Right‑of‑Way & Land Services Manager
Job Title
Right‑of‑Way & Land Services Manager
Company Overview
A nationally recognized, employee‑owned consulting and engineering organization is expanding its environmental and land services capabilities in the Midwest. The team supports clients across transportation, energy, utility, infrastructure, commercial, and development sectors. The group is known for delivering complex land acquisition projects, large‑scale infrastructure support, environmental planning expertise, and strong opportunities for long‑term career growth within a respected Environmental & Land Services practice.
Location
Chicago, IL
Role Summary
The Right‑of‑Way & Land Services Manager is responsible for leading and coordinating right‑of‑way and land acquisition activities for major infrastructure and capital improvement projects. This position directs acquisition strategy, manages multidisciplinary project teams, ensures regulatory and procedural compliance, and serves as a primary client interface. The role requires strong communication skills, project management expertise, and experience navigating complex land, permitting, and stakeholder engagement processes.
Key Responsibilities
* Manage right‑of‑way and land acquisition projects from initiation through completion.
* Coordinate title research, landowner outreach, negotiations, and documentation.
* Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local regulations related to property acquisition and real estate standards.
* Oversee and support staff performing property research, valuations, relocation, and acquisition activities.
* Serve as the main point of contact for clients, project partners, and key external stakeholders.
* Prepare project schedules, budgets, progress reports, and risk mitigation plans.
* Collaborate with environmental, permitting, engineering, and construction teams to support project execution.
* Support proposal development, scope creation, cost estimating, and other business development initiatives.
* Maintain strong standards for quality, communication, and project documentation.
Required Qualifications
* Bachelor's degree in real estate, business, environmental studies, engineering, or a related field.
* 8+ years of experience in right‑of‑way acquisition, land services, real estate, or infrastructure project management.
* Experience managing landowner negotiations and acquisition strategies.
* Strong understanding of right‑of‑way processes, regulatory requirements, and industry best practices.
* Proven ability to manage clients, lead teams, and oversee complex projects.
Preferred Qualifications
* Experience with transportation, utility, or large‑scale infrastructure projects.
* Familiarity with federal and state land acquisition requirements.
* Understanding of property valuation, appraisal concepts, relocation programs, or easement documentation.
* Strong written, verbal, and organizational communication skills.
Compensation
Expected base compensation range: $120,000 - $185,000, depending on experience and responsibilities.
How to Apply
Submit your resume through the internal application channel or send your materials with the subject line:
Right‑of‑Way & Land Services Manager - Chicago
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.
FAQs
Congratulations, we understand that taking the time to apply is a big step. When you apply, your details go directly to the consultant who is sourcing talent. Due to demand, we may not get back to all applicants that have applied. However, we always keep your CV and details on file so when we see similar roles or see skillsets that drive growth in organisations, we will always reach out to discuss opportunities.
Yes. Even if this role isn’t a perfect match, applying allows us to understand your expertise and ambitions, ensuring you're on our radar for the right opportunity when it arises.
We also work in several ways, firstly we advertise our roles available on our site, however, often due to confidentiality we may not post all. We also work with clients who are more focused on skills and understanding what is required to future-proof their business.
That's why we recommend registering your CV so you can be considered for roles that have yet to be created.
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