Fish and Game Wardens
Job Zone 4 - Considerable preparation needed
Patrol assigned area to prevent fish and game law violations. Investigate reports of damage to crops or property by wildlife. Compile biological data.
Median pay: $74,060/yr (U.S. national, May 2025)
Typical range nationwide (10th–90th percentile). This is a population snapshot, not a personal prediction - actual pay varies by location, employer, and experience.
Job outlook: -6% projected growth, 2024–2034 — declining.
About 500 openings per year, on average, over the decade.
Typical entry-level education: Bachelor's degree.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, OEWS and Employment Projections.
• Patrol assigned areas by car, boat, airplane, horse, or on foot to enforce game, fish, or boating laws or to manage wildlife programs, lakes, or land.
• Compile and present evidence for court actions.
• Investigate hunting accidents or reports of fish or game law violations.
• Protect and preserve native wildlife, plants, or ecosystems.
• Issue warnings or citations and file reports as necessary.
• Serve warrants and make arrests.
• Provide assistance to other local law enforcement agencies as required.
• Promote or provide hunter or trapper safety training.
What's the median pay for Fish and Game Wardens?
The median pay for Fish and Game Wardens is $74,060 per year, per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
What's the job outlook for Fish and Game Wardens?
Employment for Fish and Game Wardens is projected to change -6% from 2024 to 2034 - declining.
What education is typically required for Fish and Game Wardens?
Typical entry-level education: Bachelor's degree.
How many job openings are there each year for Fish and Game Wardens?
About 500 openings per year, on average, over the decade.