Second Officer
にとうこうかいし
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
A specialist on merchant ships responsible for navigation planning and watchkeeping, supporting safe vessel operations.
Description
The Second Officer serves on merchant and passenger ships as part of the navigation team, handling navigation planning, management of charts and navigation equipment, and watchkeeping duties. They perform daily route setting, ship position fixing, and weather information analysis to support safe and efficient navigation. In addition, they inspect and maintain safety equipment such as lifeboats and firefighting gear, manage cargo stowage, and coordinate communications with inside and outside the ship via radio. In emergencies, they respond promptly to instructions and assist in leading the crew under the captain's orders. International voyages require English communication and understanding of laws from various countries, as well as the physical and mental strength to endure long-term shipboard life and irregular working hours.
Future Outlook
Demand for maritime transportation remains stable, and due to the severe personnel shortage from retiring veteran navigators, demand for mid-level navigators is high. While operations will partially change with advances in automated navigation technology, uniquely human abilities such as safety management and external coordination will continue to be emphasized.
Personality Traits
Attentive / Calm and composed / Good cooperativeness / Patient / Strong sense of responsibility
Work Style
Communal Living with Crew / International Voyages / Long-term Voyage Assignments / Shift Watch Duty
Career Path
Third Officer → Chief Mate → Captain → Instructor at Maritime Technical Education Institution → Operations Management Position
Required Skills
Cargo Handling Plan Management / English Communication (Maritime Field) / GMDSS / Nautical Chart Reading and Navigation Calculations / Navigation Equipment Operation / Weather Information Analysis
Recommended Skills
Basic Knowledge of Engine Department / Communication Skills (English) / Inspection and Operation of Life-Saving and Firefighting Equipment / Maritime Law Knowledge / Satellite Communication Operation
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Adaptability | Need to flexibly adapt to long-term life at sea and environmental changes. |
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | Even small position errors or data mistakes can lead to serious accidents. |
| Physical Stamina & Endurance | Irregular hours and heavy labor require high physical stamina. |
| Planning & Organization | High planning ability is required for route planning and watch schedule management. |
| Problem Solving | Quick response to obstacles or weather changes during navigation is necessary. |
| Stress Tolerance | High mental toughness is needed to endure long watches and emergency responses. |
| Collaboration & Teamwork | To support safe operations in collaboration with the crew. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Creativity & Ideation | Navigation duties primarily follow established procedures, requiring little creative thinking. |
Related Qualifications
- Marine Technical Officer License
- Second-Class Marine Technical Officer (Navigation)
Aliases
- Second Mate
Related Jobs
- Captain
- Chief Mate
- Deck Crew
- Third Officer