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Ferry Pilot Jobs in Baton Rouge, LA (NOW HIRING)

FERRYBOAT OPERATOR 1-3

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

$3.6K - $6.5K/mo

The incumbent operates an engine room and machinery on board or operates and pilots an "inspected" state owned ferry vessel as defined by the U.S. Coast Guard regulations. Specific duties assigned ...

Ferry Pilot information

See Baton Rouge, LA salary details

$38.8K

$102.7K

$157.7K

How much do ferry pilot jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for ferry pilot in Baton Rouge, LA is $102,710.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,500.00 and $121,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a ferry pilot?

Ferry pilots are professional aviators who specialize in transporting aircraft from one location to another, often over long distances or international borders. Their main responsibility is to deliver planes safely, whether for new aircraft delivery, post-maintenance relocation, or moving planes to new owners. Ferry pilots must be skilled in flying various types of aircraft and often face unique challenges such as unfamiliar routes, weather changes, and long solo flights. They play a crucial role in the aviation industry by ensuring that aircraft are positioned where they are needed most.

What does a ferry pilot do?

A ferry pilot transports aircraft from one location to another. Your duties usually focus on the transport of new or used aircraft from a manufacturer or seller to a buyer. Ferry flying can involve different types of airplanes, but when you pilot a ferry flight, the plane does not have passengers or cargo. You can also transport an aircraft to a specific location for maintenance or perform a return flight for an aircraft that provided one-way service to private clients. Some ferry pilots work with commercial airlines. Your responsibilities in this scenario involve moving aircraft to different airports where the airline needs them.

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

To thrive as a Ferry Pilot, you need a commercial pilot license, strong navigation skills, and extensive experience with various aircraft types. Familiarity with flight planning software, GPS navigation systems, and international aviation regulations is essential. Excellent decision-making, adaptability, and communication skills help manage unexpected situations and coordinate with clients and authorities. These skills ensure safe, efficient, and compliant delivery of aircraft across diverse and sometimes challenging routes.

What are some common challenges ferry pilots face during long-distance aircraft deliveries?

Ferry pilots often encounter unique challenges such as navigating unfamiliar airspace, managing fuel stops in remote locations, and adapting to rapidly changing weather conditions. Additionally, they may need to fly aircraft that are not fully equipped with advanced avionics or comfort features, requiring extra vigilance and preparation. Effective communication with air traffic control and coordination with ground support are also essential to ensure safe and timely deliveries, especially when crossing international borders.

What is the difference between Ferry Pilot vs Commercial Pilot?

AspectFerry PilotCommercial Pilot
CertificationsRequires a Commercial Pilot Certificate, often with additional type ratings for specific aircraftRequires a Commercial Pilot Certificate; may need additional ratings depending on the job
Work EnvironmentPrimarily flying aircraft between locations, often over long distances, with minimal passenger interactionVaries; includes aerial work, charter flights, and other paid flying activities
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by aircraft operators, ferry companies, and private owners for repositioning aircraftEmployed by charter companies, flight schools, and aerial service providers

Ferry pilots and commercial pilots both hold commercial certifications and operate aircraft, but ferry pilots focus on relocating aircraft between locations, often over long distances, while commercial pilots engage in a broader range of paid flying activities. Understanding these differences helps aspiring pilots choose the right career path.

What are popular job titles related to Ferry Pilot jobs in Baton Rouge, LA?

For Ferry Pilot jobs in Baton Rouge, LA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Ferry Pilot jobs in Baton Rouge, LA look for?

The top searched job categories for Ferry Pilot jobs in Baton Rouge, LA are:

Infographic showing various Ferry Pilot job openings in Baton Rouge, LA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 90% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $102,710 per year, or $49.4 per hour.

FERRYBOAT OPERATOR 1-3

Baton Rouge, LA


State of Louisiana
Public Administration • 10K+ employees

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 73 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

44th of 50 rated states

People enjoy working here

Recommended by parents

Respectful managers


$3.6K - $6.5K/mo

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago


Job description

About this Job Section 42 - Maintenance Systems Management **Applicants possessing a Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) with a Designated Duty Engineer (DDE) endorsement for motor vessels of less than 1,000 HP or higher are encouraged to apply.** At DOTD, our mission is to empower communities and improve lives by delivering responsive, inclusive, and forward-thinking public services. We are proud to serve the people of Louisiana with integrity, innovation, and a deep commitment to equity. About This Position: The incumbent operates an engine room and machinery on board or operates and pilots an "inspected" state owned ferry vessel as defined by the U.S

Coast Guard regulations. Specific duties assigned will be based on the license(s) held by the incumbent. While in official capacity, DOTD employees must comply with applicable Louisiana and Civil Services laws, rules and regulations, as well as DOTD policies, procedures, manuals, and directives.

Please visit our DOTD Career Center for more information about our agency: http://wwwsp.dotd.la.gov/Inside_LaDOTD/Divisions/Mgmt_Finance/HR/Pages/Career_Center.aspx Minimum Qualifications Two years of experience in marine operations plus one of the following U.S. Coast Guard credentials: 1. Able-Bodied Seaman (AB) 2

Qualified Member of the Engine Department (QMED) NOTE: Possession of a current Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) will be required at the time of appointment. Job Specification The official job specifications for this role, as defined by the State Civil Service, can be found here. Job Duties and Other Information Job Duties: Assumes responsibility, on an assigned shift, for the operation and routine maintenance of engine room and machinery aboard an "inspected" marine vessel (such as main propulsion diesel engines, main electrical generating plants, hydraulic systems, sanitation systems, pumping systems, electrical and lighting systems.) Maintains vigilant watch of engine room machinery while underway at engineer control station

Pilot ferries carrying vehicles and passengers on the Mississippi River and Calcasieu Ship Channel. Performs daily test of all engine shut downs, engine alarms, steering alarms and high bilge alarms. Checks all emergency lighting operational condition daily (checks battery chargers, battery condition and relays.) Checks all watertight door and hatches daily; maintains closed while underway

Serves as Vessel Security officers in accordance with Vessel Security Plan. Conducts fire, collision and security drills on a regular basis. Communicates with the U.S

Coast Guard Inspectors and Safety Officers on inspections and accidents. Maintains required engineering logs and records, and makes reports. Maintains and schedules all lubrication changes of machinery and equipment, ensures availability of necessary supplies and equipment for changes.

Maintains dry bilge compartments at all times; performs daily test of bilge pumps. Position Specific Details: Appointment Type: Probational, Promotional, or Job Appointment Career Progression: May be filled as a as Ferryboat Operator 1, 2, or 3 depending on the level of experience of the selected applicant(s). Compensation: Below is the starting hourly rate and premium pay amount for each level.

Ferryboat Operator 1 - 43,784.00 - 78,790.00 (Annually) Ferryboat Operator 2 - 50,128.00 - 90,210.0 (Annually) Ferryboat Operator 3 - 57,408.00 - 103,293.00 (Annually) You may be eligible to receive a 6.5g pay adjustment depending on qualifications. All 3 above levels have: Premium Pay for Hours Actually Worked of $2.00/Hour Shift Differential Pay of $1.75/Hour Please refer to the "Job Specifications" tab located at the top of the LA Careers "Current Job Opportunities" page of the Civil Service website for specific information on salary ranges, minimum qualification and job concepts for each level. This announcement will be used to fill multiple vacancies

How To Apply: No Civil Service test score is required in order to be considered for this vacancy. To apply for this vacancy, click on the "Apply" link above and complete an electronic application, which can be used for this vacancy as well as future job opportunities. Applicants are responsible for checking the status of their application to determine where they are in the recruitment process.

Further status message information is located under the Information section of the Current Job Opportunities page. * Information to support your eligibility for this job title must be included in the application (i.e., relevant, detailed experience/education). Resumes will not be accepted in lieu of completed education and experience sections

Applications may be rejected if incomplete. Contact Information: For further information about this vacancy contact: Steven Sibley Engineer 7 225-379-1820 The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) is an equal employment opportunity employer and serves as a model employer for individuals with disabilities. DOTD does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, political affiliation, disability, age, or pregnancy, and prohibits harassment of any type.

Information on the Louisiana Workforce Commission, Louisiana Rehabilitation Services is available: https://www.laworks.net/workforcedev/lrs/lrs_rehabilitation.asp Louisiana is a State As a Model Employer (SAME) that supports the recruitment, hiring, and retention of individuals with disabilities.


State of Louisiana logo

About State of Louisiana

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The State of Louisiana, based in Baton Rouge, LA, US, is not a traditional company per se, but a government body that oversees the administration of the state. As revealed on its official website, louisiana.gov, its wide range of services falls within public administration industry, including education, healthcare, infrastructure, environment conservation, and law enforcement. Founded in 1806, the State of Louisiana’s mission is to ensure a high quality of life for its residents by effectively managing public resources, enforcing laws, and fostering economic growth. Its most notable achievements include the successful implementation of its Coastal Master Plan, aimed at conserving Louisiana's extensive coastline, and the dramatic overhaul of its public education system.

Industry

Public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Baton Rouge, LA, US

Year founded

1812

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