Ohio DNR looking for Watercraft Officer candidates

COLUMBUS – The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR), Division of Watercraft is looking for a few good men and women interested in becoming part of an elite group of state marine patrol officers.

ODNR will begin accepting applications on January 3, 2011 for as many as 24 watercraft officer cadets who will undergo a rigorous application and hiring process, which is expected to take up to 11 months to complete before they begin training in late 2011 as certified Ohio peace officers.

“Our officers have distinguished themselves nationally in the scope of their public service, training and expertise in the enforcement of boating laws, educating boaters and serving the public at-large during times of emergency and special needs response,” said Pamela Dillon, chief of the ODNR Division of Watercraft. “We seek highly motivated individuals who wish to make a positive difference in the state’s boating safety efforts.”

Applicants must have graduated high school, possess a valid Ohio driver’s license, and attain a minimum age of 21 upon successful completion of the Ohio Peace Officer Training Academy. Applicants also must successfully complete a background check, drug screen, psychological examination, and swimming and other physical fitness requirements. To review all applicant requirements and file an application, go online, after Jan. 3, 2011, to http://careers.ohio.gov/.

The first class of watercraft officer cadets was hired by the Division of Watercraft in 1972 and completed its Ohio Peace Officer Academy training at the Ohio State Highway Patrol Academy.

The ODNR Division of Watercraft administers Ohio’s boating programs. The agency oversees watercraft registration and titling operations, provides funding to local communities for education, enforcement and boating access facilities, educates the public, and enforces boating laws on Ohio’s waterways. More information may be found online at www.ohiodnr/com/watercraft or by following the Division of Watercraft on Facebook or Twitter.
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