Learn what it takes to be a Pennsylvania Game Commission deputy wildlife conservation officer during a recruitment open house June 9 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Jennings Environmental Education Center, 2951 Prospect Road, Slippery Rock.

Acting WCOs and deputy WCOs will be on hand to answer questions, and there will be a display and short video about the varied duties of the position.

Deputy applicants must be Pennsylvania residents at least 21, possess a valid Pennsylvania driver’s license and have earned a high school diploma or GED equivalent. Applicants must be in good physical condition, have a good knowledge of hunting, trapping and other outdoor activities and be able to maintain a good working relationship with fellow officers and the public. Applicants must accrue 20 hours of ride-along time with a wildlife conservation officer and have a through character investigation conducted before taking the entrance examination, on which a minimum score of 70 percent must be attained. After completing one full week (75 hours) of training and an extension course a certification examination is given on which a minimum score of 80 percent is required.

“We welcome anyone 21 years of age and older to consider becoming a deputy,” Northwest Region director Keith E. Harbaugh said. “We would especially note for those individuals age 40 to 50 that it is never to late to apply, as those seasoned individuals are often better able to handle the financial and time commitments necessary in becoming a deputy.”

The Northwest Region includes Erie, Crawford, Mercer, Venango, Forest, Warren, Butler, Clarion, Jefferson and Lawrence counties.