Ocean-going Navigator
がいこうこうかいし
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
Ocean-going navigators are marine technicians responsible for voyage planning, ship handling, monitoring, cargo management, communications, and safety management on ships operating international routes.
Description
Ocean-going navigators are crew members in the deck department of ocean-going ships (commercial ships operating international routes), handling navigation duties. Main tasks include creating route plans, navigation using nautical charts or electronic charts (ECDIS), monitoring other vessels using radar or AIS, steering, collecting and analyzing meteorological information, ship radio communications, cargo stowage and stability calculations, compliance with safety management rules (SOLAS, MARPOL, etc.), and more. They also handle bridge watchkeeping, various inspections, coordination with onshore offices, crew management and training, requiring teamwork and calm judgment. International voyages demand knowledge of multinational regulations and English communication skills.
Future Outlook
With the expansion of international logistics, demand for ocean-going seafarers remains stable, but advances in automation and labor-saving technologies require skills in bridge automation and remote monitoring. Additionally, securing new crew members is a challenge due to labor shortages.
Personality Traits
Broad-minded / Calm and level-headed / Curious and inquisitive / Good team player / Strong sense of responsibility
Work Style
Long-term Sea Voyages / Overseas Port Calls / Seafarer Employment / Shift Work
Career Path
Third Mate → Second Mate → Chief Mate → Captain → Marine Management Positions and Operations Managers
Required Skills
GMDSS / Meteorological Observation and Prediction Knowledge / Nautical Chart and ECDIS Reading / Radar and AIS Operation / Steering Techniques / Understanding of SOLAS and MARPOL Regulations
Recommended Skills
Cargo Handling Management / Cargo Stowage Calculations / Communication Skills (English) / Leadership / Maritime Regulations
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Adaptability | Because rapid response to changes in sea conditions and international situations is necessary |
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | Because minor errors in longitude and latitude directly impact navigation safety |
| Physical Stamina & Endurance | Because physical stamina is required for extended watchkeeping and cargo handling |
| Planning & Organization | To manage complex route plans and patrol schedules |
| Problem Solving | Because responses to sudden weather changes and equipment failures are required |
| Stress Tolerance | Because high resilience is needed for long voyages and emergency responses |
| Collaboration & Teamwork | To carry out tasks in collaboration with the bridge team and crew |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Creativity & Ideation | Because tasks are performed based on standardized procedures |
Related Qualifications
- First-class Deck Officer (Navigation)
- STCW Basic Safety Training
- Second-class Deck Officer (Navigation)
- Third-class Deck Officer (Navigation)
Aliases
- Deck Officer
- Navigator
Related Jobs
- Captain
- Coastal Navigator
- Ocean-going Marine Engineer
- Ship Operations Manager