Ship Captains, Navigators, Operations Officers (excluding fishing vessels), Pilots
せんちょう・こうかいし・うんこうし、みずさきにん（ぎょりょうせんをのぞく）
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
Plan routes, maneuver ships, monitor, and manage crew to safely operate merchant vessels such as cargo ships and passenger ships. Pilots are specialists who guide ships entering and exiting ports in harbors and narrow waterways.
Description
Ship captains, navigators, and operations officers board merchant ships, use nautical charts and electronic navigation devices to plan and monitor routes, perform ship maneuvering, and analyze weather and tidal current information. They also manage crew safety, handle emergency responses, ensure legal compliance, and conduct radio communications. Pilots board ships in ports and hazardous waters, provide optimal maneuvering instructions for entering and exiting ports, and coordinate with tugboats and port authorities.
Future Outlook
Demand for maritime transport is stable, and with advancing e-navigation and automated operation technologies, demand for remote monitoring and system operation skills will increase.
Personality Traits
Calm and composed / Excellent judgment / Has leadership / Strong sense of responsibility
Work Style
International route assignments / Land-based operations management / Long-term sea voyages / Shift work
Career Path
Third Mate → Second Mate → Chief Mate → Captain → Pilot → Operations Manager
Required Skills
AIS and GMDSS Operation / Electronic Chart (ECDIS) Operation / GMDSS Radio Communication Operation / Nautical Chart Reading and Navigation Calculations / Radar Operation / Radio Communication in English / Ship Maneuvering Techniques / Weather and Current Analysis
Recommended Skills
Communication Skills (English) / Management Training / Ship Simulator Training / Understanding of Latest Navigation Support Systems
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Adaptability | To quickly adapt to changes in sea conditions and different ship types. |
| Analytical & Logical Thinking | To comprehensively analyze currents, weather, and route information and formulate the optimal navigation plan. |
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | Because overlooking minute details on nautical charts or instrument anomalies can lead to serious accidents. |
| Physical Stamina & Endurance | Because sustained physical endurance is required for long watchkeeping duties and deck work. |
| Planning & Organization | Because it is necessary to plan routes and crew schedules. |
| Problem Solving | To quickly judge and respond in emergencies. |
| Stress Tolerance | Because it requires withstanding high stress in critically important operations management. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Creativity & Ideation | Due to operations based on strict safety regulations. |
Related Qualifications
- First-Class Marine Technical Officer (Navigation)
- Pilot License
- Second-Class Marine Technical Officer (Navigation)
Aliases
- Captain
- Harbor Pilot
- Navigator
Related Jobs
- Coast Guard Officer
- Marine Engineer
- Navigator (fishing vessel)