Second Officer (Navigating Officer)
せかんどおふぃさー（こうかいし）
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
A navigating officer belonging to the navigation department of a merchant ship, responsible for formulating navigation plans, lookout duties, operation of navigation equipment, and safety management.
Description
The Second Officer (Second Navigating Officer) in the navigation department of a merchant ship is responsible for formulating passage plans, operating navigation equipment such as nautical charts, Electronic Chart Display and Information Systems (ECDIS), and radar, performing lookout duties (bridge watch), and safety management at sea. They analyze weather information and currents, collaborate with the captain and chief officer to set safe and efficient routes, and handle communications using GMDSS (Global Maritime Distress and Safety System). In emergencies, they direct response actions. The role requires physical and mental stamina for long periods at sea, and English communication skills are essential for international voyages.
Future Outlook
Demand for navigating officers remains high due to stable growth in global maritime transport needs, but advancing automation and remote operation technologies require increasingly specialized expertise.
Personality Traits
Calm and Composed / Cautious / Strong Sense of Responsibility / Team-Oriented
Work Style
Long Voyages / Onboard Duties / Shift Work
Career Path
Third Navigating Officer → Second Navigating Officer (Second Officer) → First Navigating Officer (Chief Officer) → Captain
Required Skills
GMDSS Radio Communication Operation / Lookout Duties / Nautical Chart and Electronic Chart Reading / Passage Planning / Radar Operation
Recommended Skills
Communication Skills (English) / ISM Code Knowledge / Leadership / Meteorological Forecasting Knowledge
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Adaptability | Necessary to flexibly respond to changes in weather, sea conditions, and operational circumstances. |
| Analytical & Logical Thinking | Necessary to analyze weather information, currents, and nautical charts to set safe routes. |
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | Small mistakes can lead to major accidents. |
| Communication Skills | Frequent collaboration and communication with bridge teams, captains, and port authorities. |
| Planning & Organization | Necessary to create detailed passage plans before navigation and manage personnel and schedules. |
| Problem Solving | Necessary to respond quickly to sudden events and hazards on the route. |
| Stress Tolerance | High stress tolerance required under harsh weather conditions and long hours. |
| Collaboration & Teamwork | Necessary to closely collaborate within the bridge team to carry out duties. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Creativity & Ideation | Primarily involves routine procedures and regulations. |
Related Qualifications
- STCW Basic Safety Training
- Second-Class Certificate of Competency (Navigation)
Aliases
- 2nd Officer
- Class 2 Navigating Officer
- Second Navigating Officer
Related Jobs
- Captain
- Chief Officer (First Navigating Officer)
- Third Officer (Third Navigating Officer)