Director of Utilities

Location: Ames, Iowa 
Job Type: Full-Time, Exempt

Position Summary

We are seeking an experienced and results-oriented Director to lead and oversee our Utilities Department for Right of Way projects, client relationships, and operational performance. This executive-level role is responsible for managing project delivery, leading a team of Project Managers and Acquisition Specialists, and serving as a key liaison between clients, government agencies, property owners, and internal stakeholders.

The ideal candidate will bring strong leadership skills, extensive Right of Way experience, and a proven ability to manage complex projects while maintaining exceptional client service and team performance.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Team Management

• Lead, mentor, and supervise a team of 20+ professionals, including Project Managers and Acquisition Specialists.
• Coordinate staffing needs, workload distribution, and project priorities.
• Foster accountability, productivity, and professional development across the team.
• Participate in recruitment, interviewing, and staffing decisions.

Project & Operational Oversight

• Oversee all phases of client projects, ensuring deadlines, budgets, and quality standards are achieved.
• Provide strategic direction and operational oversight for active projects.
• Monitor project status, profitability, and resource allocation.
• Prepare project cost estimates and review billing, contracts, and agreements.
• Submit regular project status reports to clients.

Client Relations & Business Development

• Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, public agencies, and government officials.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for client communications and project concerns.
• Represent the company at Public Information Meetings and industry events.
• Collaborate with clients to ensure project goals and expectations are met.

Land Acquisition & Right of Way Services

• Participate in landowner negotiations and settlement discussions.
• Support eminent domain and condemnation proceedings as needed.
• Provide expert testimony during hearings when required.
• Ensure compliance with applicable laws, regulations, licensing requirements, and client standards.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Work closely with Engineering, Legal, GIS, Vegetation Management, and Field Operations teams.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives to enhance project deliverables and operational efficiency.
• Coordinate internal project reviews and stakeholder meetings.

Qualifications

Required

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in Right of Way services.
• Extensive experience in landowner negotiations and project management.
• Strong leadership, communication, and relationship-building skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and teams simultaneously.
• Valid driver's license and reliable transportation.

Preferred

• Associate's or Bachelor's degree.
• Previous management experience.
• Real Estate coursework, certifications, or licensing.
• Knowledge of eminent domain law, title review, land acquisition, and condemnation processes.
• Experience working with public agencies, utilities, transportation, or infrastructure projects.

Skills & Competencies

• Leadership and team development
• Strategic planning and execution
• Financial management, budgeting, and forecasting
• Project management and organizational skills
• Client relationship management
• Negotiation and conflict resolution
• Analytical thinking and problem-solving
• Knowledge of project plans and title interpretation

What We're Looking For

The successful candidate will be:

• A visionary leader who embraces change and innovation.
• Results-driven with a strong sense of accountability.
• Highly ethical and professional.
• Skilled at building trust with clients, property owners, and team members.
• Capable of making decisions that positively impact organizational success.

Work Environment & Travel

• Professional office environment with remote and field-based work as needed.
• Frequent interaction with clients, property owners, and government agencies.
• Travel required, including occasional overnight travel.
• Ability to walk varying terrain and conduct field visits when necessary.

Benefits

• Competitive salary
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Paid time off and holidays
• Retirement plan options
• Professional development opportunities
• Company-supported training and certifications

Join our team and help lead impactful infrastructure and land acquisition projects while developing strong client partnerships and high-performing teams.