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State Ferry Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

City Cruises

Food Runner / Cook I

Chicago, IL

City Ferry, part of Hornblower Group's Ferry and Transportation Division, is the largest private ... Must meet minimum state age requirements. #HB1 The RESPECT Service System embodies our mission ...

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State Ferry information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$5

$17

$19

How much do state ferry jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for state ferry in Chicago, IL is $17.33, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.87 and $18.80 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a state ferry?

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 the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a state ferry operator?

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 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 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 qualifications do I need to work on a state ferry?

To work as a ferry crew member, applicants typically need a valid driver's license, good communication skills, and the ability to pass a background check. Depending on the position, certifications such as a Marine Transportation Credential or first aid certification may be required. Physical fitness and the ability to work in a maritime environment are also important.

What are popular job titles related to State Ferry jobs in Chicago, IL?

For State Ferry jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching State Ferry jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for State Ferry jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for State Ferry jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most State Ferry job openings:

State Ferry jobs near you
Infographic showing various State Ferry job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 23% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,055 per year, or $17.3 per hour.

Food and Beverage Training Supervisor - City Cruises Chicago

Chicago, IL • On-site

Hornblower
Travel Arrangement Services • 10K+ employees

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 18 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

6th of 9 rated cruise lines

People enjoy working here

Paid breaks

Respectful managers

Learn more about Hornblowerexternal

$20/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 5 days ago

Job description

Hornblower Group is a global leader in experience and transportation. Spanning a 100-year history, Hornblower Group's portfolio of international offerings includes water- and land-based experiences and ferry and transportation services. City Experiences, Hornblower Group's premier experience division, offers dining and sightseeing cruises and walking and food tours through the City Cruises, Walks, and Devour brands. 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 million passengers annually and operating services including NYC Ferry, Puerto Rico Ferry, and other regional ferry systemsHornblower Group's subsidiaries include Hornblower Marine, which provides vessel outhaul and maintenance services at Bridgeport Boatworks in Bridgeport, Connecticut, and Seaward Services, Inc., a full-service shipping, waterfront logistics and management company that specializes in the operation and maintenance of government and commercial vessels. Additionally, Anchor Operating System, LLC, a Hornblower Group subsidiary and independent entity, provides reservation, ticketing and website integration services for clients in the transportation, tourism and entertainment industries. Today, Hornblower Group's global portfolio covers over 10 countries, over 50 U.S. cities and serves more than 20 million guests annually. Headquartered in Orlando, Florida, Hornblower Group's additional corporate offices reside in San Francisco, California; Boston, Massachusetts; Chicago, Illinois; London, United Kingdom; New York, New York; Dublin, Ireland; and across Ontario, Canada. For more information, visit hornblowercorp.com.
Position Summary: .
The successful Training Supervisor is responsible for the initial and ongoing training of all new hires and current crew. They must be able to coordinate training for all crew members, so they are prepared to execute friendly and enthusiastic service.
The
T
Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Successfully perform all Front of the house (FOH) roles
  • Schedule all training and follow shifts for new crew
  • Work as a supervisor on cruises where new crew is training to lend a helping hand and ensure the training standards are being executed
  • Check in crew for pre-shift meeting by ensuring all in the correct uniform per role
  • Provide crew with any knowledge needed to successfully execute the cruise
  • Keep all crew motivated throughout training
  • Develop strong teamwork within the crew
  • Assist with orientation, recruitment and training and retention of assigned vessel(s)
  • Ensure crew are trained and consistently follow and adheres to proper company standards
  • Additional job duties assigned

Requirements & Qualifications:
  • High school degree or equivalent required
  • Understanding the ability to execute all F&B positions
  • Must be highly energetic and motivating
  • Maintain clean and professional standards
  • Strong communication skills
  • Strong organizational skills
  • Communicate effectively in oral and written form
  • Demonstrate ability to manage multiple priorities/tasks
  • Full product knowledge of:
      • Menu
      • Wine list
      • Drink list

The RESPECT Service System embodies our mission, vision, values and operating principles. By creating a company culture that puts RESPECT at its core, we believe it will drive us to achieve our goal of becoming a Global Experiences and Transportation Leader.
EEO / Disabled / Protected Veteran Employer. Hornblower is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. We offer equal employment opportunities to all qualified individuals and prohibit discrimination and/or harassment of any type, including but not limited to discrimination and or harassment based upon race, religion, religious creed, color, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, age, pregnancy or relation medical conditions, childbirth, breastfeeding, parental status, veteran and/or military status, disability (physical or mental), medical condition, genetic information or characteristics, political affiliation, domestic violence survivor status, marital status, or other characteristics prohibited by federal, state, or local law. Additionally, as a federal, state, and local contractor, Hornblower complies with government regulations, including affirmative action responsibilities for qualified individuals, where and as they apply. The company also participates in the E-Verify program in certain locations.

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