Right of Way Permitting Agent

Overview of Duties:

• Coordinates with Right of Way, Engineering, and other departments to first establish where the line route is located


• Determine the non-environmental permits (road/railroad/highway/MBTA) that will be required


• Ensure all required permits are obtained prior to any construction activities


• Organizes consultations with local officials, inspectors, and assessors to verify required permits, licenses, and/or agreements, and organizes and delivers all the required documents for obtaining permits


• Explains project to permitting agencies and answers their questions


• Documents all contact with permitting agencies (mail, telephone, e-mail, personal visits)


• Assimilates contact information and project activities, enters details into project database


• Secures permission from permitting agencies for various types of surveys and studies on and across public or private lands


• Records legal documents in appropriate county offices, if applicable


• Provides liaison between permitting agency and other contractors such as construction crews, inspectors, surveyors, archaeologists, etc.


• Maintains assigned parcel files from beginning to end of project

Specialized knowledge/education required:

• In-depth knowledge of legal terminology that applies to land acquisition and permitting


• Capable of completing legal documents and forms such as permits and agreements


• Knowledge of the sequence of processes required to complete permitting


• 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!