Container Ship Captain
こんてなせんせんちょう
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
Job that oversees the entire operation of container ships, including safe navigation, cargo management, crew management, and regulatory compliance.
Description
The container ship captain serves as the person in charge of operations for large cargo ships engaged in international maritime transport, performing tasks such as route selection and voyage planning, issuing steering instructions on the bridge, monitoring weather and sea conditions, supervising cargo loading and unloading, managing and instructing the crew, complying with various laws and international conventions, and implementing safety and environmental measures. Involves long periods of duty at sea, requiring advanced specialized knowledge, judgment, and leadership.
Future Outlook
While demand for international logistics increases and ships become larger, the aging of sea technicians and manpower shortages are challenges. With strengthening environmental regulations, knowledge and technologies for fuel efficiency and exhaust gas regulation compliance will be more highly valued.
Personality Traits
Calm and composed / Has cooperativeness / Has good judgment / Has leadership / Strong sense of responsibility
Work Style
International Voyages / Long-term Sea Voyages / Shift Watch / Shifts / Team Operation
Career Path
Third Mate → Second Mate → First Mate → Chief Mate → Captain
Required Skills
Bridge Equipment Operation / Cargo Handling Supervision / ECDIS Operation / English (Maritime Terms) / Radar AIS Operation / Voyage Planning
Recommended Skills
Bridge Team Management / Emergency Rescue Techniques / ISM Code Operation / Weather and Sea Condition Forecasting
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Adaptability | Need to flexibly respond to changes in weather or port conditions. |
| Analytical & Logical Thinking | Logical judgment is essential for voyage planning and route selection. |
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | Detailed verification is necessary for safe navigation. |
| Initiative & Leadership | Proactive judgment and action as captain—leadership is important. |
| Planning & Organization | Long-term voyage schedule management and cargo planning are required. |
| Problem Solving | Quick response during emergencies or troubles is required. |
| Stress Tolerance | Mental strength to endure long hours at sea and emergency situations is needed. |
| Collaboration & Teamwork | To operate and manage the ship while cooperating with the crew. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Creativity & Ideation | Because operations are mainly routine navigation based on rules. |
Related Qualifications
- First Class Sea Technical Officer (Navigation)
- GMDSS Operator
- STCW Course Completion (Captain/Navigation Watch)
Aliases
- Bridge Captain
- Container Ship Captain
Related Jobs
- Chief Engineer
- Ferry Captain
- Navigator
- Ship Captain