Right of Way Agent

Coates Field Service, Inc. is seeking a Right of Way Agent for electric transmission and distribution right of way project projects. The successful candidate will be well-versed in digital workflows, online title searches, and legal document deconstruction and delivery. The successful candidate will be responsible for day-to-day right of way duties for project. The position will be primarily a remote position, with frequent travel to various projects near Kirkwood, NY.

*No Per Diem Available, Local Canidates Only*

Primary Job Duties & Responsibilities:

• Contacts landowners throughout the system for a series of acquisition or construction tasks
• Examines right of way files (containing easements, deeds, legal descriptions, permits, agreements, contracts, other documents, and correspondence relating to the property) in order to determine issues such as multiple line rights, assignability/abandonment clauses, lease terms, restrictions
• Determine ownership from in-house (client) records and online public records
• Landowner encroachment mitigation on existing rights of way
• Explains project to landowners and answers their questions
• Documents all contact with landowners (mail, telephone, e-mail, personal visits)
• Assimilates contact information and project activities, enters details into project database
• Secures permission from landowner for various types of surveys and studies on and across public or private lands
• Negotiates for option agreements, easements, tenant’s consents, access, temporary construction, and related agreements
• Secures required subordination agreements
• Obtains maps and tax roll information
• Secures ownership information from variety of sources
• Records legal documents in appropriate county offices
• Provides liaison between landowner and other contractors such as construction crews, inspectors, surveyors, archaeologists
• Settles damages before, during and after construction
• Maintains assigned parcel files from beginning to end of project
• May testify in condemnation and other proceedings as expert witness

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

• Electric transmission project experience preferred
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and Adobe Acrobat
• In-depth knowledge of legal terminology that applies to land acquisition
• Capable of completing legal documents and forms such as easements and agreements
• Knowledge of the sequence of processes required to complete acquisition
• Ability to plot metes and bounds descriptions of property and read a variety of maps, electronic and paper
• Ability to read and analyze engineering drawings and right of way plans in order to properly explain the taking
• The ability to read, understand and communicate property valuation information to landowners, as contained in formal real estate appraisals prepared by professional state certified appraisers.
• The further ability to render independent land value judgments and determine when compensation beyond the value outlined in an appraisal is justified
• Proficient in programs necessary to maintain documentation and produce reports
• Understands technology of projects well enough to explain and discuss with property owners
• Skilled in variety of research methods, particularly internet, courthouse, and recorded documents
• Knowledge of how to determine valuations of crops, trees, pastures, etc. for damage settlement
• Completion of courses relating to current issues and processes, as sanctioned and/or offered by the International Right of Way Association, preferred

Who We Are:

Coates has a 74-year history providing comprehensive land acquisition and right of way services to municipalities, utilities, energy providers, and oil and gas companies nationwide. The first firm of its kind, we are widely recognized as a leader in the land and right of way acquisition industry. A national corporation, Coates has the depth of knowledge and the agility to respond to client needs in all 50 states. Coates is headquartered in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, with regional offices located throughout the United States. It is our mission to provide professional, high-quality, cost-efficient land acquisition and right-of-way services our clients need, when and where they need us.

Coates is committed to rewarding the loyalty of the national team of Coates’ Employees. Coates hires the best candidates available for all positions, without regard to the individual's race, religion, or sexual preference or orientation. Coates is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE).

Coates offers a comprehensive and generous benefits package, including medical/dental, vision, STD/LTD, life insurance, paid time off, company paid holidays, and more!