Patrol assigned area to prevent fish and game law violations. Investigate reports of damage to crops or property by wildlife. Compile biological data.
SOC: 33-3031.00
Common Job Titles
Game Warden
Natural Resource Officer
State Game Warden
Wildlife Officer
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generated
Key competencies for this occupation at a glance
KnowledgeEvaluate wildlife law compliance and violations in assigned patrol areas, applying federal and state regulatory frameworks independently.
Proficient
KnowledgeAnalyze reports of wildlife damage to crops and property, integrating biological, geographic, and situational data to determine response strategies.
Proficient
Hands-onOperate specialized patrol vehicles and watercraft in diverse terrain and weather conditions, including ATVs, patrol boats, snowmobiles, and airboats.
Proficient
MindsetBalance public safety priorities with wildlife conservation principles when resolving conflicts between community members and regulatory enforcement.
Proficient
KnowledgeAssess situational threats and public safety risks during field encounters, determining appropriate law enforcement response and de-escalation strategies.
Proficient
Hands-onPerform biological data collection and field sampling procedures using DNA collection kits, necropsy equipment, and field documentation tools under variable environmental conditions.
Developing
MindsetEngage with diverse stakeholders including hunters, landowners, and recreational users to educate on wildlife regulations and foster cooperative compliance.
Developing
KnowledgePrepare incident reports and legal documentation ensuring accurate recording of violations, evidence collection, and chain of custody for prosecution.
Developing
Hands-onHandle law enforcement equipment and wildlife management tools including firearms, animal traps, GPS receivers, and surveillance technology following safety protocols.
Developing
KnowledgeInterpret biological and ecological indicators in field environments to assess wildlife population health, habitat conditions, and human impact patterns.
Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Fish and Game Wardens (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
6,420
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $35,670. 25th percentile: U.S. $53,260. 50th percentile: U.S. $68,180. 75th percentile: U.S. $82,100. 90th percentile: U.S. $94,470. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
U.S.
Metric
U.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less
$35,670
10% of workers earn the following or more
$94,470
Workers on average earn
$67,990
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
Law and Government4.6/5
Public Safety and Security4.5/5
English Language4.1/5
Biology4.1/5
Customer and Personal Service4.1/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
