Helmsman
そうだしゅ
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
A profession that operates the ship's helm to maintain and adjust the course during navigation.
Description
The helmsman operates the ship's wheel or autopilot on the bridge, adjusting the rudder angle according to the ship's direction of travel to maintain the specified route. Under instructions from the navigator or captain, they make quick judgments while checking sea conditions, weather information, and navigation instrument data to ensure safe and smooth ship handling. Involves extensive long-hour standing work, night voyages, and operations in bad weather, requiring concentration and stamina.
Future Outlook
Demand remains stable with the expansion of international logistics. Changes in work patterns are expected due to advances in autopilot and autonomous navigation technologies, but human judgment remains essential.
Personality Traits
Calm and composed / Cooperative / High concentration / Strong sense of responsibility
Work Style
Long-Term Voyage Duty / Night Work / Overseas Routes / Shifts
Career Path
Deckhand → Second Mate → First Mate → Navigator → Captain
Required Skills
Autopilot Operation / Emergency Ship Handling Techniques / Navigation Instrument Operation / Steering
Recommended Skills
Communication Skills (English) / Knowledge of Weather and Sea Conditions / Maritime Regulations / Team Coordination Ability
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Adaptability | Quick changes to steering operations are necessary in response to sea and weather condition changes. |
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | Precision is required to not miss even minor course changes. |
| Physical Stamina & Endurance | Physical stamina is needed to endure long hours of standing work and operations in rough weather. |
| Stress Tolerance | Calm ship handling is required even in high-tension environments such as bad weather or narrow channel passages. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Creativity & Ideation | Steering requires precise work along predetermined routes, with little need for generating new ideas. |
Related Qualifications
- First-Class Small Vessel Operator
- Marine Technical Officer (Navigation)
- Second-Class Small Vessel Operator
Aliases
- Helmsman
Related Jobs
- Captain
- Deckhand
- Navigator
- Ship Engineer