Deputy Director - Right of Way Delivery Services

State of Utah Office of the Governor • Salt Lake City, UT

1d • $43 - $68 • Onsite

About The Position

The Utah Department of Transportation (UDOT) is seeking a strategic, highly motivated leader to serve as the Deputy Director of Right of Way Delivery. In this pivotal role, you will oversee core acquisition and disposition processes, property valuation, and corridor preservation, ensuring UDOT’s transportation projects move from vision to reality. As a primary lead for Right of Way delivery, you will exercise independent judgment and expert technical knowledge to navigate the complexities of federal and state laws. You aren't just managing land; you are leading a diverse team of professionals and consultants to ensure every acquisition—from appraisal reviews to eminent domain proceedings—is handled with precision and a commitment to UDOT’s mission.

Requirements

• A deep professional background in the Right of Way and RE transactions industry, real estate law, or property valuation.
• A Bachelor’s degree and approximately six years of relevant experience is typical, or equivalent mastery through extensive practical experience.
• Comprehensive knowledge of appraisal reviews, negotiation techniques, and relocation assistance.
• Proven ability to manage large-scale real estate transactions and lead multidisciplinary teams.
• Comfortable managing consultant contracts and maintaining data integrity across complex projects.
• Exceptional interpersonal skills with the ability to translate complex regulatory requirements for stakeholders and stand confidently as an expert witness in legal proceedings.

Nice To Haves

• Recognized technical expert in federal and state land acquisition regulations.
• Proven track record in managing large-scale transactions programs like Corridor Preservation programs.
• A proactive leader committed to operational efficiency and collaborative problem-solving.
• Professional designations (such as IRWA, IREM, or Appraisal certifications) are highly valued.

Responsibilities

• Direct internal staff and manage consultant teams in appraisal, acquisition, and relocation services.
• Facilitate collaborative problem-solving for difficult parcels, develop yearly performance plans, and provide expert right-of-way training to the team.
• Serve as a technical authority on federal and state regulations.
• Review and countersign settlement statements and certifications, assessing risks and ensuring accuracy before final director execution.
• Coordinate right-of-way design, surplus dispositions, and surveying.
• Maintain quality control on acquisition logs and oversee the clearance of parcels for construction, ensuring the team is ready to proceed once summaries are approved.
• Act as the department’s expert in acquisition and relocation for appeals by the Attorney General’s office.
• Provide expert testimony to defend the State's determination of just compensation and represent UDOT at national technical council meetings.
• Interpret the UDOT Right-of-Way manual, manage federal audits, and handle GRAMA requests.
• Oversee the business side of delivery, including reviewing and approving monthly invoices in compliance with state procurement regulations.

Benefits

• Enhance quality of life through transportation
• Contribute to the framework of Good Health, Connected Communities, Better Mobility, and a Strong Economy for all of Utah.
• Internal culture of Trust, Teamwork, and Flexibility.
• Values of Respect, Integrity, and Caring.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager