Ferry Deckhand

deweesislandsc; South Carolina; On-site; USD 17,000 - 28,000; Part time

Job summary

Dewees Island POA is seeking a reliable Ferry Mate (Deckhand) for the Dewees Island ferry operation. This part-time role supports daily crossings, assists the Captain with docking, passenger safety, and loading luggage, and helps keep the vessel clean and presentable.

You will work outdoors in hot, humid conditions, require physical stamina, and communicate clearly with residents, guests, and staff. Weekend and holiday availability is required, with early mornings; prior ferry or marine

Qualifications

• Knowledge of boating safety and Coast Guard regulations preferred.
• Ability to swim and assist in emergency response.
• Friendly and professional, able to work independently or as part of a team.
• Prior ferry or marine experience is a plus, but not required.

Responsibilities

• Assist the Captain with docking, line handling, and ferry operations.
• Monitor passengers during crossings, especially children.
• Help passengers load and unload luggage and cargo.
• Maintain order and cleanliness aboard the vessel.
• Log passengers using the Ferry Access System and ensure only authorized riders board.
• Act as lookout during departures, landings, and busy waterways.
• Manage mail, packages, and newspaper deliveries for residents.
• Uphold customer service standards and be a welcoming presence.

Skills

Boating safety knowledge

Coast Guard regulations familiarity

Swimming ability

Teamwork and communication

Customer service

Education

High School Diploma or equivalent

Job description

Ferry Mate (Deckhand) - Part-Time
Location: Dewees Island, South Carolina

Dewees Island is a private, conservation-focused barrier island accessible only by boat. The ferry is our community's lifeline, and we are seeking a reliable, customer-oriented Mate to support daily operations and ensure safe, smooth trips for residents, guests, and staff.

Job Summary

Assist the Captain with the safe operation of the ferry, ensuring passenger safety, helping with loading and unloading luggage, and maintaining the vessel's cleanliness and presentability. This is an outdoor, hands-on position that requires physical stamina, good communication, and strong situational awareness.

Essential Responsibilities

• Assist the Captain with docking, line handling, and general ferry operations
• Monitor passengers during crossings, especially young children
• Help passengers load and unload luggage and cargo
• Maintain order and cleanliness aboard the vessel
• Log passengers using the Ferry Access System and ensure only authorized riders board
• Act as lookout during departures, landings, and busy waterways
• Manage mail, packages, and newspaper deliveries for residents
• Uphold customer service standards and act as a welcoming presence

Work Environment

• Requires daily ferry rides
• Must work outdoors in hot, humid, wet, and changing conditions
• Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds

Schedule

• Morning Shift: 5:45 AM - 1:45 PM (6:45 AM start on weekends)
• Evening Shift: 1:45 PM - 11:00 PM (may extend to midnight or 1:00 AM Friday and Saturday)
• Weekend and holiday availability is required.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or equivalent
• Some knowledge of boating safety and Coast Guard regulations is preferred
• Ability to swim and assist in emergency response
• Friendly, professional, and able to work independently or as part of a team
• Prior ferry or marine experience is a plus, but not required

Why Join Us?

Spend your days surrounded by salt air and marsh views, working with a small team that takes pride in connecting people to a truly unique place. Every ride is a chance to make someone's day better and be part of a community that values nature, responsibility, and great service.

Dewees Island POA is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions, unless such accommodations would compromise the safety of vessel operations.