Right of Way Agent

Coates is seeking a Right of Way Agent for day-to-day right of way duties for electric distribution and transmission projects. This embedded position will report directly to our client’s office located in Wichita, KS. Computer literacy and technical skills are necessary for this position.

*Per Diem Available.*

Local Wichita candidates or candidates willing to work long term in the area are preferred.

Overview of Duties:

• Contacts landowners throughout the system for a series of acquisition or construction tasks
• Determine ownership from in-house (client) records and online public records, at the subject county 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 within 1 business day of interaction (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, supplemental easements, tenant’s consents, access, temporary construction, and related 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 be required to testify in condemnation and other proceedings as expert witness
• Maintain a professional, courteous, and respectful demeanor to represent interests involved

Specialized knowledge/education required:

• Electric transmission project experience preferred
• 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

Who We Are:

Coates has a 76 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!