Right of Way Acquisition Specialist – Iowa

About the role

Atwell, a consulting, engineering and construction firm serving real estate and land development and energy markets, is hiring Right of Way Specialists to support electric transmission and utility infrastructure projects throughout Iowa. The role suits people ranging from emerging acquisition agents to experienced ROW specialists with transmission and title experience, with the potential for long-term work across the Midwest.

Key responsibilities

• Acquire easements, rights of way, rights-of-entry and other land rights needed for electric transmission projects
• Meet with landowners and tenants, explain project requirements and negotiate agreements
• Attend landowner and public informational meetings in support of Iowa transmission franchise requirements
• Maintain positive relationships with property owners, tenants, county officials, attorneys and project stakeholders
• Review title reports, ownership information and property records as needed
• Negotiate and settle damage claims, including crop and drainage tile damage
• Coordinate with project managers, surveyors, engineers, environmental teams and document specialists
• Track acquisition progress and keep accurate project documentation in Atwell's land management database
• Prepare status reports and share project updates with leadership and clients

Required profile

• Experience in right of way, land acquisition, real estate, title, utility, energy, transportation or related fields
• Knowledge of easement acquisition, property rights and landowner negotiations
• Experience supporting electric transmission, distribution, pipeline, renewable energy or other utility infrastructure projects
• Ability to work independently in a field-based environment and to travel throughout Iowa, with a valid driver's license
• IRWA certification or related industry certifications

Required skills

• Working knowledge of title research, ownership verification and Iowa county property records
• Experience acquiring easements, rights-of-entry, option agreements and other land rights
• Strong communication, negotiation and relationship-building skills

What we offer

• Paid time off, paid parental leave and flexible schedules for some positions
• Travel vouchers as tenure awards
• Competitive pay of $35-$40, annual and spot bonuses, and 401K match up to 4%
• Tuition assistance, student loan repayment, paid licensing fees and dependent care match
• Medical, dental and vision coverage, health savings account, employer-paid life insurance and supplemental MetLife benefits