After completion of the training program, they generally are assigned to seasonal positions that ultimately lead to permanent full-time jobs. All positions perform specialized law enforcement work in fisheries conservation and watercraft safety. Work consists of enforcement of state fish and boat regulations, public information and education, stream improvement and boating safety. Typical duties include patrolling by foot, car and boat to detect, pursue and apprehend violators, issue citations or field acknowledgment receipts, serve warrants, present evidence at hearings and court proceedings, investigate cases of water pollution, and fish stocking. Duties also include public speaking and coordination of the activities of volunteer Deputy Waterways Conservation Officers.
Officers work long, varied hours, holidays and weekends.
Work is performed in all types of weather conditions and in rough terrain. Lifting heavy weights such as buoys, boats and motors may be required. Applicants must be willing to accept residence in any part of the state, locate in a specific geographic area, and be reassigned from district to district as requested. They must possess a valid PA driver's license. They must be able to swim continuously for a minimum of 10 minutes or 250 yards.