Title & Acquisition Lead (PAS5)

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 a Property & Acquisition Specialist 5 (PAS5) to join the Olympic Region (OR) Real Estate Services (RES) team as the Title and Acquisition Lead.

This role is responsible for project delivery for these projects in collaboration with the Acquisition and Relocation Supervisor.

This position coordinates the Region WSDOT staff and consultants to complete acquisition activities of real property, advises the staff and consultants in clearing title encumbrances and preparing conveyance documents.

This supervisory position oversees five (5) Property and Acquisition Specialist 3 (PAS3). This position is responsible for training in coordination with the other PAS5’s in the region.

and/or prepares the acquisition closing and escrow process, all according to industry standards and in compliance with State law.

They review acquisition files to assure compliance with federal regulations, state laws, and WSDOT policies and procedures, and provide status on acquisition activities to project engineers, consultants, and other support groups for fish passage projects and provide all necessary acquisition documents required to certify the right of way.

This position directly supports 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.

This position is expected to create and influence 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 Title & Acquisition Lead will:

• Initiate and/or coordinate drafting legal descriptions, preparing legal documents for acquisition and relocation.
• Coordinate, monitor, and track with Acquisition Supervisor, acquisition and relocation agent and/or consultant assignments and other project related delivery responsibilities and permit tasks of WSDOT staff and/or consultants with negotiations and condemnation process of the real property necessary to projects.
• Monitor and report on the number of projects, permit status, acquisition status, condemnation status, payment and closing status.
• Ensure acquisitions are in compliance with Uniform Relocation Assistance and Real Property Acquisition Policies Act of 1970, and the WSDOT Right of Way manual.
• Review acquisition and permit files submitted by WSDOT staff and/or consultants to assure compliance with federal regulations, state laws, and WSDOT policies and procedures.
• Make recommendations for appropriate corrective actions when errors and/or insufficiencies are found; document findings and monitor progress.

Qualifications

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

• Real Estate Title and Acquisition Expertise: Strong working knowledge of Federal regulations (49 CFR, Part 24), and the Uniform Relocation Assistance and Real Property Acquisition Policies Act of 1970, as amended.
• Communication and Public Engagement: Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to clearly present acquisition and relocation related issues and processes to diverse audiences such as agency staff, legal counsel, the public, and external partners; Experience working with a diverse group in a professional manner and maintaining a positive working relationship with customers and stakeholders.
• Analytical Judgment and Independent Decision-Making: Proven ability to work independently, applying sound analysis to make decisions concerning acquisition of real property and negotiation strategies; Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects while meeting deadlines and maintaining accuracy in records and reporting.
• Technical Reading and Interpretation: Skilled in reading and interpreting legal documents, legal descriptions, policies, title and appraisal reports, and technical real estate materials; Ability to translate highly specialized language into accessible guidance for both internal staff and external stakeholders with varying levels of technical understanding.
• Technology and Digital Literacy: Proficient in the use of Windows-based computer systems and a range of software, including Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook), Adobe Acrobat, cloud-based file sharing platforms, and virtual meeting tools such as Microsoft Team; Ability to manage digital documents, perform basic data analysis, and support remote collaboration.
• Growth Mindset: Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.
• Service-Oriented: Takes action to meet the needs of others.

In addition to the above, the following are also required:

• A valid driver’s license and the ability to operate state-owned vehicles.
• Ability to traverse uneven and rugged terrain, as well as work in extreme weather conditions, adjacent to high-speed-traffic.

It is preferred that qualified candidates also have:

• Regulatory & Legal Expertise: Demonstrated ability to interpret and apply Revised Code of Washington (RCW) and Washington Administrative Code (WAC) related to real property acquisition, condemnation, and property rights.
• Technical & Systems Proficiency: Demonstrated ability to effectively use real estate and right-of-way tracking systems, including ProjectWise, SR View, ECM, IRIS, and other related applications, to manage project data accurately.
• Certification & Professional Standards: Demonstrated ability to maintain a current Washington State Notary Public commission and apply notary responsibilities accurately in official transactions.

Important Notes

• This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
• This position offers flexible/hybrid remote work options.
• Travel is an expectation of the position and may be required on a regular, sporadic, or as needed basis for off-site meetings, meetings with property owners, property inspections or to attend or provide training.

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-32551 in the subject line.