Ship's Officer | Job Guide (original) (raw)
Ship's officers navigate and supervise the safe operation of ships at sea, in port and at anchor. They coordinate the activities of the deck crew and control cargo stowage, loading and unloading operations.
Ship's officers may perform the following tasks:
- liaise between the captain and the crew of the ship
- keep watch from the bridge in watches (shifts) while at sea
- determine the position of the ship and other vessels and obstructions by using navigational aids
- supervise the work done by the crew
- provide medical and/or first aid treatment for the crew
- make sure safety regulations are observed
- observe and record in the daily log book the ship's course and any alterations, the weather conditions and the ship's position
- coordinate cargo loading and discharge operations and maintenance
- update charts and other nautical publications
- make sure that all necessary documentation has been completed.
Specialisations:
Ship's Pilot
A ship's pilot assists the Ship's Master in commanding ships in order to steer them in and out of harbours. Ship's pilots direct the speed and course of the ship with their specialised knowledge of the wind, tides, current and weather that is typical of a particular location. They are sometimes on stand-by duties at a harbour with a tugboat, so that they can assist an incoming ship when needed.
Officers may be required to work or remain on duty for long periods. Generally they work in watches of eight hours on and eight hours off over a 24-hour period.
Personal Requirements:
- willing to spend time at sea, often away from home for long periods
- pass a medical examination, an eyesight test and have normal colour vision
- responsible
- able to work as part of a team.
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