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State Ferry Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Ferry Engineer Relief

Rockland, ME · On-site

$26.17 - $36.62/hr

If you are a current State of Maine employee, please submit your application through the internal ... Maine State Ferry Service Location : Rockland, ME Opening Date : May 29, 2026 Closing Date: June 29 ...

Ferry Engineer Relief

Rockland, ME · On-site

$26.17 - $36.62/hr

If you are a current State of Maine employee, please submit your application through the internal ... Maine State Ferry Service Location : Rockland, ME Opening Date : May 29, 2026 Closing Date: June 29 ...

Ferry Engineer - Relief

Rockland, ME · On-site

$26.17 - $36.62/hr

If you are a current State of Maine employee, please submit your application through the internal ... Maine State Ferry Service Location : Rockland, ME Opening Date : May 29, 2026 Closing Date: June 29 ...

Knowledge of State, Federal, and U.S. Coast Guard laws and regulations regarding occupational ... and Ferry Division Policy. Minimum Education and Experience Some state job postings say you can ...

Ferry Chief Engineer

Cedar Island, NC · On-site

$43K - $75K/yr

Knowledge of State, Federal, and U.S. Coast Guard laws and regulations regarding occupational ... and Ferry Division Policy. Minimum Education and Experience Some state job postings say you can ...

Knowledge of State, Federal, and U.S. Coast Guard laws and regulations regarding occupational ... and Ferry Division Policy. Minimum Education and Experience Some state job postings say you can ...

$43K - $75K/yr

Knowledge of State, Federal, and U.S. Coast Guard laws and regulations regarding occupational ... and Ferry Division Policy. Minimum Education and Experience Some state job postings say you can ...

$43K - $75K/yr

Knowledge of State, Federal, and U.S. Coast Guard laws and regulations regarding occupational ... and Ferry Division Policy. Minimum Education and Experience Some state job postings say you can ...

Ferry Chief Engineer

Southport, NC · On-site

$43K - $75K/yr

Knowledge of State, Federal, and U.S. Coast Guard laws and regulations regarding occupational ... and Ferry Division Policy. Minimum Education and Experience Some state job postings say you can ...

City Ferry, part of Hornblower Group's Ferry and Transportation Division, is the largest private ... Ensure compliance with all applicable local, state and federal safety and environmental regulations ...

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State Ferry information

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$5

$16

$18

How much do state ferry jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for state ferry in the United States is $16.83, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $18.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do NC ferry workers make?

Ferry workers, including deckhands and captains, typically earn between $30,000 and $60,000 annually, depending on experience and position. Salaries can vary based on location, seniority, and union agreements, with some roles offering additional benefits such as overtime pay and certifications in safety and navigation.

How much does a ferry master get paid?

A ferry master typically earns between $50,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the size of the ferry operation. They are responsible for navigation, safety, and crew management, often requiring certifications such as a captain's license. Salaries can vary based on the employer and regional industry standards.

What are state ferry workers and what do they do?

State ferry workers are employees who operate and maintain ferries that transport passengers, vehicles, and goods across bodies of water, typically under the management of a state government. Their roles can include positions such as ferry captains, deckhands, engineers, ticket agents, and customer service staff. They are responsible for ensuring the safe and efficient operation of ferry vessels, assisting passengers, performing safety checks, and maintaining vessel cleanliness. State ferry workers play a crucial role in public transportation systems, especially in regions where waterways are a key part of daily travel.

What are some common challenges faced by State Ferry crew members, and how can new hires prepare for them?

State Ferry crew members often encounter challenges such as adapting to variable weather conditions, managing passenger safety, and working irregular hours, including nights and weekends. New hires can prepare by familiarizing themselves with maritime safety protocols, maintaining physical fitness, and developing strong teamwork and communication skills. Crew members regularly collaborate to ensure smooth operations and passenger comfort, so being adaptable and proactive is essential for success in this role.

How much do ferry workers make?

Ferry workers' salaries vary depending on location, experience, and specific roles, but the average annual pay ranges from $30,000 to $60,000. Positions such as deckhands, captains, and ticket agents may have different pay scales, with certifications and safety training often required. Many ferry jobs also offer benefits and opportunities for overtime.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a State Ferry Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a State Ferry Operator, you generally need a valid Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC), a high school diploma, and knowledge of maritime operations and safety protocols. Familiarity with navigation systems, marine radio communication equipment, and safety management systems is essential. Excellent situational awareness, teamwork, and strong problem-solving skills help operators manage emergencies and provide safe, efficient service. These competencies are critical to ensuring the safety of passengers and crew, as well as the reliable operation of ferry services.

What is the difference between State Ferry vs Marine Deckhand?

AspectState FerryMarine Deckhand
Required CertificationsMaritime licenses, STCW certificationSTCW certification, basic safety training
Work EnvironmentPassenger vessels, scheduled routes, port terminalsCommercial ships, cargo or passenger vessels, onboard deck
Employer & Industry UsageState transportation agencies, public ferry servicesShipping companies, maritime industry
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between a State Ferry and a Marine Deckhand lies in their roles and work environment. A State Ferry primarily operates passenger vessels for public transportation, requiring specific maritime licenses and working within government-run services. A Marine Deckhand supports vessel operations across various ships, focusing on maintenance, safety, and deck duties, often in commercial shipping. Both roles require STCW certification, but their work settings and employer types differ significantly.

What do I need to work on a ferry?

To work as a ferry crew member, you typically need a valid maritime or safety certification, such as a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) or equivalent, and relevant experience in maritime operations or customer service. Physical fitness, good communication skills, and the ability to work in a team environment are also important requirements.
More about State Ferry jobs
What cities are hiring for State Ferry jobs? Cities with the most State Ferry job openings:
What states have the most State Ferry jobs? States with the most job openings for State Ferry jobs include:
What job categories do people searching State Ferry jobs look for? The top searched job categories for State Ferry jobs are:
Infographic showing various State Ferry job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 93% Full Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,000 per year, or $16.8 per hour.
Assistant Ferry Port Engineer - Rockland

Assistant Ferry Port Engineer - Rockland

State of Maine

Rockland, ME • On-site

$54K - $76K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


State Of Maine rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 88 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

4th of 50 rated states


Job description

If you are a current State of Maine employee, please submit your application through the internal application process using the Find Jobs report in PRISM. Seasonal employees who do not have PRISM access should apply through the State's career page and indicate on the application that they have previously worked for the State.
Maine Department of Transportation
Salary: $54,412.80 - $76,315.20 (Salary Schedule)
*The salary above includes a 9.5% stipend*
Office/Bureau: Maine State Ferry Service
Location: Rockland, ME
Opening Date: June 15, 2026
Closing Date: June 29, 2026
Job Description:
This is profession services work of a technical nature in assisting with and overseeing Marine Engineering Programs and Services for Maine State Ferry Service (MSFS). Responsibilities include serving as the principle consultant to the Ferry Port Engineer, assisting in marine engineering matters, overseeing repair and preventative maintenance systems, as well as the design of new ferry service vessels and their construction. The work involves coordinating scheduling, contracting, planning, directing and overseeing maintenance and preventative repair programs; and ensuring compliance with all federal, state and United States Coast Guard requirements in support of management directives. An employee in this classification serves on any vessel as the engineer-in-charge for emergency operations and provides high-level technical expertise and direction to assigned MSFS Ferry Engineers. The distinguishing characteristic of this classification from the next lower classification, Ferry engineer, is its technical role by serving as a resource and subject matter expert and by conferring, advising, and consulting with the Ferry engineers, Ferry Port Engineer, Ferry Director, and Ferry Captains in overseeing and managing various programs and services as assigned to ensure the operational readiness of MSFS fleet. This position reports to the Ferry Port Engineer. Work is preformed under limited supervision.
To be minimally qualified for this position candidates must provide evidence of the following experience:
5 years of experience in the operation, maintenance, and repair of marine vessels, engines, auxiliary equipment, and facilities including experience in preventative maintenance systems and structures.
Required to have a current TWIC Card - Transportation Worker Identification Credential Card. Card is provided by TSA -Transportation Security Administration.
Licensing/Registration/Certification Requirements:
USCG license as Marine Engineer for Horse Power of largest vessel owned by the State.
Application Instructions:
Interested applicants need to apply online by clicking the "Apply for this Opening/Apply Now" button along with uploading a cover letter, current resume, and any applicable copies of post-secondary transcripts, licensing, registration, and certifications.
If you have general questions, please contact Maine State Ferry Service Human Resources Specialist Erica Cyr at 207-441-4741 or via email at erica.cyr@maine.gov
Why join our team?
No matter where you work across Maine state government, you find employees who embody our state motto-"Dirigo" or "I lead"-as they provide essential services to Mainers every day. We believe in supporting our workforce's health and wellbeing with a valuable total compensation package, including:
  • Work-Life Fit - Rest is essential. Take time for yourself using 13 paid holidays, and 3+ weeks of vacation leave annually. Vacation leave accrual increases with years of service, and overtime-exempt employees receive personal leave.
  • Wellness - We care about you and your family's wellbeing, offering 12 days of sick leave annually to help you stay healthy.
  • Health Insurance Coverage - The State of Maine pays 85%-95% of employee-only premiums ($11,196.96 - $12,514.32 annual value), depending on salary. Use this chart to find the premium costs for you and your family, including the percentage of dependent coverage paid by the State.
  • Dental Insurance - The State of Maine pays 100% of employee-only dental premiums ($358.08 annual value).
  • Retirement Plan - The State contributes the equivalent of 14.11% of the employee's pay towards the Maine Public Employees Retirement System (MainePERS).

State employees are eligible for an extensive and highly competitive benefits package, covering many aspects of wellness. Learn about additional wellness benefits for State employees from the Office of Employee Health and Wellness.
Note: Benefits may vary somewhat according to specific collective bargaining agreements and are prorated for anything less than full-time.
There's a job and then there's purposeful, transformative work. Our aim is to create a workplace where you can learn, grow, and continuously refine your skills. Applicants demonstrate job requirements in differing ways, and we appreciate that many skills and backgrounds can make people successful in this role.
As an Equal Opportunity employer, Maine State Government embraces a culture of respect and awareness. We are committed to creating a strong sense of belonging for all team members, and our process ensures an inclusive environment to applicants of all backgrounds including diverse race, color, sex, sexual orientation or gender identity, physical or mental disability, religion, age, ancestry, national origin, familial status, or genetics.
If you're looking for a great next step, and want to feel good about what you do, we'd love to hear from you. Please note reasonable accommodations are provided to qualified individuals with disabilities upon request.
Thinking about applying?
Research shows that people from historically excluded communities tend to apply to jobs only when they check every box in the posting. If you're currently reading this and hesitating to apply for that reason, we encourage you to go for it! Let us know how your lived experience and passion set you apart.
If you are unable to complete the online application, please contact the Human Resources representative listed on the job opening you are interested in applying for. They will work with you for an alternative method of submitting.

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