Cargo Ship Helmsman
かもつせんそうだしゅ
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
Cargo ship helmsman is a specialist responsible for steering cargo ships, maintaining safe courses under instructions from navigators and captains, and performing helm operations during emergencies.
Description
Cargo ship helmsmen operate the ship's wheel or autopilot based on instructions from the captain or navigator, taking responsibility for maintaining the course and safe navigation of cargo ships. They perform watchkeeping duties, monitor navigation instruments, adjust steering according to changes in currents or wind direction, and manual steering during emergencies, while collaborating as part of the bridge team. Duties often involve long periods at sea and shift-based watchkeeping, requiring acquisition of the STCW Convention Ordinary Deck Crew Certificate.
Future Outlook
With the globalization of the shipping industry, demand for seafarers remains stable. As autopilot systems are introduced, the role of helmsmen shifts toward monitoring and emergency response, but skilled seafarers will continue to be in demand.
Personality Traits
Calm and composed / Good team player / Sharp observational skills / Strong sense of responsibility
Work Style
International Voyages / Long-term Voyage Duty / Shore Leave / Watch Duty
Career Path
Deckhand Apprentice → Ordinary Deckhand (Helmsman) → 3rd Mate → 2nd Mate → 1st Mate → Captain
Required Skills
Chart Reading and Navigation Instrument Operation / Navigation English / Steering Skills / Watchkeeping and Reporting Procedures
Recommended Skills
Advanced GPS Utilization / Autopilot Systems / Basic Knowledge of Meteorology and Tides / English Proficiency
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Adaptability | Required to respond quickly to changes in marine environments or weather conditions. |
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | Required to discern subtle changes in currents or wind and steer accurately. |
| Physical Stamina & Endurance | Required due to prolonged standing work and operations in bad weather. |
| Stress Tolerance | Required to respond calmly even in high-stress situations such as steering during rough weather or emergencies. |
| Collaboration & Teamwork | To maintain safe navigation in cooperation with navigators and lookouts. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Creativity & Ideation | Steering duties follow prescribed routes and instructions, so creative thinking is not required. |
| Planning & Organization | Planning duties are handled by senior navigators, so they are rarely performed independently. |
Related Qualifications
- STCW Convention Ordinary Deck Crew Certificate
Aliases
- Helmsman
- Ship Helmsman
Related Jobs
- Captain
- Deckhand Apprentice
- Lookout
- Navigator