What are the responsibilities and job description for the Acquisition & Relocation Agent (PAS4) position at State of Washington?
About WSDOT
The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is a multimodal agency with a global reputation for excellence. Our dedicated workforce plans, designs, builds, and operates an integrated transportation system that safely and efficiently moves people and goods throughout the state. In addition to maintaining over 20,000 lane miles of state highway and 4,100 bridges, WSDOT manages the world's longest floating bridge, leads an award-winning Active Transportation Plan, holds the record for the world’s widest tunneling project, and operates the largest ferry system in the nation!
The Opportunity
Capitalize on your right of way agent expertise to join a small, cohesive team! WSDOT is currently seeking a right of way professional to serve as an Acquisition and Relocation Agent serving the Northwest Region on the Mount Baker Area (MBA) team, based in Shoreline, WA. The MBA team serves the geographic area of northernmost Snohomish County, Skagit County, Whatcom County and Island County. The purpose of Real Estate Services Office (RES) is to support successful delivery of transportation projects and coordinate real estate transactions. RES stewards the agency’s property assets and supports program delivery through guidance and policy development related to property valuations, acquisitions, relocation, and property management. The purpose of this position is to support the mission by completing simple and complex property rights acquisitions and/or facilitate any relocations associated with an acquisition, in compliance with the 1970 Uniform Relocation Act. This position directly supports the fish passage program and WSDOT's mission to provide an integrated, multimodal transportation system.
What to Expect
Field inspection work of WSDOT properties may include traversing steep or uneven terrain, sometimes in inclement weather. Work may include infrequent weekend or evening work to meet owner schedules. Travel to project locations is an expectation of the position and is required on a regular, sporadic, or as needed basis; short notice travel is often a requirement and the candidate preferably resides north of Seattle or Everett to meet with owners, engineers, surveyors and appraisers.
Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Acquisition & Relocation Agent will:
- Thoughtfully and respectfully inform owners about a project and the need to acquire property rights.
- Conduct fair and successful negotiations and resolve any relevant property issues.
- Research property history, land use, neighborhood issues, and ownership structures.
- Prepare numerous types of documents, such as Notices of Entry, Offer Packages, Relocation Eligibility Notices, Temporary Easements, Permits, and Administrative Settlements needed to acquire property rights; notarize owner documents when requested.
- Review and understand construction plans, right of way plans, landscape plans, and temporary easement exhibits.
- Examine and understand legal descriptions, title reports, leases, valuations, and ownership documents.
- Clear title encumbrances as needed.
- Maintain data trackers to record up-to-date status on a daily/weekly basis for assigned activities.
- Conduct site visits to inspect property and meet with property owners; drive to multiple locations in a state vehicle to perform inspection task; inspect property for potential conflicts.
Qualifications
To be considered for this opportunity, the following competencies are required:
- Right of Way Acquisition: Recent experience functioning as a right of way acquisition agent.
- Title Clearing: Recent title clearing experience, residential & commercial relocation experience or real estate acquisition experience under the Uniform Relocation Act.
- Technical Software Proficiency: Proficient with computers and computer software (including, but not limited to Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Outlook, Microsoft PowerPoint, Adobe, SharePoint, MS Teams, web, etc.).
- Communication & Interpersonal Proficiency: Effective written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to communicate technical information to a variety of internal and external customers.
- Organizational Skills: Strong organizational skills to manage multiple work packages, schedules, and deadlines simultaneously.
- Licensure: A valid Driver's license and ability to independently operate an automobile for travel to all areas of the state. Possession of a current notary stamp for the State of Washington or ability to obtain within 6 months.
- Growth Mindset: Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.
- Service-Oriented: Takes action to meet the needs of others.
It is preferred that qualified candidates also have:
- Real Estate Services Knowledge & Educational Foundation: Demonstrated expertise in real estate–related functions supported by relevant academic preparation (e.g., bachelor’s degree involving major study in construction, real estate, economics, accounting, business, public administration or related field). Shows a strong understanding of Title, Appraisal, and Acquisition practices and how these disciplines support Real Estate Services operations.
- Licensure: Possession of Notary Public License in Washington State (RCW 42.45 Revised Uniform Law on Notarial Acts).
Important Notes
- This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
- This position offers flexible/hybrid remote work options.
- Travel is an expectation of the position and is required on a regular, sporadic, or as needed basis. Short notice travel is often a requirement and the candidate preferably resides north of Seattle or Everett to meet with owners, engineers, surveyors and appraisers.
- The salary listed includes the legislative approved 5% salary premium for positions in King County.
- In addition to base salary, employees may be entitled to other forms of compensation depending on the type, duties, or location of the position. For union-represented positions, more information on other forms of compensation can be found in the applicable Collective Bargaining Agreements. Information on other compensation types for non-represented positions can be found in Chapter 357-28 of the Washington Administrative Code.
- WSDOT does not use the E-Verify system, therefore we are not eligible to extend STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT). For more information, please visit www.uscis.gov.
Why WSDOT
- Work-Life Balance – We are committed to ensure that our staff experience the reward of public service, while also sustaining a routine that suits each individuals’ lifestyle. As such, there are a number of flexible schedule options available, including telework options for eligible positions.
- Paid Leave – In addition to 12 paid holidays, full-time employees may earn up to 25 paid vacation days per year!
- Tuition Assistance – Permanent employees have several options for assistance with education expenses, including tuition reimbursement programs, government discounts at participating colleges throughout the state, and eligibility for federal student loan forgiveness.
- Plan For Your Future – WSDOT offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes a variety of healthcare options. Employees also have their choice of state retirement programs, and much more. Go to State Benefits for more information.
Check out this video to learn more: Why WSDOT?
How to Apply
Applications for this recruitment will be accepted electronically. Your relevant experience may be evaluated to determine salary. Therefore, it is very important that the “Work Experience” portion of the application be completed in as much detail as possible.
In order to be considered for this opportunity, please include the following with your online application:
- An attached Resume outlining (in reverse chronological order) your experience to date.
- An attached Cover Letter that further explains your qualifications and indicates why you believe you are a viable candidate for this role.
- Contact details for a minimum three (3) individuals who can attest to your work performance, technical skills, and job-related competencies. This information can be entered in the “References” section of the online application; does not require an additional attachment.
Please click the "APPLY" button to proceed. Note that you will be prompted to either sign in or create an account. This step is required in order to submit an application to this opportunity.
WSDOT is an equal opportunity employer. We value the importance of creating an environment in which all employees can feel respected, included, and empowered to bring unique ideas to the agency. Our diversity and inclusion efforts include embracing different cultures, backgrounds and viewpoints while fostering growth and advancement in the workplace. All persons, regardless of race, ethnicity, age, veteran status, sexual orientation, and/ or gender identity, are encouraged to apply. Persons with disabilities needing assistance in the application process, or those needing this job announcement in an alternative format may contact the listed Recruiter.
WSDOT does not use the E-Verify system, therefore we are not eligible to extend STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT). For more information, please visit www.uscis.gov.
Contact Us
For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter at alyssa.nastasi@wsdot.wa.gov. Please be sure to reference 25DOT-NWR-13225 in the subject line.
Salary : $75,045 - $100,951
