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Posted: March 9, 2026 (4 days ago)

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Property & Acquisition Specialist 3 – Acquisitions (Multiple Positions)

State of Washington

Dept. of Transportation

Fresh

Location

Washington, 98504

Salary

$66,372 - $89,316

per year

Closes

March 24, 2026

Job Description

Summary

This job involves buying land and property rights for highway construction projects in Washington State, ensuring everything follows state and federal rules to keep federal funding intact.

The role includes negotiating with property owners and government agencies, preparing legal documents, handling closings, and visiting sites to inspect properties.

It's a good fit for someone detail-oriented with experience in real estate who enjoys fieldwork and working on public infrastructure projects.

Key Requirements

  • Knowledge of state and federal laws on right-of-way acquisition and eminent domain
  • Experience in real estate negotiations, especially with governmental agencies
  • Ability to prepare legal descriptions, conveyance documents, and escrow agreements
  • Skills in clearing title encumbrances and managing closing processes
  • Proficiency in planning, prioritizing work, and maintaining records/databases
  • Comfort with fieldwork, including site visits, inspections, and owner meetings in various weather conditions

Full Job Description



About WSDOT

The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is a multimodal agency with a global reputation for excellence.

Our dedicated workforce plans, designs, builds, and operates an integrated transportation system that safely and efficiently moves people and goods throughout the state.

In addition to maintaining over 20,000 lane miles of state highway and 4,100 bridges, WSDOT manages the world's longest floating bridge, leads an award-winning Active Transportation Plan, holds the record for the world’s widest tunneling project, and operates the largest ferry system in the nation!


The Opportunity

WSDOT is currently seeking multiple Property & Acquisition Specialist 3s to support the Olympic Region by acquiring right of way in compliance with state and federal regulations in order to qualify for and preserve federal funds necessary to support the WSDOT’s program delivery.

These positions obtain all necessary title reports, surveys, and recorded documents for the project engineers and other support groups, as well as assist with clearing title encumbrances and preparing conveyance documents.

They are responsible for the acquisition of properties owned by Local Jurisdictions, other State Agencies, Federal Agencies and are responsible for the acquisition of developer dedications.

These positions oversee the acquisition closing process and escrow closings, all according to the Uniform Relocation Assistance and Real Property Acquisition Policies Act of 1970, of the real property necessary to deliver the WSDOT Olympic Region’s highway construction projects and the court mandated fish passage barrier removal projects.


These positions directly support the agency’s strategic plan by ensuring, through adherence to WSDOT policies, that work functions performed are administered to the expected quality, safety, and stewardship standards to support Washington’s long-term resilience, and are expected to contribute a workplace that fosters a culture of respect, equal opportunity, and a sense of belonging.


What to Expect

Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Property & Acquisition Specialist 3 will:

  • Apply analysis of state and federal laws regarding right of way acquisition to independently initiate negotiations of assigned parcels to be acquired with governmental agencies.
  • Prepare legal descriptions and documents for the acquisition of real property.
  • Independently plan and prioritize work to obtain property or property rights needed to facilitate highway construction project need.
  • Perform site visits for inspections, speak with property owners, and offer presentations.
  • Assist agents and/or consultants in matters relating to title and closing; clearly, legibly, and accurately prepare closing documents and escrow agreements.
  • Assist in clearing title encumbrances and preparation of required documents; request warrants for payment to property owners; monitor closings; maintain records; and update computerized tracking systems and databases.


Occasional field work is performed and includes onsite scheduled meetings with property owners, and inspecting houses, buildings, and property in various locations. This work may be performed outdoors in inclement weather, in daytime or nighttime.


Qualifications

To be considered for this opportunity, the following competencies are required:

Professional Knowledge & Technical Expertise

  • Demonstrated knowledge of eminent domain real estate acquisition, relocation assistance, and title research on public property or within a government agency.
  • Ability to interpret and apply federal, state, and local laws, regulations, policies, and procedures related to property acquisition and relocation.
  • Ability to read, analyze, and interpret technical and highly specialized documents (e.g., appraisals, legal descriptions, title reports, statutes) and effectively communicate findings to both technical and non-technical audiences.

Analytical & Decision-Making Skills

  • Demonstrated ability to work independently, apply sound judgment, conduct thorough analysis, and make well-reasoned decisions.
  • Ability to prioritize workload, manage multiple assignments, and meet required deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
  • Ability to evaluate complex property issues and recommend appropriate courses of action.

Communication Skills

  • Ability to communicate clearly and professionally, both orally and in writing.
  • Experience communicating effectively via phone, email, and in-person interactions with property owners, stakeholders, team members, and the public.
  • Ability to explain complex acquisition and relocation processes in a clear, understandable manner.

Collaboration & Customer Service

  • Demonstrated ability to work effectively within a team environment and contribute positively to group goals.
  • Ability to build and maintain professional working relationships with a diverse group of customers, stakeholders, and internal partners.
  • Strong customer service skills, including the ability to navigate sensitive or difficult conversations with professionalism and empathy.

Technology Proficiency

  • Proficient in the use of computers and business software applications, including Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint.
  • Experience using databases and document management systems (e.g., FileMaker Pro, Adobe products, web-based systems) to track, manage, and maintain records.

Growth Mindset

  • Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.

Service-Oriented

  • Take action to meet the needs of others.


In addition to the above competencies, the following is required:

  • Possession of a valid, unrestricted driver’s license to operate vehicles in Washington State.
  • Ability to traverse rough, steep, and uneven terrain.


It is preferred that qualified candidates also demonstrate:

Regulatory & Policy Knowledge

  • Demonstrated knowledge of and ability to interpret and apply federal regulations (49 CFR Part 24), the Uniform Relocation Assistance and Real Property Acquisition Policies Act of 1970 (as amended), Revised Code of Washington (RCW), and Washington Administrative Code (WAC) related to acquisition and condemnation of real property and property rights.

Professional Credential

  • Current Washington State Notary Public commission.


Important Notes

  • This recruitment will be used to fill four (4) permanent positions within the Olympic Region. This recruitment may also be used to fill additional vacated positions.
  • This position offers flexible/hybrid remote work options.
  • In addition to base salary, employees may be entitled to other forms of compensation depending on the type, duties, or location of the position.

    For union-represented positions, more information on other forms of compensation can be found in the applicable Collective Bargaining Agreements.

    Information on other compensation types for non-represented positions can be found in Chapter 357-28 of the Washington Administrative Code.

  • WSDOT does not use the E-Verify system, therefore we are not eligible to extend STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT). For more information, please visit www.uscis.gov.


Why WSDOT

  • Work-Life Balance – We are committed to ensure that our staff experience the reward of public service, while also sustaining a routine that suits each individuals’ lifestyle. As such, there are a number of flexible schedule options available, including telework options for eligible positions.
  • Paid Leave – In addition to 12 paid holidays, full-time employees may earn up to 25 paid vacation days per year!
  • Tuition Assistance – Permanent employees have several options for assistance with education expenses, including tuition reimbursement programs, government discounts at participating colleges throughout the state, and eligibility for federal student loan forgiveness.
  • Plan For Your Future – WSDOT offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes a variety of healthcare options. Employees also have their choice of state retirement programs, and much more. Go to State Benefits for more information.


Check out this video to learn more: Why WSDOT?


How to Apply

Applications for this recruitment will be accepted electronically. Your relevant experience may be evaluated to determine salary. Therefore, it is very important that the “Work Experience” portion of the application be completed in as much detail as possible.

In order to be considered for this opportunity, please include the following with your online application:

  • An attached Resume outlining (in reverse chronological order) your experience to date.
  • An attached Cover Letter that further explains your qualifications and indicates why you believe you are a viable candidate for this role.
  • Contact details for a minimum three (3) individuals who can attest to your work performance, technical skills, and job-related competencies. This information can be entered in the “References” section of the online application; does not require an additional attachment.


Please click the "APPLY" button to proceed. Note that you will be prompted to either sign in or create an account. This step is required in order to submit an application to this opportunity.


WSDOT is an equal opportunity employer. We value the importance of creating an environment in which all employees can feel respected, included, and empowered to bring unique ideas to the agency.

Our diversity and inclusion efforts include embracing different cultures, backgrounds and viewpoints while fostering growth and advancement in the workplace.

All persons, regardless of race, ethnicity, age, veteran status, sexual orientation, and/ or gender identity, are encouraged to apply.

Persons with disabilities needing assistance in the application process, or those needing this job announcement in an alternative format may contact the listed Recruiter.

WSDOT does not use the E-Verify system, therefore we are not eligible to extend STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT). For more information, please visit www.uscis.gov.


Contact Us

For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter at alyssa.nastasi@wsdot.wa.gov. Please be sure to reference 26DOT-OR-32688m in the subject line.

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Posted on NEOGOV: 3/9/2026 | Added to FreshGovJobs: 3/10/2026

Source: NEOGOV | ID: neogov-washington-5264320