Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: AIS • Leeway • Magnetic Bearing

Magnetic Bearing

Term from Maritime Navigation industry explained for recruiters

A Magnetic Bearing is a navigation tool used in maritime and shipping industries to determine a ship's direction relative to magnetic north. Think of it like a more advanced compass reading that helps navigation officers determine their position and plan routes at sea. It's different from a True Bearing because it refers to the angle between the ship's direction and magnetic north, rather than geographic north. When you see this term on a resume, it usually indicates that the candidate has experience with navigation equipment and understands maritime direction-finding techniques.

Examples in Resumes

Performed daily navigation duties using Magnetic Bearing calculations on commercial vessels

Trained junior officers in Magnetic Bearing and Compass Bearing techniques

Managed vessel navigation systems including Magnetic Bearing equipment for a fleet of 5 ships

Typical job title: "Navigation Officers"

Also try searching for:

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

Where to Find Navigation Officers

Professional Organizations

Job Boards

Online Communities

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you handle a situation where there's a significant difference between magnetic and true bearings?

Expected Answer: A senior navigator should explain how they account for magnetic variation and deviation, discuss the importance of maintaining up-to-date charts, and describe procedures for ensuring accurate navigation in challenging conditions.

Q: Describe your experience training junior officers in navigation techniques.

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate leadership experience, ability to teach fundamental navigation concepts, and explain how they ensure safety standards are maintained while training others.

Mid Level Questions

Q: How do you verify the accuracy of magnetic bearing readings?

Expected Answer: Should explain the process of cross-checking with other navigation tools, using multiple reference points, and regular equipment calibration procedures.

Q: What factors can affect magnetic bearing accuracy?

Expected Answer: Should mention environmental conditions, nearby metal objects, electronic interference, and explain how to compensate for these factors.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What is the difference between magnetic bearing and true bearing?

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain that magnetic bearing is relative to magnetic north, while true bearing is relative to geographic north, and understand basic conversion between the two.

Q: How do you take a basic magnetic bearing reading?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate knowledge of using basic navigation equipment, reading compass cards, and following standard procedures for taking bearings.