Ferry Captain: Safe Voyages & Vessel Mastery

Commonwealth of VA Careers; Virginia; On-site; USD 47,000 - 77,000; Part time

Job summary

Commonwealth of VA Careers in Virginia is seeking a part-time ferry vessel operator to ensure safe transport of passengers and vehicles on designated waters. You will pilot under USCG regulations, maintain schedules, and log vessel activity. This role requires strong communication, record-keeping, and emergency response skills, plus the MMC and relevant licenses. VDOT governs the operation, with ethics and safety standards.

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 respond effectively in emergency situations.
• Knowledge of U.S Coast Guard regulations governing ferry operations.

Responsibilities

• Pilot ferry vessel following USCG and VDOT regulations and policies.
• Maintain posted schedule without any justified complaints.
• Maintain vessel readiness for USCG inspections.
• Maintain ships log with all required information.
• Vessel Security and Emergency Response: ensure crew alerts, perform drills and supervise emergencies.

Skills

Effective communication

Record keeping

Compliance with USCG/VDOT rules

Emergency response

Vessel piloting safety

Valid driver’s license

Education

MMC - Master 1600 gross tons, Inland; Radar Observer Certificate; Marine Radio Operator Permit

Job description

Hiring Range: $34.19 to $55.57

Full Time or Part Time: Part_Time

Additional Detail

Description for Candidates:

Perform special duties as assigned. 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: Other 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.

Perform duties as assigned. :

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.

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 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.

Valid driver’s license.

Additional Considerations:

A combination of training, experience, or education in Watercraft Operations, or related field 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