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Ferry Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Ferry Crewmember Location: Surry, VA 23883 Employment Type: Full-Time (W2) GovFirst is seeking a reliable and safety-focused Ferry Crewmember to support ferry vessel operations. This role serves as a ...

Ferry Crewmember Location: Surry, VA 23883 Employment Type: Full-Time (W2) GovFirst is seeking a reliable and safety-focused Ferry Crewmember to support ferry vessel operations. This role serves as a ...

$43K - $75K/yr

Multiple Ferry Chief Engineer positions will be filled from this posting. We will be filling positions for the following locations: Cedar Island, Cherry Branch, Currituck, Hatteras, Ocracoke, Pamlico ...

Ferry Crewmember

Surry, VA · On-site

$18/hr

U.S. Facilities, Inc., a consolidated facility management service company, is seeking a proven industry professional experienced Ferry Crewmember shall serve as a member of a ferry boat crew ...

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 ...

Surry, VA Employment Type: Full-Time (W2) GovFirst is seeking a qualified and experienced Designated Duty Engineer to support ferry operations at the Jamestown-Scotland Ferry in Surry, VA. This ...

Surry, VA Employment Type: Full-Time (W2) GovFirst is seeking a qualified and experienced Designated Duty Engineer to support ferry operations at the Jamestown-Scotland Ferry in Surry, VA. This ...

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Ferry information

See Virginia salary details

$16

$37

$75

How much do ferry jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for ferry in Virginia is $37.33, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $29.81 and $41.49 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a ferry?

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 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 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 are popular job titles related to Ferry jobs in Virginia?

For Ferry jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Ferry jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Ferry job openings:

Infographic showing various Ferry job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, and 24% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $77,644 per year, or $37.3 per hour.

$71K - $115K/yr

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago


Virginia Department Of Transportation rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 19 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

598th of 851 rated public administrative organizations


Job description


Pilot ferry vessel on designated waters, carrying passengers and vehicles. Ensure safety of passengers, crew and cargo. Obey all U.S. Coast Guard regulations governing ferry operations.
How you will contribute:
  • Miscellaneous: Others duties as directed to meet the needs of the ferry.
  • Passenger Management: Ensure passengers and vehicles are loaded and unloaded in a safe and orderly manner. Maintain accurate records of vehicles and passengers carried. Provide information and assistance to public as needed. Resolve issues with passengers.
  • Vessel Management: Pilot vessel following USCG and VDOT regulations and policies. Maintain posted schedule without any justified complaints. Maintain vessel readiness fur USCG inspections. Maintain ships log with all required information.
  • Vessel Security and Emergency Response: Ensure crew is alert to security violations and suspicious behavior. Perform all required drills and training. Supervise all emergency situations and ensure timely and appropriate actions taken. Check and secure all internal and external entry points that are not used for passenger access. Log and report violations and suspicious behavior.

  • What will make you successful:
  • Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing and to interact professionally with passengers and crew.
  • Ability to complete and maintain records and reports.
  • Ability to comply with appropriate U.S. Coast Guard and VDOT rules and regulations.
  • Ability to respond effectively in emergency situations.
  • Knowledge of ferry operations and safety and governing U.S. Coast Guard regulations.
  • Skill and ability to pilot ferry vessel safely.

  • Minimum Qualifications:
  • Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing and to interact professionally with passengers and crew.
  • Ability to complete and maintain records and reports.
  • Ability to comply with appropriate U.S. Coast Guard and VDOT rules and regulations.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain CPR with AED, Standard First Aid, and Blood Borne Pathogens (BBP) Combined Course.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain required certifications and licenses within designated period.
  • Ability to respond effectively in emergency situations.
  • Knowledge of U.S. Coast Guard regulations governing ferry operations.
  • Must hold a minimum MMC - endorsed as Master 1600 gross tons, Inland, Radar Observer Certificate, Marine Radio Operator Permit.
  • Skill and ability to pilot ferry vessel safely.
  • Transportation Workers Identification Credential (TWIC).
  • Valid driver's license.

  • Additional Considerations:
  • High school diploma or GED desired.

  • Click below to learn more about the Competency Model associated with this Position:
    Competency Model
    Physical Requirements
    Physical Requirements
    VDOT employees must abide by VDOTs Code of Ethics and the Commonwealths Standards of Conduct.
    VDOT Code of Ethics
    Standards of Conduct
    Qualifications
    Physical Requirements
    Physical Requirements

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