Ferry Operations Assistant: Safe Crossings & Crew Support

State of Washington Dept. of Transportation; Washington; On-site; USD 30,000 - 44,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Paid holidays

Vacation days

Tuition assistance

Job summary

The State of Washington Dept. of Transportation (WSDOT) invites applications for a Ferry Operator Assistant to support the Keller Ferry operations on the Columbia River. The role involves loading, unloading, securing the ferry, and providing safe passenger and vehicle crossings aboard the M.V.

Sanpoil. You will work outdoors on the ferry deck, in engine spaces, and on ramps, with shifts including days, evenings, and some weekends.

Qualifications

• Professional communication & teamwork: communicate clearly with customers and team members; maintain logs and records.
• Safety & compliance: follow safety procedures, participate in training, report concerns.
• Operational readiness: securely prepare vessel, dock, handle lines, adjust ramps for safe transport.
• Mechanical & technical skills: inspect and perform repairs on ferry, ramps, facilities, and equipment.
• Growth mindset: actively demonstrate willingness to learn and grow.
• Service-oriented: take actions to meet the needs of others.

Responsibilities

• Assist Ferry Operator in operating the ferry.
• Participate in crew safety and training meetings.
• Secure the vessel at docking and manage lines during embarkation/disembarkation; adjust loading ramps as needed.
• Direct traffic with clear visual and verbal signals for embarkation/debarkation.
• Ensure vehicles are parked to balance the vessel; monitor passenger safety.
• Assist in lubricating engines, running gear, and winches; inspect engine room periodically.

Skills

Communication

Safety compliance

Operational readiness

Mechanical skills

Growth mindset

Service oriented

Job description

The State of Washington Dept. of Transportation (WSDOT) invites applications for a Ferry Operator Assistant to support the Keller Ferry operations on the Columbia River. The role involves loading, unloading, securing the ferry, and providing safe passenger and vehicle crossings aboard the M.V.

Sanpoil. You will work outdoors on the ferry deck, in engine spaces, and on ramps, with shifts including days, evenings, and some weekends.