Right Of Way Agent - Highway

OPEN UNTIL FILLED

ANNUAL SALARY: $59,345 - $64,209

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS, EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE NEEDED: High School Diploma and Associate Degree in Civil Engineering Technology or experience in Real Estate. Working knowledge of computers. Ability to communicate effectively in a professional environment. Effective public relations skills and the ability to establish and maintain positive working relationships with others.

DESIRED/PREFERRED: Knowledge in the use of Land Development (AutoCAD), G.I.S. and related software; Right of Way Acquisition.

JOB DUTIES:

• Prepare cost and damage estimates for right-of-way (ROW) acquisition.
• Conduct thorough research of legal descriptions, title reports, tax records, judgments, liens, and encumbrances.
• Develop right-of-way drawings and plats, and prepare short-form appraisals to determine fair market value.
• Order, review, and interpret appraisal reports; draft and record legal instruments; secure partial releases of liens and trusts.
• Represent Cass County at public meetings and engage directly with property owners-residential, agricultural, commercial, and government regarding land impacts and acquisitions.
• Negotiate with attorneys, businesses, corporations, trusts, and land management entities to finalize property transactions.
• Prepare all related documentation with precision and ensure legal and procedural accuracy.
• Perform field inspections to communicate construction plans and their potential effects on properties, recommend revisions when appropriate.
• Manage property acquisition closings by preparing payment vouchers and detailed written reports to document negotiations, including records suitable for potential eminent domain proceedings.
• Lead complex assignments involving relocation assistance, property management, Federal Highway audit compliance, and documentation related to property buyouts.
• Mentor and train ROW Assistant and Agent staff. Support or serve as the Project Manager by assisting in tracking scope, budget, and schedule for ROW-related projects.
• Review and interpret title reports, vesting information, lending instruments, contracts, appraisal requirements, and offer packages. Apply best practices in negotiation, compliance with the Uniform Relocation Act, Title 25 (Housing and Community Development), HUD guidelines, and overall real estate standards.
• Review, approve, and assign all County Highway Access and Utility Permits. Provide support to the County Planner for Auditor's lots, plats, and subdivision compliance.
• Oversee construction inspection and quality assurance to ensure adherence to contract specifications and safety standards.
• Responsibilities include:
• Verifying delivery and installation of construction materials;
• Ensuring compliance with specifications through sampling and material testing (asphalt and concrete);
• Documenting field measurements and quantities for payment processing;
• Completing administrative tasks such as progress reports, payment documentation, and payroll verification.

JOB BENEFITS:

• This position includes salary with overtime pay, 10 paid holidays, as well as a very competitive benefit package including health, dental, vision, and life insurance, deferred compensation program, retirement pension program, and flexible benefits program. The options available for the 2025 plan year are described at https://www.casscountynd.gov/our-county/administration/employee-benefits-summary

WHY JOIN US?

We take pride in offering a family-oriented work environment where employees are supported both professionally and personally. Our team values collaboration, integrity, and service to the community. Enjoy stability, meaningful work, and excellent benefits-all without the need to travel.

Cass County is an Equal Opportunity and At Will Employer.