How to Become a Wildlife Officer in North Carolina

North Carolina has extensive wildlife areas.

North Carolina wildlife officers are responsible for protecting the state's wildlife by enforcing hunting, fishing and boating laws throughout the state. It is an excellent job for people who love the outdoors and who want to protect North Carolina's nature. It is, however, a highly competitive process to become a wildlife officer in North Carolina. According to the North Carolina Wildlife Resource Commission, they typically receive 350 to 500 applications each year, from which they select just 12 to 18 recruits. Understanding the application process can make your application easier.

Instructions

1. Review the requirements for becoming a North Carolina wildlife officer. According to the North Carolina Wildlife Resource Commission, wildlife officers must be at least 20 year of age, have a high school diploma or GED, and have never been charged with a felony, or charged with specific misdemeanors within the previous five years. Additionally, applicants must be willing to live anywhere in North Carolina.

2. Contact the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission in June by calling 919-707-0030. Ask whether or not they will be accepting applications during July and August, which are the only months during which applications are accepted.

3. Complete the application form available on the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission's website if they are accepting applications and submit it according to the instructions on the form.

4. Successfully complete the physical abilities test, which evaluates your vision, hearing and other sensory perception abilities, and pass the medical qualifications test.

5. Complete basic training at the North Carolina Justice Academy in Salemburg, North Carolina if you are asked to do so. This training lasts 19 weeks, usually beginning in March, with the graduation being in July.

6. Complete six months of on-the-job training under the supervision of a veteran officer. After completing this training you will receive a permanent assignment.

References

• North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission: How Do I Become A Wildlife Enforcement Officer?
• North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission: Careers in Wildlife Enforcement