In a typical work setting, ship captains and mates:
Interpersonal Relationships
- Are very responsible for the work done by their crew.
- Are responsible for the health and safety of their crew and passengers.
- Have a high level of social contact as a captain. Mates have lower levels of social contact.
- Sometimes are placed in conflict situations in which others may be rude or angry.
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- Communicate with others primarily by face-to-face discussions and over the telephone. They also use e-mail but less frequently.
- Nearly always work as part of a team.
Physical Work Conditions
- Often work outdoors. May work indoors below deck when doing administrative or mechanical repair.
- Are exposed to loud and distracting sounds and noise levels on a daily basis.
- Are regularly exposed to contaminants.
- Wear protective and safety attire on a daily basis.
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- Are regularly exposed to extremely bright or low light.
- Are often exposed to hazardous equipment, conditions, and situations that may result in cuts, burns, and scrapes.
- Are sometimes exposed to very hot or very cold temperatures while working outdoors.
- Sometimes experience whole body vibration when on the job.
- Occasionally must get into awkward positions to reach cramped work places.
- Occasionally are exposed to high places.
- Sometimes wear a special uniform.
- Often work physically near others while performing tasks.
Work Performance
- Must fully complete and be exact in their work. Errors could seriously endanger the crew.
- Repeat the same physical and mental activities.
- Must set their pace based on the speed of the equipment they operate.
- Regularly make decisions that strongly affect others, including coworkers and the outcome of their tasks.
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- Captains set their daily tasks and goals without seeking input first. Mates usually take some direction before beginning their daily work.
- Work in a moderately stressful atmosphere in which daily and weekly deadlines must be met.
Hours/Travel
- Stand watch for four hours and are off for eight hours while at sea.
- Work seven days a week while at sea.
- Work 60 days and have 30 days off, when working the Great Lakes.
- May not work in winter when the Great Lakes are frozen.
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- May work year round on rivers, canals, and in harbors.
- May work eight- or twelve-hour shifts and go home every day, especially if working on rivers.
- May work every day for a week or month and then have an extended period of time off.