Cargo Ship Captain

うんぱんせんせんちょう

Industry & Occupation

Transportation & Logistics

Classification

Summary

Cargo ship captains oversee the operation of cargo ships, taking responsibility for planning and executing safe navigation plans, instructing and managing crew members, and loading and transporting cargo.

Description

Cargo ship captains, as the highest responsible persons on cargo ships, create navigation plans, monitor weather information and sea conditions, operate navigation equipment, command and supervise crew members, perform cargo loading calculations, and manage safety. They also handle negotiations with ports, compliance with laws and regulations, emergency responses, and reporting duties, as well as maintaining and managing the hull and engines during long voyages and achieving energy-saving operations. On international routes, radio communication and document preparation in English are also required.

Future Outlook

Stable demand is expected due to the expansion of international logistics needs. On the other hand, there is a possibility that job contents and roles will change with the development of automated operation technology.

Personality Traits

Calm and composed / Excellent judgment / Has leadership / Strong sense of responsibility

Work Style

Long-term Sea Voyages / Onboard Work / Overseas Routes / Shift Work

Career Path

Third Mate → Second Mate → Chief Mate → Captain (Captain)

Required Skills

Cargo Loading Calculation / Emergency Response / Navigation Instrument Operation / Navigation Planning / Ship Operation Management

Recommended Skills

Basic Engine Knowledge / Meteorological Forecast Knowledge / Radio Communication in English / Ship Simulator Training

Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)

Item Description
Adaptability Because it is necessary to flexibly respond to harsh sea conditions and environmental changes.
Attention to Detail & Accuracy To not miss subtle changes in conditions during navigation.
Initiative & Leadership To command the crew and achieve safe operations.
Physical Stamina & Endurance Because physical stamina is required for harsh sea duties.
Planning & Organization Because it is necessary to create navigation plans and cargo loading plans.
Problem Solving Because quick judgment is required in responses to emergencies.
Stress Tolerance Because it is necessary to endure stress during long voyages.
Collaboration & Teamwork To cooperate with crew members and ensure safe navigation.

Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)

Item Description
Creativity & Ideation Because operations are mainly based on manuals, creative thinking is not particularly necessary.

Related Qualifications

  • First-Class Sea Technician (Navigation)
  • Graduation from Ship Crew Training School
  • STCW Basic Training Completion

Aliases

  • Cargo Ship Captain

Related Jobs

  • Ferry Captain
  • Navigator
  • Operations Officer
  • Passenger Ship Captain
  • Pilot

Tags

Keywords