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Ferry Driver Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

Harris County Toll Road Authority

Deck Hand I

Houston, TX · On-site

$20 - $28/hr

Directs, spaces, and parks vehicles on the ferry deck. Maintains security on deck, observing ... Valid Texas driver's license Participation in a random drug and alcohol testing program. Knowledge ...

AT&T

Installation Technician

Liberty, TX · On-site

$50K/yr

Possess a valid state driver's license * Lift and move up-to 60 lbs - some of our ladders weigh 50 ... TN:Hendersonville / Walton Ferry Rd - Co:121 Walton Ferry Rd It is the policy of AT&T to provide ...

AECOM

Senior Project Manager

Houston, TX · On-site

... cruise and ferry terminals, marinas and harbors as well as coastal schemes such as beach ... Valid Drivers License is required for this position. Preferred Qualifications : * Professional ...

All JobsFerry Driver JobsFerry Driver Jobs in Texas

Ferry Driver information

See Texas salary details

$8

$15

$21

How much do ferry driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for ferry driver in Texas is $15.78, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.09 and $17.02 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do you make driving a ferry?

Ferry drivers typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and employer. Many ferry operators are paid hourly, with shifts that may include weekends and holidays, and require a valid commercial driver's license or specialized certification.

How much does a ferry driver get?

Ferry drivers typically earn between $30,000 and $60,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and employer. Many ferry drivers are paid hourly, with rates often ranging from $15 to $25 per hour, and may receive benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans.

What qualifications do I need to work on a ferry?

Ferry drivers typically need a valid driver's license, often a commercial driver's license (CDL), and must pass a background check and medical exam. They may also require training in safety procedures, vessel operation, and customer service skills, depending on the employer and jurisdiction.

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.

What jobs make $3,000 a month without a degree?

Ferry drivers can earn around $3,000 or more per month, especially with overtime, seniority, or working in high-demand areas. Other jobs that may reach this income level without a degree include commercial truck drivers, sales representatives, and certain skilled trades like HVAC technicians, which often require certifications rather than degrees.
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What cities in Texas are hiring for Ferry Driver jobs? Cities in Texas with the most Ferry Driver job openings:
Ferry Driver jobs near you
Infographic showing various Ferry Driver job openings in Texas as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 27% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,824 per year, or $15.8 per hour.

Oiler - Ferry Maintenance Tech I

Texas Department of Transportation

Galveston, TX • On-site

$40K - $61K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago

Texas Department Of Transportation rating

8.9

Company rating: 8.9 out of 10

Based on 38 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

117th of 836 rated public administrative organizations

Job description

Position Information
TxDOT's Galveston-Bolivar Ferry Operations is looking to hire safety orientated Ferryboat Oiler who value their personal time while still able to work as a merchant mariner. TxDOT Galveston-Bolivar Ferry is a 24/7, 365 days inland maritime operation based out of Galveston, Texas.
We safely transport vehicles and passengers on a 3-mile route between Galveston and Port Bolivar, Texas. TxDOT provides a variety of resources to help our employees succeed.
Benefits and Perks
At TxDOT, we value work-life balance and are committed to providing our employees with a comprehensive range of benefits and programs, including:
  • Retirement Plans
  • Alternative and/or Flexible Work Schedules
  • Paid Leave and Holidays
  • Health Premiums paid at 100% for Full-Time Employees
  • On-the-Job Training
  • Tuition Assistance Program
  • Holistic Wellness Program with Leave Incentives
  • Career Development and Advancement Opportunities
  • Family-Friendly Policies and Programs

In 2024, TxDOT was recognized as a Best Place for Working Parents, and many of our offices statewide are also designated as Texas Mother-Friendly Worksites. These recognitions reflect our dedication to supporting families and promoting a healthy work-life balance.
For a complete list of our total compensation package please visit our website at: Total Compensation Package
To view benefits available to all State of Texas employees visit: Benefits at a Glance | ERS (texas.gov)
Position Description
Assists in routine maintenance and repair of ferryboats, landings, shore facilities, marine equipment/machinery and/or grounds. Work requires frequent contact with private entities. Employees at this level follow standard practices that do not require frequent supervision of details.
Essential Duties:
  • Assists in the major repair or overhaul of machinery, equipment and/or systems.
  • Assists with daily log of watch activities, operating machinery and equipment statistics.
  • Cleans engine room, washes down ferryboats, chips rust and paints ferryboats as needed.
  • Cleans shop and maintains grounds.
  • Assists in performing routine ferryboat maintenance and repair work including, but not limited to, refueling, changing oil, lubricating parts and machinery, replacing batteries, changing cables and cleaning and pumping out bilges.
  • Participates in periodic all hands drills and emergency exercises.
  • Performs other job responsibilities as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:
Licenses and Certifications:
  • Valid driver's license. This position requires driving a state vehicle.
  • Must have required US Coast Guard (USCG) certifications an/or documents appropriate for the position and vessel being operated.
  • For Galveston Ferry Operations: Must have or obtain a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) at time of hire.
  • USCG-Mer Mar Doc-Ord Seaman/Wi (must have within 90 days of hire)

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Merchant Mariner Document Wiper

Competencies:
  • Some knowledge of:
    Fundamentals of electrical/electronics and design procedures
    Methods and procedures used in the maintenance and repair of marine equipment, machinery, facilities and ferryboats
    Applicable industry safety standards, guidelines, and specification codes
    Applicable laws, rules, and regulations
  • Some skill in:
    Public relations for maintaining effective working relationships with individuals and groups, both internal and external
    Fire fighting
    Using applicable hand and power tools, equipment, and mechanical devices of the trade
    Maintaining a safe and effective working relationship with others

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions:
  • Subject to noise
  • Subject to vibration
  • Subject to hazards - moving vehicles/mechanical parts, high places/heat, or chemicals
  • Medium work: Lift up to 50 lbs. at a time and frequently lift or carry objects up to 25 lbs.
  • Climbing - ascending/descending ladders, stairs, scaffoldings, ramps, etc.
  • Kneeling - bending legs at knee to come to a rest on knee(s)
  • Reaching - extending hand(s) and arm(s) in any direction
  • Walking - moving on foot to accomplish tasks: long distance/from one work site to another
  • Talking - expressing or exchanging ideas by spoken words
  • Hearing - perceive sound at normal speaking levels; receive information by oral communication

Conditions of Employment:
Please click this link to read the standard conditions of employment for all positions: Standard Conditions of Employment (TxDOT)
  • This job has been identified as physically demanding and will require a pre-employment physical.
  • Must pass a drug test prior to employment for safety impact positions. This is a Safety Impact position and will be subject to random drug testing.
    • Please note that the Department of Transportation's Drug and Alcohol Testing Regulation - 49 CFR Part 40, at 40.151(e) - does not authorize "medical marijuana" under a state law to be a valid medical explanation for a positive drug test result for an employee in this position.

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