Radar Plotting
Radar Plotting is a fundamental skill in maritime navigation where crew members track and predict the movement of other ships to avoid collisions at sea. It's like creating a map of moving objects around your vessel to determine if any might come too close. While modern ships often use electronic systems, understanding manual radar plotting remains an essential safety skill. This is similar to how air traffic controllers track planes, but for ships at sea. When you see this term in a resume, it shows that the candidate knows how to interpret radar information and can make important safety decisions while navigating.
Examples in Resumes
Maintained safe navigation using Radar Plotting techniques on international cargo routes
Trained junior officers in Radar Plotting and Manual Plotting procedures
Conducted collision avoidance using Radar Plot analysis in high-traffic coastal areas
Typical job title: "Navigation Officers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Navigation Officers
Maritime Professional Networks
Job Boards
Training Resources
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you handle a situation where multiple vessels are on collision course in poor visibility?
Expected Answer: A senior officer should explain the process of prioritizing threats, using both radar plotting and electronic systems, and making early decisions about course changes while following collision regulations.
Q: How do you train junior officers in radar plotting?
Expected Answer: Should discuss creating practical exercises, emphasizing the importance of regular practice, and explaining how to verify electronic readings with manual plots for safety.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What information can you get from a radar plot?
Expected Answer: Should explain how plotting helps determine other ships' speed, direction, and closest point of approach in simple terms, and how this information is used for navigation decisions.
Q: How do you maintain plotting accuracy in rough seas?
Expected Answer: Should describe practical techniques for maintaining accurate plots despite vessel movement, and when to use additional verification methods.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What are the basic steps in creating a radar plot?
Expected Answer: Should be able to describe the fundamental process of marking positions, measuring distances and bearings, and calculating basic vessel movement.
Q: Why is manual radar plotting still important with modern electronic systems?
Expected Answer: Should explain that manual plotting is a backup skill when electronics fail and helps in understanding the principles behind electronic systems.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic radar plot creation
- Understanding of collision regulations
- Basic position plotting
- Use of plotting tools
Mid (2-5 years)
- Multiple target tracking
- Weather impact assessment
- Electronic plotting system use
- Emergency procedure knowledge
Senior (5+ years)
- Complex situation management
- Training and supervision
- Advanced collision avoidance
- Integration of multiple navigation methods
Red Flags to Watch For
- Unable to demonstrate basic plotting techniques
- No knowledge of collision regulations
- Lack of practical experience on different types of vessels
- Poor understanding of safety procedures
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