Description The ROW (Right of Way) Agent is responsible for implementing right of way acquisition processes for fiber, utility, energy, pipeline and utility pole attachment in both aerial or underground projects. This position interfaces with public and governmental entities to obtain and manage property rights for the company and to grant property rights and licenses to the public and governmental entities. This is meant to be a guide. Duties may vary dependent upon management. Essential Position Functions:
- Review, prepare, analyze, interpret all land and right of way related agreements, deeds, easements, leases, permits and licenses.
- Prepare, maintain and revise (as needed) of property owners' files, right of way maps, records, drawings, exhibits and necessary progress reports.
- Negotiate of the acquisition of right of way and other property interests to accommodate the construction, operation, and maintenance of client facilities as required.
- Perform research and compile informational reports about landowners, land titles and properties. Identify defects and outline curative measures.
- Prepare zoning and permitting applications. Monitor the progress of the applications and facilitate jurisdictional requests for additional information as required.
- Review engineering drawings and identify risks related to right of way. Provide suggestions for minimizing risks and unnecessary owner involvement.
- Negotiate with landowners for the acquisition of property.
- Assist with the resolution of encroachments, landowner complaints and inquiries.
- Act as a liaison with federal, state, and local agency and special interest groups, businesses, and real estate organizations.
- Assist with the preparation of right of way related cost estimates associated with land and easement acquisitions. This includes costs for permanent/temporary right of way and damages.
- Implement right of way processes for client fiber, utility and energy projects including cursory title, survey permission and easement negotiations.
- Remain knowledgeable in real estate values and accepted real estate appraisal practices; advise and assist in establishing a range of fair market values to be used in the acquisition of land and land rights.
- Assist the Project Manager with bidding and RFP responses including the participation in client presentations.
- Other duties as assigned.
Education and/or Experience:
- High School Diploma or GED required.
- Current real estate license required.
- 3+ years relevant work experience. 2+ years of project experience working on Communications, Oil & Gas Pipelines, Electrical and/or other Utility projects.
- Knowledge in all aspects of right of way, including project management, acquisition, title, permitting, budgeting, cost forecasting, operations, due diligence, public relations, and community outreach.
- An understanding of fiber, energy or utility system objectives and construction techniques.
- Ability to read and comprehend legal documents such as legal descriptions, surveys, ground leases, easements, deeds, land purchase contracts, mortgages, title policies, subordination, and CAD drawings
- Demonstrated ability to maintain professionalism while dealing with difficult negotiations required.
- Real estate, sales, or legal negotiation experience strongly desired.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills required.
- Intermediate to Expert ability with Windows operating systems.
- Expert level ability with Microsoft office applications - Excel, Word, PowerPoint.
- Ability to prioritize and complete assignments accurately and in a timely manner.
- Able to effectively handle multiple priorities with a strong attention to detail in a fast-paced environment.
- Strong interpersonal, organizational, oral and written communications skills.
- Must be able to work alone, and with a team.
- Highly adaptive/flexible to changing environments and priorities.
- Must be able to pass a drug screen and criminal background check.
Physical Demands: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential duties of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
- Frequent walking, standing, sitting within the work area.
- Ability to sit for extended periods of time.
- Requires 20% travel time.
- Must be able to work and travel in various weather conditions.
- Ability to effectively communicate with employees, management, peers, et al.
Work Environment: The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those of a standard office environment. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
- The work environment is that of being in the field, office or remote environment.
- The position requires working independently, as well as part of a team.
- This position requires verbal and face-to-face contact with others daily.
- Frequent use of a computer is necessary.
- This position requires use of all general office equipment.