Pilots, Ship
Career Snapshot
Consider driving a vehicle that is longer than three football fields. Consider trying to parallel park it. Water vessel pilots face similar challenges every day, directing massive commercial ships and tankers safely from sea to crowded port and back. The pilot, in contrast to the captain and crew, is normally stationed at the port. When a ship wants to enter or exit the harbour, the pilot is dispatched to direct it safely via the local waterways. Although helicopters are occasionally utilised, the pilot normally boards approaching ships in a small pilot boat.
Getting from boat to ship is a difficult task. As it goes alongside the larger vessel, the pilot boat must maintain the same speed. The pilot climbs the ship via ladder while both vessels are in motion, much like a Hollywood stuntman. On the bridge, the pilot assumes command of the navigation system. This includes delivering steering and engine commands to the ship's crew. The pilot steers the ship into port using extensive knowledge of local water depth, winds, tides, currents, and hazards.
Once there, the pilot handles the ship in close quarters and may command tugboats to assist in easing the ship into its berth. A licenced pilot requires years of experience and study. Those entering training programmes are usually experienced professional mariners, such as ship captains or senior deck officers.
Before receiving a state licence, they learn and refine their piloting abilities in the classroom, simulators, and on board various types of vessels. They are also expected to be licenced by the United States Coast Guard. Pilots are on call 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, in any weather conditions. Seamen all across the world respect their maritime abilities and ability to make quick choices, frequently under extreme circumstances.
Characteristics
Activities
Areas of Study
Degrees
Key Abilities
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Control Precision
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Depth Perception
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Far Vision
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Glare Sensitivity
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Oral Expression
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Problem Sensitivity
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Selective Attention
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Spatial Orientation
Colleges
Top Skills