Ferryboat Operator

About This Job

Applicants possessing a Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) with a Designated Duty Engineer (DDE) endorsement for motor vessels of less than 1,000 HP or higher are encouraged to apply.

The incumbent operates an engine room and machinery on board or operates and pilots an “inspected” state‑owned ferry vessel as defined by the U.S. Coast Guard regulations. Specific duties will be based on the license(s) held by the incumbent.

• Two (2) years of experience in marine operations.
• One of the following U.S. Coast Guard credentials:
  • Able‑Bodied Seaman (AB)
  • Qualified Member of the Engine Department (QMED)
• Current Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) required at the time of appointment.

• Assumes responsibility for the operation and routine maintenance of engine room and machinery aboard an “inspected” marine vessel, including main propulsion diesel engines, main electrical generating plants, hydraulic systems, sanitation systems, pumping systems, electrical and lighting systems.
• Maintains vigilant watch of engine room machinery while underway at the engineer control station.
• Pilots ferries carrying vehicles and passengers on the Mississippi River and Calcasieu Ship Channel.
• Performs daily tests of all engine shut‑downs, engine alarms, steering alarms, and high bilge alarms; checks all emergency lighting operational condition (battery chargers, battery condition, and relays); checks all watertight doors and hatches daily and maintains them closed while underway.
• Serves as Vessel Security Officer in accordance with the Vessel Security Plan; conducts fire, collision, and security drills on a regular basis; communicates with U.S. Coast Guard Inspectors and Safety Officers on inspections and accidents.
• Maintains required engineering logs and records, makes reports, schedules all lubrication changes of machinery and equipment, ensures availability of necessary supplies and equipment for changes, maintains dry bilge compartments at all times, and performs daily tests of bilge pumps.

Appointment Type:
Probational, Promotional, or Job Appointment.

Career Progression:
May be filled as a Ferryboat Operator 1, 2, or 3 depending on the level of experience of the selected applicant(s).

• Ferryboat Operator 1: $43,784.00 – $78,790.00 (annual)
• Ferryboat Operator 2: $50,128.00 – $90,210.00 (annual)
• Ferryboat Operator 3: $57,408.00 – $ (annual)

All three levels have Premium Pay for Hours Actually Worked of $2.00 per hour and Shift Differential Pay of $1.75 per hour.

The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) is an equal employment opportunity employer and a model employer for individuals with disabilities. DOTD does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, political affiliation, disability, age, or pregnancy, and prohibits harassment of any type.