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O*NET detailed work activityOperate ships or other watercraft
Stays humanHands-on work
5 jobs9 tasks
This is physical, in-person work with real objects, tools, equipment and places that change from day to day. AI can't do it for you.
Part of Operate transportation equipment or vehicles, under the O*NET work activity group Operating Vehicles, Mechanized Devices, or Equipment. Individual tasks below can carry a different label when their own wording calls for it (0 AI-ready, 0 AI-assist, 9 stays human).
Tasks built on this activity
- Steer and operate vessels, using radios, depth finders, radars, lights, buoys, or lighthouses.
- Operate engine throttles and steering mechanisms to guide boats on desired courses.
- Dock or undock vessels, sometimes maneuvering through narrow spaces, such as locks.
- Start engines to propel ships, and regulate engines and power transmissions to control speeds of ships, according to directions from captains or bridge computers.
- Tow, push, or guide other boats, barges, logs, or rafts.
- Steer ships under the direction of commanders or navigating officers or direct helmsmen to steer, following designated courses.
- Operate underwater recovery units.