Becoming a fish and game warden in california

The U. Many individuals with aspirations of becoming a game warden choose to complete a degree program related to:. For example, individuals who pursue a Bachelor of Science in Fisheries and Wildlife Sciences must complete extensive coursework in math, physical sciences, fisheries and wildlife, and biology.

Alternately, a Bachelor of Science in Wildlife Ecology and Conservation often provides a multidisciplinary foundation in wildlife ecology and conservation biology, along with a solid framework in the sciences biology and chemistry.

Other coursework focuses on critical issues in the conservation of wildlife, biological resources, and the management and restoration of wildlife. Meeting minimum requirements for employment and completing the pre-employment process is only the first step to becoming a fish and game warden. Training is an equally crucial step since it is key to preparing all new game wardens for the demands of the job, regardless of the department through which they are hired.

Federal game warden trainees must complete 20 weeks of basic training at the Federal Law Enforcement Agency in Glynco, Georgia. This program includes study and training in both criminal investigations and wildlife law enforcement, such as firearms training, crime scene identification, and electronic surveillance. Following the successful completion of basic training, all new federal game wardens must then complete 44 weeks of field training at their assigned duty station.

Decoy Op. More info. In the News California Game Wardens fill a vital role throughout the state. Military Service: If formerly a member of the military, a discharge "Under Honorable Conditions" is required. Work Eligibility: New employees must present original documents that establish identity and eligibility for U. Background and Legal History : Applicants must pass an intensive background check in order to continue the application process.

Disqualifying elements include:. Academic Credentials: High school diploma or its equivalent, or California High School Proficiency Examination; equivalent to completion of two years of college with 18 semester units in the biological sciences, police science or law enforcement, natural resources conservation, ecology or related fields.

Students with equivalent credentials may submit them to the agency for review. Related college courses are defined broadly as any that major in animal sciences, hard sciences excluding math, criminal sciences, and psychology. Training includes:. Interview: Candidates will have an individual panel interview during the later stages of the application process.

Hearing: The applicant must have hearing adequate to perform all the essential duties and functions of a Warden, including long distance, directional and voice conversation hearing. Normal color vision with no other conditions is required for the role. Candidates who have undergone corrective eye surgery to meet minimum visual standards may be required to submit additional information.

Psychological Condition: The applicant must be in suitable psychological and emotional health to complete training and be eligible for hire:. After the initial training period, their base salaries increase incrementally across successive ranges:. How to Become a Game Warden in California. Only surgeries considered permanent will be reviewed, and depending on the type of surgery, applicants may be monitored for as long as a year before stability can be determined.

Sound physical condition, ability to swim, and hearing adequate to perform all the essential duties and functions of a Warden. High school diploma, GED, or California High School Proficiency Examination; Equivalent to completion of two years 60 semester units of college with 18 semester units in the biological sciences, police science or law enforcement, natural resources conservation, ecology or related fields.

Students who have 30 semester units of college, and have 18 semester units completed in the required or related fields, will be admitted to the examination, but must produce evidence of completion of 60 semester units before they can be considered eligible for appointment.

You will be tested by urinalysis for the illegal use of drugs prior to employment. All positive test results are grounds for disqualification.