Cargo Ship Captain
かもつせんせんちょう
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
The profession that oversees everything from route planning and cargo loading/unloading to crew management and safe operations as the overall person in charge of a cargo ship.
Description
The cargo ship captain is the overall person in charge of cargo ship operations. Responsibilities include pre-departure route and loading plans, analysis of weather and sea conditions, ship maneuvering during voyages, fuel management, instructions for cargo loading and unloading, crew command and training, ensuring safe navigation, and compliance with international maritime laws and regulations. Duties also encompass negotiations with port authorities and shippers, emergency response, and ship maintenance inspections. Long periods at sea demand advanced leadership and stress tolerance.
Future Outlook
While operations will become more advanced due to fluctuations in global maritime cargo volumes and the introduction of automation technologies, demand for experienced captains remains stable. New knowledge in areas such as fuel reduction and environmental regulations will also be required.
Personality Traits
Calm and composed / Excellent judgment / Good teamwork / High crisis management ability / Strong sense of responsibility
Work Style
Long-term sea voyages / Overseas travel / Shifts / Tolerance for solitude
Career Path
Third-Class Navigator → Second-Class Navigator → First-Class Navigator → Cargo Ship First Mate → Cargo Ship Captain
Required Skills
Cargo Loading Calculations / Chart Reading / International Maritime Law / Meteorology and Oceanography Knowledge / Navigation Instrument Operation / Safety Management / Ship Maneuvering Techniques
Recommended Skills
Communication Skills (English) / Digital Navigation System Operation / Leadership / Life-Saving and First Aid
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | Because attention to detail is necessary for safe operations. |
| Communication Skills | Because accurate communication with crew and port authorities is required. |
| Initiative & Leadership | Because proactive decision-making is required as the overall person in charge of the ship. |
| Planning & Organization | Because precise route and cargo loading plans need to be developed. |
| Problem Solving | Because the ability to respond quickly and accurately to emergencies during voyages is required. |
| Stress Tolerance | Because enduring high stress in long-term confined environments is necessary. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Creativity & Ideation | Because there are many routine tasks and creative thinking is not particularly needed. |
Related Qualifications
- First-Class Sea Technician (Navigation) License
Aliases
- Captain
- Master
Related Jobs
- Cargo Ship First Mate
- Merchant Ship Captain
- Navigator
- Passenger Ship Captain
- Pilot