Game wardens in Ohio are employees of the Division of Wildlife of the Ohio Department of Natural Resources and are known as wildlife officers. Ohio’s geography is highly diverse and home to a wide range of habitats for an equally diverse range of wildlife, fish, and birds. While many of the residents of Ohio watch and photograph wildlife, about 1.5 million of the state’s citizens hunt and fish.
Ohio’s wildlife officers are fully commissioned law enforcement officers and therefore have statewide jurisdiction when it comes to enforcing conservation laws, firearms regulations, and preventing illegal dumping and littering. These officers manage the activities of hunters, anglers, visitors, and violators throughout Ohio.
In addition, wildlife officers in the state communicate with the public about conservation efforts and educate both youth and adults about preserving Ohio’s natural resources.
The combination of knowledge related to wildlife conservation and good old-fashioned law enforcement practice means these jobs are only open to exceptionally well qualified candidates. That, combined with the low rate of turnover among wildlife officers, makes for a competitive selection process.

Ohio Game Warden Eligibility Requirements
Individuals who are passionate about Ohio’s outdoors and have a desire to become highly trained law enforcement officers are well suited to become wildlife officers in the state. These jobs present an exciting opportunity for individuals who seek a challenge in their professional life.
Officers can make arrests and testify in court, and frequently conduct investigations in concert with other law enforcement agencies. Applicants who feel up to these challenges must be prepared to demonstrate skills and experience that will distinguish them from other candidates.
Basic Qualifications for a Job with the Ohio DNR
Additional information and job postings can be found on the website of the Ohio Department of Natural Resources. Shown below are the minimum qualifications to apply for a position as a wildlife officer in Ohio:
Age: 21 years of age or older at the time of graduation from POST training
Citizenship: Proof of U.S. citizenship or of permanent resident alien status; must be a resident of Ohio at the time of appointment.
License: A valid Ohio-issued driver’s license is required. Individuals must agree to participate in driver safety training through the state as they arise.
Military Service: Applicants who are former members of the United States military require ‘Under Honorable Conditions’ discharge documentation.
Work Eligibility: New employees must present original documents that establish identity and eligibility for U.S. employment opportunities as per federal law – applicants must be eligible to accept employment before the process continues
Background and Legal History: Applicants must pass an intensive background check and urinalysis in order to continue the application process. The state of Ohio reserves the right to use a polygraph ‘lie detector’. Disqualifying elements include:
- Intemperate use of alcohol
- Anti-social behavior
- Poor work record
- Poor driving record
- Numerous debts that are not regularly being paid
- Non-compliance to law(s)
- Violations of any federal or state natural resources rules including, but not limited to parks, fishing, hunting,
- Trapping, or boating violations
- Felony conviction or felony conduct
- Illegal use of drugs or conviction for drug related violations. Illegal drugs include anabolic steroids used after February 27, 1991.
- Currently having six (6) or more active points on driving record
- Lack of truthfulness – falsification of any application or background information
- Acts of violence and or admissions of undetected crimes against person(s) (domestic violence, assault)
Academic Credentials: High school diploma or its equivalent.; minimum of an associate’s degree OR have completed undergraduate studies concentrating on wildlife, fisheries, natural resources management, environmental science, biology, criminal justice, law enforcement or similar fields
Additional Requirements: Proficiency Test for Wildlife Officer Cadets.
Training for Wildlife Officers and Cadets:
Orientation training at the Division of Wildlife Headquarters (1 week)
Pre-Service Academy and Field Training
Basic Peace Officer Training (16 weeks)
Wildlife Officer Pre-Service Training Academy (8-9 weeks)
Field training and evaluation (6 months)
Training sessions include information on the following:
- Criminal, civil, and court proceedings
- Environment specific training
- Traffic and patrol practices
- Firearms training
- Trafficking enforcement
- Additional specific training
Interview: Candidates will have a personal panel interview during the later stages of the application process
Medical Condition: The applicant must be examined by a licensed physician to ensure that they are in good health. Weight shall be in proportion to height in accordance with established recognized standards
Hearing: The applicant must have ‘good’ hearing, unaided.
Vision: Visual acuity not less than 20/40 in each eye without correction and corrected to 20/20 in each eye. Candidates must have normal color vision and binocular peripheral vision.
Physical Readiness: The applicant must be in ‘good’ physical condition including upper body and core strength, aerobic conditioning, distance running, swimming, and treading water according to state minimum guidelines. Applicants must successfully complete each component of the physical readiness testing
Fitness Standards at the 50% level for the appropriate age/gender. The three physical fitness standards used for testing are
- One minute of sit-ups
- One minute of push-ups
- A 1.5 mile run
- Additionally, a swim test will include the ability to swim a distance of 100 yards in five minutes or less and tread water for a minimum of five minutes.
Psychological Condition: The applicant must be in psychological and emotional good health to complete training and be eligible for hire
Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, and Desired Qualifications
- Required to identify and safely use various firearms
- Demonstrate an aptitude for collecting and preserving evidence, writing reports, and testifying in court.
- Ability to collect and report information on the conditions of fish and wildlife and their habitat
- Willingness to enthusiastically and professionally represent the agency at Ohio schools and meetings of special interest groups
- Effectively operate and negotiate a vehicle on rough terrain
- Professional development or college courses in natural resource management, criminology, psychology, business management or sciences
- Ability to use word processing, spreadsheet, database and email software in a networked environment
- Applicants must possess a valid driver’s an interest in hunting, fishing, boating, wildlife conservation and other outdoor recreation is helpful
- Being able to work closely with local law enforcement and conservation groups
Salaries for Wildlife Officers with the Ohio DNR Division of Wildlife
The Ohio Department of Job and Family Services reported that the median salary among wildlife officers in the state exceeded the national median for this professional classification by 16%. As of 2016, Ohio’s wildlife officers earned a median salary of $59,758 while the hourly wage was $27.73.
Statewide, the most experienced wildlife officers, representing the top 25%, earned an average of $61,568 ($29.60/hour), while those starting out averaged $47,455 ($22.81/hour).
Location affects the salaries of wildlife officers in Ohio:
Cincinnati
- Top 25% – $51,355
- Median – $49,751
- Entry-level – $40,664
Northeast Ohio
- Top 25% – $61,360
- Median – $59,751
- Entry-level – $46,217
Southeast Ohio
- Top 25% – $61,360
- Median – $59,760
- Entry-level – $46,384
The Ohio Hiring Management Services reported the range of minimum and maximum salaries for wildlife officers throughout the state as of 2017:
- Wildlife Officer Cadet: $36,774 – $44,824
- Wildlife Officer: $45,032 – $56,784
- Wildlife Officer Supervisor: $50,357 – $71,760
Ohio Department of Natural Resources Dicision of Wildlife
2045 Morse Road, Building G
Columbus, Ohio 43229
Phone: (800) 945-3543
http://wildlife.ohiodnr.gov/wildohiocareers
School Programs
Program | Programs Offered |
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Ashland University
401 College Avenue, Ashland, OH 44805
Phone: (800) 882-1548
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Baldwin Wallace University
275 Eastland Rd, Berea, OH 44017-2088
Phone: (440) 826-2900
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Bluffton University
1 University Drive, Bluffton, OH 45817-2104
Phone: (419) 358-3000
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Bowling Green State University-Firelands
One University Drive, Huron, OH 44839-9791
Phone: (419) 433-5560
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Bowling Green State University-Main Campus
220 McFall Ctr, Bowling Green, OH 43403
Phone: (419) 372-2531
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Capital University
1 College and Main, Columbus, OH 43209-2394
Phone: (614) 236-6011
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Case Western Reserve University
10900 Euclid Ave, Cleveland, OH 44106
Phone: (216) 368-2000
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Cedarville University
251 N. Main Street, Cedarville, OH 45314-0601
Phone: (937) 766-2211
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Central Ohio Technical College
1179 University Drive, Newark, OH 43055-1767
Phone: (740) 366-1351
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Central State University
1400 Brush Row Rd, Wilberforce, OH 45384-1004
Phone: (937) 376-6011
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Cincinnati State Technical and Community College
3520 Central Parkway, Cincinnati, OH 45223-2690
Phone: (513) 569-1500
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Clark State Community College
570 E Leffel Ln, Springfield, OH 45501-0570
Phone: (937) 325-0691
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Cleveland State University
2121 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44115-2214
Phone: (216) 687-2000
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Columbus State Community College
550 E Spring St, Columbus, OH 43215
Phone: (614) 287-5353
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Defiance College
701 N Clinton, Defiance, OH 43512
Phone: (419) 784-4010
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Delaware Area Career Center
4565 Columbus Pike, Delaware, OH 43015-8969
Phone: (740) 201-3206
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Denison University
100 West College St, Granville, OH 43023-0713
Phone: (740) 587-0810
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Franciscan University of Steubenville
1235 University Blvd, Steubenville, OH 43952-1763
Phone: (740) 283-3771
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Franklin University
201 S Grant Ave, Columbus, OH 43215-5399
Phone: (614) 797-4700
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Heidelberg University
310 E Market St, Tiffin, OH 44883-2462
Phone: (419) 448-2000
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Hiram College
Hinsdale Hall Third Floor, Hiram, OH 44234-0067
Phone: (330) 569-3211
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Hocking College
3301 Hocking Parkway, Nelsonville, OH 45764
Phone: (740) 753-3591
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John Carroll University
1 John Carroll Boulevard, University Heights, OH 44118-4581
Phone: (216) 397-1886
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Kent State University at Ashtabula
3300 Lake Road West, Ashtabula, OH 44004
Phone: (440) 964-3322
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Kent State University at East Liverpool
400 E 4th St, East Liverpool, OH 43920
Phone: (330) 385-3805
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Kent State University at Kent
Executive Office, 2nd Floor Library, Kent, OH 44242-0001
Phone: (330) 672-3000
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Kent State University at Salem
2491 State Route 45 South, Salem, OH 44460
Phone: (330) 332-0361
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Kent State University at Stark
6000 Frank Ave NW, Canton, OH 44720-7599
Phone: (330) 499-9600
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Kent State University at Trumbull
4314 Mahoning Ave N.W., Warren, OH 44483
Phone: (330) 847-0571
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Kent State University at Tuscarawas
330 University Dr N.E., New Philadelphia, OH 44663-9403
Phone: (330) 339-3391
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Kenyon College
Kenyon College, Gambier, OH 43022
Phone: (740) 427-5000
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Lake Erie College
391 W Washington St, Painesville, OH 44077-3389
Phone: (440) 375-7000
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Lakeland Community College
7700 Clocktower Drive, Kirtland, OH 44094-5198
Phone: (440) 525-7000
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Lourdes University
6832 Convent Blvd, Sylvania, OH 43560-2898
Phone: (419) 885-3211
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Malone University
2600 Cleveland Avenue NW, Canton, OH 44709-3897
Phone: (330) 471-8100
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Marietta College
Irvine Bldg, Marietta, OH 45750
Phone: (740) 376-4643
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Marion Technical College
1467 Mount Vernon Ave, Marion, OH 43302-5694
Phone: (740) 389-4636 x229
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Miami University-Oxford
501 East High St, Oxford, OH 45056
Phone: (513) 529-1809
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Mount Saint Joseph University
5701 Delhi Rd, Cincinnati, OH 45233-1670
Phone: (513) 244-4200
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Mount Vernon Nazarene University
800 Martinsburg Rd, Mount Vernon, OH 43050-9500
Phone: (740) 392-6868
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Muskingum University
163 Stormont Street, New Concord, OH 43762
Phone: (740) 826-8211
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Northwest State Community College
22600 State Route 34, Archbold, OH 43502-9542
Phone: (419) 267-5511
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Notre Dame College
4545 College Rd, Cleveland, OH 44121-4293
Phone: (216) 381-1680
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Oberlin College
70 N Professor St, Oberlin, OH 44074
Phone: (440) 775-8411
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Ohio Dominican University
1216 Sunbury Road, Columbus, OH 43219
Phone: (614) 253-2741
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Ohio Northern University
525 S. Main St, Ada, OH 45810-1599
Phone: (419) 772-2000
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Ohio State University Agricultural Technical Institute
1328 Dover Rd, Wooster, OH 44691-4000
Phone: (330) 287-1330
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Ohio State University-Lima Campus
4240 Campus Dr, Lima, OH 45804
Phone: (419) 995-8600
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Ohio State University-Main Campus
190 N. Oval Mall, Columbus, OH 43210
Phone: (292) 646-8600
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Ohio University-Main Campus
020 Chubb Hall, Athens, OH 45701-2979
Phone: (740) 593-1000
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Ohio Wesleyan University
61 S Sandusky Street, Delaware, OH 43015-2370
Phone: (740) 368-2000
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Otterbein University
1 South Grove Street, Westerville, OH 43081
Phone: (614) 890-3000
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Owens Community College
30335 Oregon Rd, Perrysburg, OH 43551
Phone: (567) 661-7000
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Remington College-Cleveland Campus
14445 Broadway Ave, Cleveland, OH 44125-1957
Phone: (216) 475-7520
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Shawnee State University
940 Second St, Portsmouth, OH 45662
Phone: (740) 354-3205
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Sinclair Community College
444 W. Third St., Dayton, OH 45402-1460
Phone: (937) 512-3000
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Southern State Community College
100 Hobart Dr, Hillsboro, OH 45133
Phone: (937) 393-3431
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Stark State College
6200 Frank Ave NW, North Canton, OH 44720
Phone: (330) 494-6170 x4785
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Terra State Community College
2830 Napoleon Rd, Fremont, OH 43420-9670
Phone: (419) 334-8400
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The College of Wooster
1189 Beall Avenue, Wooster, OH 44691
Phone: (330) 263-2000
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The University of Findlay
1000 North Main Street, Findlay, OH 45840-3653
Phone: (419) 422-8313
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Tiffin University
155 Miami Street, Tiffin, OH 44883
Phone: (800) 968-6446 x6446
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Union Institute & University
440 E McMillan St, Cincinnati, OH 45206-1925
Phone: (800) 861-6400
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University of Akron Main Campus
302 Buchtel Common, Akron, OH 44325-4702
Phone: (330) 972-7111
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University of Cincinnati-Blue Ash College
9555 Plainfield Rd, Blue Ash, OH 45236-1096
Phone: (513) 745-5600
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University of Cincinnati-Clermont College
4200 Clermont College Dr, Batavia, OH 45103
Phone: (513) 732-5200
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University of Cincinnati-Main Campus
2624 Clifton Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45221-0063
Phone: (513) 556-6000
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University of Dayton
300 College Park, Dayton, OH 45469
Phone: (937) 229-1000
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University of Mount Union
1972 Clark Ave., Alliance, OH 44601-3993
Phone: (800) 992-6682
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University of Rio Grande
218 N College Ave, Rio Grande, OH 45674
Phone: (740) 245-7206
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University of Toledo
2801 W Bancroft, Toledo, OH 43606-3390
Phone: (419) 530-4636
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Urbana University
579 College Way, Urbana, OH 43078-2091
Phone: (937) 772-9200
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Ursuline College
2550 Lander Rd, Pepper Pike, OH 44124
Phone: (440) 449-4200
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Walsh University
2020 East Maple St, North Canton, OH 44720-3396
Phone: (330) 499-7090
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Washington State Community College
710 Colegate Dr, Marietta, OH 45750
Phone: (740) 374-8716
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Wilberforce University
1055 N Bickett Rd, Wilberforce, OH 45384-1001
Phone: (937) 376-2911
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Wilmington College
1870 Quaker Way, Wilmington, OH 45177
Phone: (800) 341-9318
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Wittenberg University
Ward St at N Wittenberg Ave, Springfield, OH 45504
Phone: (937) 327-6231
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Wright State University-Lake Campus
7600 St. Rt. 703, Celina, OH 45822-2952
Phone: (419) 586-0300
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Wright State University-Main Campus
3640 Colonel Glenn Highway, Dayton, OH 45435-0001
Phone: (937) 775-3333
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Xavier University
3800 Victory Parkway, Cincinnati, OH 45207-1092
Phone: (513) 745-3000
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Youngstown State University
One University Plaza, Youngstown, OH 44555-0001
Phone: (877) 468-6978
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Zane State College
1555 Newark Rd, Zanesville, OH 43701-2626
Phone: (740) 454-2501 x1271
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