Ferry Deckhand

Job Description

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.