Bosun (Deck Chief)
ぼーすん
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
A job that oversees deck operations on ships, responsible for mooring, cargo handling, and safety management.
Description
The Bosun (Deck Chief) oversees the ship's deck department, leading deck hands in mooring operations, cargo handling, inspection and maintenance of deck equipment, safety training, and life-saving equipment management. Collaborates with navigators to plan voyage operations, adjusting procedures based on weather and cargo conditions. In addition to daily ropework and anchor handling, supervises winch and crane operations. In emergencies, takes command to prioritize crew safety.
Future Outlook
Demand remains stable due to globalization of the shipping industry. While crew numbers trend downward due to unmanned operations and automation, the importance of safety management roles is expected to continue.
Personality Traits
Action-oriented / Calm and composed / Good team player / Strong sense of responsibility
Work Style
Hazardous work / Long-term sea duty / Shift work / Solo assignment
Career Path
Deck Hand (Deck Crew) → Bosun (Deck Chief) → Navigator → Chief Engineer → Captain
Required Skills
Anchor Operation / Deck Machinery Operation / Life-Saving Equipment Operation / Ropework / Safety and Health Management
Recommended Skills
Basic Engine Knowledge / Chart Reading / Communication Skills (English) / Small Vessel Handling
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Adaptability | Due to the need to quickly respond to changes in sea and weather conditions. |
| Communication Skills | Due to the importance of coordinating with crew and superiors and relaying instructions. |
| Initiative & Leadership | Due to many situations requiring independent judgment and issuing instructions. |
| Physical Stamina & Endurance | Due to physical demands of prolonged standing work and heavy machinery operation. |
| Planning & Organization | Due to planning and coordinating cargo handling and mooring operations. |
| Stress Tolerance | Due to the need to calmly continue work even in rough weather or emergencies. |
| Collaboration & Teamwork | Due to the need to cooperate with numerous crew members to carry out work. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Creativity & Ideation | Because work centers on tasks based on procedures and rules rather than generating new ideas. |
| Numerical & Quantitative Analysis | Because complex calculations are few, and basic quantity assessment suffices. |
Related Qualifications
- Lifeboat and Liferaft Handling
- STCW Basic Safety Training (A-I to A-V)
- Small Vessel Operator License
Aliases
- Deck Chief
- Deck Supervisor
Related Jobs
- Captain
- Deck Hand
- Helmsman
- Marine Engineer
- Navigator