Right of Way Utility Specialist

State of Oregon•Portland, OR

12d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Oregon Department of Transportation Delivery & Operations Division – Engineering & Technical Services Branch, Right of Way Section / Region 1 Right of Way Unit in Portland is recruiting for a region utility specialist. This role is critical in ensuring major transportation projects run smoothly by overseeing the planning, coordination, relocation, and installation of utility infrastructure across Oregon. The specialist will work with engineers, utility companies, municipalities, and consultants to resolve complex utility conflicts, prepare relocation plans and budgets, and ensure timely, compliant integration into project schedules and contracts. This work aims to preserve the integrity of public and private utilities, protect the safety of construction workers and the public by identifying utility conflicts, and keep projects on schedule and within budget. The department provides a safe and reliable multimodal transportation system that connects people and helps Oregon's communities and economy thrive. They encourage people from all backgrounds and abilities to apply.

Requirements

Five years of experience in the field of engineering in project management or utility coordination; OR An associate degree in the field of engineering (civil or transportation-related) and three years of engineering technician experience; OR A bachelor’s degree in the field of engineering (civil or transportation-related) and two years of engineering technician experience; OR An equivalent combination of experience, education, and training.
Related experience, education, and training can include, but is not limited to construction management, forestry, geography, geology, geomatics, mathematics, physics, remote sensing and/or urban planning.
Valid U.S. driver license and an acceptable driving record.
Ability to interpret construction plans and recommend design alternatives.
Excellent communication and relationship-building skills.
Demonstrated problem-solving and negotiation skills.
Demonstrated organizational and project-management skills.
Demonstrated strong self-direction and adaptability in managing utility work independently.

Nice To Haves

Technical and analytical judgment in identifying, reviewing and resolving complex utility conflicts.
Excellent communication and relationship-building skills when coordinating with utility companies, local agencies, consultants and project teams.
Demonstrated problem-solving and negotiation skills when resolving utility conflicts and developing practical relocation solutions.
Demonstrated organizational and project-management skills in coordinating multiple utility activities, maintaining documentation and meeting project schedules.
Demonstrated strong self-direction and adaptability in managing utility work independently while keeping management informed of issues, decisions and progress.

Responsibilities

Manage utility activities, budgets, documentation, certification, and compliance for assigned transportation projects.
Identify and resolve utility conflicts and coordinate relocations during project development.
Provide technical utility support, including plan reviews, utility plans, special provisions, and design recommendations.
Coordinate utility relocations during construction and assist with resolving issues, claims, and change orders.
Administer utility relocation reimbursement, including eligibility, costs, and payment documentation.
Make technical and regulatory decisions regarding utility conflicts, relocations, and compensable rights.
Build relationships and negotiate with utilities, municipalities, consultants, and project teams to resolve issues and maintain schedules.
Travel frequently throughout Region 1 and occasionally statewide, depending on project needs.
Perform field work in varying terrain, weather, and construction environments.