ROW Specialist

Cornerstone Energy Services Inc.; Plymouth (MA); On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

Cornerstone Energy Services Inc. is looking for a dedicated individual to assist in the acquisition of Rights of Way (ROW) for linear and site-specific projects. This role involves preparing permissions, identifying route issues, and filing permit applications.

The ideal candidate will have experience in acquisition and negotiation, coupled with strong comprehension of legal documents. The position requires a valid driver’s license and significant travel within the United States.

Qualifications

• Ability to perform key qualifications of a Document Specialist.
• Experience in negotiation and acquisition, preferably easement-related.
• Available during non-standard work hours for landowner schedules.

Responsibilities

• Assist in the acquisition of ROW for various projects.
• Prepare and file necessary permit applications.
• Identify issues for proposed routes and necessary permits.

Skills

Customer focus

Legal document comprehension

Effective communication

Education

One to three years of acquisition and negotiation experience

Job description

About Cornerstone Energy Services

Cornerstone Energy Services, Inc. specializes in engineering, survey, and land solutions for the energy infrastructure sector. From initial concept through project completion, we provide comprehensive services including civil, process, mechanical, and I&E engineering; project management; survey and mapping; and right‑of‑way acquisition.

Locations

• Berlin
• Plymouth
• West New York (west of I-390)
• Central tier of New York
• Southern tier of New York

We collaborate closely with developers and operators of oil and gas pipelines and electric transmission systems, supporting both extensive linear projects and site‑specific developments. Our work is guided by three core values.

Core Values

• Safety – protecting the public, our clients, and our team
• Advocacy – prioritizing the best interests of our clients
• Integrity – upholding professionalism and accountability in every aspect of our operations

Essential Functions

• Assist in the acquisition of ROW for linear and site‑specific acquisition projects.
• Request, support preparation, obtain, and document survey permission from owners and tenants.
• Identify issues for proposed routes, identify necessary agency/entity permits, and determine exhibits to be generated and data required to support negotiations.
• Prepare and file permit applications required by affected agencies/entities.
• Assist in establishing the project route, estimate ROW costs for the selected route and alternates, and establish acquisition timelines.
• Assess program procedures, practices, philosophies, and documentation for compliance with specifications, contracts, and mission requirements.
• Request payment for all ROW as agreed to, per procedure. Document all off‑ROW damages incurred during construction and resolve all off‑ROW damages with contractors and owners/tenants.
• Process all requests for encroachment from third parties on ROW.
• Attend, participate in, support, analyze, provide input, develop, prepare, and report on reports, correspondence, meetings, conferences, and review boards.
• Communicate directly with co‑workers.
• Provide information to supervisors, co‑workers, and subordinates by telephone, written form, e‑mail, or in person.
• Coordinate activities of individuals during the course of land, ROW, or permit acquisitions pertaining to one or more projects as assigned.
• When needed, perform responsibilities identified in the Document Specialist job description.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Work Environment

• Work is performed in multiple facilities as business needs dictate.
• Office work may include prolonged seated tasks, extended keyboarding, and use of a computer screen.
• May be requested to work overtime and weekends.
• Position requires travel (expected to be 90%); a valid driver’s license and acceptable DMV record are required.

Physical Requirements

• Regularly required to stand, walk, use stairs, use hands, reach, talk, and hear.
• Frequently lift and/or move up to 10 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds.
• Specific vision abilities required include close vision, distance vision, depth perception, and adjustment of focus.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Demonstrate the ability to perform all key qualifications of a Document Specialist.
• Have a strong customer focus to ensure projects meet operational requirements.
• Read and comprehend legal documents such as ground leases, easements, deeds, land purchase contracts, mortgages, title policies, and subordination.
• Work and be available during non‑standard work hours to accommodate landowner schedules.
• Work and communicate effectively with all levels of co‑workers, clients, and other external contacts.

Experience and Education

• One to three years of acquisition and negotiation experience, preferably related to transmission easement acquisitions including oil, gas, and electricity.

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.