Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: GMDSS • ARPA • Set and Drift

CPA

Term from Maritime Navigation industry explained for recruiters

CPA (Closest Point of Approach) is a crucial safety measurement tool used in maritime navigation. It helps ship officers determine how close their vessel will come to other ships, obstacles, or land masses. Think of it like a prediction system that helps prevent collisions at sea - similar to how a car's GPS might warn about upcoming traffic. Marine professionals use CPA along with tools like radar and electronic charts to make important decisions about changing course or speed to maintain safe distances between vessels.

Examples in Resumes

Maintained safe CPA distances during heavy traffic situations in Singapore Strait

Trained junior officers in proper CPA calculations and monitoring procedures

Successfully managed vessel operations with zero CPA violations in high-traffic zones

Typical job title: "Navigation Officers"

Also try searching for:

Ship Navigator Deck Officer Marine Officer Watch Officer Navigation Watch Officer Maritime Navigator Ship's Officer

Where to Find Navigation Officers

Professional Organizations

Job Boards

Online Communities

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How do you handle a situation where multiple vessels are approaching with critical CPA values?

Expected Answer: A senior officer should explain prioritizing risks, using all available tools (radar, AIS, visual), and making early decisions to maintain safe distances. They should mention communication with other vessels and proper logging of actions taken.

Q: Describe a challenging CPA situation you've managed and how you resolved it.

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate leadership in decision-making, proper use of collision regulations (COLREGS), and ability to coordinate with bridge team and other vessels to ensure safety.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What factors affect your CPA calculations and how do you account for them?

Expected Answer: Should mention vessel speed, course, weather conditions, traffic density, and explain how these factors influence decision-making for safe navigation.

Q: How do you determine appropriate CPA limits in different situations?

Expected Answer: Should explain how different areas (open ocean vs harbor), weather conditions, and vessel types influence safe CPA distances.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What is CPA and why is it important?

Expected Answer: Should explain that CPA is Closest Point of Approach, used to determine safe distance between vessels, and its basic role in collision avoidance.

Q: How do you monitor CPA values during your watch?

Expected Answer: Should describe basic use of radar, AIS, and other navigation equipment to track nearby vessels and maintain safe distances.