Top 10 Questions for Deck Cadet Interview

1. Describe the procedure for conducting a shipboard fire drill?

Sample Answer:

• Raise the fire alarm and announce the location of the fire.
• Assemble the crew and assign tasks.
• Contain the fire using fire extinguishers and hoses.
• Evacuate the affected area and search for any missing persons.
• Report the fire to the bridge and request assistance if necessary.

2. Explain how to calculate the displacement of a vessel using the Archimedes principle?

Volume of the displaced water

• Calculate the waterline area using the Simpson’s rule.
• Multiply the waterline area by the distance between the waterlines.

Weight of the displaced water

• Multiply the volume of the displaced water by the density of water.

Displacement

• The displacement is equal to the weight of the displaced water.

3. Describe the components and operation of a marine diesel engine?

Sample Answer:

• Engine Block: Contains the cylinders, pistons, and crankshaft.
• Cylinder Head: Seals the combustion chamber and contains the valves.
• Pistons: Move up and down in the cylinders, compressing and expanding the air-fuel mixture.
• Crankshaft: Converts the reciprocating motion of the pistons into rotary motion.
• Fuel Injection System: Delivers fuel to the cylinders at the appropriate time.
• Lubrication System: Provides lubrication to the engine components.
• Cooling System: Regulates the engine temperature.

4. Explain the purpose and functions of a ship’s electrical system?

Sample Answer:

• Power generation: Provides electricity for various shipboard systems (e.g., propulsion, navigation, lighting).
• Distribution: Transmits electricity from generators to different parts of the vessel.
• Control: Regulates the flow of electricity and protects the electrical system from faults.
• Safety: Ensures the safe operation of electrical equipment and prevents electrical hazards.

5. Describe the different types of navigational aids and their use in ship navigation?

Sample Answer:

• Loran: Uses radio signals to determine the ship’s position.
• GPS: Provides accurate position and time information using satellites.
• Radar: Detects other vessels and objects in the vicinity of the ship.
• AIS: Transmits the ship’s position, course, and speed to other vessels.
• Compasses: Indicate the ship’s heading and course.

6. Explain the procedure for conducting a shipboard emergency response drill?

• Activate the emergency alarm and announce the situation.
• Assemble the crew and assign tasks.
• Contain the emergency (e.g., extinguish fire, stop flooding).
• Evacuate the affected area and search for any missing persons.
• Report the emergency to the authorities and request assistance if necessary.

7. Describe the safety precautions to be observed when working in a confined space?

Sample Answer:

• Obtain a permit and ensure ventilation before entering a confined space.
• Wear appropriate protective gear (e.g., respirator, helmet, harness).
• Have a standby person outside the confined space to monitor the situation.
• Use gas detectors to check for hazardous gases.
• Maintain communication with the standby person at all times.

8. Explain the procedure for mooring a ship alongside a berth?

Sample Answer:

• Approach the berth slowly and carefully.
• Throw heaving lines to the shore and secure them to mooring bollards.
• Attach mooring ropes to the ship’s bitts and run them through the fairleads.
• Tighten the mooring ropes using winches.
• Secure the ship to the berth using chocks and fenders.

9. Describe the functions and responsibilities of a Deck Cadet?

Sample Answer:

• Assist the deck officers in navigation, cargo handling, and ship maintenance.
• Maintain a clean and safe deck area.
• Perform lookout duties and report any hazards.
• Participate in drills and exercises.
• Follow the instructions and orders of the deck officers.

10. Explain the importance of maintaining a good attitude and teamwork spirit on board a ship?

Sample Answer:

• A positive attitude and teamwork foster a cooperative and productive working environment.
• Good teamwork improves communication and coordination, leading to safer and more efficient ship operations.
• A positive attitude promotes a sense of camaraderie and mutual respect among the crew.
• It reduces stress and helps to resolve conflicts amicably.
• Maintaining a positive attitude and teamwork spirit contributes to the overall success and safety of the voyage.

Deck Cadets play a vital role in the safe and efficient operation of seafaring vessels, undertaking a range of essential tasks, including:

1. Assisting in Navigation

Deck Cadets assist in navigating the vessel, using charts, radar, and other navigational equipment, and keeping a lookout for potential hazards.

• Plot courses and monitor the vessel’s progress
• Maintain and update nautical charts

2. Maintaining the Vessel

Deck Cadets assist in maintaining the vessel, performing tasks such as cleaning, painting, and minor repairs, and ensuring the vessel is seaworthy.

• Conduct regular maintenance checks on deck equipment
• Assist in repairs and maintenance of the vessel’s hull, superstructure, and machinery

3. Assisting with Cargo Operations

Deck Cadets assist with cargo operations, including loading, unloading, and securing cargo, and ensuring safe and efficient cargo handling.

• Supervise cargo loading and unloading operations
• Inspect and secure cargo to prevent damage or loss

4. Contributing to Watchkeeping Rotations

Deck Cadets contribute to watchkeeping rotations, assisting in monitoring the vessel’s progress and maintaining a safe and efficient watch, including:

• Maintain a lookout for other vessels, hazards, and navigational aids.
• Assist in berthing and unberthing operations

Preparing thoroughly for your interview can increase your chances of success. Here are some tips to help you ace the interview:

1. Research the Company and Position

Learn about the company’s history, values, and current projects. This will help you understand the company’s culture and demonstrate your interest in the position.

• Visit the company’s website and social media pages.
• Read industry news and articles related to the company.

2. Practice Answering Common Interview Questions

Anticipate common interview questions and prepare your answers in advance. Practice delivering your answers clearly and confidently.

• Why are you interested in this position?
• What are your strengths and weaknesses?
• Tell me about a time you faced a challenge and how you overcame it.

3. Highlight Your Relevant Skills and Experience

Showcase the skills and experience that are most relevant to the job description. Quantify your accomplishments whenever possible.

• Emphasize your navigation, maintenance, and cargo handling skills.
• Provide examples of your leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities.

4. Ask Thoughtful Questions

Asking thoughtful questions at the end of the interview shows that you’re engaged and interested. It also gives you a chance to learn more about the position and the company.

• Inquire about the company’s training and development programs.
• Ask about the company’s safety and environmental policies.