ROW (Right of Way) Agent

About the role

The Right-of-Way (ROW) Agent supports electric transmission and distribution projects by acquiring and managing property rights necessary for utility infrastructure. Key responsibilities include negotiating property rights, conducting title research, preparing legal documents, resolving damages and claims, and maintaining accurate records.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Negotiate and acquire property rights (easements, permits, licenses, access agreements, deeds) to support electric facilities.
• Cover conduct ownership and land title research using public records and internal/external resources; coordinate with title examiners as needed.
• Prepare, draft, and/or oversee preparation of legal documents and property descriptions; review for accuracy and completeness.
• Interpret maps, surveys, exhibits, and engineering drawings to understand impacts, access needs, and document requirements.
• Interface with internal departments to resolve ROW procurement risks impacting project schedules and construction readiness.
• Settle damages and claims associated with construction/maintenance activities; document settlements and approvals.
• Develop and maintain constructive relationships with landowners and public agencies; support landowner meetings and outreach.
• Maintain ROW files, owner records, correspondence, and progress reports; ensure proper recording and document management uploads.
• Support condemnation or court actions as needed by assisting counsel, providing documentation, and participating as a witness when required.
• Observe facilities in the field as appropriate and report encroachments, access constraints, or safety concerns per utility procedures.

Required Qualifications

• A High School Diploma or GED.
• Approximately 5 years of ROW/real estate acquisition experience.
• Demonstrated experience with negotiations, title research, property record management, and legal document preparation/review.
• Valid driver’s license.
• Ability to travel within the service territory.
• Regular field travel to meet property owners, perform site walks, and verify access/constraints; office-based document preparation and coordination.
• Potential for evening landowner meetings and agency coordination based on project needs.
• Work requires strict adherence to safety policies when near energized infrastructure and active construction zones.

Preferred Qualifications

• [KA1] Bilingual.
• An Associate degree in Business, Real Estate, Engineering, Paralegal, or related field (or equivalent combination of education and experience).
• Experience supporting electric transmission and/or distribution projects, including access planning and construction coordination.
• Knowledge of appraisal practices and ability to support value range development in coordination with supervisors/appraisers.
• Notary Public commission (or ability to obtain).
• IRWA coursework/credentials or equivalent industry training.
• TREC ROW Agent Certification.

Physical Requirements

• Work is performed in a professional office environment and requires the use of standard office equipment (e.g., computer, phone, printer).
• Prolonged periods of sitting and working on a computer are required.
• Occasional standing, walking, and movement throughout the office to access equipment and collaborate with team members.
• The ability to view a computer screen for extended periods, requiring good vision or corrective lenses if needed.
• May occasionally lift, carry, push, or pull up to 15 pounds.
• The ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

Knowledge, Skills, And Abilities

• Advanced negotiation skills and professionalism in high-stakes, public-facing interactions.
• Working knowledge of easements, fee title concepts, permitting interfaces, and real estate documentation.
• Strong documentation discipline (records accuracy, progress reporting, and auditable file maintenance).
• Collaborative approach with Engineering/Construction to remove blockers and protect schedule and safety outcomes.

Reports to

Project Manager

Job Type

Non-Exempt

Travel

70%

Schedule

Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM; occasional overtime as needed