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Ferry Captain Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

GovFirst

Designated Duty Engineer

Surry, VA

... Ferry in Surry, VA. This position is responsible for operating, monitoring, maintaining, and ... the Captain of any mechanical or operational concerns. Maintain vessel readiness for U.S. Coast ...

GovFirst

Designated Duty Engineer

Surry, VA · On-site

... Ferry in Surry, VA. This position is responsible for operating, monitoring, maintaining, and ... Diagnose equipment deficiencies and promptly notify the Captain of any mechanical or operational ...

GovFirst

Marine/Maritime Assistant Engineer

Surry, VA · On-site

... Ferry in Surry, VA. This position is responsible for operating, monitoring, maintaining, and ... Diagnose equipment deficiencies and promptly notify the Captain of any mechanical or operational ...

PRWT Services, Inc.

Marine Assistant Engineer

Surry, VA · On-site

$45 - $52.88/hr

... Ferry operating and monitoring main engine and auxiliary machinery on ferry vessels to ensure ... Keep Captain informed of any deficiencies. * Operate all machinery according to USCG and VDOT ...

PRWT Services, Inc.

Designated Duty Engineer

Surry, VA · On-site

$45.67 - $50/hr

... Ferry operating and monitoring main engine and auxiliary machinery on ferry vessels to ensure ... Keep Captain informed of any deficiencies. * Operate all machinery according to USCG and VDOT ...

All JobsFerry Captain JobsFerry Captain Jobs in Virginia

Ferry Captain information

See Virginia salary details

$9

$37

$76

How much do ferry captain jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for ferry captain in Virginia is $37.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.16 and $41.01 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a ferry captain?

A Ferry Captain is responsible for operating and navigating a ferry to transport passengers, vehicles, or cargo across bodies of water safely. They manage the vessel's crew, oversee maintenance, and ensure compliance with maritime regulations. Their duties also include monitoring weather conditions, plotting secure routes, and responding to emergencies. Strong leadership, navigational expertise, and safety awareness are essential for this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a ferry captain?

To thrive as a Ferry Captain, you need comprehensive maritime navigation skills, vessel handling experience, and typically a valid captain’s license such as a USCG Master or Mate License. Familiarity with radar, GPS, electronic chart systems, and maritime communication devices is essential, along with knowledge of safety protocols and regulatory compliance. Leadership, clear communication, and strong decision-making skills are vital for managing crews and ensuring passenger safety under varying conditions. These capabilities are critical for safely transporting passengers and vehicles while maintaining efficient operations and compliance with maritime regulations.

What are the typical work schedules and team structures for ferry captains?

Ferry Captains often work in shifts that may include early mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays, depending on the ferry route and company schedule. They typically lead a team that includes deckhands, engineers, and customer service staff, ensuring smooth vessel operations and passenger experience. Coordination with shore-side personnel, port authorities, and emergency services is also a regular part of the job. This collaborative environment requires strong leadership and adaptability to handle changing schedules and unexpected challenges on the water.

How do I become a ferry captain?

To become a ferry captain, you typically need to obtain a merchant mariner credential with a master license, which requires sea service experience, passing written exams, and completing safety training. Candidates often start as deckhands or mates, gaining experience on vessels, and must meet age and health requirements. Certification standards vary by region but generally include a combination of sea time, training, and licensing from maritime authorities.

How do you become a ferry captain?

To become a ferry captain, you typically need to obtain a merchant mariner credential with a master license, which requires relevant sea service experience, passing written exams, and completing approved training. Candidates often start as deckhands or mates, gaining experience on vessels, and must meet age, health, and background check requirements. Certification standards vary by region but generally include demonstrating navigation, safety, and vessel operation skills.

What are popular job titles related to Ferry Captain jobs in Virginia?

For Ferry Captain jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Ferry Captain jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Ferry Captain jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Ferry Captain jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Ferry Captain job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Ferry Captain jobs in VA?

For Ferry Captain jobs in VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Ferry Captain jobs near you
Infographic showing various Ferry Captain job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, and 20% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $76,960 per year, or $37 per hour.

13881 - Ferry Captain

Surry, VA • On-site

Virginia Department of Transportation
5 - 10K employees

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 19 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

599th of 851 rated public administrative organizations

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Paid breaks

Learn more about Virginia Department of Transportationexternal

$71K - $115K/yr

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago

Job description


Pilot ferry vessel on designated waters, carrying passengers and vehicles. Ensure safety of passengers, crew and cargo. Obey all U.S. Coast Guard regulations governing ferry operations.
How you will contribute:
  • Miscellaneous: Others duties as directed to meet the needs of the ferry.
  • Passenger Management: Ensure passengers and vehicles are loaded and unloaded in a safe and orderly manner. Maintain accurate records of vehicles and passengers carried. Provide information and assistance to public as needed. Resolve issues with passengers.
  • Vessel Management: Pilot vessel following USCG and VDOT regulations and policies. Maintain posted schedule without any justified complaints. Maintain vessel readiness fur USCG inspections. Maintain ships log with all required information.
  • Vessel Security and Emergency Response: Ensure crew is alert to security violations and suspicious behavior. Perform all required drills and training. Supervise all emergency situations and ensure timely and appropriate actions taken. Check and secure all internal and external entry points that are not used for passenger access. Log and report violations and suspicious behavior.

    • What will make you successful:
  • Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing and to interact professionally with passengers and crew.
  • Ability to complete and maintain records and reports.
  • Ability to comply with appropriate U.S. Coast Guard and VDOT rules and regulations.
  • Ability to respond effectively in emergency situations.
  • Knowledge of ferry operations and safety and governing U.S. Coast Guard regulations.
  • Skill and ability to pilot ferry vessel safely.

    • Minimum Qualifications:
  • Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing and to interact professionally with passengers and crew.
  • Ability to complete and maintain records and reports.
  • Ability to comply with appropriate U.S. Coast Guard and VDOT rules and regulations.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain CPR with AED, Standard First Aid, and Blood Borne Pathogens (BBP) Combined Course.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain required certifications and licenses within designated period.
  • Ability to respond effectively in emergency situations.
  • Knowledge of U.S. Coast Guard regulations governing ferry operations.
  • Must hold a minimum MMC - endorsed as Master 1600 gross tons, Inland, Radar Observer Certificate, Marine Radio Operator Permit.
  • Skill and ability to pilot ferry vessel safely.
  • Transportation Workers Identification Credential (TWIC).
  • Valid driver's license.

    • Additional Considerations:
  • High school diploma or GED desired.

    • Click below to learn more about the Competency Model associated with this Position:
    Competency Model
    Physical Requirements
    Physical Requirements
    VDOT employees must abide by VDOTs Code of Ethics and the Commonwealths Standards of Conduct.
    VDOT Code of Ethics
    Standards of Conduct
    Qualifications
    Physical Requirements
    Physical Requirements

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