How to Become a Fishery & Wildlife Officer in Alberta

As an officer of the Fish and Wildlife Division in Alberta, Canada, you're responsible for taking care of the natural resources in the area through preservation and protection efforts. You interact with the public on a daily basis and ensure that the needs of the Division are protected. If you like working outdoors and being in nature, this might be the job for you.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Step 1

Attend an accredited four-year college and finish a degree in conservation law enforcement. The Fish and Wildlife Division also accepts applicants with a resource management degree or those with a four-year degree in another field and experience working in conservation law enforcement.

Step 2

Ensure that you meet the requirements needed of all officers. You'll need to pass a criminal background check and have the ability to be appointed a Special Constable. The Division also requires that all applicants have a Class 5 operator's license that is current and up to date.

Step 3

Take part in the behavioral event interview after submitting your application. This interview is only given to those who meet the requirements. Recruiters speak with you and assess your skill level as it relates to working outside, as well as your physical fitness levels.

Step 4

Take the written exam, which covers questions relating to the position. Many of the questions are technical in nature and focus on the skills needed to work in the field and questions about the proper way to act. Following this you'll need to pass the background check and reference check, as well as a physical.

Step 5

Complete 20 weeks of training during your first year on the job. This first year is viewed as the probationary period and there's no guarantee you'll be hired once it's complete. Only those who pass the training and finish the first year without any problems will be hired full-time.

Tips & Warnings

If you aren't physically ready for the position, spend a year working on increasing your strength and skills before applying. Failing the physical fitness portion won't look good if you reapply.

Remember that the position requires a lot of work outside around dangerous animals and in dangerous situations. Don't apply for the position if you don't think you can handle it.

Article Written By Jennifer Eblin

Jennifer Eblin has been a full-time freelance writer since 2006. Her work has appeared on several websites, including Tool Box Tales and Zonder. Eblin received a master's degree in historic preservation from the Savannah College of Art and Design.

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