Someone who wants to become a wildlife conservation officer usually needs to meet employment standards set by a regulatory agency, and many undergo training as a law enforcement officer. The nature and extent of the training depends on the agency, but typically includes discussions of relevant laws, firearms qualifications, and training on the mission and goals of the agency. After applicants successfully pass training and qualification tests, they can start working in the field. Wildlife conservation officers enforce hunting and fishing codes, educate the public about natural resources, and monitor public safety on lands owned by the government.
Agencies typically require that an applicant to become a wildlife conservation officer has at least a high school diploma. Candidates need to be physically fit, without serious criminal records. It can help to have a two or four year degree in conservation or related topics. People with experience as hunters or fishers may also be favored because they may be familiar with regulations and firearms, but this is not required. Applicants also need to be fluent in the language used by the agency, and must exhibit good communication skills during the interview.
Candidates may go through several interviews, as well as a brief prequalification test, before they will be accepted for training. The test covers some basic topics, including reading comprehension and knowledge of government agencies, and is similar to the civil service examination used for other positions with government agencies. Some applicants to become a wildlife conservation officers attend a law enforcement academy run by the agency after meeting these requirements. At the academy, students receive a variety of instruction to help them enforce the law and work with members of the public.
As peace officers, these government employees need to pass firearms qualifications and receive training in nonlethal restraint, proper format for arrests, and interacting with members of the public who may be armed and belligerent. Like other uniformed government employees, a wildlife conservation officer also represents the government at all times in uniform, and must adhere to basic behavioral and ethical standards. An applicant to become a wildlife conservation officer may need to demonstrate the ability to work well with members of the public and stay calm in heated or dangerous situations.
Once people complete their training, they can be sent out in the field with experienced officers to acquire experience. Over time, they develop the skills and experience necessary to work independently, although it is common to be partnered for safety and efficiency. After someone has become a wildlife conservation officer, it is also usually necessary to keep up with firearms requirements and take periodic continuing education classes to stay current on regulations and policies.
