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Geodetic Engineering Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

DIRECTOR - SURVEY

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$192K - $268K/yr

... Engineering Bureau, the Director of the Survey Division directs and oversees all surveying operations for the Harbor Department. This role directs preliminary, property, topographic, geodetic, and ...

Conduct advanced COGO calculations, coordinate geometry evaluation, and geodetic analyses. * Apply ... Bachelor's degree in Geomatics Engineering, Civil Engineering, or equivalent years of experience in ...

Survey Party Chief (Union)

San Jose, CA · Hybrid

$52.58 - $63.09/hr

... way, geodetic, and control surveys * Plan and execute field work; participate in pre-survey meetings with project managers, engineers, and contractors * Assign, prioritize, and monitor crew work ...

Survey Party Chief (Union)

Pleasanton, CA · Hybrid

$52.58 - $63.09/hr

... way, geodetic, and control surveys * Plan and execute field work; participate in pre-survey meetings with project managers, engineers, and contractors * Assign, prioritize, and monitor crew work ...

Survey Party Chief (Union)

Pleasanton, CA · On-site

$52.58 - $63.09/hr

... way, geodetic, and control surveys * Plan and execute field work; participate in pre-survey meetings with project managers, engineers, and contractors * Assign, prioritize, and monitor crew work ...

Survey Party Chief (Union)

Redwood City, CA · On-site

$52.58 - $63.09/hr

... way, geodetic, and control surveys * Plan and execute field work; participate in pre-survey meetings with project managers, engineers, and contractors * Assign, prioritize, and monitor crew work ...

Survey Party Chief (Union)

Walnut Creek, CA · Hybrid

$52.58 - $63.09/hr

... way, geodetic, and control surveys * Plan and execute field work; participate in pre-survey meetings with project managers, engineers, and contractors * Assign, prioritize, and monitor crew work ...

Survey Party Chief (Union)

Redwood City, CA · Hybrid

$52.58 - $63.09/hr

... way, geodetic, and control surveys * Plan and execute field work; participate in pre-survey meetings with project managers, engineers, and contractors * Assign, prioritize, and monitor crew work ...

Survey Party Chief (Union)

Walnut Creek, CA · On-site

$52.58 - $63.09/hr

... way, geodetic, and control surveys * Plan and execute field work; participate in pre-survey meetings with project managers, engineers, and contractors * Assign, prioritize, and monitor crew work ...

Survey Party Chief (Union)

Redwood City, CA · On-site

$52.58 - $63.09/hr

... way, geodetic, and control surveys * Plan and execute field work; participate in pre-survey meetings with project managers, engineers, and contractors * Assign, prioritize, and monitor crew work ...

Survey Party Chief (Union)

San Jose, CA · On-site

$52.58 - $63.09/hr

... way, geodetic, and control surveys * Plan and execute field work; participate in pre-survey meetings with project managers, engineers, and contractors * Assign, prioritize, and monitor crew work ...

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Showing results 1-20

Geodetic Engineering information

See California salary details

$12

$31

$56

How much do geodetic engineering jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for geodetic engineering in California is $31.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.90 and $37.50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do geodetic engineers make in the US?

Geodetic engineers in the US typically earn a median annual salary of around $70,000 to $90,000, depending on experience, education, and location. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced professionals with advanced certifications can earn over $100,000 annually.

Is geodetic engineering in demand?

Geodetic engineering is in demand due to ongoing infrastructure development, urban planning, and environmental projects that require precise surveying and mapping skills. Professionals in this field with expertise in GIS software, GPS technology, and data analysis are sought after in government agencies, construction, and engineering firms.

What are some typical challenges faced by geodetic engineers in fieldwork, and how can they be overcome?

Geodetic Engineers often face challenges such as difficult terrain, unpredictable weather conditions, and the need for precise measurements in remote locations. These obstacles can be managed by thorough site planning, using advanced GPS and remote sensing technology, and ensuring regular equipment calibration. Additionally, strong teamwork and clear communication with survey crews and project managers are essential to address logistical or safety issues quickly and efficiently.

What is geodetic engineering?

Geodetic engineering is a field of engineering focused on measuring and representing the Earth, including its gravitational field, shape, and location of features on its surface. Geodetic engineers use advanced surveying tools and techniques such as GPS, satellite imagery, and remote sensing to collect and analyze spatial data. Their work supports construction, mapping, navigation, land development, and scientific research by providing accurate geographic information. This expertise is crucial for projects like infrastructure development, land boundary determination, and disaster management.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a geodetic engineer?

To thrive as a Geodetic Engineer, you need a solid background in mathematics, surveying, geospatial analysis, and engineering principles, usually supported by a degree in geodetic or geomatics engineering. Familiarity with GPS, GIS software, remote sensing tools, and certifications like Professional Engineer (PE) licensure are typically required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving, and attention to detail set exceptional professionals apart in this field. These competencies are crucial for delivering accurate measurements and spatial data that underpin infrastructure, mapping, and land development projects.

What is the difference between Geodetic Engineering vs Surveying?

AspectGeodetic EngineeringSurveying
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Geomatics, Civil Engineering, or related; often professional licensureBachelor's in Surveying, Geomatics, or related; licensure varies by region
Work EnvironmentFieldwork, office, and research; large-scale projects like mapping and infrastructurePrimarily fieldwork; boundary, topographic, and construction surveys
Industry UsageUsed in mapping, navigation, and large infrastructure projectsUsed in land development, construction, and property boundary determination

Geodetic Engineering focuses on precise positioning and large-scale mapping, often involving satellite data and GPS technology. Surveying is more localized, concentrating on land boundaries and construction sites. Both roles require similar credentials but serve different project scopes and environments.

What are popular job titles related to Geodetic Engineering jobs in California? For Geodetic Engineering jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Geodetic Engineering jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Geodetic Engineering jobs in California are:
Infographic showing various Geodetic Engineering job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,765 per year, or $31.1 per hour.

Engineering Technician IV

Craig Technologies

Mount Laguna, CA • On-site

$32.53/hr

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

New


Job description

Title: Engineering Technician IV

Location: Mount Laguna, California

Clearance: N/A

Citizenship Requirement: US Citizenship Required

Req #: 4078

Starting Hourly Rate: $32.53/hr, hourly SCA position

Summary: Craig Technologies has an opening for an Engineering Technician IV (MOBLAS Console Operator)

In this position, you will work with the NASA Space Geodesy Network (NSGN) program by supporting the operations and maintenance of the NASA MOBile LAser System (MOBLAS) ground station, specifically MOBLAS-4, in Mount Laguna, California. The MOBLAS system is used to measure the round-trip time of flight of laser pulses to satellites that are equipped with retroreflectors. The data collected supports geophysical and geodetic research activities.

Detailed Description:

  • Operating the MOBLAS-4 station 8 hours per day, 5 days a week to collect satellite range data. Typical shift is from 6am to 2pm.
  • Performing regular weekly, monthly, and yearly preventative maintenance on all systems according to local operating procedures.
  • Complete regular ground tests to calibrate instrumentation and adjustments as needed.
  • Coordinate with remote engineering team to
    • Troubleshoot system malfunctions and complete corrective maintenance as directed.
    • Review or verify blueprints, wiring diagrams, schematic drawings, and engineering instructions for assembling equipment.
  • Receiving technical advice from supervisor or engineer and work is reviewed for technical adequacy (or conformity with instructions).
  • Performing other duties as assigned.

Position Requirements:

  • AS/AA degree and 2+ years of related experience, or 2 years of technical training and 2+ years of related experience, or HS/GED and 6 years of related experience.
  • 1 year of related experience as a ground system or console operator.
  • Experience following operational and/or maintenance procedures.
  • Ability to perform standalone shift work.
  • U.S. Citizenship is required.

Desired Experience:

  • Experience operating or working with electro-optic elements, subsystems, and systems for ground-based systems including lasers, detectors, and beam control assemblies.
  • Experience operating or configuring timing equipment for high precision servo control, data measurement, and processing systems/subsystems.
  • Experience using complex test instruments such as high frequency pulse generators, frequency synthesizers, distortion analyzers, and complex computer control equipment.

***All candidates selected will be subject to a security background investigation/Drug Screening and must meet all eligibility requirements. ***

Craig Technologies is an EEO Employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetics, or any other non-job-related protected status. All candidates selected will be subject to a security background investigation and must meet all eligibility requirements for access to classified information.