1

Ferry Driver Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Ferry Crewmember Location: Surry, VA 23883 Employment Type: Full-Time (W2) GovFirst is seeking a ... Citizen Required Licensing & Background Check Valid driver's license required DMV records check ...

Ferry Crewmember Location: Surry, VA 23883 Employment Type: Full-Time (W2) GovFirst is seeking a ... Valid driver's license required. * DMV records check required. * Pre-employment drug screening ...

Ferry Crewmember Location: Surry, VA 23883 Employment Type: Full-Time (W2) GovFirst is seeking a ... Valid driver's license required. * DMV records check required. * Pre-employment drug screening ...

Ferry Crewmember Location: Surry, VA 23883 Employment Type: Full-Time (W2) GovFirst is seeking a ... Valid driver's license required. * DMV records check required. * Pre-employment drug screening ...

... ferry boat crew, providing assistance in loading and unloading the vessel with vehicles ... Valid driver's license is required. DMV records check is required. Pre-employment drug screen is ...

New

next page

Showing results 1-20

Ferry Driver information

See salary details

$8

$16

$23

How much do ferry driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for ferry driver in the United States is $16.94, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.14 and $18.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are ferry drivers?

Ferry drivers, also known as ferry operators or captains, are professionals responsible for operating and navigating ferries that transport passengers, vehicles, and sometimes cargo across bodies of water. They ensure the safe and timely passage of the vessel, follow maritime regulations, and oversee the safety of everyone on board. In addition to piloting the ferry, they may also perform safety checks, communicate with harbor authorities, and assist in docking procedures.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Ferry Driver, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Ferry Driver, you need a valid maritime license, strong navigational skills, and knowledge of safety regulations and vessel operations. Familiarity with GPS systems, marine radios, and safety equipment is typically required, along with certifications like a Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC). Excellent communication, situational awareness, and customer service skills help in interacting with passengers and responding to emergencies. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient, and reliable ferry transport for all aboard.

What is the difference between Ferry Driver vs Boat Captain?

AspectFerry DriverBoat Captain
CredentialsDriver's license, commercial driver’s license (CDL) often requiredBoating license, captain’s license (depending on vessel size)
Work EnvironmentRoadways, ferry terminals, docksOpen water, lakes, rivers, ports
Industry UsagePublic transportation, commuter servicesPrivate charters, commercial shipping, passenger vessels
Common Search/ComparisonFerry Driver vs Boat Captain

Ferry Drivers primarily operate vehicles across bodies of water, often requiring a CDL and working in transportation settings. Boat Captains operate vessels on open water, requiring a captain’s license and navigating different environments. While both roles involve watercraft operation, their credentials, work environments, and industry applications differ significantly.

What are some common challenges faced by ferry drivers and how can they be managed?

Ferry drivers often encounter challenges such as navigating in varying weather conditions, managing tight docking schedules, and ensuring passenger safety at all times. Adapting to constantly changing tides and currents requires strong situational awareness and quick decision-making. Effective communication with crew members and coordination with shore personnel are essential for smooth operations. Ongoing training and adherence to safety protocols help ferry drivers manage these challenges and maintain a safe, reliable service.
More about Ferry Driver jobs
What cities are hiring for Ferry Driver jobs? Cities with the most Ferry Driver job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Ferry Driver jobs? The most popular types of Ferry Driver jobs are:
What states have the most Ferry Driver jobs? States with the most job openings for Ferry Driver jobs include:
Infographic showing various Ferry Driver job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,232 per year, or $16.9 per hour.

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Ferry Mate - Regular Full Time
GENERAL STATEMENT OF JOB
Under general supervision, performs tasks associated with safely transporting passengers to and from the Island via Ferry according to published schedules and approved Customer Service standards. Reports to the Ferry Master in command.
ILLUSTRATIVE EXAMPLES OF WORK
NOTE: The illustrative examples of work listed below are not an exhaustive list of duties and responsibilities performed by the position. The examples are intended to represent the level and type of work performed. This list is not to be considered or represent an employment contract.
Essential Functions:
Prepares vessel before operation by checking fuel and fluid levels; starts engine and records any problems.
Politely and cheerfully greets and boards passengers on ferry. Assists passengers by checking on them while in transit to ensure their safety and comfort.
Stands watch as directed by the captain while the ferry is underway. Responds to situations or passenger needs as they arise.
Secures boat at dock with at least two mooring lines; aligns passenger ramp with vessel and safely chains and secures the ramp to ensure safest loading/unloading of passengers. Stands by the ramp/ferry transition point to assist passengers and preclude accidents.
Performs basic janitorial functions on the ferry, i.e. pumps out heads, cleans heads and passenger cabin, washes windows, polishes brass, and empties trash cans.
Prepares trip reports, fuel, maintenance, and time logs for each shift under the direction of the captain
Upon completion of shift, assists Ferry Master by properly transitioning the ferry to the Ferry Master and crew on the following shift.
After operation, assists the Ferry Master by securing the ferry to the dock, performing all after operations maintenance checks, cleaning the ferry and shutting down systems.
Regularly participates in drills and exercises to meet USCG requirements for Man Overboard, Fire, Abandon Ship, Dewatering, Loss of Steering, Loss of Propulsion, Anchoring, and Security.
Work schedule includes days, evenings, weekends and holidays, outdoors in all weather conditions
Additional Functions:
Operates vessel under Ferry Master's direction and authorization, as needed.
From time to time, appropriately certified candidates with exemplary performance may be asked to perform the duties of a Relief Ferry Master. See certifications and credentials necessary as on file.
Performs other related work as required.
MINIMUM EDUCATION, TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE
Graduation from high school or equivalent, one year of experience in a position dealing directly with the public and some general knowledge of marine/boating industry; or an equivalent combination of training and experience to provide the required skills, knowledge and abilities.
SPECIAL REQUIREMENT (S)
Satisfy drug testing requirements as mandated by Coast Guard regulations.
First Aid and CPR training is required.
Must provide a workable point of contact at all times before, during, and after the workday.
Possession of a valid North Carolina driver's license.
Requires the ability to exert up to 50 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 25 pounds of force frequently, and/or up to 10 pounds of force constantly to move objects.
Requires the ability to traverse stairs and ladders between decks on a rocking vessel.
Required to enter enclosed compartments through hatches and scuttles and to work in hot, noisy environments adjacent to operating machinery, using appropriate safety equipment.
Requires the ability to work in extreme weather conditions; heat, cold, rain, and to remain standing for extended periods of time.
Bald Head Island Limited 2017