As the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources works to continue creating a workforce that more closely resembles the diverse communities it serves, the agency is holding a pair of open house-style career fairs next week.
The first is set for Wednesday, March 6 from 5-7 p.m. at the DNR Central Office in St. Paul. The second is Friday, March 8 from 5-7 p.m. at the Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College in Cloquet. Anyone interested in learning more about the career of a conservation officer is invited to attend. Current conservation officers will be there to discuss their careers and speak with attendees.
The current recruiting period, which begins March 1 and lasts all month, is for the DNR’s CO Prep program, which provides a pathway for people without previous law enforcement experience to become conservation officers. In accordance with Peace Officer Standard and Training Board licensing requirements, candidates must have a two-year degree but do not need a law enforcement background. Individuals hired to take part in the CO Prep program will spend 22 weeks training at Hennepin Technical College and 15 weeks training at the Conservation Officer Academy at Camp Ripley, followed by another approximately four months training in the field with experienced conservation officers.
The career fair in St. Paul will be in the cafeteria at the DNR Central Office, 500 Lafayette Road, St. Paul, MN 55155. The career fair in Cloquet will be in the amphitheater at the Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College, 2101 14th Street, Cloquet, MN 55720.
Additional information, including a link to the application, is on the DNR website.
Early this summer, the agency will also seek applications for its 2025 Academy from those with law enforcement experience.