Land Agent

East River is seeking a Land Agent to help provide a full range of land and right-of-way support functions for the Cooperative's projects. This position requires considerable public interaction with property owners to obtain easements and/or parcels of land.

East River Electric is a not-for-profit generation and transmission cooperative with a service area that covers 40,000 square miles. We deliver wholesale power to our members, which include 24 rural electric distribution cooperatives and one municipally-owned electric system in eastern South Dakota and western Minnesota. Our members, in turn, power the properties of the member-owners in their service territories. We believe cooperatives help build stronger communities. The four Touchstone Energy® Cooperative values of integrity, accountability, innovation and commitment to community are our foundation. These values represent the cooperative difference and why our members trust us to provide reliable and affordable power and service every day.

Our Community

This job opportunity is located at our main campus in Madison, South Dakota. Madison boasts a family-friendly, small town atmosphere with a wealth of modern amenities including the new Madison Regional Hospital, the high-tech campus of Dakota State University, a thriving community center and more. The town is centered between two lakes, provides ample recreational opportunities, and is a short drive from many of eastern South Dakota's most popular attractions.

Learn more about Madison on our website: https://www.eastriver.coop/our-communities/

Key responsibilities include:

• Research public records to identify property owners, potential title issues, and applicable permitting requirements of property affected by proposed Cooperative facilities.
• Negotiate with land owners and acquire easements for construction projects.
• Communicate and coordinate with land owners regarding planned construction activities on their property.
• Prepare easement documents and collaborate with staff to ensure documentation is in order.
• Work closely with engineering and project management staff in coordinating project timelines.
• Maintain high level of professionalism at all times.

Key skills/requirements include:

• Excellent communication and people skills are required.
• Ability to garner trust, negotiate terms, and gain agreement.
• Knowledge of real estate law and governmental land use policies preferred.
• Demonstrated project management skills.
• A combination of education, training and professional experience will be considered.
• Proficiency with computer systems and MS Office products.
• Valid driver's license is required.

Benefits include:

• 9/80 work schedule with every other Friday off.
• Retirement pension plan paid 100% by East River.
• 401(k) plan with a matching contribution.
• Medical insurance - premium paid 100% for single coverage and family plan premium share.
• Employer contribution to a Health Savings Account.
• Paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays.
• Term life insurance 2x annual salary provided with optional additional coverage.
• Total well-being program including an Employee Assistance Program (EAP).

Want to learn more about East River? Visit our website's career pages and hear what our current employees have to say.

Questions? Contact hr@eastriver.coop or (605) 256-4536.

Applications accepted through June 2, 2023.

This institution is an equal opportunity employer and provider.