Right-of-Way Agent I (#MAEB02)
$35,721.00 Yearly Min / $44,651.00 Yearly Mid / $53,581.00 Yearly Max

Incumbents appraise real properties, negotiate for the purchase of property rights as well as other various functions related to the acquisition of real property and related interests for State highway purposes.

A class incumbent's initial assignments provide exposure to and basic experience in all right-of-way operations. An agent will become capable of independent performance as a technical services agent, appraiser, negotiator, or relocation counselor and will assist in the other functions. Training is intensive with a high degree of supervision on initial assignments. As the agent becomes proficient, supervision will be provided on more difficult or unusual assignments. Emphasis will be placed on results, conformance and accuracy.

Essential functions are fundamental, core functions common to all positions in the class series and are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all job duties for any one position in the class. Since class specifications are descriptive and not restrictive, incumbents can complete job duties of similar kind not specifically listed here.

• Collects and analyses data relevant to the market value of property.
      
• Prepares less complex property appraisals and assists in data gathering and preparation of more complex appraisals.
      
• Contacts property owners and conducts moderately complex negotiations necessary for securing property rights.
      
• Provides assistance to displaced individuals in locating replacement housing or places of business.
      
• Assists those who testify in condemnation proceedings to sustain values evidenced.
      
• Assists in the disposal of state-owned properties.
      
• Assists in the leasing and inspection of state-owned properties.
      
• From preliminary plan makes title investigation, prepares abstracts of title, prepares plot plan, assists in recording of document, and closing of transaction.
      
• Coordinates with other Department sections to obtain and clear right-of-way in time to permit the Bridge and Highway Programs to proceed on schedule.

The intent of the listed knowledge, skills and abilities is to give a general indication of the core requirements for all positions in the class series; therefore, the KSA’s listed are not exhaustive or necessarily inclusive of the requirements of every position in the class.

• Knowledge of basic real property appraisal principles.
• Knowledge of laws, regulations, policies and technology applicable to acquisition and disposition of real property for State highway purposes.
• Ability to write reports and compose property descriptions from right-of-way plans.
• Ability to interpret and explain right-of-way and construction plans and conduct routine negotiations with property owners.
• Ability to review basic right-of-way plans for conformance to section, department and Federal Highway Administration requirements.
• Ability to establish and maintain an effective working relationship with other Department sections, other agency officials and the public.

JOB REQUIREMENTS for Right-of-Way Agent I
Applicants must have education, training and/or experience demonstrating competence in each of the following areas:

1. Six months experience in real estate such as appraisal, law, real property acquisition, property management or title examination.
2. Six months experience in interpreting blueprints, property or technical drawings.
3. Six months experience in applying laws, rules, regulations, standards, policies and procedures.
4. Six months experience in narrative report writing.
5. Knowledge of negotiation.