Chief Officer (Navigator)
ちーふおふぃさー（こうかいし）
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
As the chief officer of a merchant ship, assists the captain and oversees all bridge operations including navigation plan formulation, cargo stability management, and safety supervision.
Description
The Chief Officer (Navigator) serves as the vice-captain on merchant ships, assisting the captain and overseeing all bridge operations. Ensures safe navigation through route planning, weather information analysis, and operation of charts and electronic navigation equipment. Maintains hull stability through cargo stowing and ballast management, supervises onboard safety, and leads emergency responses. Also handles crew management and training, port watches, and compliance with various laws and international conventions (SOLAS, MARPOL, ISM Code, etc.). Involves long-term sea duty and irregular shifts, and may assume command in place of the captain during emergencies.
Future Outlook
With the globalization of the shipping industry and strengthening of regulations, demand for highly specialized navigators remains stable. Advances in automation and digital navigation require acquiring advanced skills, but it continues to be an important occupation.
Personality Traits
Attentive / Calm and composed / Excellent judgment / Good teamwork / Strong sense of responsibility
Work Style
Land-based Management / Long-term Sea Duty / Rotating Shifts / Shifts
Career Path
Navigator Cadet (Apprentice Navigator) → Third Mate → Second Mate → First Mate (Chief Officer) → Captain
Required Skills
Cargo Handling Management / Chart Reading / GPS Operation / International Maritime Regulations / Navigation Planning / Ship Communication Equipment Operation
Recommended Skills
Emergency Response Training / English (Maritime Terms) / Leadership / Project Management / Weather and Sea Condition Analysis
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Adaptability | Because adaptability to quickly respond to weather changes and route alterations is necessary. |
| Analytical & Logical Thinking | Precise analytical thinking is required for navigation planning and risk assessment. |
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | Because small misreadings or oversights of instruments can lead to major accidents. |
| Communication Skills | Because coordination and collaboration with crew and port personnel are essential. |
| Initiative & Leadership | Because it is necessary to take initiative in commanding during emergencies or in the captain's absence. |
| Numerical & Quantitative Analysis | Because precise mathematical analysis is required for celestial navigation and navigation calculations. |
| Planning & Organization | Advanced planning and organizational skills are needed for navigation schedule adjustments and resource allocation. |
| Problem Solving | Because quick responses to equipment failures and weather changes during navigation are required. |
| Stress Tolerance | Because it is necessary to remain calm during long hours of work or emergency situations. |
| Collaboration & Teamwork | To maintain safe operations in cooperation with the crew. |
Related Qualifications
- First Class Navigator License
- Second Class Navigator License
Aliases
- Chief Mate
- First Class Navigator
Related Jobs
- Captain
- Pilot
- Second Officer
- Third Officer