Navy NEC · Logistics
W14A Harbor/Docking Pilot
A Navy Enlisted Classification: a skill designation sailors hold in addition to their rating.
Overview
A Harbor and Docking Pilot pilots naval ships of all classes and unlimited tonnage in and out of harbors and naval bases and to and from docks and berths. The pilot supervises docking, berthing, and mooring personnel and directs vessels, floating equipment, barges, and pusher boats during ship and tow movements.
Core Skills
- harbor pilotage
- shiphandling
- docking and berthing
- mooring operations
- tow planning
- tugboat coordination
- channel navigation
- marine crew supervision
- floating equipment movement
Civilian Software & Tools
- Microsoft Office software
- Apple macOS
- Autodesk Revit
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Outlook
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- Microsoft Word
- Computerized maintenance management system CMMS
Civilian Career Paths
- Transportation Management
- Fleet Management
- Project Management
- Supply Chain Management
Training & Development
Getting Started
- Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC)
- STCW Basic Training
- Radar Observer Unlimited
Career Growth
- Master of Towing Vessels Credential
- Pilotage Endorsement
- STCW: Advanced Firefighting
- Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS) Operator
What the Work Involves
- Direct courses and speeds of ships, based on specialized knowledge of local winds, weather, water depths, tides, currents, and hazards.
- Prevent ships under navigational control from engaging in unsafe operations.
- Serve as a vessel's docking master upon arrival at a port or at a berth.
- Consult maps, charts, weather reports, or navigation equipment to determine and direct ship movements.
- Steer and operate vessels, using radios, depth finders, radars, lights, buoys, or lighthouses.
Related Occupations
- Sailors and Marine Oilers
- Motorboat Operators
- Ship Engineers
- Airline Pilots, Copilots, and Flight Engineers
Typical preparation for these civilian roles: vocational training or an associate degree.
Equivalent Roles in Other Branches
Descriptions may be summarized for clarity. Verify all information with your branch career counselor or official military documentation before making career decisions.
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