Appraisal Unit Supervisor (Realty Specialist IV)

About the role

The Illinois Department of Transportation is hiring an Appraisal Unit Supervisor (Realty Specialist IV) in Peoria, Illinois. The position provides appraisal services for all land and interests in land acquired by the district, and is a salaried, full-time union position with an anticipated starting salary of $5,432 per month.

Key responsibilities

• Carry out the valuation work needed to avoid delays in construction contract lettings.
• Ensure appraisals and waiver valuations are prepared and reviewed in line with regulations and reflect fair and just compensation.
• Perform appraisal assignments and valuation analyses as needed.
• Provide expertise, certification review and acceptance to Local Public Agencies involved in right-of-way acquisition.
• Review and advise the Special Assistant Attorney General on eminent domain cases and act as an expert witness when needed.
• Serve as the LPA liaison for review and certification of local projects involving federal funds and land acquisition.
• Follow departmental safety policies and perform other duties as assigned.

Required profile

• Two years of college in engineering, construction management or a related field plus three years of professional experience in real estate, surveying, title work, land acquisition, appraisal, negotiation, property management or relocation assistance, or four years of such experience.
• Current Illinois Certified General Real Estate Appraiser license.
• Valid driver's license, districtwide travel, and successful background screening.
• Must be authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis; the position is open to bilingual candidates.

Required skills

• Advanced knowledge of real estate appraisal principles and practices.
• Expert knowledge of Eminent Domain, Right of Way Acquisition and applicable state and federal regulations.
• Ability to perform and review complex real property appraisals and waiver valuations.
• Knowledge of USPAP, the Uniform Act, requirements and department policies.
• Supervisory leadership, employee development and performance management.
• Ability to act as an expert witness and represent the Department before property owners, attorneys, agencies and the courts.

What we offer

• Monday to Friday schedule with hybrid availability of 1 to 5 days per week in the office.
• Health, life, vision and dental insurance, pension plan, maternity/paternity leave and deferred compensation programs.
• Paid sick days, vacation days and personal days, plus tuition reimbursement and an employee assistance program.

Applications must be submitted electronically through the State of Illinois online application portal; applications by email or paper are not accepted. The closing date is November 12, 2026.