Right of Way Agent

CONTRACT LAND STAFF LLC•Albuquerque, NM

3d•Onsite

About The Position

The Right of Way Agent is an entry-level position in the right of way agent series, based in Tierra’s Albuquerque, New Mexico office. The role works on-site under the close supervision of a Division Manager, Program Manager, or more senior Right of Way Agent. It includes formal and rotational on-the-job training in appraisals, acquisitions, relocation assistance, utility relocation, and property management, along with routine administrative office and field duties. The position has no supervisory responsibilities. Frequent daily local travel to landowners and clients is required; overnight travel is not expected. The agent obtains property rights for utility, public, and private projects on behalf of Tierra’s clients, including negotiating with property owners and their representatives. The work also includes researching ownership and encumbrances, reviewing project and title materials, preparing acquisition and legal documents, coordinating with agencies, and supporting the acquisition, valuation, and conveyance of property rights.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
Two years of experience in the right of way industry, including reading plans, understanding legal descriptions, reading title reports, and negotiating with property owners.
Valid driver’s license.
Valid real estate license in the state of assignment.
Ability to pass a background check.
Ability to maintain confidentiality.
Strong communication and interpersonal skills, including the ability to interact and collaborate with a wide variety of individuals.
Ability to work as a team player and independently, and to apply decision-making skills.
Attention to organization, detail, and accuracy.
Ability to maintain regular attendance and punctuality.
Knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook.
Ability to plan, organize, and prioritize work; work under pressure; and meet deadlines.
Working knowledge of right of way disciplines, including title, engineering, appraisal, and negotiations.
Ability to create accurate maps and maintain appropriate files, logs, and records.
Ability to understand directions and established procedures, understand, remember, and communicate routine factual information, complete routine forms using existing form letters, and conduct routine communications.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree.

Responsibilities

Obtain fee titles, easements, permits, agreements, and other property rights for client projects, including negotiating with property owners and their representatives.
Research property titles and records to verify ownership and recorded encumbrances.
Review title reports and other documents in preparation for negotiations.
Contact property owners and conduct or participate in negotiations to secure property rights, under the direction of others as applicable.
Review survey drawings, legal descriptions, right of way plans, and construction plans for accuracy and conformity to standards.
Participate in appraisal site inspections and review appraisal reports; order and review appraisals and title reports.
Inspect affected property and identify project implications for the property and structures.
Prepare preliminary cost estimates, acquisition documents, letters of opinion of value, short-form appraisals, offer packages, permit applications, maps, correspondence, and reports.
Explain the content and ramifications of relevant documents to affected property owners.
Serve as a liaison with agencies to pursue approvals for permits, leases, agreements, and other project activities.
Conduct or obtain title searches to locate property owners and assist in satisfying title requirements through correct and legal means.
Negotiate purchases, leases, donations, easements, and claims settlements with property owners; inform owners of their rights and applicable laws and regulations.
Write legal descriptions and draw scaled plats for recording deeds.
Draft or review legal instruments conveying rights of way to the County, including deeds, mortgages, and purchase contracts.
Prepare recommended resolutions for payments to owners and mortgage owners; record documents and order title insurance.
Perform other related responsibilities as requested or required.