Supervisor Land Records, Restoration, and Permitting

Position Summary

The Supervisor, Land – Land Records, Restoration & Permitting will coordinate and support the processing, storage, and retrieval of land-related documents, ensuring data accuracy and integrity within the land records system; research and analyze land titles, identifying ownership, discrepancies, and collaborating with Legal; supervise land analysts and land clerks, and coordinate outside contract resources for Hope Gas and Hope Utilities companies in title investigation, and resolving land-related permitting and restoration issues on gathering and major projects related to distribution, transmission, and gathering operations; ensure acquisition of permits for pipeline crossings of roads and railroads, permits and bonds for construction projects, and permits for construction or operation of facilities.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Maintain and support a comprehensive system of land records, including paper and electronic formats.
• Carefully process, store, and retrieve land-related documents such as leases, deeds, assignments, and title opinions.
• Apply established policies and procedures for efficient records management within Hope Gas and Hope Utilities and help ensure accuracy and integrity within the land records system.
• Research and analyze land titles, identify ownership, surface and at times mineral interest and potential discrepancies. Utilize specialized land management software and property ownership sites as well as courthouse research of land records.
• Serve as a people leader, overseeing day-to-day activities, supports task execution within the team, applies established procedures, provides guidance to staff, and ensures work is completed efficiently and accurately.
• Collaborate with project managers, engineers, legal teams, and external consultants to support timely restoration and permitting work that aligns with overall project timelines and budgets.
• Aid in resolving disputes and issues with landowners or local communities within the Hope Gas and Hope Utilities coverage area.
• Track project budgets related to land records, restoration, and permitting, and provide accurate updates and forecasts, and prepare regular reports for management on progress, challenges, and risks.

Required Skills & Abilities

• Expert knowledge of land records keeping and data management systems.
• In-depth knowledge of land acquisitions processes, real estate law, contracts, and regulatory compliance specific to the natural gas industry, with preference given for experience within WV, Ohio, Indiana, and North Carolina, and/or the water industry in Texas, Arizona, and Michigan.
• Proven expert negotiation and conflict resolution skills.
• Ability to foster strong relationships with suppliers, regulatory bodies, and internal teams.
• Excellent communication and people skills.
• Proficiency in relevant software tools (e.g., GIS, SAP, land records systems and land management systems).

Education & Work Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Real Estate, Land Management - and - At least five (5) years of experience in land records, acquisition, management, title and/or real estate, preferably within the natural gas industry, to include at least two (2) years of progressively responsible experience.
• High school diploma or equivalent - and - At least nine (9) years of experience in land records, acquisition, management, title and/or real estate, preferably within the natural gas industry, to include at least two (2) years of progressively responsible experience.

Physical Requirements

• Remain stationary for extended periods, occasionally alternating between sitting, standing, walking, crouching, and kneeling as required to perform job responsibilities.
• Lift, push, and/or pull up to 25 lbs. occasionally.
• Operate a computer and other office productivity machinery as necessary.
• Communicate with others to accurately exchange information and ideas.
• Hear sufficiently to allow general and phone communications.
• Visual acuity to read standard text on screens and documents, observe surroundings, recognize hazards, and perform tasks safely.
• Observe details at close range.
• Problem solve, prioritize tasks, and interpret and understand written documents.

WORK CONTEXT

• Minimum travel for work-related purposes is expected 25% of the time, which includes some overnight visits to Hope Gas and Hope Utilities company locations and industry events.
• This is a full-time exempt salaried position.

Benefits

• Comprehensive benefits package that offers health insurance including Medical, Dental, Vision, FSA and HSA with a company match.
• Income protection such as Company-Paid Life Insurance, Sickness Benefits, and more are also available.
• Hope Gas offers a 401(k) plan that incorporates a company contribution and a company match.
• Paid vacations, paid holidays, floating holidays and sick time are available alongside other lifestyle benefits such as Adoption Assistance, Auto/Home Insurance, Education Assistance Programs, and so much more!