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  • Survey Party Chief

    Sacramento, California United States City of Sacramento, CA Full Time $73,344.81 - $103,203.51 Annually Jan 08, 2026
    City of Sacramento Employer:

    City of Sacramento, CA

    The City of Sacramento, Sacramento County, California, was founded in 1849, and is the oldest incorporated city in California. In 1920, Sacramento City voters adopted a City Charter (municipal constitution) and a City Council-City Manager form of government, which are still used today. The City Council consists of a Mayor elected by all City voters, and Councilmembers elected to represent the eight separate Council districts in the City. Each district is a separate geographical area with a population of about 51,000 residents. Each Councilmember must be a registered voter and live in the district they represent. Elected members serve 4 year terms and elections are staggered every two years in even numbered years. (Council District Information, including summary report of population and racial statistics). The Council establishes City policies, ordinances, and land uses; approves the City's annual budget, contracts, and agreements; hears appeals of decisions made by City staff or citizen advisory groups; and appoints four Charter Officers, a City Manager, City Attorney, City Treasurer, and City Clerk. Councilmembers serve on several working committees, such as Law and Legislation, and Personnel and Public Employees. In 2002, City voters amended the City Charter and established a Compensation Commission to set the compensation for the Mayor, Council members and public members of City boards and commissions. This Charter Amendment also established the Mayor's position as a full-time job. The City also has a Legislative Affairs Unit; it's primary purpose is to advocate, coordinate and advance the City's legislative agenda to enhance the City's ability to govern and provide essential municipal and community services.             

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    Job Description

    THE POSITION

    THIS POSTING WILL BE OPEN UNTIL FILLED

    Application cut - off dates are the first and third Thursday of each month.

    IDEAL CANDIDATE STATEMENT

    The Department of Public Works, Engineering Services division is seeking a highly motivated, experienced individual to provide leadership and support in our Survey Section. Responsibilities include; supervising a crew of technical staff, managing design and construction surveying projects, preparing deliverables for City clients, and preparing legal descriptions and plats for right of way acquisitions. The ideal candidate for this position would possess extensive experience in general land surveying practices including; design topographic surveys, construction staking, boundary surveying, and preparation of legal descriptions and plats. The ideal candidate would be skilled at supervising and coaching survey technicians performing survey field work.

    To perform supervisory and advanced technical surveying work and to be responsible for planning, organizing, and directing the operation of a field party making land and engineering surveys.

    DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS

    Work of this class involves performing complex technical engineering survey work and direct supervision of a field survey party. Incumbents apply precise surveying knowledge and techniques.

    SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED

    Direction is provided by a higher level supervisory or management position. Responsibilities include the direct and indirect supervision of technical subordinates.

    ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

    Depending upon assignment, duties may include, but are not limited to, the following:

    - Direct a survey party in making a variety of surveys including land surveys to determine locations of property lines, boundaries, easements, and right-of-ways; topographic surveys to determine locations and elevations of existing improvements, structures, and topographic features; construction surveys for improvement projects; surveys to establish and adjust benchmarks; and surveys to establish and monument street centerlines.
    - Keep accurate, orderly, and legible field notes of work performed showing lines, angles, distances, benchmarks, mathematical calculations, and other data pertinent to the field survey.
    - Compute and adjust angles, distances, bearings, traverses, and elevations.
    - Operate survey instruments and instruct other party members in their operations.
    - Perform a variety of office surveying duties including researching existing records and compiling data required for current survey projects and computing data to be shown on maps.
    - Supervise, train, and evaluate the performance of technical subordinates.
    - Perform related duties as assigned.

    QUALIFICATIONS

    Knowledge of:

    - Surveying methods, practices, and techniques.
    - Legal aspects of surveying.
    - Algebra, geometry, and trigonometry.
    - Elementary principles and practices of engineering as related to surveying.
    - Sources of information concerning previous land surveys.
    - Principles of supervision, training, and performance evaluation.
    - Personal computers, including surveying software.
    - Current generation of field survey computers.

    Ability to:

    - Understand and interpret legal descriptions and record survey maps.
    - Understand and interpret engineering plans, diagrams, and notes.
    - Use and care for surveying instruments and equipment.
    - Make accurate and legible field survey notes.
    - Perform complex mathematical calculations with speed and accuracy.
    - Plan and organize the work of a field survey party to achieve optimum efficiency.
    - Supervise, train, and evaluate subordinate field survey personnel.

    Experience:

    Two years of experience comparable to an Engineering Aide II with the City of Sacramento.

    OR

    Three years of experience as a member of a survey party performing lead chain, rod and instrument operator duties.

    License of Certificate:

    Possession of a valid Land-Surveyor-In-Training Certificate in the State of California at the time of appointment. Land-Surveyor-In-Training Certificate must be verifiable.

    PROOF OF CERTIFICATION

    Proof of the required certificate and/or license should be submitted with your application and will be required at the time of appointment . Unofficial documents and/or copies are acceptable.

    SPECIAL QUALIFICATIONS

    Driver License:

    A valid California Class C Driver License at the time of appointment. Loss of the Class C License is cause for discipline. Individuals who do not meet this requirement due to physical disability will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.

    THE SELECTION PROCEDURE

    Please note, the City of Sacramento's preferred method of communication with applicants is via e-mail. As such, please ensure you verify the e-mail address on your application, and check your e-mail frequently, including your spam and junk folders. All e-mail notifications can also be accessed through the governmentjobs.com applicant inbox.

    1. Application: (Pass/Fail) - All applicants must complete and submit online a City of Sacramento employment application by the next posted cut-off date:
    • Employment applications must be submitted online; paper applications will not be accepted.
    • Employment applications will be considered incomplete and will be disqualified:
      • If applicants do not list current and/or past job-related experience in the duties area of the "Work Experience" section. Note: Qualifying experience is based on full-time experience (40 hours per week). Qualifying experience is calculated to the full-time equivalent (pro-rated if less than 40 hours/week).
      • If "see resume" is noted in the "Work Experience" section; a resume will not substitute for the information required in the "Work Experience" section.
    • Proof of education such as, but not limited to, university/college transcripts and degrees should be submitted online with your application. Proof of education will be required at time of appointment.
    • Proof of certification and/or license should be submitted online with your application. Proof of certification and/or license will be required at time of appointment.
    • Position/job titles will not be considered in determining eligibility for meeting the minimum qualifications for this position.
    • If you’re requesting Veteran’s credit, a copy of your DD214 must be submitted online with your application or emailed to the Employment Office by the final filing deadline . Information regarding the use of Veteran’s credit can be found in the Civil Service Board rules under rule 4.9C.
    • Applicants are responsible for attaching a copy of their DD214 to each position for which they apply.

    2. Training and Experience Exam: (Weighted 100%) - The questions located at the end of the application are the Training and Experience (T&E) Exam. Responses to the T&E questions will be rated and scored. This exam will evaluate the relevance, level, and progression of a candidate's education, training and experience. The exam score will determine your ranking on the eligible list for this job. When completing the T&E questions, please note:
    • Responses to the T&E questions must be submitted online; paper questionnaires will not be accepted.
    • A resume will not substitute for the information required in the T&E questions.

    3.Eligibility: Candidates who pass the Training and Experience Test will be placed on the eligible list. The hiring department may contact candidates for interview at any time during the life of the one-year list. Candidate’s eligibility expires one year from the date of notification of a passing score for the Survey Party Chief examination.

    4. Screening Committee: (Pass/Fail)- All candidates that pass the examination and are in one of the top three ranks will have their application forwarded to the hiring department for review. The hiring department will select the most competitive applications for further consideration. Human Resources will only evaluate employment applications for the minimum qualifications, as stated on the job announcement, for applications selected by the hiring department.

    5. Conditional Hire: Upon receipt of a conditional offer, the selected candidate must complete and pass Live Scan/fingerprinting. If applicable, candidates may also need to pass a pre-employment medical exam, controlled substance and/or alcohol test, and possess any required licensure or certification prior to receiving a start date from the Department. Failure to meet these prerequisites will be grounds for withdrawal of your conditional offer of employment.

    QUESTIONS:
    For questions concerning this job announcement and the application process:
    • Please visit https://www.governmentjobs.com/Home/ApplicationGuide for a comprehensive, step-by-step guide to the application process.
    • For technical support between 6 AM - 5 PM PT, contact Live Applicant Support at (855) 524-5627.
    • Visit the City of Sacramento Human Resources Department website at https://www.cityofsacramento.gov/HR/employment ;
    • Send an email to employment@cityofsacramento.org ; or
    • Call the Human Resources Department at (916) 808-5726


    Bilingual Pay
    Did you know that the City offers bilingual pay? That's right, most labor agreements offer the option of providing employees with bilingual pay if the department deems it to be operationally necessary.

    Pension Reform Act
    The City of Sacramento is covered by the California Public Employees' Retirement System, and as such, must adhere to the California Public Employee's Pension Reform Act (PEPRA) of 2013. Please note that the provisions within this act may affect or impact an applicant's eligibility and/or selection for open vacancies at the City of Sacramento.

    Equal Opportunity Employer
    The City of Sacramento is an equal opportunity employer to all, regardless of age, ancestry, color, disability (mental and physical), exercising the right to family care and medical leave, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, medical condition, military or veteran status, national origin, political affiliation, race, religious creed, sex (includes pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding and related medical conditions), and sexual orientation.

    Additional Information
    Civil Service Rules: https://www.cityofsacramento.gov/content/dam/portal/hr/documentlibrary/CivilServiceBoardRules62012.pdf

    Union Contracts: https://www.cityofsacramento.gov/HR/labor-agreements.html

    Salary Schedule: https://www.cityofsacramento.gov/content/dam/portal/hr/documentlibrary/SalarySchedule.pdf

    Closing Date/Time: Continuous
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    Please mention you found this employment opportunity on the CareersInGovernment.com job board.

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Gain A Bird's Eye View Of The World With Government Survey Jobs

Gain A Bird's Eye View Of The World With Government Survey Jobs
 

The World of Government Survey Jobs

Not to be confused with the surveying done by the Census Bureau, land surveying forms the heart of urban planning, environmental conservation, and national security. Government surveyors are the ones who climb mountains, wade through swamps, and navigate dense urban jungles – all in the name of accurate measurement and mapping.

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But don’t be fooled; this isn’t just about trudging through wilderness with old-fashioned equipment. Modern government surveyors are as likely to be piloting drones or analyzing satellite data as they are to be pounding stakes into the ground.

Imagine starting your day by calibrating a high-precision GPS unit, then heading out to review and map the erosion of a coastline that could affect thousands of homes. Or picture yourself using cutting-edge LiDAR technology to create 3D models of a city, helping urban planners design more efficient and sustainable communities. These are just glimpses of what a career in government surveying can offer.

 

The Impact of Survey Work on Communities

When you think of community heroes, surveyors might not be the first profession that comes to mind. Yet, the work of government surveyors touches nearly every aspect of our daily lives, often in ways we don’t even realize. Let’s peel back the layers and explore how these precision professionals make a tangible difference in our communities.

Safeguarding Lives and Property

Did you know that accurate flood mapping can mean the difference between life and death? Government surveyors play a crucial role in creating and updating flood maps. These aren’t just lines on paper – they’re vital tools that:

  • Help communities prepare for potential disasters
  • Guide emergency response plans
  • Inform insurance rates and building codes

By precisely measuring land elevations and water flow patterns, surveyors provide the data needed to protect lives and property from devastating floods. When was the last time you checked your area’s flood map? It might just save your life one day.

Shaping Livable Cities

Ever wondered how cities decide where to place new parks, schools, or transportation hubs? Government surveyors are often the unsung heroes behind urban planning decisions. Their work:

  • Determines land use and zoning regulations
  • Identifies suitable locations for public facilities
  • Helps plan efficient transportation routes
Imagine a new light rail system that cuts your commute time in half, or a neighborhood park within walking distance of your home.

Chances are, a government surveyor’s data played a role in making these amenities possible.

Resolving Boundary Disputes

“Good fences make good neighbors,” as the saying goes. But what happens when those fences are in the wrong place? Government surveyors are often called upon to settle boundary disputes, ensuring that:

  • Property lines are accurately defined
  • Land ownership is clearly established
  • Conflicts between neighbors are resolved fairly

Their precise measurements can prevent costly legal battles and maintain community harmony. Have you ever had a fence dispute with a neighbor? A government surveyor might be the peacemaker you need.

Protecting Natural Resources

In an era of climate change and environmental concerns, the role of government surveyors in conservation efforts is more critical than ever. Their work contributes to:

  • Mapping and monitoring protected habitats
  • Tracking changes in coastlines and forests
  • Planning sustainable resource management

From helping track endangered species to measuring glacial retreat, surveyors provide the data needed to make informed environmental decisions. How might your local ecosystem benefit from this precise monitoring?

Supporting Infrastructure Development

Roads, bridges, water systems – the infrastructure we rely on daily often begins with a surveyor’s measurements. Government surveyors:

  • Determine optimal routes for highways and pipelines
  • Ensure buildings and bridges are constructed on stable ground
  • Help plan efficient water management systems

That smooth new highway or reliable clean water supply? Thank a surveyor for laying the groundwork.

Preserving History and Culture

Surprisingly, government surveyors also play a role in preserving our cultural heritage. They:

  • Map and document historical sites and artifacts
  • Provide data for archaeological excavations
  • Help in the restoration of historical buildings and monuments
The next time you enjoy a walk in a local park, drive on a well-planned road, or feel secure in your home during a rainstorm, take a moment to appreciate the surveyors who helped make it all possible.

Their work may often go unnoticed, but its effects are felt every day in communities across the nation.

 

Technology in Modern Surveying

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Gone are the days when surveyors relied solely on chains and transits. Today’s government surveyors are at the forefront of technological innovation, wielding an impressive array of high-tech tools that would make any gadget enthusiast green with envy. Let’s look into the exciting world of modern surveying technology and how it’s revolutionizing the field.

LiDAR: Illuminating the World in 3D

Imagine being able to create a highly detailed 3D map of an entire city in a matter of hours. That’s the power of LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) technology.

  • How it works: LiDAR uses laser pulses to measure distances and create point clouds.
  • Applications: From mapping flood plains to planning urban developments, LiDAR is changing the game.
  • Accuracy: It can detect differences in elevation as small as a few centimeters.

Did you know that LiDAR technology recently uncovered hidden Mayan ruins in the jungles of Guatemala? Just think of the potential applications in your own community!

Drones: The Surveyor’s Eye in the Sky

Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) or drones have become indispensable tools for modern surveyors. They offer:

  • Efficiency: Cover large areas quickly and access hard-to-reach locations.
  • Cost-effectiveness: Reduce the need for ground crews in many situations.
  • Versatility: Equipped with cameras and sensors for various data collection needs.
Imagine surveying a sprawling construction site or monitoring coastal erosion without ever leaving the ground.

Drones make it possible, providing a bird’s-eye view that was once the domain of expensive aerial surveys.

GPS and GNSS: Precision at Your Fingertips

Global Positioning System (GPS) and Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) technology have revolutionized surveying:

  • Accuracy: Achieve centimeter-level precision in positioning.
  • Speed: Collect data points rapidly and efficiently.
  • Integration: Combine with other technologies for comprehensive surveys.

Remember when you had to unfold a giant paper map to navigate? GPS has come a long way since then, and surveyors are using its most advanced forms to map our world with incredible precision.

3D Laser Scanning: Capturing Reality in Detail

3D laser scanning technology allows surveyors to create highly detailed models of buildings, landscapes, and infrastructure:

  • Speed: Capture millions of data points in minutes.
  • Detail: Create accurate 3D models for analysis and planning.
  • Versatility: Useful for everything from historic preservation to crime scene investigation.

Imagine being able to virtually walk through a building that hasn’t been constructed yet, or preserve the exact dimensions of a historic structure for future generations. That’s the power of 3D laser scanning.

Mobile Mapping Systems: Surveying on the Move

Mounted on vehicles, mobile mapping systems combine various sensors to collect data while in motion:

  • Efficiency: Survey long stretches of road or rail quickly.
  • Comprehensive: Collect multiple data types simultaneously.
  • Safety: Reduce the need for surveyors to work in dangerous roadside conditions.

Think about the last time you used a street view feature on a digital map. Mobile mapping systems take this concept to the next level, providing detailed data for infrastructure planning and management.

GIS and Big Data: Making Sense of It All

Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and big data analytics are transforming how survey data is processed and utilized:

  • Integration: Combine data from various sources for comprehensive analysis.
  • Visualization: Create intuitive maps and models for decision-makers.
  • Predictive Analysis: Use historical data to forecast future trends and needs.
This technological revolution not only makes surveying more efficient and precise but also opens up new possibilities for how we understand and interact with our environment.

From virtual reality simulations of proposed developments to real-time monitoring of environmental changes, the future of surveying is limited only by our imagination.

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How to Land a Government Survey Job

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So, you’re intrigued by the world of government surveying and ready to take the plunge into this rewarding career. But where do you start? Let’s map out your path to landing that coveted government survey job.

Education: Building Your Foundation

The first step on your job search journey is getting the right education:

  • Aim for a bachelor’s degree in surveying, geomatics, civil engineering, or a related field.
  • Look for programs accredited by ABET (Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology).
  • Consider taking courses in GIS, remote sensing, and data analysis to boost your tech skills.

Pro tip: Many schools offer internship programs with government agencies. These can be golden opportunities to get your foot in the door!

Licensure: Becoming a Professional Surveyor

Most government surveying positions require professional licensure:

Requirements vary by state, but typically include:
  • A degree from an accredited program
  • Several years of work experience under a licensed surveyor
  • Passing the Fundamentals of Surveying (FS) exam
  • Passing the Professional Surveyor (PS) exam

Becoming licensed is a journey. Start early by taking the FS exam soon after graduation.

Gain Experience: Learning the Ropes

While working towards licensure, gain valuable experience:

  • Look for entry-level positions or internships with private surveying firms.
  • Volunteer for local conservation projects that involve surveying work.
  • Consider starting as a survey technician in a government agency to learn the ropes.

Did you know? Many government agencies offer trainee programs that can lead to full surveyor positions upon licensure.

Develop Technical Skills: Mastering the Tools of the Trade

In today’s high-tech surveying world, technical skills are crucial:

  • Become proficient in CAD software like AutoCAD or Microstation.
  • Learn to use GIS software such as ArcGIS or QGIS.
  • Familiarize yourself with data processing software for various surveying instruments.
  • Get comfortable with drone operation and data processing if possible.

Tip: Many software providers offer free or discounted licenses for students. Take advantage of these to build your skills!

Network: Building Professional Connections

Networking can open doors in the government sector:

  • Join professional organizations like the National Society of Professional Surveyors (NSPS).
  • Attend industry conferences and workshops.
  • Participate in online forums and social media groups for surveyors.
  • Connect with alumni from your school who are working in government surveying.

Sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can make the difference.

Search for Opportunities: Finding Your Dream Job

When you’re ready to apply, know where to look:

  • Check our website regularly for federal positions.
  • Look at state and local government job boards for opportunities closer to home.
  • Set up job alerts on professional surveying websites and job boards.
  • Don’t overlook temporary or contract positions – these can often lead to permanent roles.
Tips:
  • Tailor your resume and cover letter for each application, highlighting relevant skills and experiences.
  • Try to respond on the same date the job was posted.

The application will ask for sensitive information, so don’t forget to check your connection and click save when you’re done.

Prepare for the Application Process: Standing Out from the Crowd

Government job applications can be detailed and competitive:

  • Carefully read job announcements and address all required qualifications.
  • Be prepared to take written tests or demonstrate practical skills.
  • For federal jobs, familiarize yourself with the GS (General Schedule) pay scale and qualifications.
  • Highlight any specialized skills or experiences that match the job description.

Patience is key. Government hiring processes can be lengthy, but the wait is often worth it.

Continuous Learning: Staying Ahead of the Curve

Even after landing your job, continue to grow:

  • Take advantage of professional development opportunities offered by your agency.
  • Stay updated on new technologies and methodologies in the field.
  • Consider pursuing advanced certifications or even a master’s degree to boost your career prospects.

Landing a government survey job is more than just finding employment – it’s embarking on a career path filled with purpose, challenges, and opportunities to make a real difference. By proceeding with these steps and staying persistent, you’ll be well on your way to joining the ranks of professional government surveyors.

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