Captains, Navigators, Chief Engineers, and Engineers of Fishing Vessels
ぎょろうせんのせんちょう・こうかいし・きかんちょう・きかんし
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
A profession that maneuvers fishing vessels and oversees all fishing operations, from navigation planning to fishing work, engine management, and safety management.
Description
Captains and navigators of fishing vessels handle vessel maneuvering, route setting, movement to fishing grounds, and directing and supervising fishing operations. Chief engineers and engineers manage engine operation and maintenance, as well as conservation of ship equipment, supporting safe and efficient voyages. On board, they respond to harsh weather conditions and changes in sea conditions while using fish finders and navigation instruments to maximize catch efficiency, and also manage storage and transportation of catches. Long-term voyages and night work are routine, requiring a high sense of responsibility and judgment.
Future Outlook
Labor shortages due to aging population are a challenge. While ICT and automation technologies are advancing, demand for highly specialized personnel remains stable, and steady demand is expected going forward with resource management and overseas market development.
Personality Traits
Calm and Composed / Good Team Player / Proactive / Strong Sense of Responsibility
Work Style
Career Path
Fishing Vessel Engineer → Chief Engineer → Navigator → Captain → Fishery Company Manager
Required Skills
Engine Maintenance / Fish Finder Operation / GPS Operation / Navigation Planning / Radio Communication Operation / Safety Management (At Sea)
Recommended Skills
English (Maritime Terms) / Life-Saving Training / Meteorological Forecast Knowledge / Welding and Mechanical Repair
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Adaptability | Necessary to quickly respond to sudden changes in weather or sea conditions. |
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | Necessary because small oversights can lead to accidents or mechanical troubles. |
| Communication Skills | Essential for coordination with crew members and issuing instructions. |
| Initiative & Leadership | As a leader, provides instructions and makes judgments. |
| Physical Stamina & Endurance | Essential physical strength to endure heavy labor and long working hours. |
| Planning & Organization | Required for efficient navigation planning and fishing operation planning. |
| Problem Solving | Needed for responding to sudden maritime distress or equipment failures. |
| Stress Tolerance | Necessary to maintain calmness during long voyages or in bad weather. |
| Collaboration & Teamwork | Required to carry out tasks in cooperation with crew members. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Creativity & Ideation | Less needed as operations are mostly routine with few novel ideas. |
Related Qualifications
- First-Class Deck Officer (Navigation)
- First-Class Engine Officer (Engine)
- Fishing Vessel Safety Instructor
- Second-Class Deck Officer (Navigation)
- Second-Class Engine Officer (Engine)
- Shipboard Radio Operator
- Small Vessel Operator License
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