Magnetic Compass
A Magnetic Compass is a fundamental navigation tool used on ships and boats to determine direction. It's like a basic GPS of the sea that works without electricity, using Earth's magnetic field to show which way is North. While modern vessels also use electronic navigation systems, the magnetic compass remains essential as a reliable backup that doesn't need power to work. Ship officers must know how to use, maintain, and account for any errors in magnetic compass readings. This skill is particularly important because maritime regulations require all commercial vessels to have a working magnetic compass, even if they have modern electronic navigation systems.
Examples in Resumes
Certified in Magnetic Compass adjustment and maintenance for vessels up to 10,000 GT
Performed daily Compass readings and error calculations during trans-Pacific voyages
Trained junior officers in Marine Compass use and maintenance procedures
Typical job title: "Maritime Navigation Officers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Maritime Navigation Officers
Professional Organizations
Online Communities
Job Boards
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you handle a situation where the magnetic compass shows significant deviation from the GPS heading?
Expected Answer: A senior officer should explain the process of checking for magnetic interference, consulting deviation cards, and using celestial navigation or other backup methods to verify the ship's position. They should also mention documenting discrepancies and when to call for compass adjustment.
Q: What factors need to be considered when placing new equipment near a magnetic compass?
Expected Answer: The answer should cover safe distances for electronic equipment, understanding magnetic interference sources, and the importance of testing compass accuracy after any new installations nearby.
Mid Level Questions
Q: How often should compass errors be checked and recorded?
Expected Answer: Should explain the standard practice of checking compass errors at each watch, during course changes, and after severe weather, plus the importance of maintaining accurate records in the compass error book.
Q: What is compass deviation and how is it different from variation?
Expected Answer: Should be able to explain in simple terms how deviation comes from the ship's own magnetic field while variation is from Earth's magnetic field, and how each affects navigation.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What are the basic parts of a magnetic compass?
Expected Answer: Should identify the compass card, lubber line, compass bowl, and mounting system, explaining the basic function of each part in simple terms.
Q: Why is it important to keep a magnetic compass away from electronic devices?
Expected Answer: Should explain how electronic devices can interfere with compass readings and why this could be dangerous for navigation.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic compass reading
- Understanding of magnetic north vs true north
- Simple error calculations
- Basic maintenance checks
Mid (2-5 years)
- Detailed compass error analysis
- Navigation planning using compass
- Emergency procedures
- Training junior crew members
Senior (5+ years)
- Advanced compass adjustment
- Integration with modern navigation systems
- Crew training and supervision
- Emergency navigation procedures
Red Flags to Watch For
- Unable to explain basic compass reading principles
- No knowledge of compass error calculations
- Lack of practical experience with actual magnetic compasses
- No understanding of safety procedures related to compass use
Related Terms
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