Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: Gnomonic Projection • Magnetic Bearing • CPA

Dead Reckoning

Term from Maritime Navigation industry explained for recruiters

Dead Reckoning is a basic but important navigation method used in maritime and aviation industries. It's a way of figuring out where a ship or vessel is by calculating its position based on speed, time traveled, and direction from a known starting point. Think of it like tracking your path on a map when hiking - you know where you started, which direction you went, how fast you walked, and for how long. While modern ships mainly use GPS, Dead Reckoning remains a crucial backup skill and is often required knowledge for maritime positions, especially when electronic systems fail or in areas with poor satellite coverage.

Examples in Resumes

Maintained accurate ship positioning using Dead Reckoning techniques during GPS outages

Trained junior officers in Dead Reckoning and modern navigation methods

Successfully navigated vessel through coastal waters using Dead Reckoning as backup to electronic systems

Typical job title: "Navigation Officers"

Also try searching for:

Maritime Navigator Deck Officer Ship's Officer Navigation Officer Maritime Officer Vessel Navigator Ship's Navigator

Where to Find Navigation Officers

Professional Organizations

Online Communities

Job Resources

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you handle navigation if all electronic systems failed during a voyage?

Expected Answer: A senior officer should explain their process for implementing Dead Reckoning procedures, coordinating with the bridge team, and maintaining safe navigation while troubleshooting electronic systems. They should mention using charts, calculating positions manually, and ensuring proper position logging.

Q: How do you train junior officers in Dead Reckoning skills?

Expected Answer: Should describe their teaching approach, emphasizing practical exercises, importance of understanding basic principles, and how to verify calculations. Should mention integration with modern navigation methods and emergency procedures.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What factors can affect Dead Reckoning accuracy?

Expected Answer: Should mention weather conditions, currents, wind effects, and the importance of regular position verification. Should explain how they account for these factors in calculations.

Q: Describe a situation where you had to rely on Dead Reckoning.

Expected Answer: Should provide a clear example showing practical application, decision-making process, and any challenges faced. Should demonstrate understanding of when to use Dead Reckoning versus other navigation methods.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What basic information do you need for Dead Reckoning?

Expected Answer: Should list starting position, speed, time, and direction as minimum requirements. Should understand how to use basic navigation tools and charts.

Q: Why is Dead Reckoning still important in the age of GPS?

Expected Answer: Should explain its role as a backup system, importance during electronic failures, and its value in verifying electronic navigation systems.