Boat Wash Senior Manager (Seasonal)

Position Overview:

The Boat Wash Senior Manager is responsible for overseeing the daily operations of the GLA Boat Wash program, ensuring compliance with environmental regulations, managing a team of seasonal employees, and maintaining effective communication with the Executive Director, GLA Board of Directors Boat Wash Liaison, MI Department of Natural Resources (DNR), and other stakeholders.

This seasonal, non-exempt position runs from May through October. It offers full-time hours (32–40 hours per week, five days a week) from June to September and part-time hours (20–32 hours per week, three days a week) in May and October.

Compensation: $27/hr

Location: Little Glen Lake Boat Launch (7075 W. Day Forest Rd.), GLA Office (6404 Western Ave.)

Reports To: Executive Director

Key Responsibilities:

Staff Management & Operations

  • Monitor and ensure compliance with all local, state, and federal regulations related to boat washing, bait laws, and aquatic invasive species (AIS) prevention.
  • Hire, train, and lead part-time boat wash employees, creating a positive work environment.
  • Develop and manage monthly work schedules to ensure full shift coverage (6 AM–7 PM, seven days a week, with additional shifts in peak season) and approve employee timecards.
  • Work at the boat wash at least four days per week with dedicated time at the GLA office.
  • Oversee procurement of necessary supplies and equipment, including propane, uniforms, etc.
  • Oversee the proper opening and shutdown of the boat wash in collaboration with the Board of Directors’ Boat Wash Liaison, including equipment storage and facility winterization.
  • Be available by phone while off-duty to address emergencies, operational issues, or equipment concerns if they arise.

Reporting & Data Management

  • Oversee accurate survey data collection and entry including boater, bait, creel, and invasive species encounters.
  • Submit monthly reports and end-of-season reports to various stakeholders and share non-compliance with law enforcement when appropriate.
  • Act as the primary liaison with the MI Department of Natural Resources, DNR Fisheries Department, and Board of Directors’ Boat Wash Liaison.

Community Engagement & Education

  • Meet with diverse stakeholders including board members, other lake associations, community groups, scouting troops, schools, and government officials to share expertise and educate on boat wash/AIS prevention best practices.
  • Collaborate with M22 Challenge organizers to staff and operate the boat wash during the event, and oversee volunteers, print materials, and participation reports.
  • Support outreach efforts, including advertising open positions through local publications and educational institutions.
  • Attend the monthly board meeting in person when appropriate, at other times via video call.

Qualifications & Skills:

  • Strong interpersonal, leadership, and team management skills.
  • Excellent organizational and communication abilities.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and database management.
  • Ability to work independently and adapt to changing schedules.
  • Knowledge of aquatic invasive species identification is a plus (training provided).
  • Ability to perform physical tasks, including standing for extended periods, bending, and operating equipment, in various weather conditions such as heat, rain, and wind.
  • Experience in boating, environmental conservation, water quality programs, or related fields preferred.

Work Environment:
This position requires outdoor work in varying weather conditions and some physical labor. Must be comfortable working around water and electricity while following safety protocols. Some holiday and weekend hours are required.

How to Apply:
Please send your resume and a short answer to the following questions to apply@glenlakeassociation.org.

Application Questions:

  1. Describe your approach to team leadership and management.
  2. Describe your experience with community engagement/educating the public.
  3. Do you have experience with invasive species management/prevention, boating, and/or fishing? If so, please describe your experience. 
  4. Are you available to work a mix of morning (6am-1pm), evening (1pm-7pm), and weekend/holiday shifts–with on-call availability in case of emergencies etc.?

The Glen Lake Association is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive and welcoming environment for all employees and applicants. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status under applicable laws.