How to Become a Natural Resources Police in Maryland

Are you seeking information about how to work as a Game Warden in Maryland? If so, you have come to the right place, where we have put together a detailed outline with the information you need for working as a Game Warden in Maryland, or Maryland Wildlife Officer.

Eligibility Requirements for Maryland Game Warden

Age: Requirement of 20.5 years of age or older at the appointment time.

Citizenship: U.S. Citizenship proof or naturalization records are needed. Confirmation of Maryland residency is needed.

Military Service: If applicant is a former member of any division of the USA military, he or she must have Honorable Release paperwork.

Legal History: Applicants must pass a fingerprint background check and polygraph in order to move forward in the application procedure. Nominees should be free from the following:

• Substance or alcohol dependence
• Been convicted of a crime or a felony involving moral laxity
• Convicted of a felony violation
• Convicted of false statement or perjury

Academic Credentials: GED or H.S. Diploma is required; Bachelor’s degree or Associate’s in wildlife management or criminal justice is an advantage.

Added Requirements:

• Written exam
• Fundamental policeman training in defensive tactics, firearms, search and seizure, and arrests

Technique Training for Law Enforcement

Training for Officers with regards to arrests, search and seizures, and firearms.

A specialization-training consisting of the following:

• 4-wheel Operations
• Patrol on ATV
• Waterfowl Identification
• Training on Seizures
• Wildlife, Fish and Waterfowl Forensics
• Survival and Crisis Boat Operations
• Boat Mishap Investigations

Interview: Nominees are going to have a panel interview with human resources staff and enforcement officers.

Medical assessment: The nominee will likely be assessed to ensure that he or she is in good health.

Hearing: The applicant must have “good” hearing.

Vision: Must have 20/20 binocular vision.

Polygraph Test: A trained polygraph operator interviews the candidate regarding their personal history and possible violations.

Physical Preparation Evaluation: The applicant must complete a physical preparation test showing they are in a position to finish operation as shown below:

• 18 push-ups in 1 minute
• 27 sit-ups in 1 minute
• Having the capability to stretch and reach about 1.5″ beyond one’s toes
• Pulling a gun (handgun) trigger 10 times with each hand

Mental Illness: Nominees must have sound mental health appropriate for their occupation.

Desirable Qualifications and Abilities for Maryland Fish and Game Warden

• Display effective utilization of English, including clarity and written mechanics, together with reasoned verbal discussions.
• Display effective utilization of math, including data collection, basic bookkeeping, estimating, and advanced arithmetic.
• Exhibit abilities in additional languages, if possible.
• Knowledge of wildlife management, law enforcement and habitat resources.
• Create and maintain effective interpersonal relationships within department as well as beyond.
• Stay dedicated to professional development.
• Efficiently use snowmobiles, boats, and ATVs for pursuit and patrol.
• Efficiently utilize firearms and train others on safety and firearms.

Salary Information for Game Warden in Maryland, or Maryland Wildlife Officer

Game wardens in Maryland take home a great salary while pursuing a fulfilling career protecting fish and game in the state. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average game warden in the state of Maryland makes a median salary of $74,620 per year.

Contact Info:

Maryland Department of Natural Resources

580 Taylor Ave
Annapolis MD 21401
Phone: (443) 534-2288