FRANKFORT — Applications are now being accepted for conservation officer recruit positions with the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources. The deadline to apply is 8 p.m. (eastern) on May 22.

The department plans to fill 30 positions in locations across the state.

Applicants must be at least 21 years old, possess a valid driver’s license and meet educational requirements or have experience in related fields.

To apply, go online to personnel.ky.gov and click “Find a Job.” Applicants must fully complete the online application through My Purpose to be considered for further review.

Selected applicants will undergo 20 weeks of Department of Criminal Justice Training – if not already Peace Officer Professional Standards (POPS)-certified — followed by 12 weeks of training in the Kentucky Fish and Wildlife Academy before being placed with a field-training officer for 16 weeks of hands-on training.

Applicants must pass a written test, physical fitness test, swimming test, oral interview, psychological and drug screen, polygraph, background review and medical evaluation to be considered for selection.

Applicants will be notified via email regarding the written test scheduling. Applicants should frequently check their email, including junk mail folders, after a posting closes. An initial email to applicants will include important, time-sensitive information, and recipients will be required to respond by a specific date.

Kentucky’s conservation officers are sworn law enforcement officers with statewide jurisdiction but a primary mission focus on hunting, fishing and boating enforcement. In their everyday role, conservation officers ensure compliance with hunting and fishing laws and ensure that the state’s waterways are a safe place for all to enjoy by utilizing a two-pronged approach consisting of education and enforcement.

To report suspected illegal activity, call 1-800-25-ALERT or contact the nearest Kentucky State Police post.