opinions on local 3 vs caltrans surveying

legendarygm · Post by **legendarygm** » Mon Apr 06, 2015 4:00 pm

I'm just curious if anyone has ever gone from Union Surveying to Caltrain survey and if so what are your thoughts and opinions on it. also do you know the difference between the wages. I'm considering moving from oe3 to caltrans and I am trying to get more information

legendarygm · Post by **legendarygm** » Mon Apr 06, 2015 4:17 pm

more info: I'm currently in the middle of a career decision. I am debating leaving my current company where I am party chiefing with great hours, but with a long commute. The alternative is a more local company that subcontracts Chaiman to Caltrans. If I go with the new company I might be able to make connections with Caltrans that might allow me to land employment. however, I will be taking a pay cut and getting far less hours.I have already weigh the pros and cons of the companies individually. in doing so I have determined that staying with my current company would be wiser financially. however, I have been pursuing employment with Caltrans for a number of years. therefore I would appreciate any input that anyone can offer me because because I am trying to determine if gambling to make connections would pay off in the long run. if I were successful in making connections with Caltrans and gaining employment, would Caltrans prove to be a better place to be employed or is it just six of one or half dozen of the other. Any input or experiences anyone might have would be much appreciated

Dave Karoly, PLS · Post by **Dave Karoly, PLS** » Tue Apr 07, 2015 9:10 am

You need to pass the LSIT first (unless you have a BS in Geomatics Engineering). Then you need to take the Transportation Surveyor exam to get on the hiring list.

Depending what range you get hired into, there may be an initial pay cut from Local 3 Party Chief wage but eventually you can make more especially if you pass the LS exam.

Hint: the MQs (minimum qualifications) and pay scales are all on-line along with fringe benefits and paid leaves.

When filling out an application for a government job 1) be truthful but 2) use the words in the class specification for which you are applying. If you did some job task, say it the State's way, not your way (or your old private sector boss's way). This is because you application will initially be reviewed for meeting MQs by an HR type who has no idea what we do. Use the same language so they can easily see you meet the MQs and your application will be passed along to the hiring manager (usually an LS).

legendarygm · Post by **legendarygm** » Tue Apr 07, 2015 10:00 am

Thanks for the reply. I already have my LSIT and have already passed all caltrans exams.
I have already made it to a few interviews and realized I will need to find any advantage I can to gain entry to caltrans. So far there have been 30+ competitors for each job. Many of which I assume are people transferring laterally for better positions or pay. I plan on getting my LS.

PLS7393 · Post by **PLS7393** » Tue Apr 07, 2015 10:15 am

I went to CALTRANS from OE3 and moved on from there. You will get a completely different perspective working for CT because they work linearly. It is a different animal, but allows you to see how others do similar activities.

Besides the surveying, you will learn a new perspective about safety, which we all need to be aware of.

I can not say good or bad, except the experience was well worth it for me. CT has been good for a number of good surveyors, and it is solid.

Good luck!

legendarygm · Post by **legendarygm** » Tue Apr 07, 2015 4:39 pm

Thanks 7393,
Its good to hear that you enjoyed your experience there. I am likely going to be working with the Ukiah group, or possibly Stockton. I am curious,though, where you moved on to

PLS7393 · Post by **PLS7393** » Sun Apr 12, 2015 2:54 pm

After CT I worked for the City of Hayward, and County of San Mateo before realizing I belong in the private sector.