Starting Thursday, the DNR will begin accepting applications for its next Conservation Officer Training Academy, which starts in April. Applications will be accepted until Nov. 3.
This is a precertified law enforcement academy, meaning that qualified applicants must be at least 21 years old (by the time of hire) and meet one of the following requirements:
Be eligible for immediate licensure upon employment.
Be a licensed law enforcement officer in another state and meet MCOLES requirements.
Out-of-state applicants must be Michigan residents by the time training ends.
The academy will take place April 25-July 15 in Lansing. Training will include laws and rules specific to fish and game, species identification, and safe, legal operation of boats, off-road vehicles and snowmobiles.
“This is a great opportunity for current law enforcement officers who are looking for a change of pace,” said Sgt. Kyle Bucholtz, training academy commander with the DNR Law Enforcement Division. “Conservation officers are able to set their own daily schedule, eliminate going to an office by using a take-home vehicle, and patrol via boat, off-road vehicle, snowmobile or other equipment that many traditional police agencies don’t regularly use.”
Previous fishing and hunting experience and a college education are not required to become a conservation officer.
Candidates will be able to give preference for which county they would like to be assigned. Applicants will be offered their county assignments at the time of receiving a conditional offer of employment, prior to the beginning of the academy.
Successful candidates will be hired as probationary conservation officers and outfitted with all necessary equipment. As State of Michigan employees, these PCOs will receive biweekly paychecks and the opportunity to earn health and retirement benefits.
Sign up for October webinar
Join us for an upcoming hiring webinar at 6 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 7, open to all qualified applicants who would like to learn more. Preregistration is required.
