Conservation Officer Recruit 10

Job Information

MICHIGAN DEPT. OF NATURAL RESOURCES
525 WEST ALLEGAN ST.
LANSING, MICHIGAN 48933
5172845998
https://www.michigan.gov/dnrco

Updated: March 12, 2024

Classification: Conservation Officer Recruit 10

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources Law Enforcement Division is currently building an eligibility list for the position of Conservation Officer Recruit 10.

Candidates must complete and pass the Frontline National test (Entry-level law enforcement exam) or the Michigan Commission on Law Enforcement Standards (MCOLES) Reading and Writing test before submitting their application.

The official job posting will open on March 22, 2024, on the following website:  https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/michigan

Department Overview: Conservation officers (COs) are responsible for enforcing laws and regulations under the jurisdiction of the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. Stationed in nearly every county of the state, these fully licensed peace officers enforce laws related to fish and wildlife, state parks, trails and forests, and outdoor recreation activities such as off-road vehicle use, snowmobiling, and boating. They are also first responders to a variety of natural disasters and emergencies.

Job Requirements

Age: 21 years old by the Training Academy graduation date (July 5, 2025)

Citizenship Required: Yes

High School Grad/GED: Yes

Valid Driver’s License: Yes, valid in any state

MCOLES Licensing Standards: To view the licensing standards for Michigan Law Enforcement Officers, please visit: https://www.michigan.gov/mcoles/standard-training/licensing-standards-for-michigan-law-enforcement-officers

Licensed/License Eligible: The 2024/2025 hiring process will be the same for licensed and non-licensed candidates. Licensed candidates are welcome to apply, however, they will be hired as entry-level recruits and will need to complete the DNR basic police academy.

Entry-Level Recruits: An 18-week academy for basic entry-level recruits. Recruits will receive additional training to develop and learn the knowledge and abilities required to function as a conservation officer. Responsibilities include learning how to enforce the laws, rules, and orders relating to natural resources, environmental protection, and general criminal law. Learn to check licenses, permits, and species of fish and wildlife. Learn how to investigate complaints. Learn how to issue citations and make arrests for natural resources and criminal violations. Learn the correct procedure when contacting prosecutors and judges, serving warrants, and appearing and testifying in court. Learn how to complete and submit reports, maintain records and files, and respond to public inquiries. Learn how to operate watercraft, snowmobiles, off-road vehicles (ORVs), and patrol vehicles, while maintaining them in good working condition. Learn to attend meetings and take part in departmental programs. Learn to ensure the availability of and how to teach all recreation safety classes. Learn when and how to assist other law enforcement agencies. Learn to enforce statutes and regulations that relate directly to public safety. Entry-level recruits must pass the Michigan DNR LED academy with a 70% or higher rating, including all scenarios and mandatory training events. Applicants must also pass the MCOLES licensing exam for law enforcement officers in the State of Michigan.

Hiring Process: The hiring and training process has several steps, including a written examination, application, physical fitness test, pre-screening interview, in-depth background investigation, final interview, psychological assessment, and medical evaluation. Successful candidates are hired and then begin training. Training consists of a conservation officer academy that runs more than 18 weeks, followed by field training and specialized training in the areas of marine, off-road vehicle, fish and game, and waterfowl enforcement.

Specific Disqualifiers/Behaviors:

• Criminal Activity Disqualifiers
• Any Felonies including Holmes Youthful Trainee Act (HYTA) convictions.
• Any domestic violence arrests or any integrity crimes such as retail fraud, larceny, or theft.
• To view licensing standards, including disqualifying crimes, for Michigan Law Enforcement Officers, please visit: https://www.michigan.gov/mcoles

Driving Disqualifiers:
Convictions for Operating while impaired, revoked or suspended within 3 years; accumulation of 8 points on driving record or convictions of 3 moving violations within a 3 year of application. A pattern of driving convictions or traffic crashes.

Drug Use Disqualifiers:
Any Felony drug arrest or conviction. Other drug use or possession disqualifiers on a case-by-case basis. See additional MCOLES drug-specific disqualifiers at https://www.michigan.gov/mcoles

Employment Disqualifiers:
Unfavorable employment history, reprimands, suspensions, or resignations in place of discipline will be considered on a case-by-case basis and may be cause for disqualification.

Financial Disqualifiers:
Bankruptcy within 3 years, history of civil judgments, collections, or non-payment. Foreclosure, rental evictions, and other financial histories will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.

Additional Disqualifiers:
Less than honorable or dishonorable discharge from the US Armed Services.