Course Master (Pilot)
こーすますたー（すいせんにん）
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
Specialist profession that assists in the safe entry/exit and navigation of vessels in ports and waterways.
Description
Course Master (Pilot) is a specialist who boards vessels in ports and narrow channels, considering currents, seabed topography, and weather conditions to plan and direct safe navigation routes. Collaborating with the ship captain, they advise on steering and speed adjustments during port entry/exit and route passage, striving to prevent accidents. With the increase and enlargement of international vessel traffic, there is even greater demand for safety management expertise.
Future Outlook
With the increase in maritime cargo volume and the enlargement of ports, demand for pilots as safe navigation experts remains stably high. In the future, while support systems utilizing digital technologies such as electronic charts and AIS will advance, skilled judgment remains indispensable in complex port environments, and the value of the profession is expected to be maintained.
Personality Traits
Able to make quick situational judgments / Attentive / Calm and composed / Strong sense of responsibility
Work Style
Career Path
Navigator (Navigation Officer) → Pilot Apprentice → Pilot → Senior Pilot → Maritime Education and Examiner
Required Skills
Current and Water Depth Analysis / Nautical Chart Reading / Radio Communication Operation / Small Vessel Handling / Voyage Planning
Recommended Skills
Communication Skills (English) / GPS and Electronic Chart Operation / Meteorological Information Interpretation / Risk Management
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Adaptability | Because it is necessary to flexibly respond to sudden changes in weather and sea conditions. |
| Analytical & Logical Thinking | To analyze currents and seabed topography and derive the optimal route. |
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | Because small terrain changes or current differences directly impact safety. |
| Communication Skills | Because accurate communication with the captain and port personnel is necessary. |
| Physical Stamina & Endurance | Because physical strength is required for boarding/disembarking ships and long hours of outdoor work. |
| Planning & Organization | Because the ability to comprehensively plan under various sea conditions is required. |
| Problem Solving | To make accurate judgments in emergencies and continue navigation. |
| Stress Tolerance | Because it is necessary to calmly respond continuously in high-risk situations. |
Related Qualifications
- First-Class Pilot License
- Navigation Officer License
- Second-Class Pilot License
Aliases
- Marine Pilot
- Pilot Crew
- Vessel Pilot
Related Jobs
- Marine Engineer
- Navigator
- Ship Captain