12/22/1998 60001

WATERWAYS CONSERVATION OFFICER TRAINEE

DEFINITION: This is entrance-level conservation training to develop the knowledge and skills necessary for work as Waterways Conservation Officer.

An employee in this class is enrolled in a resident, formal waterways conservation training program at the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission Training School and/or other facilities throughout the state. Work involves training in agency orientation, fisheries and boat laws and regulations, public education and information, watercraft safety, stream improvement, and water environment. The training program consists of developing skills in criminal law interpretation and application, legal procedures, field operations, related natural sciences, physical fitness, self-defense, firearms and handgun use, public speaking, first aid, report writing, maintenance and operation of patrol vehicle and boats. Training also includes out-service training on criminal procedures and field assignments with experienced Waterways Conservation Officers for practical applications of learned disciplines and for review of adherence to agency policies and regulations. Trainee performance is evaluated in accordance with prescribed regulations and procedures, written examinations, formal inspections, and personal observations.

EXAMPLES OF WORK: Attends formal, resident classes at the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission Training School and/or other facilities throughout the state.

Participates in formal classroom and field training to learn the principles and practices of waterways conservation, fisheries, and watercraft safety.

Receives formal instruction on agency orientation, fish and boat law interpretation and application, legal procedures, fisheries management, water pollution investigation and related subjects including water environment and natural sciences, physical fitness, self-defense, firearms and handgun use, public education and information, first aid, report writing, patrol vehicle and boat care use, the assignment and review of work of volunteer deputies, and common investigative aids.

Participates in field training assignments, including vehicle, boat, and foot patrols in districts.

Participates in organized athletic activities while in training.

Participates in supervised firearms training.

Performs related work as required.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES: Knowledge of the common species of game fish in Pennsylvania.

Knowledge of the basic principles and practices of fishing.

Knowledge of the basic principles and practices of boating.

Ability to learn and interpret laws, rules, and regulations governing fishing, boating, and hunting.

Ability to explain the provisions of the fish and boat laws and regulations.

Ability to orally communicate with individuals and groups concerning information about fishing and boating and the respective regulations.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with associates, subordinates, and the public.

Ability to use sound judgment in situations involving decision making, danger and stress.

Ability to learn to investigate and gather evidence concerning violations of law.

Ability to read and write about fishing and boating and the respective regulations at the GED 4 level.

Ability to learn arrest procedures.

Ability to learn how to investigate water pollution.

Ability to solve arithmetical problems involving decimals and fractions at the GED 3 level.

Ability to learn to recruit, direct, assign and review the work of volunteer Deputy Waterways Conservation Officers.

Ability to learn to enforce laws and regulations with firmness and tact.

Ability to learn to maintain files for citations, permits, office correspondence, and other related materials.

Ability to learn techniques in stocking fish.

Ability to learn the principles and practices of conducting an effective public information and education program.

Ability to use common hand tools and maintain issued mechanical equipment.

Ability to learn to use slides, films, and related visual aids.

Ability to learn to review plans for and evaluate the impact of proposed highway, bridge and waterways encroachment construction upon aquatic life.

Attitudes and interests oriented toward wildlife, conservation, and law enforcement activities.

Ability to meet the physical strength, stamina and related physical demands involved in the performance of Waterways Conservation Officer duties over rough terrain and under adverse climatic conditions.

Ability to discern colors of waterway markers and lights, validation stickers, boats, vehicles and clothing.

Ability to swim continuously for a minimum of 10 minutes or 250 yards.

MINIMUM EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING: Graduation from high school or equivalent certification;

                                                                                                                                                  or

Any equivalent combination of experience and training.

NECESSARY SPECIAL REQUIREMENT: Possession of a valid motor vehicle operator's license as issued by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Must be at least 21 years of age.