AIS

Term from Maritime Navigation industry explained for recruiters

AIS (Automatic Identification System) is a crucial safety and tracking technology used in maritime navigation. Think of it as a maritime version of air traffic control systems, but for ships. It helps vessels automatically share their location, speed, and other important information with nearby ships and shore stations. This system is essential for preventing collisions at sea and managing marine traffic, especially in busy shipping lanes or ports. When you see this on a resume, the person has experience working with this tracking system, either on ships or in shore-based monitoring stations.

Examples in Resumes

Monitored vessel traffic using AIS technology in busy port operations

Maintained and operated AIS and Automatic Identification System equipment on commercial vessels

Coordinated maritime safety operations using AIS tracking systems

Typical job title: "Maritime Navigation Officers"

Also try searching for:

Navigation Officer Deck Officer Maritime Safety Officer VTS Operator Marine Traffic Controller Port Control Officer Ship Operations Manager

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you handle a situation where the AIS system fails during heavy traffic?

Expected Answer: A senior officer should explain backup procedures, alternative communication methods, and emergency protocols, emphasizing safety measures and regulatory compliance.

Q: What improvements have you implemented in AIS-based operations?

Expected Answer: Should discuss experience in optimizing vessel traffic management, implementing new procedures, and training junior officers in AIS operations.

Mid Level Questions

Q: How do you use AIS data to plan vessel routes?

Expected Answer: Should explain how they use AIS information to make decisions about vessel scheduling, traffic management, and collision avoidance.

Q: What are the key components of AIS reporting?

Expected Answer: Should be able to describe the basic information transmitted by AIS systems and how this information is used in daily operations.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What is the purpose of AIS in maritime operations?

Expected Answer: Should explain that AIS helps prevent collisions by showing vessel positions and movements, and helps in identifying nearby ships.

Q: How do you interpret basic AIS data?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate understanding of how to read vessel information like position, speed, and heading from AIS displays.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic AIS equipment operation
  • Reading and interpreting AIS data
  • Understanding maritime safety protocols
  • Basic vessel tracking operations

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Advanced traffic management
  • Emergency response coordination
  • AIS system maintenance
  • Vessel routing and scheduling

Senior (5+ years)

  • Port operations management
  • Training and supervision
  • System integration and upgrades
  • Safety procedure development

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No knowledge of basic maritime safety regulations
  • Inability to interpret AIS data
  • Lack of practical vessel tracking experience
  • No understanding of maritime communication protocols