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Ferry Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Ferry Health, Inc

Product Designer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

About Ferry Ferry is fixing the way people navigate healthcare. Today, patients and medical staff waste countless hours on the phone, struggling through complex insurance policies and outdated ...

Ferry Health, Inc

Software Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

About Ferry Ferry is fixing the way people navigate healthcare. For too long, patients and medical staff have wasted countless hours on the phone, stuck navigating complex insurance policies and ...

Hornblower

Marine Operations - Deckhand

San Diego, CA · On-site

$18/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

Waterbus Deckhand

Marina Del Rey, CA · On-site

$18/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 ...

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All JobsFerry JobsFerry Jobs in California

Ferry information

See California salary details

$16

$37

$74

How much do ferry jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for ferry in California is $37.16, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $29.66 and $41.30 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Ferry position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Ferry Operator or Ferry Crew Member, you need knowledge of maritime safety procedures, vessel operation, and typically a relevant maritime certification such as a Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) or state boat operator’s license. Proficiency with navigation tools, communication radios, and basic mechanical systems is usually required to ensure safe passage and vessel functionality. Strong customer service skills, teamwork, and the ability to remain calm under pressure help you succeed in passenger-facing situations. These skills are crucial for maintaining passenger safety, punctual service, and efficient ferry operations.

What is a Ferry job?

A ferry job typically involves working on a boat or ship that transports passengers, vehicles, or goods across bodies of water. Positions can range from deckhands and captains to ticketing agents and engineers. Responsibilities may include ensuring passenger safety, operating and maintaining the vessel, and assisting with loading and unloading. Ferry jobs often require maritime training, licensing, and knowledge of navigation and safety protocols. The work environment can vary depending on the route, vessel size, and employer.

What boat job pays the most?

The highest-paying boat jobs typically include marine captains and vessel masters, who oversee operations and navigation. These roles require extensive experience, certifications such as a captain's license, and often involve long hours and responsibility for passenger or cargo safety. Salaries can range from $80,000 to over $150,000 annually depending on the vessel type and location.

How much money does a ferry worker make?

Ferry workers' salaries vary depending on location, experience, and specific roles, but the average annual pay ranges from $30,000 to $60,000. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced crew members or supervisors can earn higher wages, often supplemented with benefits and overtime opportunities.

What are the typical work hours and scheduling expectations for ferry crew positions?

Ferry crew positions often require working in shifts that may include early mornings, late evenings, weekends, and holidays, as ferry services typically operate outside of standard business hours to meet public or commuter demand. Schedules can vary based on the route and employer, but rotations may include several days on followed by days off, especially for longer routes. Crew members should be prepared for variable weather conditions and periods of downtime while the vessel is docked. Teamwork is essential, as you’ll be collaborating closely with other crew members to manage passenger safety, vessel operations, and customer service. Flexibility and a willingness to adapt to changing schedules are important for success in this dynamic environment.

What do Washington state ferry workers make?

Ferry workers, such as deckhands and operators, typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience and position. They often receive benefits like health insurance and retirement plans, and may work shifts that include weekends and holidays.

What qualifications do I need to work on a ferry?

To work on a ferry, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, relevant certifications such as a Merchant Mariner Credential or STCW certification, and a valid driver's license if operating vehicles. Additionally, good communication skills, physical fitness, and the ability to work in a team environment are important.
What are popular job titles related to Ferry jobs in California? For Ferry jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Ferry jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Ferry jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Ferry jobs? Cities in California with the most Ferry job openings:
Ferry jobs near you
Infographic showing various Ferry job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $77,290 per year, or $37.2 per hour.

Casual Ferry Operations Supervisor

Golden Gate Bridge, Highway & Transportation District

Larkspur, CA • On-site

$54.20 - $65.56/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

Position Summary

Under general direction, oversees the daily operation of assigned terminal/s (Larkspur, San Francisco and Sausalito) and coordinates with associated vessel/s. Responsible for safety of passengers and crew, terminal security, and ticketing procedures. Provides work directions for personnel assigned on said locations. Regulates concession operations at terminals and aboard vessels; coordinates maintenance staff responsible for cleanliness and maintenance of terminals; makes recommendations; enforces policies and procedures relating to Ferry and terminal operations; and perform related duties as required. This position requires the ability to establish effective professional relations with peers and subordinates. The Ferry Operations Supervisor must be able to direct others clearly, make decisions, set goals and standards to provide excellent customer service, and develop plans for achieving them. This position will require weekend, night and holiday schedules.

Essential Responsibilities

  • Supervises staffing of terminals relative to vessel schedules and passenger demand to include relief crews.
  • Monitors staffing of scheduled vessel crew and coordinates necessary relief crew members to ensure timely boarding of passengers and scheduled vessel departures.
  • Supervises terminal operations in the day-to-day delivery of public transit services including adherence to Ferry division’s operating and safety policy and procedures.
  • Ensures that excellent customer service is provided at all times.
  • Operates, supervises, and trains personnel on the operation of the hydraulic ramp/gangway system and diesel emergency power generator.
  • Establishes and maintains effective professional relationships with subordinates through communication and coaching.
  • Ensures clear and timely communications with customers in and adjacent to the terminal especially when vessel delays are encountered or anticipated.
  • Manages revenue collection, ticket stock, and resolution of revenue/sales related discrepancies and/or disputes.
  • Ensures Ferry division’s payroll procedures are followed and terminal assistants are clocking in and completing their timesheets consistent with District policy.
  • Prepares reports regarding accidents, safety infractions, incidents, and violations of terminal instructions.
  • Oversees the issue and inventory of Casual Deckhand and Terminal Assistant uniform items.
  • Oversees storage and disposition of "lost and found" properties.
  • Ensures preventative maintenance work-orders are scheduled and completed through the District’s maintenance management information system MAXIMO.
  • Ensures that all discrepancies including those that are safety related, are reported and entered into the District’s terminal and vessel inspections for safety and general maintenance, and corrective action.
  • Conducts training and performance reviews of Terminal Assistants.
  • Investigates frontline passenger complaints and settles fare disputes.
  • Processes supply requisitions and oversees proper and safe use of vessel and terminal supplies and their inventory, exercising cost efficiency.
  • Responsible for accurately recording vehicle license plates and facilitating issuance of parking violations at the Larkspur ferry terminal.
  • Monitors Bus and Ferry route interfacing.
  • Coordinates special events and group trips at the terminal.
  • Interprets District’s Memorandum of Understanding for terminal assistants and deckhands.
  • Ensures that employees under his or her supervision follow established safe work practices and obey all safety rules.
  • Performs additional related duties as assigned.
  • Regular and reliable attendance and performance required.

Company Description

Based in San Francisco, the Golden Gate Bridge, Highway and Transportation District operates the Golden Gate Bridge, and two public transit systems: Golden Gate Transit buses and Golden Gate Ferry. Last year, 38 million vehicles crossed the Golden Gate Bridge and over 9 million customers rode the transit systems.

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