Land Acquisition Specialist

Position Summary:

The Land Acquisition Specialist plays a critical role in advancing renewable energy projects by identifying, evaluating, and securing land rights required for project development. This position works directly with landowners, stakeholders, and cross-functional teams to negotiate land agreements, manage land-related risks, and maintain strong relationships throughout the project lifecycle. The successful candidate combines strong communication, negotiation, analytical, and organizational skills to support the development of solar, wind, and energy storage projects from origination through construction.

Key Responsibilities:

Land Identification & Due Diligence

• Identify and evaluate land parcels suitable for renewable energy development.
• Utilize GIS tools, county assessor records, title databases, and other resources to assess project opportunities.
• Conduct zoning, land use, environmental, and ownership screenings.
• Research and verify ownership structures, including individuals, trusts, estates, LLCs, partnerships, and public entities.
• Collaborate with development, engineering, and environmental teams to assess land feasibility and project viability.

Landowner Engagement & Negotiations

• Serve as the primary point of contact for landowners throughout the project lifecycle.
• Build and maintain positive, long-term relationships with landowners and local stakeholders.
• Lead negotiations for:
  • Option-to-lease agreements
  • Long-term ground leases
  • Easements, including access, transmission, interconnection, and drainage rights
• Address landowner questions and concerns regarding property use, taxes, access, aesthetics, decommissioning, and land restoration.
• Partner with local land agents when appropriate to support project development efforts.

Contract & Legal Coordination

• Coordinate with internal and external legal counsel to draft, review, negotiate, and finalize land agreements.
• Manage legal exhibits, site plans, property descriptions, and supporting documentation.
• Ensure agreements support project schedules, permitting requirements, interconnection activities, and financing milestones.
• Track critical contract dates, including option periods, extensions, rent escalations, and payment obligations.

Title & Survey Management

• Coordinate title commitments, title updates, and ALTA/NSPS survey activities.
• Review title reports to identify and address easements, liens, encumbrances, access limitations, boundary issues, and mineral rights concerns.
• Work with title companies, surveyors, and legal counsel to resolve title and ownership issues.

Land Portfolio Management

• Maintain accurate land records, databases, and GIS information.
• Track parcel ownership, agreement status, key terms, and project milestones.
• Prepare land summaries, project status updates, and risk assessments for development teams and leadership.
• Support financing, investment, and due diligence processes as needed.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Partner closely with Development Managers, engineering teams, environmental specialists, permitting teams, legal counsel, finance teams, and third-party land agents.
• Support project transition from development through construction and operations.
• Contribute to strategic project planning and risk mitigation efforts.

Culture & Leadership

• Foster a collaborative, inclusive, and respectful working environment.
• Build trusted relationships through honesty, empathy, and accountability.
• Provide constructive feedback, mentorship, and support to colleagues and project teams.
• Contribute positively to team goals and organizational success.

Qualifications & Experience:

Education

Bachelor's degree in Real Estate, Business Administration, Agriculture, Land Management, Environmental Studies, Geography/GIS, Engineering, or a related field preferred.

Equivalent experience and specialized training may be considered, including:

• Real estate law fundamentals
• Contract negotiation
• Title and escrow processes
• GIS and land information systems
• Agricultural land valuation

Professional Experience

• 3+ years of experience in land acquisition, right-of-way (ROW), real estate, infrastructure, energy, or related project development.
• Experience negotiating leases, easements, and other land agreements.
• Knowledge of title review, surveys, ownership research, and land-use considerations.
• Experience working with rural, agricultural, and multi-owner properties preferred.
• Renewable energy industry experience is preferred.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Strong negotiation and relationship management skills.
• Ability to balance stakeholder interests with project objectives.
• Understanding of real estate transactions, land rights, title matters, and easements.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, including Excel, Word, and SharePoint.
• Familiarity with GIS and mapping applications such as ArcGIS, QGIS, or Google Earth.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Sound judgment, problem-solving abilities, and a proactive approach to risk management.

What Success Looks Like

• Builds and maintains productive relationships with landowners and stakeholders.
• Secures land rights that support successful project development.
• Identifies and addresses land-related risks before they impact project timelines.
• Effectively manages complex negotiations while preserving positive relationships.
• Supports project milestones through accurate documentation, organization, and follow-through.

Physical & Environmental Requirements

• Ability to lift and carry up to 35 pounds.
• Ability to work in varying outdoor conditions, including heat, cold, and uneven terrain.
• Ability to use standard office equipment and effectively work in a hybrid environment.

Travel Requirements

• Up to 50% travel to project sites and stakeholder meetings.
• Valid driver's license and ability to travel as needed.