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  • Senior Geographic Information System (GIS) Technician

    15600 Sand Canyon Ave, Irvine, California 92618 United States Irvine Ranch Water District, CA Full Time $87,110.40 - $130,166.40 Annually Aug 26, 2025
    Irvine Ranch Water District Employer:

    Irvine Ranch Water District, CA

    Established in 1961 as a California Water District under the provisions of the California Water Code (see Authorizing Statue/Enabling Act), Irvine Ranch Water District is an independent special district serving central Orange County. IRWD provides high-quality drinking water, reliable sewage collection and treatment, ground-breaking recycled water programs, and environmentally sound urban runoff treatment to its customers. As an independent, not-for-profit public agency, IRWD is governed by a publicly elected five-member Board of Directors. Board members are elected from five divisions and serve four-year terms. The Board is responsible for the District's policies and decision-making. Day-to-day operations are supervised by the General Manager.

    Job Description

    GENERAL DESCRIPTION

    Irvine Ranch Water District is currently accepting applications for a Senior Geographic Information System (GIS) Technician in the Information Technology Department.


    The District:

    Irvine Ranch Water District (IRWD) is a progressive, values-driven agency, with an international reputation for its leading-edge financial management practices, water recycling program, water use efficiency practices, water banking, urban runoff treatment, and energy generation and storage. Established in 1961 as a California Water District under the provisions of the California Water Code, IRWD is an independent special district serving central Orange County. IRWD provides high-quality drinking water, reliable sewage collection and treatment, ground-breaking recycled water programs, and environmentally sound urban runoff treatment to its customers. As an independent, not-for-profit public agency, IRWD is governed by a publicly elected five-member Board of Directors. The Board is responsible for the District's policies and decision-making. Day-to-day operations are supervised by the General Manager. Additional information can be found at the District's website: www.IRWD.com.

    IRWD Values
    Irvine Ranch Water District believes that its values drive the character, culture, and capacity of our organization. IRWD was built on values, and we weave them into the fabric of everything we do. Values are the ingredients in our recipe for both institutional and individual success. They are a code of conduct to promote positive outcomes for others and ourselves. They are more than words on a wall or a website. We live by them every day. We pledge to keep them relevant in an ever-changing world.

    IRWD's employees enjoy working in a safe, supportive, and nurturing environment where they form strong bonds with fellow employees. To ensure effective communication and promote a collaborative team environment, employees report to work each day in the office or in the field, depending on their positions.
    The Position
    Performs difficult and complex skilled duties using Geographic Information System (GIS) tools for the creation and maintenance of GIS facilities and various District maps, diagrams, and exhibits. Supports and administers the District's geographic internet-based mobile solutions, with a strong focus on field data collection workflows, GPS/RTK technology, and Esri mobile/web tools.

    DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS

    This is the advanced journey-level classification in the GIS Technicians series. Work is performed with direction and a high degree of independence. Assignments are advanced and complex, requiring analytical skills and problem-solving based on experience. Incumbents perform the full range of classification tasks with minimal supervision and may serve as technical leads on field data collection efforts, application development and workflow automation projects. Incumbents are expected to train and mentor GIS Technician I and II positions, student interns, and collaborate closely with operations field crews.

    For the full job description and responsibilities of the position, please click here.

    ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

    Performs engineering improvement plan research for public and staff.

    Maintains working knowledge of IRWD GIS equipment, including but not limited to: high-precision GPS/RTK units, scanners, and plotters.

    Supports and automates field workflows through the use of Esri mobile and web applications such as Field Maps, Survey123, QuickCapture, and Experience Builder.

    Collaborates directly with field crews to capture, verify, and update spatial and attribute data in the field.

    Trains field crews on maintenance of the GIS system, and the collection of GIS assets.

    Utilizes RTK-enabled GPS units to collect high-accuracy geographic information, resolve asset location discrepancies, and integrate data into the enterprise GIS.

    Reads and interprets civil engineering plans and specifications in order to maintain a geodatabase of District water, recycled water, and wastewater infrastructure in accordance with GIS conversion standards.

    Maintains and updates GIS data and Capital/Development plans, incorporating field redlines and integrating with the District's Records Management System.

    Produces high-quality cartographic and thematic maps; updates District-wide system atlas maps.

    Provides GIS-related support, training, and assistance to users across departments.

    Integrates non-GIS databases with GIS to support department operations and reporting needs.

    Writes and maintains metadata for GIS layers; ensures data quality and performs QA/QC.

    Utilizes scripting languages (e.g., Python, SQL) to automate GIS tasks and workflows.

    Supports GIS integration with asset management systems, field operations, and preventative maintenance programs.

    Maintains and updates GIS conversion standards and documentation.

    Assists in the support and development of GIS web and mobile applications.

    Complies with District safety practices and attends relevant safety training.

    Disaster Service Worker: In accordance with Government Code Section 3100, Irvine Ranch Water District employees are considered disaster service workers and may be called upon accordingly.

    MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

    Education and Experience:

    Any combination of training and experience that would provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required qualifications would be:

    Education:

    Equivalent to an associate’s degree with an emphasis in geography, geographic information systems, or a related field.

    Experience:
    • Minimum of five years in GIS or engineering-related work. Experience supporting field-based GIS workflows and GPS/RTK data collection preferred.
    • Experience in Water/Wastewater, specifically using the utility network data model is desirable.
    • Experience with Esri’s Utility Network data model is desirable.
    Licenses/Certificates Required:
    A valid Class C California Driver's License is required.

    Knowledge of:
    • Proficient in using Esri’s ArcGIS Pro, ArcGIS Online, and enterprise GIS systems.
    • Experience using Esri field applications such as Field Maps, Survey123, QuickCapture, and Experience Builder.
    • Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access, Visio).
    • Esri Utility Network is highly desirable.
    • Experience with JavaScript or other custom application development programming languages is highly desirable.

    Ability to:
    • Write SQL queries and Python scripts to automate work processes.
    • Work with field crews, explain technical concepts, and support GIS data collection in outdoor and operational environments.
    • Exercise strong judgment, discretion, and communication skills across office and field contexts.


    ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

    PHYSICAL DEMANDS

    Regularly required to sit, walk, bend, stoop, and stand. Occasionally required to lift up to 25 lbs., up to 60 lbs. with assistance. Must be able to sit for extended periods of time while performing tasks at a desk or workstation. Finger dexterity is needed to access, enter, and retrieve data using a computer keyboard, typewriter keyboard, or calculator and to operate standard office equipment. This may involve repetitive hand movements for extended periods. Ability to reach for documents, supplies, or equipment at varying heights (within a standard office environment) and grasp them, including the use of filing cabinets or shelves. Some bending or stooping may be necessary to retrieve files or materials from lower shelves or desks. Good vision is necessary for reading documents, working with computer screens, and performing tasks that require fine detail. Ability to hear in a standard office environment for communication, phone calls, and meetings.

    When working in the field, must possess the strength, stamina, and mobility to perform light to medium physical work; to sit, stand, and walk on level, uneven, or slippery surfaces; frequently reach, twist, turn, kneel, bend, stoop, squat, crouch, grasp, and make repetitive hand movement in the performance; to operate a motor vehicle and visit various District sites; and vision to locate utilities.

    These physical demands may vary depending on the specific duties and expectations of the position.

    ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS

    Noise level is generally equivalent to typical office environment. The office is maintained at a comfortable room temperature. The office is equipped with air conditioning and ventilation systems designed to maintain comfortable indoor air quality. The work area is equipped with adequate artificial lighting, supplemented by natural daylight from windows where available. The employee will work primarily at a desk, using a computer and other office equipment. The office complies with standard safety regulations, including the use of fire exits, first aid kits, and emergency procedures. Employees are expected to adhere to safety guidelines. The office environment is free from significant environmental hazards such as chemicals, heavy machinery, or extreme weather conditions. Ability to work in an environment which may expose employee to hazardous materials and environment. Occasional visits to construction sites where noise level may be higher than typical office environment. When working in the field, employees may be exposed to loud noise levels, cold and hot temperatures, inclement weather conditions, road/traffic hazards, vibration, chemicals, mechanical and/or electrical hazards, hazardous physical substances and fumes, dust, and air contaminants.

    IMPORTANT APPLICATION INFORMATION AND INSTRUCTIONS

    All applicants are required to complete and submit a District application form online and answer the supplemental questionnaire. Stating "See Resume" is not an acceptable substitute for a completed application. Resumes or faxed copies will not be accepted in lieu of the District's online application. To apply, click on the "Apply" link located at the top of this page.

    New users must create an account first. Click on this link for instructions on how to set up your account and apply for the first time: Online Employment Application Guide

    Applications will be reviewed by the Human Resources Department and the subject matter expert. Those applicants possessing the most pertinent qualifications will be invited to continue in the selection process, which will include:

    Oral Interview Examination: will assess candidates’ experiences, qualifications, and abilities that are crucial for success in this role. During this examination, candidates will have the opportunity to discuss their background, including education, training, and relevant professional experiences. This in-person interview will allow evaluators to assess the candidate’s interpersonal communication skills and evaluate their overall qualification for the position.

    Communication regarding your application and/or status will be sent to the email address listed on your application. Please check your email regularly throughout the recruitment process as you will not receive communications by any other method.

    Equal Opportunity Employer

    Irvine Ranch Water District is an Equal Opportunity Employer and provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities. If you consider yourself a person with a disability, you may contact the Human Resources Department for a reasonable accommodation.

    IRWD offers a comprehensive benefits package for eligible employees and their eligible dependents. These benefits include the following: retirement benefits; medical, dental, vision, and life insurance; anda variety of other benefits. Benefits may vary based on employment status. This benefits overview is intended to be a summary, is not intended to be all-inclusive,and may not be applicable to all employees.

    Retirement
    Employees hired on or after January 1, 2013:
    The District, in compliance with the California Public Employees' Pension Reform Act of 2012 (PEPRA), implemented a third tier for new employees hired on or after January 1, 2013. New employees hired on or after January 1, 2013 who have not been in PERS membership or in membership with a reciprocal retirement system within 6 months of hire date will receive benefits under the California Public Employees Retirement System at a 2 percent at age 62 formula. This formula gradually increases to a maximum benefits of 2.5 percent at age 67. Final compensation calculations will be based on the highest three-year average of regular recurring pay. The District pays the employer's share of these costs. The employee share of the pension cost of 7.50% is paid in full by the employees hired under this formula.

    Employees hired on or after September 29, 2012 or "Classic" PERS members hired on or after January 1, 2013:
    On September 24, 2012, the IRWD Board of Directors approved the addition of a second tier to the CalPERS retirement benefits. New employees hired on or after September 29th through December 31, 2012, and employees hired on or after January 1, 2013 who have been in PERS membership or in membership with a reciprocal retirement system, will receive benefits under the California Public Employees Retirement System at 2 percent at age 60 formula. This formula gradually increases to a maximum benefit of 2.418% at age 63. The District pays the employer share of these costs and the employee share of the pension cost of 7% is paid in full by the employees hired under this formula. Final retirement compensation calculations are based on the highest three-year average of regular, recurring pay.

    IRWDdoes not participate or pay into Social Security except for the Medicare portion.

    Medical Insurance
    IRWD contracts with CalPERS for medical insurance coverage. Employees may elect coverage from a variety of PPO and HMO plans. The employee and District contribution for health insurance varies by plan.Coverage is effective the first day of the month following the date of hire.

    Dental Insurance
    IRWD contracts with Delta Dental for dental coverage.IRWD pays 100% of the premium for dental coverage for eligible employees and their eligible dependents. Coverage is effective the first day of the month following the date of hire.

    Vision Insurance
    IRWD contracts with the EyeMed for vision coverage. IRWD pays 100% of the premium for vision coverage for eligible employees and their eligible dependents. Coverage is effective the first day of the month following the date of hire.

    Life Insurance
    Elgible employees are provided with life insurance coverage equal to three or four times their annual salary, depending on their level of compensation. Eligible dependents are also covered for a flat benefit amount. Coverage is effective the first day of the month following the date of hire.

    Deferred Compensation
    Participation in adeferred compensation plan is available through Empower Retirement. Enrollment is voluntary and contributions are employee-paid and subject to IRS limits. The District matches employee contributions up to 3% of base pay after 1 year of employment.

    Paid Vacation
    Eligible employees begin accruing vacation benefits at the rate of 80 hours per year for the first 5 years of employment. Employees accrue 120 hours per year after 5 years of employment and 160 hours per year after 10 years of employment.

    Paid Holidays
    The District offers 11 scheduled paid holidaysplus one personal holiday per year.

    Sick Leave
    Eligible employees accrue 96 hours of sick leave annually.

    Flexible Spending Accounts
    Eligible employees may elect to participate in the District's Flex Advantage program. This program allows employees to deposit pre-tax dollars into special accounts to be used for a variety of purposes, including paying for qualified miscellaneous health care expenses and dependent care expenses. IRWD contracts with a third party administer to process payments from employee accounts using claim forms or a Flex Spending debit card.

    Educational Assistance
    The District will share in the pre-approved educational costs of tuition and books for employees who wish to attend college or take certification classes.

    Closing Date/Time: 9/8/2025 11:59 PM Pacific

    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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