Fish and Game Warden Consolidated Series

California State Personnel Board Specification

Series established April 3, 1974

Scope

This series specification describes six Fish and Game Warden classes used in the Department of Fish and Game.

Definition of Series

The Fish and Game Warden series describes work concerned with the prevention of violations and the enforcement of laws and regulations relating to the conservation and protection of fish, wildlife, and their habitat. As peace officers, incumbents in this series may also be required to take action in crimes of a general nature, including violations of Penal, Vehicle, Health and Safety Codes, and others to preserve and protect all public health and safety. This may include arresting armed and dangerous felons, arresting drug traffickers and seizing related evidence, stopping and arresting drunk drivers, taking emergency action to preserve life in traffic or other accidents, and participating in Homeland Security efforts on State lands and waters. Incumbents above the cadet level are designated as peace officers. Positions in this series may involve responsibilities or duties in a regional or headquarters office.

Work assignments in the series involve administering and enforcing fish, wildlife, and habitat protection laws, rules, and regulations; conducting investigations with full participation in surveillance, interviewing witnesses, searching for and taking custody of physical evidence, seizing illegal fish, wildlife, and equipment connected with violations, securing and serving search warrants, making arrests and testifying in court; coordinating cases with the district attorney, attorney general, and the Department of Justice; investigating the importation, buying and selling, transportation, and possession of illegal fish and wildlife; working undercover; inspecting commercial fishing operations, canneries, processors, and fish markets and fish landings; collecting and reporting of information on the condition of fish, wildlife, and their habitat; inspecting facilities for the care of native and exotic wildlife maintained in captivity; conducting compliance inspections and enforcing provisions of streambed alteration agreements and habitat-related crimes; assisting in the planning of controlled hunts; giving information to the general public; attending and speaking at meetings of sportspersons, civic, and other groups; developing fishing and hunting regulations, laws, rules, and policies; preparing correspondence and reports; performing special staff assignments; assisting in promoting and conducting hunter education training; administering departmental wildlife protection training; responding to and investigating suspected pollution, oil, and hazardous material spills; assisting other law enforcement agencies; and may be required to investigate wildlife crop damage and advise land owners on countermeasures, and issue depredation permits, if necessary. Assignment may include patrol duties aboard a fish and game vessel; horse patrol, snow patrol, the use of backpacking equipment, or other special safety equipment; performance of scuba diving duties; and responsibility for the supervision of cadets and training of cadets.

Entry Levels

Entry into this series is typically at the Fish and Game Warden Cadet level. All Fish and Game Warden Cadet and Fish and Game Warden appointees must successfully complete the required field training programs. Incumbents who do not enter the series through the Fish and Game Warden Cadet classification, and who have completed a POST accredited basic law enforcement academy, must also successfully complete the prescribed Fish and Game training.

Factors Affecting Position Allocation

These are work elements which can be compared to measure the similarity and evaluate the level of positions. The following allocation factors are typically used to evaluate the level and complexity of positions to assure consistency.

Level, variety, and complexity of work; nature of public contact; supervision exercised and received; latitude for independent judgment and action; responsibility for decision; and influence on departmental policy, program evaluation, budget decisions, or legislative recommendations.

Definition of Levels

Fish and Game Warden Cadet

This is the recruiting and training level for the series. Under close supervision, incumbents participate in a POST accredited basic law enforcement training academy to learn the work of a Fish and Game Warden. Incumbents who do not successfully complete the prescribed law enforcement academy will be ineligible for appointment to the class of Fish and Game Warden.

Fish and Game Warden

This is the first working and journey level of the series. Under general supervision, incumbents perform patrol and investigative duties and may be assigned a geographic area; enforce laws relating to fish and wildlife conservation; issue citations; make arrests; collect evidence and complete crime reports; testify in court; investigate reported fish and game violations; perform patrol duties aboard a fish and game vessel; respond to and investigate pollution, oil, and hazardous material spills; act as Incident Commander in minor oil and hazardous material spills; develop and enforce streambed alteration agreements; explain the Department's programs before groups; work as field training officers (FTOs); and assist other law enforcement agencies. Incumbents may be assigned special administrative assignments performing the less difficult analysis and staff work such as the initial review of a legislative bill analysis. Incumbents may be required to work out of their home and maintain a home office, and in remote locations.

Fish and Game Lieutenant (Specialist)

This is the advanced journey level in the series. In a specialist assignment, under direction, incumbents implement specific programs; independently perform the more difficult analysis and staff review work; conduct the more difficult and complex investigations; assist supervisors with training issues; review legislative bills; assist in promoting uniform application of procedures; coordinate and review regulation proposals; assist in the development of procedures; deal with the public on the more sensitive enforcement issues; direct field training activities; review streambed alteration agreements; and act as Incident Commander in large oil and hazardous material spills.

Fish and Game Lieutenant (Supervisor)

This is the first supervisory level in the series. Under direction, incumbents supervise and direct the work of Fish and Game Wardens and other personnel in a geographic area of the State; patrol and investigate violations; perform patrol duties aboard a fish and game vessel; supervise work involved in oil and hazardous material spills; act as Incident Commander in large oil and hazardous material spills; direct and review streambed alteration agreements; deal with the public on the more sensitive enforcement issues; investigate citizens complaints; conduct internal affairs investigations; conduct or coordinate required training; supervise FTO activities; plan and assign work; evaluate performance and take appropriate action; inspect equipment and implement safe work practices; and explain the Department's programs before groups.

Fish and Game Captain

This is the second supervisory level in the series. Under general direction, incumbents supervise and direct the work of Fish and Game Lieutenants, Fish and Game Wardens, or other personnel; are responsible for an operating budget to plan and conduct enforcement efforts in a geographic area of the State; make recommendations concerning the arrest and prosecution of violators; plan and conduct effective patrols on land and/or utilizing fish and game vessels; supervise and manage equipment use; conduct internal affairs investigations; evaluate, negotiate, and enforce streambed alteration agreements and water pollution violations; act as Incident Commander in major oil and hazardous material spills; evaluate performance and take appropriate action; represent the Department before groups; compose difficult correspondence and reports for the Division Chief and Director. In a specialist assignment, incumbents are responsible for directing and managing statewide programs or programs of high intensity. Incumbents perform staff functions such as recommending changes in laws, regulations, and procedures; assist in proposing changes to departmental policy; prepare documents related to Fish and Game Code regulations and California Code of Regulations; evaluate potential impacts of proposed law enforcement changes and make recommendations; act as Incident Commander in major oil and hazardous material spills; assist in budget preparation; prepare administrative reports; complete appropriate legal documents and reports; conduct and coordinate internal affairs investigations; respond to complex law enforcement-related questions and complaints; plan, develop, and coordinate FTO, Advanced Peace Officer, Defensive Tactics, Firearms Proficiency, Specialized Vehicle Operations, and other training; conduct and evaluate Advanced Peace Officer training; and operate the cadet training academy.

Fish and Game Assistant Chief

This is the highest supervisory level in the series. Under general direction, incumbents supervise an assigned staff; provide high level assistance on extremely sensitive wildlife protection matters; enforce laws, rules, and regulations; ensure that the wildlife protection mission is accomplished; promote uniform application of policies, laws, and regulations; review recommendations for legislative bills; review reports and correspondence for impact on the wildlife protection function; act as a liaison with other agencies and organizations on wildlife matters; supervise and have full responsibility over major statewide programs which have strong legislative or political interest, major law enforcement concerns, major public concern and awareness, extensive media coverage, and multiagency involvement; develop policy; assist in law and regulation changes; assist in budget preparation and assess budget requests; coordinate program activities with other functions; keep management informed of extremely significant law enforcement issues and problems; and represent the Branch Chief in his/her absence.

Minimum Qualifications

All Classes:

The following requirements are part of the "Minimum Qualifications" for all classes in the series.

Possession of a valid driver license of the appropriate class issued by the Department of Motor Vehicles. Applicants who do not possess this license will be admitted to the examination but must secure the license prior to appointment. and Education: Equivalent to completion of two years (60 semester units) of college with 18 semester units in the biological sciences, police science or law enforcement, natural resources conservation, ecology, or related fields. (Students who have 30 semester units of college, and have 18 semester units completed in the required or related fields, will be admitted to the examination, but must produce evidence of completion of 60 semester units before they can be considered eligible for appointment.)

All Classes Except Fish and Game Warden Cadet

Fish and Game Warden

Either I

Successful completion of a California POST accredited Law Enforcement Academy, possession of a valid California POST basic peace officer certificate, and currently employed as a peace officer within the State of California at time of application.

Or II

Successful completion (within the last 12 months) of a California POST accredited law enforcement academy prescribed by the Department of Fish and Game, and possession of a valid California POST basic academy certificate.

Fish and Game Lieutenant (Specialist)

Fish and Game Lieutenant (Supervisor)

Two years of experience in the California state service performing the duties of a peace officer class at a level of responsibility equivalent to that obtained in the class of Fish and Game Warden, Range B.

Fish and Game Captain

Either I

One year of experience in the California state service performing the duties of a peace officer class at a level of responsibility equivalent to that obtained in the class of Fish and Game Lieutenant (Specialist) or Fish and Game Lieutenant (Supervisor).

Or II

Three years of experience in the California state service performing the duties of a peace officer class at a level of responsibility equivalent to that obtained in the class of Fish and Game Warden, Range B.

Fish and Game Assistant Chief

Either I

Two years of experience in the California state service performing the duties of a peace officer class at a level of responsibility equivalent to that obtained in the class of Fish and Game Captain.

Or II

Four years of experience in the California state service performing the duties of a peace officer class at a level of responsibility equivalent to that obtained in the class of Fish and Game Lieutenant (Specialist) or Fish and Game Lieutenant (Supervisor).

Knowledge and Abilities

Fish and Game Warden Cadet

Ability to: Gather and analyze facts; reason logically, draw valid conclusions, and make appropriate recommendations; follow instructions; communicate effectively and write clearly and concisely; establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the work; learn rules and regulations; interpret, apply, and enforce fish and game laws; read and interpret maps; analyze situations accurately, think and act quickly in emergencies, and take effective action; establish and maintain tactful and effective relations with the public; learn safety and proficiency with firearms, peace officer protective equipment, and other equipment used on the job; and administer first aid treatment.

Fish and Game Warden

Knowledge of: Investigation techniques and procedures; rules of evidence and court procedures; laws of arrest, search and seizure and legal rights of citizens, and service of legal process; State and applicable Federal laws; basic principles and techniques of natural resources management; habits, life histories, ecological relationships, and geographical distribution of sport and commercial fishes and wildlife in California; sport and commercial fishing and hunting practices and equipment; and current court decisions.

Ability to: All of the above, and assist in the interpretation and application of biological information and laws and regulations to specific situations; participate effectively in investigations and interviews; work on field assignments without close supervision and primarily on own initiative; train and act as a lead over new Fish and Game Wardens; and prepare accurate and concise reports.

Fish and Game Lieutenant (Specialist)

Knowledge of: All of the above, and the provisions of the Fish and Game Code and other laws, rules, regulations, and policies relating to the conservation and protection of fish, wildlife, and their habitat in California; and instruction in the care and use of firearms and equipment.

Ability to: All of the above, and implement specific programs; direct or conduct complex investigations of fish and game law violations; conduct internal affairs investigations; and coordinate required training.

Fish and Game Lieutenant (Supervisor)

Knowledge of: All of the above, and basic supervision; and a manager's/supervisor's responsibility for promoting equal opportunity in hiring, employee development, and promotion and for maintaining a work environment that is free of discrimination or harassment.

Ability to: All of the above, and supervise and direct work; evaluate employee performance; conduct internal affairs investigations; and effectively contribute to promoting equal opportunity in employment and maintaining a work environment that is free of discrimination and harassment.

Fish and Game Captain

Knowledge of: All of the above, and principles and techniques of personnel management; and in-service training.

Ability to: All of the above, and implement programs to protect fish and wildlife resources; plan, conduct, and evaluate training programs; coordinate special enforcement activities; coordinate internal affairs investigations; and assist in budget preparation.

Fish and Game Assistant Chief

Knowledge of: All of the above, and program planning; Department policy; and the Department's funding and budget process.

Ability to: All of the above, and evaluate programs; develop policy; promote uniform application of policies, laws, and regulations; organize and manage statewide programs; and represent the Branch Chief at anytime.

Additional Desirable Qualifications

All Classes:

Ability to use word processing software on personal computers; ability to make minor vehicle repairs when service is not available; and ability to safely operate fish and game vessels.

Special Personal Characteristics

All Classes:

Willingness to work unusual hours and on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays; willingness to live and work throughout the State; satisfactory record as a law-abiding citizen; neat personal appearance; tact; reliability; keenness of observation; and interest in and aptitude for fish and wildlife conservation and law enforcement work.

Special Physical Requirements

Fish and Game Warden Cadet

Fish and Game Warden

Sound physical condition, ability to swim, and hearing adequate to perform the duties of the position; visual acuity of not less than 20/40 in each eye without correction and corrected to not less than 20/20 in each eye; normal color vision as measured by the Ishihara Pseudoisochromatic Plate Test or for persons failing the Ishihara, the Farnsworth D-15 Arrangement Test; and a peripheral field of view of at least 120 degrees of horizontal extent and 100 degrees of vertical extent, with no evidence of scotomas (nonseeing areas) within the full visual field of each eye.

Disqualification

All Classes:

Existing law provides that persons convicted of a felony or convicted of a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence are disqualified from employment as peace officers. Such persons are not eligible to compete for or be appointed to positions in these classes.

You are disqualified from being employed as a peace officer under Government Code 1029 if (1) you have been convicted of a felony in this State or any other state; (2) you have been convicted of any offense in any other state which would have been a felony if committed in this State; (3) you have been charged with a felony and adjudged by a superior court to be mentally incompetent; (4) you have been found not guilty by reason of insanity of any felony; (5) you have been determined to be a mentally disordered sex offender; or (6) you have been addicted or in danger of becoming addicted to narcotics, convicted, and committed to a State institution.

You are disqualified from being employed as a peace officer under the Gun Control Act (GCA) of 1968 as amended by the Federal Omnibus Consolidated Appropriations Act of 1997, which makes it unlawful for any person convicted of a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence to ship, transport, posses, or receive firearms or ammunition. A misdemeanor crime of domestic violence means an offense that (1) is a misdemeanor under Federal or State law; and (2) has, as an element, the use or attempted use of physical force, or the threatened use of a deadly weapon, committed by a current or former spouse, parent, or guardian of the victim, by a person with whom the victim shares a child in common, by a person who is cohabiting with or has cohabited with the victim as a spouse, parent, or guardian, or by a person similarly situated to a spouse, parent, or guardian of the victim. This definition includes all misdemeanors that involve the use or attempted use of physical force and is true whether or not the State statute or local ordinance specifically defines the offense as a domestic violence misdemeanor.

Use of "hard" drugs (e.g., heroin, cocaine, or hallucinogenic) subsequent to applicant's 18th birthday and prior to his or her twenty-third birthday, shall be grounds for disqualification from the examination unless 5 years elapsed from the date of the disclosed or revealed use of the drug. If any such disclosed or revealed use has occurred on or after the applicant's twenty-third birthday, he or she shall be disqualified from the examination in which he or she is competing until 10 years have elapsed from the date of the disclosed or revealed use. The disqualification period shall begin on the date that the drug was used, and not on the date that the drug use was disclosed or revealed.

Citizenship Requirement

All Classes:

Pursuant to Government Code Section 1031(a), in order to be a peace officer, a person must be either a U.S. citizen or be a permanent resident alien who is eligible for and has applied for U.S. citizenship.

Denial of an application for citizenship shall result in termination of employment.

Drug Testing Requirement

All Classes:

Applicants for positions in this class are required to pass a drug screening test. Drug testing of current State employees who are applicants in an examination or who are transferring is permitted only if the person does not have current appointment to a class for which drug testing is a requirement.

Class History