Fishing Vessel Helmsman

ぎょろうせんそうだしゅ

Industry & Occupation

Agriculture, Forestry, Fisheries & Environment

Classification

Summary

A profession responsible for steering fishing vessels, maintaining routes, and supporting safe operations.

Description

Fishing vessel helmsmen follow instructions from fishermen or captains to safely steer fishing vessels during fishing trips. They use navigation equipment (GPS, radar, electronic nautical charts, compasses, etc.) to maintain designated routes, making fine adjustments considering changes in weather and currents. They also engage in various tasks such as communication via ship radio, compliance with maritime traffic regulations, steering at night or in bad weather, and emergency responses.

Future Outlook

In the fishing industry, which is facing labor shortages and aging, the demand for helmsmen remains stable. While there is potential for the introduction of automatic steering technology and remote ship control systems, the experience of skilled workers will continue to be needed.

Personality Traits

Calm and composed / Excellent observational skills / Strong sense of responsibility

Work Style

Includes night shifts / Long-term voyage duty / Shift work

Career Path

Apprentice Helmsman → First-Class Helmsman → Navigator → Captain

Required Skills

GPS Operation / Helmsmanship Skills / Maritime Traffic Regulations / Ship Radio Communication

Recommended Skills

English Communication (Maritime Field) / Life-Saving and First Aid Response / Meteorological and Oceanographic Prediction Knowledge / Rope Work

Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)

Item Description
Adaptability To quickly respond to changes in sea conditions and weather.
Attention to Detail & Accuracy Because it is necessary to respond without missing subtle rudder angles or changes in the route.
Physical Stamina & Endurance Because it requires physical stamina for long watches and nighttime steering.
Stress Tolerance Due to high stress from bad weather and long working hours.

Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)

Item Description
Creativity & Ideation Because precise maneuvering is prioritized over novel idea generation.

Related Qualifications

  • Marine Technical Officer (Navigation)
  • Second-Class Small Vessel Operator

Aliases

  • Fishing Boat Helmsman

Related Jobs

  • Fisherman
  • Fishing Vessel Engineer
  • Navigator

Tags

Keywords