Right of Way Project Manager - Environmental Services (Chicago)

We're seeking a full-time Project Manager for Right of Way projects in our Great Lakes Region. This individual will provide project oversight for land acquisition, negotiations, and title research in support of utility and public sector infrastructure projects, as well as responsibility over project financials and client interaction. The Project Manager will assist in establishing strong relationships with current clients and identifying potential opportunities.

This position will serve as the Right of Way lead for multiple major utility infrastructure improvement projects. The candidate must have the ability to think strategically; keep informed about project activities by participating in project meetings; manage and work well in a team environment; have excellent task management skills; have a proven ability to communicate professionally; have a flexible schedule; and be willing to work evenings and/or weekends, as needed. The successful candidate will be a talented seller-doer and be able to initiate and assist with client development and maintenance and will assume a lead role in sales presentations, proposal preparation, and project execution.

Knowledge and experience working in the Upper Midwest and having electric/gas utility and renewables experience are a plus.

Duties include:

• Manage client expectations related to the deliverable.
• Provide project oversight and coordination with contingent workforce.
• Maintain existing clients by managing expectations and client relationships.
• Expand current business by working with Environmental management to solicit new business and new business lines.
• Examine title and appraisal reports and land surveys.
• Coordinate team efforts, including database management, meetings, and reports.
• Provide direction and management to land acquisition subcontractors.
• Participate in public involvement meetings.
• Manage all communications related to the internal team, subcontractors, and client.
• Initiate or assist in contract negotiations or preparation.
• Manage direction of project planning, budgeting, scheduling, and establishing critical project objectives.
• Direct coordination with the client's Right of Way department and internal staff.
• Ensure compliance with company and site safety policies.
• Travel to project sites, client meetings, and client events as necessary.
• All other duties as assigned.

• Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration, Real Estate, Communications, or a related field from an accredited university. Applicable experience may be substituted for the degree requirement.
• Position will require officing in either our Downers Grove, IL, or downtown Chicago office.
• Minimum 7 years of related professional experience; at least 3 years managing Right of Way projects is highly preferred.
• Real Estate License, or ability to acquire license.
• Must identify and implement department process improvements as necessary, provide technical assistance, and resolve issues.
• International Right of Way Association (IRWA) membership preferred.
• Prior Right of Way acquisition on projects with and without eminent domain authority experience required, preferably in a consulting firm.
• Must have a smartphone capable of accessing the company's systems, including Microsoft Outlook and Teams. Ability to interpret title and appraisal reports and land surveys is required.
• Knowledge of general real estate law.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to establish effective working relationships with contractors, co-workers, workers, and other professionals.
• Excellent computer skills and Microsoft Office Suite (i.e., Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint) and experience managing complex data in databases.
• Valid driver's license required. In addition, you must meet standards to qualify for and maintain the Company's vehicle driving privileges as outlined in the Company's Motor Vehicle Safety Policy.