Wildlife Manager Trainee - Game Warden

Wildlife Manager Trainee - Game Warden

The Arizona Game and Fish Department is an Equal Employment Opportunity agency. The Wildlife Manager (Game Warden) is a field‑oriented commissioned peace officer responsible for conserving and protecting wildlife resources throughout Arizona. The position combines law enforcement and biological responsibilities and requires a Bachelor’s degree in wildlife science or a closely related field from an accredited college or university.

Wildlife Managers are tasked with enforcing state and federal wildlife laws while conducting wildlife and fish research, habitat management, and public education. They must obtain and maintain Arizona Peace Officer Standards and Training (AZPOST) certification and complete post‑academy training.

• Conduct patrols to ensure compliance with A.R.S. Title 17, Title 5, Title 28, Title 13, Arizona Game and Fish Commission Rules and Orders, and other relevant laws.
• Investigate wildlife, watercraft, and OHV violations, secure evidence, and file reports.
• Maintain public safety and complete all requirements to obtain and maintain AZPOST peace officer certification.
• Assist in the preparation and execution of legal actions arising from wildlife-related offenses.

• Initiate and conduct wildlife surveys; analyze survey and harvest data.
• Formulate district wildlife harvest objectives and research projects.
• Develop and recommend water and habitat projects, proposals, and budget requests.
• Monitor the status of threatened and endangered species and coordinate with other resource management agencies.
• Resolve human/wildlife conflicts, address depredation complaints, and implement habitat improvement projects.
• Conduct fish surveys, aquatic ecosystem analyses, and fish stocking program support.

• Serve as a contact/spokesperson and liaison to nongovernmental organizations and community groups.
• Organize and supervise volunteer efforts, outreach programs, and educational events such as fishing clinics and hunter education.
• Prepare and submit Department reports and memos promptly.
• Maintain Department equipment and records.

Position requires a bachelor’s degree (or higher) in wildlife science or a closely related field. Candidates should possess a working knowledge of wildlife management principles and a basic understanding of Arizona’s wildlife laws and regulations.

• Strong interpersonal skills and knowledge of Arizona’s diverse wildlife and habitat.
• Experience or participation in fishing, hunting, camping, and wilderness survival activities.
• Ability to fly small aircraft and helicopters.
• Experience in wildlife science or related field (including volunteer or internship positions) is a plus.

Applicants must attach the following: (1) Cover letter outlining interest in becoming a certified police officer and experience in hunting, fishing, off‑highway vehicles, and boating; (2) Resume and unofficial transcript. Selected candidates will be contacted for further steps only.

The hiring process includes a background investigation, polygraph, psychological assessment, medical and physical condition assessment. Employment is contingent upon completion of a post‑offer medical/physical examination and the agency’s ability to accommodate any restrictions.

Applicants must hold a current, valid state‑issued driver’s license and be able to maintain a home office for Department activities. All new hires are subject to E‑Verify employment eligibility verification.

• Sick leave
• Vacation with 10 paid holidays per year
• Paid parental leave – up to 12 weeks per year for newborn or newly‑placed foster/adopted child (pilot program)
• Health and dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Life insurance and long‑term disability insurance
• Optional employee benefits: short‑term disability, deferred compensation, supplemental life insurance

For questions, contact Milani Barron  State of Arizona is an Equal Opportunity/Reasonable Accommodation Employer.