Tanker Captain
たんかーせんちょう
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
The highest responsible person on a tanker ship transporting hazardous materials such as crude oil and LNG. Handles route planning, operation management, safety measures, and crew oversight.
Description
Tanker captains serve as the top executives on tanker ships carrying hazardous materials such as crude oil, liquefied natural gas (LNG), and chemical products, overseeing route planning, operation monitoring, and safety management. They comply with international conventions (SOLAS, MARPOL) and port authority regulations while making navigation judgments that consider weather information and sea conditions. They also handle crew education and guidance, as well as crisis response in emergencies. While performing long-term sea duties, they conduct regular inspections and reports based on the ship management system (ISM Code) and coordinate with shippers, stevedores, and shipping companies.
Future Outlook
With increasing demand for maritime logistics and stricter environmental regulations, the demand for captains with advanced safety management and environmental countermeasures capabilities is expected to remain stable. While the introduction of automation technologies will advance the efficiency of operations, personnel with experience and judgment skills remain indispensable.
Personality Traits
Calm and composed / Excellent judgment / Good team player / Strong sense of responsibility
Work Style
International Voyages / Long-term Sea Duty / Onshore Leave / Port Work / Shift Work
Career Path
Apprentice Navigator → Third Mate → Second Mate → First Mate (Chief Officer) → Captain
Required Skills
GPS Navigation Technology / Navigation Instrument Operation / Ship Safety Management / Weather Forecasting
Recommended Skills
Automated Ship Bridge System / Communication Skills (English/International Negotiation) / Hazardous Materials Handling / Understanding of SOLAS and MARPOL Regulations
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Adaptability | Because immediate responses to weather changes and fluctuations in sea conditions are necessary. |
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | Because in hazardous material transport, even small oversights can lead to major accidents. |
| Communication Skills | Because coordination with many stakeholders such as crew members, port authorities, and shippers is necessary. |
| Initiative & Leadership | Because leadership must be demonstrated in emergencies and situations requiring judgment. |
| Planning & Organization | Because precise planning abilities are needed for navigation plans, cargo management, etc. |
| Problem Solving | Because quick responses to troubles and emergencies during navigation are required. |
| Stress Tolerance | Because high mental resilience is required for long-term sea duties and emergency responses. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Creativity & Ideation | Because established routes and procedures are in place, and creative idea generation is not particularly required. |
Related Qualifications
- First-class Marine Technical Officer (Engineering)
- First-class Marine Technical Officer (Navigation)
- Hazardous Materials Handler (Class B)
Aliases
- Oil Tanker Captain
- Tanker Captain
Related Jobs
- Cargo Ship Captain
- Ferry Captain
- Ship Navigator