Right of Way Agent 2 (OPEN & PROMOTIONAL)

Spokane County; United States; On-site; USD 61,000 - 84,000; Full time

Job summary

Spokane County is seeking a Right-of-Way Agent 1 to perform technical work in right-of-way and land acquisition, assisting in training, coordination and review of all phases of the program. The role requires independent judgment and work across property surveys, title research, and acquisition documents.

The position offers full-time employment with a 40-hour week, steady schedule, competitive pay, and a dedicated team environment under County policy.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Four years of experience as a Right-of-Way Agent 1 or equivalent.
• Must be licensed as a Notary of Public in Washington, or obtain within six months.
• Possession of a valid Washington Driver's License at hire and during employment.

Responsibilities

• Inspect properties and draft fair market value appraisals for rights of way.
• Draft and review acquisition documents and title reports.
• Negotiate and acquire fee ownership, easements, and permits for projects.
• Assist relocation payments and advise displaced owners.
• Respond to public inquiries and coordinate with local agencies.

Skills

Right-of-Way experience

Notary Public licensed

Driver's license

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Job description

Note: Current Employees must use the Workday Dashboard career section to apply for this position. Employee Type: Regular Department: County Road Salary: $60,652.80 - $84,489.60 Annually / $5,054.40 - $7,040.80 Monthly / $29.16 - $40.62 Hourly Scheduled Weekly Hours: 40 Overtime Eligible: Yes Job Posting Date Range: 10/01/2026 - Until Filled

Job Summary

Priority consideration will be given in accordance with the applicable Collective Bargaining Agreement or County Policy.

General Purpose

This position performs is technical work in the field of right-of-way and land acquisition. The position allocated to this class is responsible for assisting in the training, coordination and review of all phases of right-of-way activities performed by Right-of-Way 1 Agents. Employees perform complex tasks with limited supervision requiring substantial use of independent judgment, within the scope of oral and written instructions, for which the employee is held accountable. Work is reviewed for overall effectiveness and satisfactory completion of assigned projects by the supervisor.

Job Description

The following documents are required to be submitted with your application. Applications that do not include all required documents may not be considered:

Essential Job Functions

• Inspects properties affected, in the field or at the office, and makes formal and supportable fair market value appraisals of properties needed for rights of way or other public use; reviews and submits reports on appraisals made and submitted by others for compliance with standards and writes opinions of value on surplus lands. Determines and conducts all steps necessary to clear titles of properties to be acquired; drafts all pertinent legal documents (i.e. - property legal descriptions, right-of-way deeds, purchase contracts, leases, agreements, quitclaim and warranty deeds, easements, permits to enter, mortgage releases, etc.) to complete the acquisition or transaction; prepares records of transactions completed or condemned. Reviews preliminary title commitments, identifies title issues presented by title commitment, identifies potential resolutions to title issues, and drafts encumbrance reports. Performs title searches through the Spokane County Auditor, researches legal descriptions and breaks in the chains of title, and researches complex title issues and practical or legal solutions. Drafts and edits acquisition documents, including the following: offer letters, acquisition agreements, right of way deeds, slope easements, drainage easements, temporary construction easements, payment vouchers, construction contract memorandums, purchase and sale agreements, option to purchase, etc. Negotiates and acquires fee ownership, easements and permits of properties needed for County projects. Negotiates and acquires permits for temporary encroachments, spoils deposits, borrow pit sites, and other construction permits as required. Negotiates and acquires easements and fee ownership of properties for roads, slopes, storm drainage, sewer lines, pump stations and plant sites, electric and telephone transmission lines, park sites, greenways, maintenance sites, and for other county needs as required. Investigates and determines eligibility for relocation payments; recommends proper and just payments; and assists displaced owners in claim preparation. Assists in the compilation and review of right-of-way transactions prior to acceptance and payment. Assists the public on inquiries concerning right-of-way and other related matters. Works directly with local agency coordinators to conform to WSDOT regulation during the certification stage of road projects Works with the Real Estate Services Manager to implement new procedures and documents for the Right-of-Way department/team. Researches and interprets complex title questions. Trains and assists employees of a lower class. Performs other related duties as required/assigned.

Education and Experience Requirements

• High School Diploma or GED equivalent.
• Four (4) years of experience as a Right-of-Way Agent 1 or equivalent.
• Must be licensed as a Notary of Public in the State of Washington, or have the ability to obtain status within six (6) months of date of hire.
• Possession of a valid Washington Driver's License at time of hire and for the duration of employment.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Knowledge of methods and principles of negotiating, real property, appraising, relocation procedures, real estate law, title research and determining ownership of property rights. Knowledge of state laws related to acquisition of land for public purposes. Knowledge of appraisal and/or negotiation principles, policies, procedures and techniques. Knowledge of the application of depreciated replacement cost, capitalized income and a variety of market data comparison methods and techniques. Knowledge of complex property legal descriptions and instruments of ownership. Knowledge of real estate and condemnation law. Knowledge of title code reports. Knowledge of basic accounting. Knowledge of zoning and building codes. Knowledge of appraisal theory and techniques as it applies to eminent domain. Knowledge of federal, state and county real property acquisition and relocation policies and procedures. Skilled in communicating effectively both orally and in writing, sufficient to exchange or convey information and to give and receive work direction. Skilled in establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with co-workers and supervisors. Ability to read and interpret legal descriptions, surveys, title reports, geographic maps and road construction plans. Ability to read and interpret engineering plans, profile drawings, survey and maps. Ability to read and interpret local agency guidelines, RCW and WAC codes. Ability to read and interpret title code reports. Ability to draft various property related documents: deeds, easements, agreements, permits and other related documents. Ability to communicate tactfully and effectively with owners and negotiate successfully in acquiring necessary property interests for road and sewer projects. Ability to read and interpret local agency guidelines: RCW and WAC codes. Ability to prepare clear, concise reports. Ability to work over a wide geographic area with only general supervision. Ability to maintain positive relationships with property owners in a stressful atmosphere. Ability to train and assist persons in the Right-of-Way Agent 1 classification.

Behavioral Standards

All County employees are responsible for contributing to a safe and positive work environment, actively demonstrating the County values in their daily work and interactions: Respect: Appreciating and valuing customers, other County employees and County leadership by showing courtesy, friendliness and fairness. Communicating in a productive and professional manner. Accountability: Honoring and delivering on commitments by taking responsibility for personal actions and results; being a responsible steward of public resources and the trust County residents have placed in each of us. Integrity: Modelling transparent and ethical behavior and demonstrating it with honest and trustworthy behaviors and actions; leading by example and performing work to the highest standards. Innovation: Striving for excellence by actively pursuing opportunities for new and improved methods, procedures or technologies; fostering an environment of engagement and empowerment and embracing continuous improvement.

Working Conditions

The work environment is primarily inside, where the noise and temperature levels are moderate. Work is also performed outdoors; and requires occasional travel within the County, exposing the associate to weather extremes, various forms of precipitation and the hazards associated with travel on public roads.

Total Compensation

Total Compensation: $77,636 - $108,147 Annually Total compensation is an estimate based upon base compensation, median retirement fund contributions, and current employer-paid health and related benefit contribution rates (including medical, dental, life insurance, long term disability, and leave). The actual total will vary depending upon each employee's enrollment choices.

If you’re seeking stability and a predictable schedule, you’re in the right place! Inclusive Workplace Culture: Spokane County aims to foster an inclusive and supportive workplace culture, promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion among its employees. Spokane boasts: Natural Beauty: Spokane is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, including rivers, lakes, and nearby mountains. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy activities such as hiking, skiing, and boating. From golf course to parks and trails along the Spokane River, there's something for everyone who enjoys the outdoors. Affordable Living: Compared to many other cities on the West Coast, Spokane has a relatively low cost of living. Housing prices are more affordable, making it easier to buy a home or rent. Four Seasons: Spokane experiences all four seasons distinctly. Summers are warm and dry, while winters bring snowfall, making it ideal for those who enjoy seasonal variety. Cultural Scene: The city has a vibrant cultural scene with numerous art galleries, theaters, and music venues. Events such as the Spokane Symphony and First Friday art walks contribute to the city's cultural richness. Community Feel: Spokane is known for its friendly and welcoming community. It has a strong sense of local pride and community involvement. Educational Opportunities: The city is home to several universities and colleges, providing educational and cultural opportunities. This includes Gonzaga University, Washington State University Spokane, Whitworth University, and Eastern Washington University. Healthcare Facilities: Spokane boasts excellent healthcare facilities, including Providence Sacred Heart Medical Center and Deaconess Hospital, ensuring residents have access to quality medical care. Family-Friendly: With good schools, safe neighborhoods, and numerous family-oriented activities, Spokane is a great place to raise a family. Central Location: Spokane's location in eastern Washington makes it a hub for travel throughout the Pacific Northwest. It's close to other major cities like Seattle and Portland, as well as outdoor destinations like national parks and recreation areas. Overall, Spokane offers a balanced lifestyle with a mix of outdoor adventure, cultural amenities, and community spirit, making it a desirable place to live and work!