Tugboat Crew Member
ひきふねのりくみいん
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
A job that involves boarding tugboats in harbors and other areas to assist with the entry and exit of large ships and their movement along quay walls. Handles towing ropes, engine operations, route guidance, etc., to support safe and smooth ship operations.
Description
Tugboat crew members board tugboats in harbors to assist with ships' entry and exit ports or movement between quay walls. Performs rope work for tying and untying towing lines, tugboat thrust management, engine operations, and coordination with pilots, captains, and harbor authorities. Also considers the influence of weather and tidal currents to carry out operations safely, and quick responses are required in emergencies. Requires physical strength and involves work in harsh maritime environments.
Future Outlook
With the expansion of international trade, stable demand is expected for ship entry and exit operations in harbors. On the other hand, there is a possibility of advancing automation technologies and the introduction of remotely operated tugboats, requiring adaptation to digital technologies.
Personality Traits
Calm and composed / Cautious / Physically fit / Team-oriented
Work Style
Night watch / Outdoor maritime work / Overnight shifts / Physical labor / Shift work
Career Path
Junior Deckhand → Senior Deckhand → Chief Deckhand → Captain (Tugboat Captain) → Harbor Operations Management
Required Skills
Engine Operation / Onboard Safety Procedures / Rope Work / Tugboat Operation / Understanding Maritime Terms and Signals
Recommended Skills
English Maritime Communication / First Aid and Life-Saving Skills / Map Navigation Apps / Meteorology and Tidal Knowledge
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Adaptability | Situations change drastically due to weather and tidal currents, requiring quick responsiveness. |
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | Because small mistakes in handling towing ropes or engine operations can lead to serious accidents. |
| Communication Skills | Because close coordination with captains, pilots, and harbor workers is necessary. |
| Physical Stamina & Endurance | Considerable physical strength is needed for handling heavy towing ropes and prolonged standing work. |
| Stress Tolerance | High tension during assistance in operating large ships requires calm handling. |
| Collaboration & Teamwork | Because work is performed in cooperation with other crew members in confined ship spaces. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Creativity & Ideation | Routine tasks are predominant, and creativity is not particularly required. |
| Numerical & Quantitative Analysis | Advanced mathematical calculations are not required. |
Aliases
- Tugboat Crew Member
Related Jobs
- Deckhand
- Harbor Worker
- Ship Engineer
- Tugboat Crew Member