ECDIS

Term from Maritime Navigation industry explained for recruiters

ECDIS (Electronic Chart Display and Information System) is a modern navigation system used on ships, similar to having a smart GPS system but much more advanced. It's like having a digital version of traditional paper maps that also shows the ship's position, nearby vessels, and potential hazards. This system has largely replaced paper charts on most commercial ships because it's required by international maritime law. When you see ECDIS mentioned in a resume, it means the person knows how to use this essential navigation equipment, which is as important to modern shipping as knowing how to use a computer is in an office job.

Examples in Resumes

Maintained and operated ECDIS systems on various types of vessels

Conducted crew training on ECDIS and electronic navigation equipment

Certified ECDIS operator with experience on multiple manufacturer systems

Typical job title: "Navigation Officers"

Also try searching for:

Deck Officer Maritime Navigator Ship's Officer Navigation Officer Second Officer Chief Officer ECDIS Operator Maritime Systems Officer

Where to Find Navigation Officers

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you handle an ECDIS system failure during critical navigation?

Expected Answer: A senior officer should explain backup procedures, switching to paper charts if needed, and proper emergency protocols while maintaining safe navigation. They should also mention crew training and regular system checks to prevent such situations.

Q: What experience do you have in training junior officers on ECDIS systems?

Expected Answer: Should discuss their approach to teaching newer staff, creating standard operating procedures, and ensuring proper documentation of training. They should emphasize safety and compliance with maritime regulations.

Mid Level Questions

Q: How do you ensure proper voyage planning using ECDIS?

Expected Answer: Should explain the process of creating safe routes, checking for hazards, considering weather conditions, and ensuring proper chart updates are installed.

Q: What are the key safety checks you perform on ECDIS before starting a voyage?

Expected Answer: Should mention checking chart updates, alarm settings, backup systems, and ensuring all safety parameters are properly set for the specific voyage.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What are the basic components of an ECDIS system?

Expected Answer: Should be able to describe the main screen elements, basic functions like position display, chart viewing, and simple route planning features.

Q: How do you update electronic charts on ECDIS?

Expected Answer: Should explain the basic process of receiving and installing chart updates, checking update status, and maintaining proper documentation of updates.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic ECDIS operation
  • Chart updating
  • Simple route planning
  • Basic safety settings management

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Advanced route planning
  • System troubleshooting
  • Weather navigation integration
  • Safety parameter optimization

Senior (5+ years)

  • ECDIS training certification
  • Emergency procedure management
  • Multiple system type expertise
  • Crew training and supervision

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No formal ECDIS certification
  • Limited hands-on navigation experience
  • Unfamiliarity with maritime regulations
  • No experience with different ECDIS manufacturers
  • Poor understanding of backup procedures

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