Bad Vectors on a Checkride.

[AerroMatt]

FWIW, I get a similar situation when being vectored for the ILS to SNS (Salinas CA). NorCal approach has explained to me that due to the proximity of higher terrain near the localizer they are not allowed to vector me at an altitude below GS intercept. Since 90% of the time in this situation I am dealing with coastal stratus and I have visual on the higher terrain, I will ask for a lower altitude on the vector and advise NorCal that I can maintain terrain separation until established. This way I intercept localizer below GS and am legal.

Granted, I am part 91 and don't have to worry about all the Part 135 and ops specs like you do, but it may help.