Right of Way Agent

The City of Cedar Rapids is seeking a motivated and experienced Right of Way Agent to join the City's Public Works Department. The Right of Way Agent will be responsible for negotiation and acquiring property rights, easements, and land acquisitions necessary for various projects. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in real estate, excellent negotiation skills, and the ability to work collaboratively with stakeholders. If you are interested and possess the skills needed for this position, please apply today. About our Organization At the City, we are committed to employing individuals who reflect our community's diverse backgrounds and this position is crucial in the success and strategic direction of a growing and evolving community. We appreciate and leverage the vast experience individuals bring beyond the technical requirements of a job. If you are an individual with similar experience listed here please consider applying. Experience and skills combined with commitment to our core values is key to building a greater community now and for the next generation. About our Community Nestled in the heart of Iowa, Cedar Rapids is our vibrant and diverse community known for its rich history, culture, and natural beauty. Our city has a strong sense of community which can be seen at any of our numerous parks, recreational opportunities, and family-friendly events year round. You can also explore our thriving downtown district, filled with shops, restaurants, and entertainment options, or take a stroll along the Cedar River, which runs through the heart of the city. Cedar Rapids - Why you should live here. About this Opportunity Negotiates agreements to acquire property rights; performs business and residential relocation per the Uniform Act, as well as support for condemnation hearings, title research and consultants. The City of Cedar Rapids does not offer sponsorship for employment authorization. Job Duties & Responsibilities Provides right of way support by establishing accuracy of present title status of subject properties; acquires right-of-way needs (fee title, permanent easements, and temporary easements) for city projects Investigates and researches title data via county courthouse records, city documents, field interviews with abstractors, attorneys, and property managers Estimates the market value of properties Serves as a liaison between property owners and institutions, housing, and welfare agencies, interpreting and explaining acquisition, relocation, negotiations, closing and property management Facilitates all the phases of right of way acquisition projects including defining, measuring, analyzing, improving and controlling (DMAIC) information to completion Determines eligibility, moving cost options, and amount of payments in conformance with state and federal laws Prepares, revises, and modifies contracts for purchase of real estate, personal property and/or property rights in per project plans Documents all phases of right of way acquisitions Prepares and negotiates agreements to secure property rights and interests, along with documents for City approval (City Council resolutions, background information, public hearing notices and presentations, etc) Monitors progress of relocation/adjustment projects to ensure compliance with the negotiated agreements in a timely manner Performs all work duties and activities in accordance with city policies, procedures and safety practices Performs related work as required Required Education and Experience Associate's Degree Business, Planning, or related field and 3 to 5 years of full-time experience in real estate appraisals, property law, acquisitions/negotiations, or management and/or relocation assistance; OR, An equivalent combination of education and/or experience (i.e., one year of relevant experience may substitute one year of education) Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills Proficiency with Microsoft Office Ability to work collaboratively with a diverse population Required Licenses or Certifications Valid. U.S. Driver's License Iowa Notary Public or ability to obtain within 3 months of hire International Right of Way Association (RWA Certification) or equivalent Desired Qualifications International Right of Way Association (RWA Professional) or Senior Right of Way designation Completion of International Right of Way Association course or web-based training FHWA-NHI-141045 Real Estate Acquisition under the Uniform Act or equivalent course related to Right of Way and Eminent Domain Position Schedule Monday-Friday, 7:30am-4:30pm