How to become fish and game wardenseducation, training, experience and the steps to enter
Median annual pay
$74,060
25th–75th pct. $61,430–$89,110
Top pay (est.)
$131,300
Top 10% $100,980
Pay in 5 years
$84,600est.
2031
Pay in 10 years
$96,600est.
$83,100–$112,200
Outlook score
47/100
★★☆☆☆ Average
AI replacement risk
26%
Low
Job growth (10 yr)
−5.7%
500 openings / yr
How to become fish and game wardens
Typical education
Bachelor's degree
BLS
Related experience
None
On-the-job training
Moderate-term on-the-job training
A step-by-step guide for this occupation is being prepared. The education, training and experience data above show the typical path.
Skills, education and requirements for Fish and Game Wardens
Key skills
O*NET skill level ratings (0–7).
Key knowledge areas
What the work involves
Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal RelationshipsPerforming General Physical ActivitiesHandling and Moving ObjectsIdentifying Objects, Actions, and EventsProcessing InformationCommunicating with People Outside the OrganizationUpdating and Using Relevant KnowledgeMonitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings
Important abilities
Far VisionNear VisionOral ExpressionOral ComprehensionDeductive ReasoningInductive Reasoning
Training before entry
Related work experience
Job Zone 3 — medium preparation needed (O*NET)
Difficulty of entry: ★★☆☆☆ Fairly easy (from education, training, experience and Job Zone)
Career path and how to earn more as fish and game wardens
Career-path guidance is being prepared. Pay by percentile is shown in the Pay section.
Pay and employment figures are national statistics. Projected pay, outlook scores and AI replacement risk are estimates from the Shigoto Zukan model, not guarantees. To request a correction, use the contact form. How to read the data
Sources: BLS OEWS May 2025; BLS Employment Projections 2025–35; O*NET 31.0 Database by USDOL/ETA (CC BY 4.0), modified by Shigoto Zukan. Pay ranges, projections and scores are Shigoto Zukan estimates.