Property & Acquisition Specialist 3 | Title & Research

Property & Acquisition Specialist 3 | Title & Research

Salary

$67,704.00 - $91,104.00 Annually

Location

Chelan County - Wenatchee, WA

Job Type

Full Time - Permanent

Remote Employment

Flexible/Hybrid

Job Number

26DOT-NCR-24763

Department

Dept. of Transportation

Division

North Central Region

Opening Date

10/12/2026

Closing Date

10/26/2026 11:59 PM Pacific

• Description
• Benefits
• Questions

Description

About WSDOT

The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is a multimodal agency with a global reputation for excellence. Our dedicated workforce plans, designs, builds, and operates an integrated transportation system that safely and efficiently moves people and goods throughout the state. In addition to maintaining over 20,000 lane miles of state highway and 4,100 bridges, WSDOT leads an award-winning Active Transportation Plan, manages the worlds longest floating bridge, and operates the largest ferry system in the nation!

The Opportunity

WSDOT is currently seeking a detail-oriented Property & Acquisition Specialist 3 to support real estate transactions and property research in the North Central Region. This role uses specialized knowledge to research property ownership, resolve title and encumbrance issues, establish right of way limits, and prepare accurate legal descriptions and acquisition documents. Working closely with regional real estate staff and property owners, this position helps resolve complex property questions and ensures acquisition activities comply with federal regulations, state law, and WSDOT requirements. This is an opportunity to play a key role in advancing transportation projects by ensuring property and title issues are thoroughly researched and effectively resolved.

What to Expect

Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, you will:

• Order new and updated title reports from title companies for properties to be acquired or WSDOT-owned parcels.
• Review title reports and prepare encumbrance reports.
• Research vesting and title issues.
• Communicate with HQ Real Estate Services regarding processes and procedures to ensure compliance with applicable federal and state requirements and guidelines.
• Provide recommendations to upper-level staff regarding title-clearing options and identify matters requiring elevation for higher-level review.
• Research inquiries from stakeholders, local agencies, the public, property owners, senior management, project offices, and others regarding property ownership, right of way limits, and potential encroachments.
• Research and collect information requested by Real Estate Services in response to public disclosure requests.
• Travel to properties for inspections, consultation with property owners, and other assigned activities.
• Process payments related to acquisitions, relocation, and invoices and ensures payments are delivered timely to agents or payees.

Qualifications

To be considered for this opportunity, the following competencies are required:

• Title & Encumbrance Review: Practical experience in examining, reviewing, and clearing real estate titles, including identifying and resolving encumbrances and vesting issues.
• Real Estate Regulations & Compliance: Experience applying federal, state, and agency regulations (such as 49 CFR, Part 24, Uniform Relocation Act, RCW, WAC, and WSDOT Right of Way Manual) to ensure all acquisition and title activities meet legal and policy requirements.
• Legal Descriptions & Documents: Ability to accurately prepare and review legal descriptions and property documents, using relevant tools and resources.
• Communication: Experience communicating with internal and external stakeholders, including property owners, title companies, and agency staff, to gather information, resolve issues, and provide guidance on title and acquisition matters.
• Property Research Methods: Knowledge of acceptable research methods for addressing ownership questions, right of way limits, and potential encroachments.
• Records & Compliance Review: Ability to collect and analyze information for public disclosure requests and compliance reviews.
• Office Operations & Records: Ability to support office operations by processing payments, managing records, and ensuring timely delivery and retention of documents.
• Growth Mindset: Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.
• Service-Oriented: Takes action to meet the needs of others.

The following qualifications are also required:

• A valid driver's license and the ability to operate state-owned vehicles to conduct site visits, inspections, and consultations with property owners.
• Ability to traverse varied terrain.

It is preferred that qualified candidates also demonstrate:

• Eminent Domain & Acquisition: Experience applying specialized knowledge and experience in real estate acquisition involving eminent domain, including compliance with federal regulations and agency procedures.
• Right of Way Regulations: Knowledge of state and federal regulations (49 CFR, Part 24), the Uniform Relocation and 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.
• Real Property Law & Condemnation: Knowledge of real property law, including condemnation process.
• Property Title Examination: Experience conducting property title examination of transactions as a title examiner or title officer, escrow officer, or Limited Practice Officer or a combination of those disciplines.

Important Notes

• This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
• This position offers flexible/hybrid remote work options.
• In addition to base salary, employees may be entitled to other forms of compensation depending on the type, duties, or location of the position. For union-represented positions, more information on other forms of compensation can be found in the applicable Collective Bargaining Agreements. Information on other compensation types for non-represented positions can be found in Chapter 357-28 of the Washington Administrative Code.
• WSDOT does not use the E-Verify system, therefore we are not eligible to extend STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT). For more information, please visit www.uscis.gov.

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 telework options for eligible positions.
• Paid Leave - In addition to 12 paid holidays, full-time employees may earn up to 25 paid vacation days per year!
• Tuition Assistance - Permanent employees have several options for assistance with education expenses, including tuition reimbursement programs, government discounts at participating colleges throughout the state, and eligibility for federal student loan forgiveness.
• 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.

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 of 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. All persons, regardless of race, ethnicity, age, veteran status, sexual orientation, and/ or gender identity, 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, therefore we are not eligible to extend STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT). For more information, please visit www.uscis.gov.

Contact Us

For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter at olivia.dietrich@wsdot.wa.gov. Please be sure to reference 26DOT-NCR-24763 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. Thats 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, or for loss of pregnancy, are entitled to five (5) 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 01-07-2026

01

Title & Encumbrance Review Please select the response that best describes your experience examining, reviewing, and clearing real estate titles.

• Advanced: I have extensive experience independently examining and reviewing complex real estate titles, identifying and researching encumbrances and vesting issues, and determining appropriate actions to clear title or resolve title-related issues.
• Intermediate: I have experience examining and reviewing real estate titles, identifying encumbrances and vesting issues, conducting research to determine how issues should be addressed, and supporting or completing title clearance activities with limited direction.
• Basic: I have experience reviewing real estate title documents and identifying potential encumbrances or vesting issues, generally with guidance or review from experienced staff.
• Limited: I have gained some knowledge of real estate titles and title-related issues through education, training, or limited work experience, with limited exposure to examining titles or identifying encumbrances.
• No Experience: I do not have experience examining, reviewing, or clearing real estate titles.

02

Please briefly describe your experience in examining, reviewing, and clearing real estate titles. Be sure to include any experience identifying and resolving encumbrances and vesting issues. If you do not have this experience, enter N/A.

03

Real Estate Regulations & Compliance Please select the response that best describes your experience applying federal, state, and agency regulations, policies, and procedures to real estate acquisition and title activities.

• Advanced: I have extensive experience independently interpreting and applying complex federal, state, and agency requirements, including 49 CFR Part 24, the Uniform Relocation Act, RCWs, WACs, and the WSDOT Right of Way Manual, to acquisition and title activities. I routinely identify compliance issues, determine appropriate actions, and provide guidance to ensure work meets legal and policy requirements.
• Intermediate: I have experience applying federal, state, and agency regulations, policies, and procedures to real estate acquisition and title activities. I have used requirements such as 49 CFR Part 24, the Uniform Relocation Act, RCWs, WACs, or the WSDOT Right of Way Manual to guide my work and ensure compliance with limited direction.
• Basic: I have experience applying established regulations, policies, or procedures to real estate, property acquisition, title, or related activities, generally with guidance or review from experienced staff.
• Limited: I have gained knowledge of federal, state, or agency regulations and policies through education, training, or limited work experience and have had some exposure to applying these requirements to real estate or property-related activities.
• No Experience: I do not have experience applying federal, state, or agency regulations, policies, or procedures to real estate acquisition or title activities.

04

Property Research & Analysis Please select the response that best describes your knowledge and experience researching property ownership, right of way limits, and potential encroachments.

• Advanced: I have extensive experience independently researching complex property ownership, right of way limits, and potential encroachments, analyzing conflicting or incomplete information, and determining appropriate next steps.
• Intermediate: I have experience independently researching property ownership, right of way limits, and potential encroachments and resolving routine research issues with limited direction.
• Basic: I have experience conducting property research to identify ownership, right of way limits, or potential encroachments using established methods and resources, generally with guidance or review.
• Limited: I have gained knowledge through education, training, or limited work experience, with some exposure to researching property ownership, right of way limits, or potential encroachments.
• No Experience: I have no knowledge or experience researching property ownership, right of way limits, or potential encroachments.

05

Please briefly describe how you gained your experience researching property ownership, right of way limits, and potential encroachments. If you do not have this experience, enter N/A.

06

Property Title Examination Have you gained experience conducting property title examination of transactions by holding any of the following positions?

• Title Examiner or Title Officer
• Escrow Officer
• Limited Practice Officer
• None of the above

07

Do you currently possess a valid driver's license?

• Yes
• No

08

Are you able and willing to conduct site visits, inspections, and consultations with property owners?

• Yes
• No

09

Are you able and willing to traverse rough, uneven, steep terrain?

• Yes
• No

10

How did you learn of this employment opportunity?

• Indeed
• LinkedIn
• Direct Email Notification
• WSDOT social media (Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, etc)
• Career Fair
• Monster
• WorkSource
• Handshake
• AASHTO
• NACTO
• COMTO
• APWA
• "NOW HIRING" banner/sign
• Radio advertisement
• WSDOT Employment Site
• Careers.wa.gov
• governmentjobs.com
• Other (specify below)

11

If you selected Other on the previous question, please specify how you learned of this employment opportunity in the space provided:

Required Question

Employer State of Washington

Address View Job Posting for Agency Information

View Job Posting for Location, Washington, 98504

Website http://www.careers.wa.gov