Engine Crew (Fishing Vessel)

きかんいん

Industry & Occupation

Agriculture, Forestry, Fisheries & Environment

Classification

Summary

Technical job that operates, inspects, maintains, and repairs the main engines and auxiliary machinery of fishing vessels, supporting safe and efficient navigation and fishing activities.

Description

Engine crew (fishing vessels) handle the operation and maintenance of main engines (diesel engines) and auxiliary machinery (generators, pumps, hydraulic devices, etc.) on fishing vessels. They conduct regular inspections, lubrication, cooling system checks, fuel and lubricant management, replacement of piping and belts, and emergency repairs during failures, collaborating with navigators and captains to support safe operations. Requires long hours at sea, work in harsh environments, onboard communal living, and night watches.

Future Outlook

While the successor shortage due to aging is intensifying, mechanization and automation technologies are advancing, with expected increases in demand for IoT and remote monitoring system operation skills.

Personality Traits

Attentive / Can respond calmly in emergencies / Patient / Strong sense of responsibility

Work Style

Communal living / Domestic and international travel / Irregular shifts / Long-term voyages / Shifts

Career Path

Engine Apprentice → Engineer → Chief Engineer → Fishing Vessel Fleet Manager → Land-based Maintenance Technician

Required Skills

Auxiliary machinery maintenance management / Diesel engine operation and maintenance / Engine log recording management / Inspection and maintenance of hydraulic lubrication systems / Mechanical maintenance

Recommended Skills

Electrical circuit knowledge / Emergency repair techniques / English manual reading / Welding and metalworking

Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)

Item Description
Adaptability Because flexibility is needed to respond to changes in the marine environment and emergencies.
Attention to Detail & Accuracy Even small abnormalities can lead to major accidents, so attention to every detail is necessary.
Physical Stamina & Endurance High physical strength and stamina are required for operating heavy equipment and prolonged standing work at sea.
Problem Solving Because the ability to respond immediately to engine troubles at sea is required.
Stress Tolerance Because endurance is needed for troubleshooting pressure and long working hours.

Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)

Item Description
Creativity & Ideation Because the work centers on following procedures and manuals rather than creative thinking.

Related Qualifications

  • Marine Engineer (Engine) 1st Class
  • Marine Engineer (Engine) 2nd Class

Aliases

  • Fishery Engine Engineer
  • Ship's Engine Crew

Related Jobs

  • Captain
  • Chief Engineer
  • Fisher
  • Navigator

Tags

Keywords