RIGHT-OF-WAY ACQUISITION AND RELOCATION SENIOR TECHNICAL SPECIALIST - 08042026-79392

Location: Jackson, TN – Department of Transportation, Madison County (Right-of-Way & Utilities Division, Region 4 Preconstruction – Acquisition/Relocation). Hybrid schedule: three days in the office, two days working from home.

Pay

Monthly: $5,647.00 – $9,005.00
Annual: $67,764.00 – $108,060.00

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree and 3 years of demonstrated competency in a related field as outlined in the position description, or Master’s degree and 2 years of demonstrated competency.
• Professional licenses and/or certifications as required by the position.
• Possess and maintain a valid Class D Tennessee driver’s license.

Skills

• Effective communication with internal and external stakeholders.
• Application of engineering principles and transportation finance principles.
• Application of state and federal regulations to transportation projects.
• Technical report writing and development of contract principles.
• Maintaining effective work relationships with individuals and groups.
• Time management and prioritization to ensure project completion.
• Critical thinking, problem-solving, and informed decision-making.
• Following, providing, and supporting verbal and written instructions.
• Precision and accuracy in work performance.
• Collaboration in project teams and conflict resolution.
• Coaching, mentoring, and supporting a culture of accountability and collaboration.
• Process analysis and actionable feedback for improvement.

Conditions of Employment

• Incorporate overtime, weekends, and night shifts as required.
• Extended durations outdoors in extreme weather conditions.
• Work in and around construction and vehicular traffic.
• Walking on uneven terrain and climbing ladders or construction scaffolding.
• Carrying equipment and samples in excess of 25 pounds.
• Driving long distances for daily duties.
• Wearing personal protective equipment as required.
• Sitting for extended periods while driving or working on computers.
• Standing for extended periods while working outdoors or in a laboratory setting.

About the Role

The Right-of-Way (ROW) Acquisition and Relocation Senior Technical Specialist supports the Region ROW Section both independently and in a team setting. This role assists the Region Acquisition/Relocation Team Lead in implementing statewide work plans, meeting strategic vision, and ensuring compliance with federal and state laws for acquisition and relocation. Key responsibilities include overseeing Quality Assurance/Quality Control for ROW programs, implementing best practices, and mentoring ROW Technical Specialists. The position collaborates with TDOT divisions, project teams, consultants, contractors, and external stakeholders to articulate technical concepts and ensure project continuity.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate resources and serve as the Acquisition and Relocation Subject Matter Expert (SME) for the Region ROW Section and Project Managers, managing external partners, negotiating contracts, reviewing consultant invoicing, and ensuring compliance.
• Assist in developing and delivering Acquisition and Relocation training and technical guidance to improve team performance and understanding of the transportation industry.
• Mentor TDOT staff, consultants, and local agencies on Region ROW Section processes.
• Maintain and utilize the TDOT ROW Division’s database program and software.
• Assist in developing a consultant acquisition plan and oversee external partners by serving on selection committees, developing RFPs, and providing feedback.
• Clarify and communicate TDOT ROW Division’s program goals and metrics, ensuring accountability and enhancing ROW production and public service standards.
• Participate in Project Teams to define ROW-related goals, support project management, assist with ROW Scope of Work, ensure accurate cost estimates, and assess risk factors.
• Provide exceptional customer service to internal and external customers through effective communication and documentation.
• Ensure strategic partnerships with FHWA and local agencies to implement TDOT’s vision statewide.
• Align TDOT ROW deliverables with Quality Management procedures to maintain high quality and mitigate risk.
• Integrate deliverables into the State Acquisition and Relocation Section’s tracking mechanism for project continuity.
• Negotiate and acquire intermediate and complex level tracts and special acquisition parcels.
• Assist in the ROW Certification process, disposition of eminent domain lawsuits, Title VI inquiries, public hearings, and responses to Public Records Requests.
• Support the Region Acquisition/Relocation Team Lead with relocation tasks, including Last Resort Housing determinations and relocation appeals.
• Coordinate with local agencies, including compliance audits, training, and problem-solving.
• Participate in Value Engineering and Preliminary Group Inspection (PGI) teams.
• Stay current with federal regulations, FHWA guidance, state laws, and the TDOT ROW Manual.
• Assist with modifications to policies, procedures, statutes, and special provisions.
• Stay informed on ROW-related industry trends and national best practices through participation in AASHTO and industry associations.