Right of Way Agent

Tierra Right of Way is seeking Right of Way Agents for our North Phoenix and Tucson offices. Agents must have a valid Arizona real estate license and a clean driver's license to perform this job. The Right of Way Agent is an entry-level position within the series of ROW agents. Under the close supervision of a Division Manager, Program Manager, or more senior Right of Way Agent, receives formal and rotational on-the-job training in the major functional areas of appraisals, acquisitions, relocation assistance, utility relocation and property management. In addition, Agents perform routine administrative office and field duties.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

This position does not have supervisory responsibilities.


Essential Functions and Requirements:

• Obtains fee titles, easements, permits, agreements, etc. for utility, public and private projects on behalf of Tierra's clients, including negotiations with property owners and owner representatives for successful acquisition of necessary property rights.
• Researches titles and records of property interests to verify ownership and encumbrances of record
• Reviews title reports and other documents in preparation for negotiation activities
• Contacts property owners and conduct negotiations to secure property rights
• Participates in negotiations with landowners under the direction of others
• Reviews survey drawings and legal descriptions for accuracy
• Participates in appraisal site inspections and reviews appraisal reports
• Reviews deeds, easements, plats, title reports and plans related to right of way projects
• Writes legal descriptions, prepares and review maps, offer packages, permit applications and documents, creates correspondence and reports with a clear understanding and ability to explain the content and ramifications of these documents to the affected property owners in support of company projects
• Serves as a liaison with agencies in pursuit of approved permits, leases, agreements etc. in support of project activities
• Reviews right of way and construction plans for accuracy and conformity to standards; conducts, or acquires, title searches to locate property owners; inspects affected property and identifies implications of County project on the property and/or structures.
• Prepares preliminary cost estimates and acquisition documents; prepares letters of opinion of value, short form appraisal for total and/or partial acquisitions and easements to establish just compensation to the property owner; orders and reviews appraisals; orders and reviews title reports and assists in correct and legal means of meeting title requirements.
• Negotiates with property owners for the purchase, lease, donations, or acquisition of easements of real property and/or property rights. Informs property owner of their rights, applicable laws, and regulations. Negotiates claims settlements with owners.
• Writes legal description of right of ways and draws scaled plats for filing of deeds.
• Drafts and/or reviews legal instruments for conveyance of rights of way to the County including deeds, mortgages, and purchase contracts; prepares recommended resolutions for payment to owners and mortgage owners; records documents and orders title insurance.
• Performs other related responsibilities as requested or required

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Ability to maintain confidentiality

• Strong communication skills
• Strong interpersonal skills, including the ability to interact and collaborate with a wide variety of individuals
• Ability to work as a team player
• Attention to organization, detail, and accuracy
• Ability to maintain regular attendance and be punctual
• Knowledge of utilizing MS Word, Excel, and Outlook applications
• Ability to plan, organize, and prioritize work
• Ability to work independently and apply decision-making skills
• Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines
• Working knowledge of right of way disciplines of title, engineering, appraisal, and negotiations
• Ability to create accurate maps, maintain appropriate files, logs, and records

Mental and Physical Requirements

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job.

Must be able to understand direction and adhere to established procedures, have the ability to understand, remember and communicate routine, factual information; ability to complete routine forms, using existing form letters and/or conduct routine communication.


Decision-making actions are generally restricted and public and interdepartmental contacts are closely supervised.

Travel:

Daily local travel to landowners and clients is frequent. However, overnight travel is not expected.

Minimum Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Two (2) years' experience working in the right of way industry including experience 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

Preferred Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree