Right of Way Advisor - job 1 of 3

Work with Us. Change the World.

At AECOM, we're delivering a better world. Whether improving your commute, keeping the lights on, providing access to clean water, or transforming skylines, our work helps people and communities thrive. We are the world's trusted infrastructure consulting firm, partnering with clients to solve the world’s most complex challenges and build legacies for future generations.

There has never been a better time to be at AECOM. With accelerating infrastructure investment worldwide, our services are in great demand. We invite you to bring your bold ideas and big dreams and become part of a global team of over 50,000 planners, designers, engineers, scientists, digital innovators, program and construction managers and other professionals delivering projects that create a positive and tangible impact around the world.

We're one global team driven by our common purpose to deliver a better world. Join us.

AECOM is seeking a Right of Way Advisor to be based in Sacramento, CA.

SUMMARY:

Under the direction of the Director of Real Property, the Right of Way Advisor is responsible for broadly administering the Real Property Branch (RPB) operations on behalf of the client. The Right of Way Advisor plans, directs and oversees the work of the client's third-party agreements, land conveyances, right of way acquisitions, and property management. The Right of Way Advisor coordinates the management of real property project activities to contribute to the successful delivery of the high-speed rail system and ensures operations are conducted in a manner consistent with state laws, policies and administrative guidelines. The Right of Way Advisor coordinates and integrates cross-divisional initiatives and works with other functional areas to support the project and exercises problem solving methods in the best interest of the client and in conformance with real estate and land title laws.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Assist the Director of Real Property on all matters related to program management for the RPB. Plan, manage and supervise the development and implementation of business plans, business strategies and program priorities, of the RPB. Manage, guide, organize, and direct staff and consultants to ensure the following functions are properly implemented and compliant with applicable laws and regulations: Surveys, utilities, permits to enter, cost estimates, appraisals, fair market determinations, offers of just compensation, negotiations, acquisition, relocation assistance, title and escrow functions, demolition, property management, third party coordination, government agency coordination, airspace leasing, excess land disposition, and condemnation coordination
• Manage and supervise administrative settlements with the approval of the Director of Real Property
• Manage and supervise the development and processing of RPB documents, including operational performance reporting. Ensures RPB documents and supporting materials are developed per applicable laws, policies, and control agency direction related to transactions with contracted consultants and property owners
• Advise the Director of Real Property on real property and third-party issues. Provide technical expertise on real property and third-party matters to the Chief Operating Officer and cross-functionally for the Program Delivery (PD) client office. Collaborate cross-functionally and with other departments, agencies, and consultants to achieve RPB and PD objectives

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

• BA/BS + 10 years of relevant experience or demonstrated equivalency of experience and/or education

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS: ​

• Knowledge of the California High Speed Rail (CAHSR) organization
• Thorough knowledge of relevant laws, regulations and policies of federal, state and local agencies, as well as federal and state legislation pertaining to the above duties
• Knowledge of the CAHSR's project delivery process from design, construction, operation and maintenance
• Knowledge of the CAHSR's procurement of contracts, negotiation practices of commercial terms
• Knowledge of the CAHSR's Business Plan concept
• Knowledge of the CAHSR's organizational internal and external relationships that pertain to contract management for RPB and Third Parties
• Proven experience specific to the acquisition of right of way and negotiation of the third-party agreements required to deliver the project, legal and commercial principles and their applications; legal research methods, provisions of laws and Government Code sections administered or enforced; principles of public administration, personnel management and supervision.
• Abilities specific to the acquisition of right of way and negotiation of the third-party agreements required to deliver the project, analyze legal and commercial principles and precedents and apply them to complex legal and administrative problems; present statements of fact, law and argument clearly and logically in written and oral form, plan, organize and direct the work of a staff of attorneys.
• Experience with major capital infrastructure projects and the areas of scope, policy, strategy and procedures, property management, and negotiating utility relocations
• Ability to maintain good communication skills and working relationships with strong management, other
• Divisions, Districts, federal and state Agencies, local agencies and private sector contractors, subcontractors and suppliers and their associations
• Demonstrate a broad knowledge of budget processes, workload development, resource management, and project management concepts for innovative project delivery projects, including design build
• Effective and persuasive communicator, both orally and writing, when communicating with all levels of officials and the public, including property owners for acquisition of rights of way and purchasers of State owned real and personal property
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills and demonstrated ability for achieving positive results
• A commitment to teamwork and a collaborative attitude
• Expert in the principles, procedures, and organization required in the management of a government organization involved in the acquisition of real property for a transportation project
• Expert understanding of engineering concepts and their effect on transportation planning
• Excellent management skills to direct an experienced professional staff
• Ability to assimilate technical data, legal issues, risk parameters and human sensitivities, exercise sound judgment in evaluating alternative courses of action and recommending the preferred direction in the best interests of CAHSR.

• Travel is required for this position.
• Sponsorship is available for this position.

About AECOM 

AECOM is proud to offer comprehensive benefits to meet the diverse needs of our employees. Depending on your employment status, AECOM benefits may include medical, dental, vision, life, AD&D, disability benefits, paid time off, leaves of absences, voluntary benefits, perks, flexible work options, well-being resources, employee assistance program, business travel insurance, service recognition awards, retirement savings plan, and employee stock purchase plan. 

AECOM is the global infrastructure leader, committed to delivering a better world. As a trusted professional services firm powered by deep technical abilities, we solve our clients’ complex challenges in water, environment, energy, transportation and buildings. Our teams partner with public- and private-sector clients to create innovative, sustainable and resilient solutions throughout the project lifecycle – from advisory, planning, design and engineering to program and construction management. AECOM is a Fortune 500 firm that had revenue of $16.1 billion in fiscal year 2024. Learn more at aecom.com. 

What makes AECOM a great place to work 

You will be part of a global team that champions your growth and career ambitions. Work on groundbreaking projects - both in your local community and on a global scale - that are transforming our industry and shaping the future. With cutting-edge technology and a network of experts, you’ll have the resources to make a real impact. Our award-winning training and development programs are designed to expand your technical expertise and leadership skills, helping you build the career you’ve always envisioned. Here, you’ll find a welcoming workplace built on respect, collaboration and community—where you have the freedom to grow in a world of opportunity. 

As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we believe in your potential and are here to help you achieve it. All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.