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Ferry Operator Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Hornblower

City Cruises DC - Host/Hostess

Washington, DC · On-site

$18.40/hr

City Ferry, part of Hornblower Group's Ferry and Transportation Division, is the largest private operator of high-speed passenger and vehicle ferries in the United States, carrying more than 10 ...

City Cruises

Deckhand

Alexandria, VA

City Ferry, part of Hornblower Group's Ferry and Transportation Division, is the largest private operator of high-speed passenger and vehicle ferries in the United States, carrying more than 10 ...

City Cruises

Restaurant Supervisor

Washington, DC · On-site

City Ferry, part of Hornblower Group's Ferry and Transportation Division, is the largest private operator of high-speed passenger and vehicle ferries in the United States, carrying more than 10 ...

Hornblower

City Cruises DC - Deckhand

Washington, DC · On-site

$17.95/hr

City Ferry, part of Hornblower Group's Ferry and Transportation Division, is the largest private operator of high-speed passenger and vehicle ferries in the United States, carrying more than 10 ...

Hornblower

City Cruises DC - Dishwasher

Washington, DC · On-site

$17.95/hr

City Ferry, part of Hornblower Group's Ferry and Transportation Division, is the largest private operator of high-speed passenger and vehicle ferries in the United States, carrying more than 10 ...

City Cruises

Captain Exempt

Washington, DC

City Ferry, part of Hornblower Group's Ferry and Transportation Division, is the largest private operator of high-speed passenger and vehicle ferries in the United States, carrying more than 10 ...

City Cruises

Deckhand

Washington, DC · On-site

City Ferry, part of Hornblower Group's Ferry and Transportation Division, is the largest private operator of high-speed passenger and vehicle ferries in the United States, carrying more than 10 ...

Hornblower

City Cruises DC - Server

Washington, DC · On-site

$17.95/hr

City Ferry, part of Hornblower Group's Ferry and Transportation Division, is the largest private operator of high-speed passenger and vehicle ferries in the United States, carrying more than 10 ...

TPC Network

Equipment Operator I

Potomac, MD · On-site

$18 - $18.50/hr

The Club has hosted over 20 championships for the PGA TOUR, PGA TOUR Champions and the Korn Ferry ... The Equipment Operator I is an entry-level position and is to operate equipment and/or to perform ...

TPC Network

Equipment Operator I

Potomac, MD

$18.50/hr

The Club has hosted over 20 championships for the PGA TOUR, PGA TOUR Champions and the Korn Ferry ... The Equipment Operator I is an entry-level position and is to operate equipment and/or to perform ...

Fairfax Water

General Manager

Fairfax, VA · On-site

Oversee operating and capital budgets, including a large-scale, long-term capital improvement ... Fairfax Water has engaged the executive search firm, Korn Ferry, to manage the recruitment of its ...

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All JobsFerry Operator JobsFerry Operator Jobs in Washington

Ferry Operator information

See Washington salary details

$13

$27

$40

How much do ferry operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for ferry operator in Washington is $27.70, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.12 and $34.04 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Ferry Operator vs Boat Captain?

AspectFerry OperatorBoat Captain
Required CredentialsCommercial driver's license or ferry-specific certificationCaptain's license or maritime certification
Work EnvironmentFerry terminals, waterways, urban routesOpen water, various vessel types, maritime settings
Employer & IndustryPublic transit agencies, ferry servicesPrivate boat companies, maritime industry
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Ferry Operators primarily work in urban transit environments operating ferries on scheduled routes, often under public transit agencies. Boat Captains may work on a variety of vessels in open waters, requiring maritime certifications. While both roles involve vessel operation, Ferry Operators focus on passenger transit in specific waterways, whereas Boat Captains may handle diverse vessels in different maritime settings.

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

To thrive as a Ferry Operator, you need a solid understanding of maritime navigation, vessel operation, and safety procedures, often supported by a relevant maritime license such as a Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC). Familiarity with GPS navigation systems, marine radios, and emergency response equipment is typically required. Strong situational awareness, communication skills, and the ability to remain calm under pressure distinguish top performers in this role. These skills and qualities are vital for ensuring passenger safety, efficient ferry operations, and quick response to any emergencies on the water.

What does a ferry operator do?

A ferry operator is responsible for operating and navigating ferry boats that transport passengers, vehicles, and goods across bodies of water. Their duties include ensuring the safe embarkation and disembarkation of passengers, monitoring weather and water conditions, maintaining communication with port authorities, and performing routine checks on the vessel's equipment. Ferry operators must also enforce safety regulations, respond to emergencies, and provide customer service during the voyage. This role requires a strong understanding of maritime laws, navigation skills, and often specific licensing or certification.

What qualifications do I need to work as a ferry operator?

Ferry operators typically need a valid driver's license, good communication skills, and the ability to operate vessel controls safely. Many positions require a maritime or transportation-related certification, such as a captain's license or a commercial driver's license, along with relevant experience in boat handling or navigation.

What are some typical challenges faced by ferry operators during daily operations?

Ferry operators often encounter challenges such as navigating in adverse weather conditions, maintaining strict adherence to safety protocols, and ensuring timely departures despite fluctuating passenger and vehicle loads. They must also coordinate closely with crew members and port staff to manage boarding, disembarkation, and any unexpected situations, such as mechanical issues or emergency drills. Effective communication and problem-solving skills are essential for handling these dynamic aspects of the role.
What cities in Washington are hiring for Ferry Operator jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Ferry Operator job openings:
Ferry Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Ferry Operator job openings in Washington as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 2% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,614 per year, or $27.7 per hour.

City Cruises DC - Traffic Attendant

Hornblower

Washington, DC • On-site

$17.95/hr

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday

Hornblower rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 18 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

6th of 9 rated cruise lines

Job description

Hornblower Group is a global leader in experience and transportation. Spanning a 100-year history, Hornblower Group's portfolio of international offerings includes water- and land-based experiences and ferry and transportation services. City Experiences, Hornblower Group's premier experience division, offers dining and sightseeing cruises and walking and food tours through the City Cruises, Walks, and Devour brands. City Ferry, part of Hornblower Group's Ferry and Transportation Division, is the largest private operator of high-speed passenger and vehicle ferries in the United States, carrying more than 10 million passengers annually and operating services including NYC Ferry, Puerto Rico Ferry, and other regional ferry systemsHornblower Group's subsidiaries include Hornblower Marine, which provides vessel outhaul and maintenance services at Bridgeport Boatworks in Bridgeport, Connecticut, and Seaward Services, Inc., a full-service shipping, waterfront logistics and management company that specializes in the operation and maintenance of government and commercial vessels. Additionally, Anchor Operating System, LLC, a Hornblower Group subsidiary and independent entity, provides reservation, ticketing and website integration services for clients in the transportation, tourism and entertainment industries. Today, Hornblower Group's global portfolio covers over 10 countries, over 50 U.S. cities and serves more than 20 million guests annually. Headquartered in Orlando, Florida, Hornblower Group's additional corporate offices reside in San Francisco, California; Boston, Massachusetts; Chicago, Illinois; London, United Kingdom; New York, New York; Dublin, Ireland; and across Ontario, Canada. For more information, visit hornblowercorp.com.
Position Summary:
The successful Traffic Attendant will be the stage for the perfect guest experience upon boarding our amazing cruises. Will provide exceptional guest service by ensuring the best accommodations for parking services and pier guided services of guests and groups from bus drop off locations, to and from boarding dock.
Duties and Responsibilities:
  • This role is an outdoor role that will require thetransportation aide to serve as a guest service liaison to manage traffic flow of guests and transport groups/ charters to designated docking area.
  • Greeting and assisting guests as they arrive/ depart the cruise vessel.
  • Managing the boarding area and ensuring efficient traffic flow through the location.
  • Answer guest questions about parking, vessel information, cruises & more.
  • Assist in regulating the movement and flow of vehicles to avoid traffic congestion
  • Resolve guest problems within the scope of authority, otherwise refer to the supervisor/manager on duty
  • Ensure guests are operating their vehicles safely and responsibly in accordance with traffic laws while directing traffic flow
  • Communicate to guest professionally when problems arise
  • Load and unload guests at bus zone who are actively cruising
  • Direct bus drivers to recommended parking
  • Direct/guide guests from bus zone to the vessels
  • Assist ticket booth with the execution of guests

Other Duties and Responsibilities
  • Additional job duties as assigned.

Requirements & Qualifications:
  • Must have a minimum of 1 year customer service experience
  • Ability to work in an outdoor environment as transportation aide
  • Possess strong communication skills and guest service while maintaining professional demeanor.
  • A positive, upbeat personality that sets the tone and example for the entire team.
  • Ability to work well with others.
  • A passion for providing outstanding customer service, and a commitment to demonstrating and teaching guest service skills to others.
  • Able to maintain a patient, calm and a pleasant demeanor in hectic, challenging circumstances
  • Ability to multi-task and to assess and adjust priorities and interactions with multiple guests.
  • Possesses an upbeat, "can-do" attitude.
  • A sense of humor that keeps things light even under challenging conditions.
  • Ability to work in a standing position hour at a time

#CityCruisesUS
The RESPECT Service System embodies our mission, vision, values and operating principles. By creating a company culture that puts RESPECT at its core, we believe it will drive us to achieve our goal of becoming a Global Experiences and Transportation Leader.
EEO / Disabled / Protected Veteran Employer. Hornblower is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. We offer equal employment opportunities to all qualified individuals and prohibit discrimination and/or harassment of any type, including but not limited to discrimination and or harassment based upon race, religion, religious creed, color, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, age, pregnancy or relation medical conditions, childbirth, breastfeeding, parental status, veteran and/or military status, disability (physical or mental), medical condition, genetic information or characteristics, political affiliation, domestic violence survivor status, marital status, or other characteristics prohibited by federal, state, or local law. Additionally, as a federal, state, and local contractor, Hornblower complies with government regulations, including affirmative action responsibilities for qualified individuals, where and as they apply. The company also participates in the E-Verify program in certain locations.

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