
- US Fish and Wildlife Service: The US Fish and Wildlife Service's official website.
References:
1. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wages May 2018, Fish and Game Wardens: https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes333031.htm
1. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wages May 2018, Fish and Game Wardens: https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes333031.htm
33-3031 Fish and Game Wardens
Patrol assigned area to prevent fish and game law violations. Investigate reports of damage to crops or property by wildlife. Compile biological data.
National estimates for this occupationIndustry profile for this occupation
Geographic profile for this occupation
National estimates for this occupation: Top
Employment estimate and mean wage estimates for this occupation:
Employment (1) | Employment RSE (3) | Mean hourly wage | Mean annual wage (2) | Wage RSE (3) |
---|---|---|---|---|
6,040 | 2.7 % | $28.49 | $59,260 | 0.8 % |
Percentile wage estimates for this occupation:
Percentile | 10% | 25% | 50% (Median) | 75% | 90% |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Hourly Wage | $19.28 | $22.63 | $27.75 | $33.61 | $38.53 |
Annual Wage (2) | $40,090 | $47,080 | $57,710 | $69,900 | $80,140 |
Industry profile for this occupation: Top
Industries with the highest published employment and wages for this occupation are provided. For a list of all industries with employment in this occupation, see the Create Customized Tables function.
Industries with the highest levels of employment in this occupation:
![Federal fish and game warden Federal fish and game warden](/uploads/1/2/4/8/124869946/951225239.jpg)
Industry | Employment (1) | Percent of industry employment | Hourly mean wage | Annual mean wage (2) |
---|---|---|---|---|
State Government, excluding schools and hospitals (OES Designation) | 5,260 | 0.24 | $29.14 | $60,620 |
Local Government, excluding schools and hospitals (OES Designation) | 780 | 0.01 | $24.09 | $50,120 |
Industries with the highest concentration of employment in this occupation:
Industry | Employment (1) | Percent of industry employment | Hourly mean wage | Annual mean wage (2) |
---|---|---|---|---|
State Government, excluding schools and hospitals (OES Designation) | 5,260 | 0.24 | $29.14 | $60,620 |
Local Government, excluding schools and hospitals (OES Designation) | 780 | 0.01 | $24.09 | $50,120 |
Top paying industries for this occupation:
Industry | Employment (1) | Percent of industry employment | Hourly mean wage | Annual mean wage (2) |
---|---|---|---|---|
State Government, excluding schools and hospitals (OES Designation) | 5,260 | 0.24 | $29.14 | $60,620 |
Local Government, excluding schools and hospitals (OES Designation) | 780 | 0.01 | $24.09 | $50,120 |
Geographic profile for this occupation: Top
States and areas with the highest published employment, location quotients, and wages for this occupation are provided. For a list of all areas with employment in this occupation, see the Create Customized Tables function.
States with the highest employment level in this occupation:
State | Employment (1) | Employment per thousand jobs | Location quotient (9) | Hourly mean wage | Annual mean wage (2) |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Texas | 460 | 0.04 | 0.91 | $31.79 | $66,130 |
New York | 400 | 0.04 | 1.01 | $32.69 | $68,000 |
North Carolina | 370 | 0.08 | 2.00 | $19.76 | $41,110 |
California | 350 | 0.02 | 0.49 | $36.65 | $76,240 |
Wisconsin | 340 | 0.12 | 2.86 | $23.76 | $49,420 |
States with the highest concentration of jobs and location quotients in this occupation:
State | Employment (1) | Employment per thousand jobs | Location quotient (9) | Hourly mean wage | Annual mean wage (2) |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Wyoming | 80 | 0.31 | 7.48 | $27.82 | $57,870 |
South Dakota | 110 | 0.26 | 6.12 | $21.40 | $44,510 |
Montana | 100 | 0.22 | 5.18 | $24.43 | $50,820 |
Maine | 130 | 0.21 | 5.15 | $28.27 | $58,800 |
North Dakota | 70 | 0.18 | 4.23 | $27.98 | $58,200 |
Top paying States for this occupation:
State | Employment (1) | Employment per thousand jobs | Location quotient (9) | Hourly mean wage | Annual mean wage (2) |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Illinois | 110 | 0.02 | 0.43 | $42.45 | $88,300 |
Iowa | 130 | 0.08 | 2.03 | $39.68 | $82,520 |
Rhode Island | 30 | 0.06 | 1.54 | $37.36 | $77,710 |
California | 350 | 0.02 | 0.49 | $36.65 | $76,240 |
Washington | 100 | 0.03 | 0.75 | $35.58 | $74,010 |
Metropolitan areas with the highest employment level in this occupation:
Metropolitan area | Employment (1) | Employment per thousand jobs | Location quotient (9) | Hourly mean wage | Annual mean wage (2) |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
New York-Newark-Jersey City, NY-NJ-PA | 90 | 0.01 | 0.22 | $31.65 | $65,840 |
Virginia Beach-Norfolk-Newport News, VA-NC | 80 | 0.11 | 2.64 | $22.14 | $46,040 |
Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Roswell, GA | 40 | 0.02 | 0.38 | $30.74 | $63,940 |
Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington, PA-NJ-DE-MD | 40 | 0.01 | 0.34 | $27.68 | $57,570 |
Providence-Warwick, RI-MA | 40 | 0.06 | 1.46 | $35.27 | $73,350 |
Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar Land, TX | 30 | 0.01 | 0.27 | $33.37 | $69,410 |
San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA | 30 | 0.01 | 0.32 | $36.45 | $75,820 |
Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim, CA | 30 | 0.01 | 0.12 | $37.69 | $78,390 |
Metropolitan areas with the highest concentration of jobs and location quotients in this occupation:
Metropolitan area | Employment (1) | Employment per thousand jobs | Location quotient (9) | Hourly mean wage | Annual mean wage (2) |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Virginia Beach-Norfolk-Newport News, VA-NC | 80 | 0.11 | 2.64 | $22.14 | $46,040 |
Providence-Warwick, RI-MA | 40 | 0.06 | 1.46 | $35.27 | $73,350 |
Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Roswell, GA | 40 | 0.02 | 0.38 | $30.74 | $63,940 |
San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA | 30 | 0.01 | 0.32 | $36.45 | $75,820 |
Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington, PA-NJ-DE-MD | 40 | 0.01 | 0.34 | $27.68 | $57,570 |
New York-Newark-Jersey City, NY-NJ-PA | 90 | 0.01 | 0.22 | $31.65 | $65,840 |
Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim, CA | 30 | 0.01 | 0.12 | $37.69 | $78,390 |
Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar Land, TX | 30 | 0.01 | 0.27 | $33.37 | $69,410 |
Top paying metropolitan areas for this occupation:
Metropolitan area | Employment (1) | Employment per thousand jobs | Location quotient (9) | Hourly mean wage | Annual mean wage (2) |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim, CA | 30 | 0.01 | 0.12 | $37.69 | $78,390 |
San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA | 30 | 0.01 | 0.32 | $36.45 | $75,820 |
Providence-Warwick, RI-MA | 40 | 0.06 | 1.46 | $35.27 | $73,350 |
Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar Land, TX | 30 | 0.01 | 0.27 | $33.37 | $69,410 |
New York-Newark-Jersey City, NY-NJ-PA | 90 | 0.01 | 0.22 | $31.65 | $65,840 |
Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Roswell, GA | 40 | 0.02 | 0.38 | $30.74 | $63,940 |
Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington, PA-NJ-DE-MD | 40 | 0.01 | 0.34 | $27.68 | $57,570 |
Virginia Beach-Norfolk-Newport News, VA-NC | 80 | 0.11 | 2.64 | $22.14 | $46,040 |
Nonmetropolitan areas with the highest employment in this occupation:
Nonmetropolitan area | Employment (1) | Employment per thousand jobs | Location quotient (9) | Hourly mean wage | Annual mean wage (2) |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Capital/Northern New York nonmetropolitan area | 80 | 0.57 | 13.60 | $33.80 | $70,300 |
Southwest Maine nonmetropolitan area | 70 | 0.38 | 9.08 | $28.82 | $59,950 |
Western Wyoming nonmetropolitan area | 50 | 0.52 | 12.37 | $27.06 | $56,280 |
Coastal Plains Region of Texas nonmetropolitan area | 50 | 0.35 | 8.38 | $30.52 | $63,470 |
West South Dakota nonmetropolitan area | 50 | 0.84 | 20.13 | $19.45 | $40,450 |
Nonmetropolitan areas with the highest concentration of jobs and location quotients in this occupation:
Nonmetropolitan area | Employment (1) | Employment per thousand jobs | Location quotient (9) | Hourly mean wage | Annual mean wage (2) |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
West South Dakota nonmetropolitan area | 50 | 0.84 | 20.13 | $19.45 | $40,450 |
East-Central Montana nonmetropolitan area | 40 | 0.58 | 13.88 | $23.48 | $48,830 |
Capital/Northern New York nonmetropolitan area | 80 | 0.57 | 13.60 | $33.80 | $70,300 |
Western Wyoming nonmetropolitan area | 50 | 0.52 | 12.37 | $27.06 | $56,280 |
Southwest Maine nonmetropolitan area | 70 | 0.38 | 9.08 | $28.82 | $59,950 |
Top paying nonmetropolitan areas for this occupation:
Nonmetropolitan area | Employment (1) | Employment per thousand jobs | Location quotient (9) | Hourly mean wage | Annual mean wage (2) |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Capital/Northern New York nonmetropolitan area | 80 | 0.57 | 13.60 | $33.80 | $70,300 |
Hill Country Region of Texas nonmetropolitan area | 50 | 0.24 | 5.65 | $33.37 | $69,410 |
North Texas Region of Texas nonmetropolitan area | 40 | 0.15 | 3.61 | $33.01 | $68,660 |
North Coast Region of California nonmetropolitan area | 30 | 0.31 | 7.52 | $31.94 | $66,430 |
Coastal Plains Region of Texas nonmetropolitan area | 50 | 0.35 | 8.38 | $30.52 | $63,470 |
Ohio Fish And Game Magazine
These estimates are calculated with data collected from employers in all industry sectors, all metropolitan and nonmetropolitan areas, and all states and the District of Columbia. The top employment and wage figures are provided above. The complete list is available in the downloadable XLS files.
Michigan Sportsman
The percentile wage estimate is the value of a wage below which a certain percent of workers fall. The median wage is the 50th percentile wage estimate--50 percent of workers earn less than the median and 50 percent of workers earn more than the median. More about percentile wages.
(1) Estimates for detailed occupations do not sum to the totals because the totals include occupations not shown separately. Estimates do not include self-employed workers.
(2) Annual wages have been calculated by multiplying the hourly mean wage by a 'year-round, full-time' hours figure of 2,080 hours; for those occupations where there is not an hourly wage published, the annual wage has been directly calculated from the reported survey data.
(3) The relative standard error (RSE) is a measure of the reliability of a survey statistic. The smaller the relative standard error, the more precise the estimate.
Florida Fish And Game Warden Requirements
(9) The location quotient is the ratio of the area concentration of occupational employment to the national average concentration. A location quotient greater than one indicates the occupation has a higher share of employment than average, and a location quotient less than one indicates the occupation is less prevalent in the area than average.
Other OES estimates and related information:
Last Modified Date: April 3, 2019