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State Ferry Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Nc

$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 ...

Hornblower

Dishwasher | City Cruises Norfolk

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$12.50 - $16.25/hr

City Ferry, part of Hornblower Group's Ferry and Transportation Division, is the largest private ... Additionally, as a federal, state, and local contractor, Hornblower complies with government ...

Hornblower

Server | City Cruises Norfolk

Norfolk, VA · On-site

City Ferry, part of Hornblower Group's Ferry and Transportation Division, is the largest private ... Must meet minimum state age requirements. * Strong customer service, organization, and ...

City Cruises

Deckhand

Alexandria, VA · On-site

City Ferry, part of Hornblower Group's Ferry and Transportation Division, is the largest private ... Additionally, as a federal, state, and local contractor, Hornblower complies with government ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsState Ferry JobsState Ferry Jobs in Virginia

State Ferry information

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.

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 are popular job titles related to State Ferry jobs in Virginia? For State Ferry jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching State Ferry jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for State Ferry jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for State Ferry jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most State Ferry job openings:
State Ferry jobs near you
Infographic showing various State Ferry job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 46% Full Time, and 54% Part Time. Highlights an 92% In-person, and 8% Hybrid job distribution.

Ferry Chief Engineer

Nc

$43K - $75K/yr

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

Agency

Dept of Transportation

Division

Job Classification Title

Ferry Chief Engineer (S)

Position Number

Grade

NC10

About Us

It's the mission of the NC Department of Transportation to connect people, products and places safely and efficiently with customer focus, accountability, and environmental sensitivity to enhance the economy and vitality of North Carolina. We encourage you to consider joining NCDOT where our work not only serves the citizens of North Carolina but has an impact on our world through all modes of transportation.

Description of Work

Please note that all positions close at 12:00 AM on the posted closing date. You must apply by 11:59 PM prior to the posted closing date.
This is an extended posting for Ferry Chief Engineer positions within the Ferry Division. 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 River, Southport, Swan Quarter. If there currently is not a vacancy at one of these locations, your application will be considered if a vacancy becomes available.
Work in this class involves full responsibility for supervising and coordinating activities of vessel personnel engaged in operating and maintaining propulsion and other engines, generators, deck, machinery, electrical, refrigeration and sanitation equipment and other related systems on board ferry vessels. Employees operate the engineering systems in accordance with rules and regulations established by the U.S. Coast Guard, North Carolina Department of Transportation and policies and procedures of the Ferry Division. Employees are responsible for following all safety and Homeland Security rules and regulations. Work is reviewed by superiors through written reports and by inspections performed by United States Coast Guard personnel. Employees may perform other duties as required.
Shift work - 7 days on and 7 days off (Tuesday - Monday)
NOTE: A COPY OF BOTH TWIC AND MERCHANT MARINER CREDENTIAL ENDORSED AS CHIEF ENGINEER; OR LIMITED ASSISTANT ENGINEER OR POSSESS ENDORSEMENT STATING, "CHIEF ENGINEER OF MOTORPROPELLED VESSEL OF LESS THAN 4,000 HP RESTRICTED TO NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OFTRANPORTATION PASSENGER FERRIES" MUST BE PRESENTED AT TIME OF THE INTERVIEW PROCESS.
Duties include, but not limited to:
Checks, operates, and maintains marine equipment such as engines, generators, steering gears, pumps, and other auxiliary equipment; performs minor emergency repairs while underway.
Executes orders received from the Ferry Master pertaining to starting, stopping, speed of vessel, and other operations while vessel is underway.
Maintains and operates all below-deck firefighting equipment.
Prepares and maintains records of all tools and parts; keeps daily logs of all machinery operations such as engine RPMs, time, temperature, pressures, oil changes, quantity of fuel and water aboard, and all repairs made to engines auxiliary equipment.
Participates in minor repairs on motors, auxiliary equipment, and the hull.

Knowledge Skills and Abilities/Management Preferences

Salary Grade and Salary Range: NC10 - $43,267 - $75,718

Management prefers applicants with the following:

  • Knowledge of the operations, maintenance and repairs of marine diesel and gas engines, pumps, generators and other auxiliary equipment.

  • Knowledge of State, Federal, and U.S. Coast Guard laws and regulations regarding occupational hazards and safety precautions for engine room work aboard vessels.

  • Demonstrated ability supervising personnel in all areas of engine room operations.

  • Demonstrated ability to overhaul and maintain complex engineering equipment up to including large internal combustion diesel engines.

  • Skill in repairing and performing required periodic maintenance of the vessel's equipment in accordance with manufactures instructions, Coast Guard regulations and Ferry Division Policy.

Minimum Education and Experience

Some state job postings say you can qualify by an "equivalent combination of education and experience." If that language appears below, then you may qualify through EITHER years of education OR years of directly related experience, OR a combination of both. See the Education and Experience Equivalency Guide for details.

Possession of a valid U.S. Coast Guard license as Chief Engineer or Designated Duty Engineer with the appropriate horsepower for the vessel operated.

Necessary Special Qualification Possession of a Transportation Worker Identification Credential Card (TWIC) issued by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA).

EEO Statement

The State of North Carolina is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer and dedicated to providing employees with a work environment free from all forms of unlawful employment discrimination, harassment, or retaliation. The state provides reasonable accommodation to employees and applicants with disabilities; known limitations related to pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions; and for religious beliefs, observances, and practices.

Recruiter:

Sylvia Rene Basnight

Email:

DOT-WorkdayJobRecruitment@ncdot.gov

Apply