Ever wondered who does what on a massive fishing vessel out at sea? It’s a complex operation, much like a floating city, requiring a dedicated crew with specific roles to ensure everything runs smoothly, from navigation and engine maintenance to, of course, the fishing operations themselves. The crew is typically organized into several key departments, each with its own hierarchy and responsibilities. Let’s dive into the common job positions you’ll find on board:

1. The Deck Department: Navigating and Operating the Vessel

The Deck Department is at the heart of the vessel’s navigation, safety, and overall deck operations.

• Master (Kapten/Nakhoda): The ultimate authority on board. The Master is responsible for the safety of the crew and vessel, the success of the voyage, and compliance with all maritime laws and regulations.
• Chief Officer/First Officer (Perwira Satu): The Master’s second-in-command. The Chief Officer assists the Master in all aspects of navigation and cargo operations and is typically responsible for the day-to-day activities and crew management on deck.
• Second Officer (Perwira Dua): Primarily responsible for voyage planning, navigation (including chart corrections and navigational equipment), and often assists with deck maintenance.
• Third Officer (Perwira Tiga): Often tasked with the maintenance and upkeep of the vessel’s safety and firefighting equipment, as well as assisting with watchkeeping duties, cleaning, and repairs.
• Chief Seaman/Bosun (Kepala Kelasi): An experienced seaman who supervises the Able Seamen and Ordinary Seamen. The Bosun leads deck maintenance, mooring, and anchoring operations.
• Able Seaman (Seaman Madya): Experienced deckhands who assist the officers in various tasks, including steering, lookout duties, mooring, and general maintenance work on deck.
• Ordinary Seaman (Seaman Biasa): Entry-level deck crew who assist with general duties on deck, such as cleaning, painting, and supporting other deck operations under the supervision of senior seamen.

2. The Engine Department: Powering the Journey

The Engine Department ensures the vessel’s machinery runs efficiently and reliably, providing power for propulsion, electricity, and all onboard systems.

• Chief Engineer (Kepala Mesin): The head of the Engine Department. The Chief Engineer is responsible for the operation, maintenance, and repair of all mechanical and electrical equipment on board.
• First Assistant Engineer (Masinis Satu): Assists the Chief Engineer in daily operations and supervises the work of other engineers and engine room crew.
• Second Assistant Engineer (Masinis Dua): Responsible for the maintenance and repair of specific machinery as delegated by the Chief Engineer, often including auxiliary engines and purifiers.
• Third Assistant Engineer (Masinis Tiga): Assists senior engineers in their duties, often responsible for boilers, pumps, and other auxiliary machinery.
• Electrician (Juru Listrik): Responsible for maintaining and repairing all electrical systems and equipment on the vessel.
• Workshop Foreman (Mandor Mesin): Supervises and directs workers in the engine room workshop, coordinating repair and fabrication tasks.
• Oiler: Responsible for lubricating machinery, monitoring gauges, and assisting engineers in the engine room.
• Wiper: An entry-level engine room rating, primarily tasked with cleaning engine spaces, machinery, and assisting with general maintenance tasks.
• Fitter/Welder: Skilled technicians responsible for repairing and maintaining vessel equipment through fitting and welding tasks.

3. Other Essential Departments: Supporting the Mission

Beyond the deck and engine rooms, other specialized roles are crucial for the vessel’s overall function and the crew’s well-being.

• Radio Officer (Markonis): Operates and maintains the vessel’s radio and communication equipment, ensuring vital links with shore and other vessels.
• Chef/Cook (Chef/Koki): Responsible for preparing nutritious and satisfying meals for the entire crew – a vital role for morale!
• Stewards (Pelayan): Maintain cleanliness in accommodation and common areas, and often assist with meal service.
• Fishing Gear Operator (Operator Alat Penangkapan Ikan): Specialized personnel responsible for deploying, operating, and retrieving the fishing gear (e.g., nets, lines, traps).
• Assembly/Maintenance Technician (Teknisi Perakitan/Perawatan): Responsible for assembling, maintaining, and repairing fishing gear and related equipment.

The smooth operation of a fishing vessel relies on the coordinated efforts of every individual on board. From the captain charting the course to the engineers keeping the engines humming and the fishing crew managing the nets, each role is indispensable for a safe and successful voyage. It’s a testament to teamwork and specialized skills, all working together in the challenging environment of the open sea.