The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission (AGFC) is accepting applications for its next class of game warden cadets. Applications will be accepted through Oct. 30, with plans to fill 15 vacancies across the state.
Game wardens, also known as wildlife officers, enforce hunting and fishing regulations and play a key role in public safety. They respond to natural disasters, assist in search and rescue missions, and participate in high-profile law enforcement operations, such as manhunts and drug enforcement. Wardens must be ready to act quickly in emergencies, including water rescues, and often spend long hours on weekends and late nights combating poaching.
Applicants must be U.S. citizens at least 21 years old, with a high school diploma or equivalent, a valid drivers license, and a clean driving record. They must be able to swim, pass physical, psychological, vision, and hearing exams, and undergo a comprehensive background check.
Competition for these positions is strong, with candidates from various professional backgrounds. State troopers, former sheriffs, military police, firefighters, EMTs, and wildlife biologists frequently apply, as their skills are valuable in the diverse situations game wardens encounter.
Selected cadets will undergo 33 weeks of training, including 18 weeks at the AGFCs H.C. Red Morris Enforcement Training Center in Mayflower. Training covers self-defense, physical fitness, wildlife forensics, law enforcement, and state laws. After graduating, cadets will complete 15 weeks of field training with a supervising officer at their assigned duty station.
Major Brian Aston at the AGFC’s Little Rock Headquarters says “We try to make some accommodations toward a new game warden’s desired duty station, but we have to fill vacancies in certain counties, so your assigned station ultimately is determined by the needs of the public and the agency. Relocation may be possible once vacancies open in other areas of the state, but many game wardens become a part of their community and choose to stay once they’ve worked there a few years.”
For a list of requirements, preferred skills and abilities and an application form, visit https://jobs.agfc.com. For more information on becoming a game warden, visit https://www.agfc.com/en/enforcement/becoming-game-warden.
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