A long time ago, even when the first ship appeared on the seas, such a profession as a helmsman appeared. This is not surprising, because absolutely every ship must be controlled by someone, guiding the ship along a given route. When simple watercraft gave way to ships equipped with powerful internal combustion engines, helmsmen began to perform additional duties - as motor mechanics. This is how a modern profession arose, which is called motorist-steering.
Absolutely all crewing companies are looking for shipowners to join their ships as helmsmen, for example, Crewplanet, Maritime Zone, Jobatsea, Crewdata and many others. This vacancy is very relevant among employers. They certainly take into account the qualifications, knowledge and experience of a specialist in this field. After all, whether the ship reaches its destination depends on the helmsman. And his mistakes can have very disastrous consequences: the ship can run aground or even run into reefs.
What do motor helmsmen do?
If we take into account the specifics of work at sea, this position is provided on absolutely all vessels: on sea, on river, on small fishing ships, and on huge passenger liners. The most important responsibility of a helmsman is to control the helm according to the instructions of the watch commander. The sailor is obliged to monitor the course of the ship, start the engine or stop it, if necessary, monitor its operating modes and the speed at which the ship is moving.
As can be seen from the very name of the position, the sailor is also obliged to monitor the health of the engine and control its operation. And, if necessary, carry out preventive and repair work. It is also important to monitor the serviceability of the steering system, signal lights, their presence and working condition. He must know how all the mechanisms on the ship work, including ship engines (main and auxiliary), the ventilation system, and know what each valve is for. He must know and be able to operate the anchor mechanism and be able to moor the ship to the shore.
A sailor of his chosen profession works on any ship as a watch. Its change may last for different times, but is always clearly established. The duration depends on the type of ship he is working on. So, if this is a passenger ship, then no more than 8 hours. But on cargo ships, a shift can last 12 hours.
Working at sea in this position requires the ability to control the helm in any weather conditions, be it calm or storm. At the same time, it is important to maintain composure and a sound mind, quickly following all the instructions of the watch commander. In addition to his direct duties, the helmsman must know the rules for rescuing drowning people and how to operate lifeboats if necessary. And, despite the higher rank, the sailor must, like all ordinary sailors, be able to tie sea knots or carry out painting work.
Seafarer career development
If you are seriously thinking about becoming a helmsman-motorman, many colleges, technical schools and higher educational institutions with a specialization in navigation offer to enroll in the specialty “Navigation”. This will make it much easier for you to find your dream job in the future. After all, helmsmen are needed everywhere, both on small barges and on giant tankers and gas carriers. Even Sovcomflot, the largest company engaged in the transportation of liquefied gas, would certainly hire a qualified and experienced specialist to join its team.
And if you decide not to stop there and study further, then you can even rise to the rank of senior motor mechanic, who is the captain on the ship.
