Deputy Director - Right of Way Delivery Services

Deputy Director - Right of Way Delivery Services

The Utah Department of Transportation (UDOT) is seeking a strategic, highly motivated leader to serve as the Deputy Director of Right of Way Delivery. In this pivotal role, you will oversee core acquisition and disposition processes, property valuation, and corridor preservation, ensuring UDOT’s transportation projects move from vision to reality.

About the Role

As a primary lead for Right of Way delivery, you will exercise independent judgment and expert technical knowledge to navigate the complexities of federal and state laws. You aren't just managing land; you are leading a diverse team of professionals and consultants to ensure every acquisition—from appraisal reviews to eminent domain proceedings—is handled with precision and a commitment to UDOT’s mission.

Position Details

Location –
4501 S 2700 W, Po Box 141200
Salt Lake City, UT, 84114-8455
United States
Background Check Required – Yes
Drug Test Required – No
Schedule Code – AX - Employees in supervisory positions
FT / PT Status – Full-Time
Salary – $43.14 - $68.43 Hourly Wage
Remote Work / In-Office – In-Office / On-Site
Application Deadline – 4/25/2026

What You'll Do

• Leadership & Team Development: Direct internal staff and manage consultant teams in appraisal, acquisition, and relocation services. You will facilitate collaborative problem-solving for difficult parcels, develop yearly performance plans, and provide expert right-of-way training to the team.
  
• Compliance & Risk Oversight: Serve as a technical authority on federal and state regulations. You will review and countersign settlement statements and certifications, assessing risks and ensuring accuracy before final director execution.
  
• Project & Data Coordination: Coordinate right-of-way design, surplus dispositions, and surveying. You will maintain quality control on acquisition logs and oversee the clearance of parcels for construction, ensuring the team is ready to proceed once summaries are approved.
  
• Expert Testimony: Act as the department’s expert in acquisition and relocation for appeals by the Attorney General’s office. You will provide expert testimony to defend the State's determination of just compensation and represent UDOT at national technical council meetings.
  
• Policy & Fiscal Management: Interpret the UDOT Right-of-Way manual, manage federal audits, and handle GRAMA requests. You will also oversee the business side of delivery, including reviewing and approving monthly invoices in compliance with state procurement regulations.

Your Profile

We are looking for a seasoned professional who can balance technical mastery with high-level leadership. While we value a diversity of backgrounds, the following expertise is essential for success:

• Industry Expertise: A deep professional background in the Right of Way and RE transactions industry, real estate law, or property valuation. While a Bachelor’s degree and approximately six years of relevant experience is typical, we welcome candidates who have built equivalent mastery through extensive practical experience.
  
• Technical Proficiency: Comprehensive knowledge of appraisal reviews, negotiation techniques, and relocation assistance. Professional designations (such as IRWA, IREM, or Appraisal certifications) are highly valued.
  
• Operational Leadership: Proven ability to manage large-scale real estate transactions and lead multidisciplinary teams. You should be comfortable managing consultant contracts and maintaining data integrity across complex projects.
  
• Expert Communication: Exceptional interpersonal skills with the ability to translate complex regulatory requirements for stakeholders and stand confidently as an expert witness in legal proceedings.

Preferred Qualifications

• Recognized technical expert in federal and state land acquisition regulations.
• Proven track record in managing large-scale transactions programs like Corridor Preservation programs.
• A proactive leader committed to operational efficiency and collaborative problem-solving.

Why You Should Join Our Team

The State of Utah is committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender identity, or Veteran status. We also consider qualified applicants regardless of criminal histories, consistent with legal requirements. For accommodations, please contact (801) 957-9390.

Recruiter: Porter Cook - pccook@utah.gov