Property Management Specialist/Negotiator - Property & Acquisition Specialist 3 (In-training)



Property Management Specialist/Negotiator - Property & Acquisition Specialist 3 (In-training)

Salary

$48,976.00 - $78,051.00 Annually

Location

Thurston County – Tumwater, WA

Job Type

Full Time - Permanent

Job Number

20DOT-OR-31078

Department

Dept. of Transportation

Division

Olympic Region

Opening Date

01/12/2021

Closing Date

1/19/2021 11:59 PM Pacific

Description



About WSDOT

Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is the steward of an integrated, multimodal transportation system that helps to ensure people and goods move safely and efficiently throughout the state. In addition to building, maintaining, and operating the state highway system, WSDOT operates the largest ferry system in the nation, manages the world's longest floating bridge, and recently completed the world's widest tunneling project. 

 

The Opportunity

WSDOT is currently seeking a talented and responsible real estate professional to fill the Property & Acquisition Specialist vacancy located in Tumwater. This position prepares and processes surplus property and lease reviews, physically inspects real property inventory, maintains computer data files for inventory, and prepares required documents for assigned duties. In this role, you will also acquire, through negotiation under eminent domain, the real property necessary to deliver the WSDOT Olympic Region’s (OR) highway construction projects and the court mandated fish passage barrier removal projects. Our ideal candidate will be a self-starter with experience in real estate acquisition and property management functions. 
 

What to Expect

Exceptional communication skills are required as this position interacts with property owners including railroads and corporations, their legal counsels, consultants, property lienholders, other state and local agency personnel and the public. 

 

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

  • Prepare comprehensive documentation for surplus properties for sale. 
  • Work directly with Property Management Supervisor and Headquarters Property Management to achieve the goals established by the legislature to market properties. 
  • Independently initiate negotiations for the real property necessary to deliver highway construction projects and the court mandated fish passage barrier removal projects.
  • Apply analysis of state and federal laws regarding right of way acquisition to independently initiate negotiations
  • Prepare legal descriptions and documents for the acquisition of real property.
  • Obtain property or property rights needed to facilitate highway construction project needs. 
  • Clear encumbrances or make provisions for special handling.
  • Act as lead agent on a project basis.

 

Qualifications

This is a Property & Acquisition Specialist 3 (PAS3) position. However, the hiring manager reserves the right to fill the position at a lower level (PAS2) depending on qualifications, providing an opportunity for an individual to gain the required experience on the job as part of a formal “in-training” plan.


At a minimum, this opportunity requires:

  • Bachelor’s degree involving major study in business, public administration, real estate, or a closely related field
  • One (1) year of  experience in activities such as acquisition, sales, leasing, appraisal, title examination, escrow closing, negotiations, property management, title examination, relocation assistance, or selling, leasing or buying commercial real estate, or auditing or appraising real or personal property for fair market value (or an equivalent combination of education and experience). 
  • Proficient use of computers and computer software (including, but not limited to Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Outlook, Microsoft PowerPoint, FileMaker Pro, and Adobe).
  • Skills to read, understand and interpret technical and highly specialized written material and convey that interpretation to technical and non-technical staff and the general public.


To be considered for the highest level (PAS3), you must have:

  • Bachelor’s degree involving major study in business, public administration, real estate, or a closely related field. 
  • Two (2) years of experience in eminent domain real estate acquisition (or an equivalent combination of education and experience). 
  • Experience working independently and applying sound analysis to make decisions concerning disposal of properties and leasing activities.
  • The ability to obtain and maintain WA public notary within 3 months of hire.

It is preferred that qualified candidates also have:

  • Knowledge of 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) relating to acquisition and condemnation of real property and property rights, WSDOT Right of Way Manual.
  • Knowledge of WSDOT applications (including, but not limited to ProjectWise, State Route (SR) View, Enterprise Content Management (ECM), Integrated Realty Information System (IRIS), etc.), WSDOT and local agency web sites.
  • Notary Public in Washington State.

 

Important Notes 

  • The salary listed for this position includes a legislative approved assignment pay.
  • This position has been approved for in-training. The hiring manager is looking to hire at the Property & Acquisition Specialist 3 level, however the in-training plan will allow candidates to be considered as a Property & Acquisition Specialist 2, if not qualified at the highest  level.
  • The recruiting efforts for this position may be extended beyond the displayed closing date for as long and until a sufficient candidate pool has been established. However, the first review of applications will be conducted January 20, 2021. The Appointing Authority reserves the right to make a hiring decision at any time thereafter. It is to your benefit to submit your application as soon as possible.

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 occasional telework for eligible positions.  
  • Paid Leave – In addition to 10 paid holidays, full-time employees earn a minimum 14 paid vacation days per year!
  • 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. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, persons of disability, persons over 40 years of age, disabled and Vietnam era veterans, as well as people of all sexual orientations and gender identities 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. For more information, please visit www.uscis.gov

 

Contact us

For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter, Robyn Lovely at LovelyR@wsdot.wa.govPlease be sure to reference 20DOT-OR-31078 in the subject line. 

More than Just a Paycheck!
Employee benefits are not just about the kind of services you get, they are also about how much you may have to pay out of pocket. Washington State offers one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation.

We understand that your life revolves around more than just your career. Like everyone, your first priority is ensuring that you and your family will maintain health and financial security. That's why choice is a key component of our benefits package. We have a selection of health and retirement plans, paid leave, staff training and other compensation benefits that you can mix and match to meet your current and future needs.

Read about our benefits:
The following information describes typical benefits available for full-time employees who are expected to work more than six months. Actual benefits may vary by appointment type or be prorated for other than full-time work (e.g. part-time); view the job posting for benefits details for job types other than full-time.

Note:  If the position offers benefits which differ from the following, the job posting should include the specific benefits.

Insurance Benefits
Employees and their families are covered by medical (including vision), dental and basic life insurance. There are multiple medical plans with affordable monthly premiums that offer coverage throughout the state.

Staff are eligible to enroll each year in a medical flexible spending account which enables them to use tax-deferred dollars toward their health care expenses. Employees are also covered by basic life and long-term disability insurance, with the option to purchase additional coverage amounts.

To view premium rates, coverage choice in your area and how to enroll, please visit the
Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) website. The Washington Wellness program from the Health Care Authority works with PEBB to support our workplace wellness programs.


Dependent care assistance allows the employee to save pre-tax dollars for a child or elder care expenses.

Other insurance coverage for auto, boat, home, and renter insurance is available through payroll deduction.

The Washington State Employee Assistance Program promotes the health and well-being of employees.

Retirement and Deferred Compensation
State Employees are members of the Washington Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS).  New employees have the option of two employer contributed retirement programs.  For additional information, check out the Department of Retirement Systems' web site.

Employees also have the ability to participate in the Deferred Compensation Program (DCP).  This is a supplemental retirement savings program (similar to an IRA) that allows you control over the amount of pre-tax salary dollars you defer as well as the flexibility to choose between multiple investment options.

Social Security
All state employees are covered by the federal Social Security and Medicare systems. The state and the employee pay an equal amount into the system.

Public Service Loan Forgiveness
If you are employed by a government or not-for-profit organization, and meet the qualifying criteria, you may be eligible to receive student loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.

Holidays
Full-time and part-time employees are entitled to paid holidays and one paid personal holiday per calendar year.

Note: Employees who are members of certain Unions may be entitled to additional personal leave day(s), please refer to position specific Collective Bargaining Agreements for more information.

Full-time employees who work full monthly schedules qualify for holiday compensation if they are employed before the holiday and are in pay status for at least 80 nonovertime hours during the month of the holiday; or for the entire work shift preceding the holiday.

Part-time employees who are in pay status during the month of the holiday qualify for the holiday on a pro-rata basis. Compensation for holidays (including personal holiday) will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status in the month to that required for full-time employment, excluding all holiday hours. Pay status includes hours worked and time on paid leave.

Sick Leave
Full-time employees earn eight hours of sick leave per month. Overtime eligible employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month, earn a monthly proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Overtime exempt employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month do not earn a monthly accrual of sick leave.

Sick leave accruals for part-time employees will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.

Vacation (Annual Leave)
Full-time employees accrue vacation leave at the rates specified in WAC 357-31-165(1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA). Full-time employees who are in pay status for less than 80 nonovertime hours in a month do not earn a monthly accrual of vacation leave.

Part-time employees accrue vacation leave hours in accordance with WAC 357-31-165(1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA) on a pro rata basis. Vacation leave accrual will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment.

Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.


As provided in WAC 357-58-175, an employer may authorize a lump-sum accrual of vacation leave or accelerate the vacation leave accrual rate to support the recruitment and/or retention of a candidate or employee for a Washington Management Service position. Vacation leave accrual rates may only be accelerated using the rates established WAC 357-31-165. 

Note: Most agencies follow the civil service rules covering leave and holidays for exempt employees even though there is no requirement for them to do so. However, agencies are required to adhere to the applicable RCWs pertaining holidays and leave.

Military Leave
Washington State supports members of the armed forces with 21 days paid military leave per year.

Bereavement Leave
Most employees whose family member or household member dies, are entitled to three (3) days of paid bereavement leave. In addition, the employer may approve other available leave types for the purpose of bereavement leave.

Additional Leave
Leave Sharing
Parental Leave
Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
Leave Without Pay

Please visit the State HR Website for more detailed information regarding benefits.

Updated 12-31-2022

01
Do you have a bachelor's degree in business, public administration, real estate, or a closely related field?
  • Yes
  • No
02
Please indicate your total years of experience in activities such as acquisition, sales, leasing, appraisal, title examination, escrow closing, negotiations, property management, title examination, relocation assistance, or selling, leasing or buying commercial real estate, or auditing or appraising property for fair market value.
  • Less than one (1) year
  • 1 – 2 years
  • 2 – 3 years
  • 3 – 4 years
  • 4 – 5 years
  • 5 – 6 years
  • 6 – 7 years
  • More than 7 years
03
Please indicate your years of experience in eminent domain real estate acquisition.
  • None
  • Less than 2 years
  • 2 – 3 years
  • 3 – 4 years
  • 4 – 5 years
  • 5 – 6 years
  • 6 – 7 years
  • More than 7 years
04
Please indicate your years of experience in real estate activities such as acquisition, sales, leasing, appraisal, title examination, escrow closing, negotiations, property management, leasing or buying commercial real estate, or appraising property for fair market value.
  • None
  • Less than 2 years
  • 2 – 3 years
  • 3 – 4 years
  • 4 – 5 years
  • 5 – 6 years
  • 6 – 7 years
  • More than 7 years
05
Please select which of the following you have knowledge of:
  • 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)
  • Washington Administrative Code (WAC) relating to acquisition and condemnation of real property and property rights
  • WSDOT Right of Way Manual
  • None of the above
06
Please select all of the following applications you are proficient using:
  • Adobe
  • ECM
  • FileMaker Pro
  • IRIS
  • Microsoft Access
  • Microsoft Excel
  • Microsoft Outlook
  • Microsoft PowerPoint
  • Microsoft Word
  • Project Wise
  • SharePoint
  • SR View
  • None of the above
07
Do you have the ability to obtain a Washington Notary Public?
  • Yes
  • No
  • I am currently a WA Notary Public
08
Do you have a valid driver's license?
  • Yes
  • No
09
How did you learn of this employment opportunity?
  • Indeed
  • LinkedIn
  • Direct Email Notification
  • Career Fair
  • Monster
  • WorkSource
  • AASHTO
  • NACTO
  • APWA
  • WSDOT Employment Site
  • Careers.wa.gov
  • governmentjobs.com
  • Other (specify below)
10
If you selected 'Other' on the previous question, please specify how you learned of this employment opportunity in the space provided:

Required Question

Agency
State of Washington
Address
View Job Posting for Agency Information

View Job Posting for Location, Washington, 98504
Phone
View Posting for Agency Contact