Allegan County

Allegan County has much to offer, with 24 Townships, 9 Cities, and 2 Villages across nearly 900 square miles. The landscapes range from the lakeshore to beautifully wooded lands, our County’s natural resources are a gift to be treasured. Allegan County businesses, citizens, and employees are world-class, and we remain a welcoming, closely-knit community. We are one of the fastest-growing counties in Michigan.
Allegan County Government places high importance on our core values: Respect, Integrity, Commitment and Honesty. A common thread among our leadership, employees and volunteers is a strong desire to serve and be part of something meaningful. We have been recognized by Gallagher as “Best in Class Winner” among mid-size companies for our excellence in optimizing employee and organizational well-being for three years in a row (2023-2025). We have also received the “Impact Award” from M.E.R.S. for excellence in educating our employees about their retirement plans and overall financial wellness. We are looking for dedicated, caring, energetic people to join our team!

Job Summary

Responsible for patrolling lakes and rivers and the enforcement of marine laws, investigation of boating
accidents, search and rescue, and boater safety instruction and certification.

*PLEASE NOTE: This position starts in spring 2027

Wage: $25.89 per hour (starting in 2027), part time, no benefits

Responsibilities and Duties

• Completes maintenance on department owned patrol boats.
• Performs proactive patrols lakes and rivers. This includes safety checks of all vessels on the water for required safety equipment, verification of boat registrations, verification of boater safety certifications, compliance with all state marine laws and local watercraft control ordinances, enforcement of marine law violations.
• Prepares reports and required marine documents.
• Interviews subjects who are either cooperative or uncooperative to obtain information needed for the investigation.
• Safely operates assigned motor vehicles and marine patrol vessels.
• Conducts annual Boater Safety Certification classes.
• Annually inspects and documents complete inspections of all operating boat liveries to ensure they are in compliance with all state & local laws.
• Conduct search and rescue operations.

Required Education and Experience

1. High School Diploma or equivalent (G.E.D.).
2. Prior completion of forty (40) hours of law enforcement training with an emphasis in marine law – OR – Complete a county-provided 40-hour one-week training at hire. *April 26 - 30, 2027
3. Ability to participate in department training one evening per week. *Starting in Feb 2027
4. Certified in the following within four (4) months of hire: firearms qualification, CPR, first aid, blood borne pathogens, LEIN certification and boater safety certification.
5. Possess a valid Michigan Driver’s License.
6. Prior boating experience preferred