Property Acquisitions Program Manager (PE or PMP) -- Commercial Real Estate - Chico, CA

Job Description

Job Description

Location: Chico, California

Work Arrangement: On-site (at the designated office location)

Employment Type: Full-Time, Direct Hire

Certifications Required: Professional Engineer (PE) or Project Management Professional (PMP)

About the Role

We are seeking a Property Acquisitions Program Manager (PAPM) based in Chico, California, to lead all property and right-of-way acquisitions that enable critical capital infrastructure projects statewide. This is a high-impact role where engineering, real estate strategy, and project delivery intersect.

The ideal candidate is a licensed PE or PMP-certified program manager with commercial real estate acquisition experience and a proven ability to drive complex transactions to closure on schedule and within budget.

This position offers the opportunity to shape statewide acquisition strategy, manage cross-functional teams, and directly influence the success of California’s major water system improvement initiatives.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the end-to-end property acquisition program for all capital delivery projects, ensuring timely execution on scope, schedule, and budget.
• Develop and implement standardized acquisition strategies, tools, and reporting systems for visibility and accountability.
• Manage cross-functional teams (Engineering, Operations, Legal) and external partners (brokers, consultants, right-of-way specialists).
• Oversee property negotiations, title review, and documentation for fee purchases, easements, leases, and licenses.
• Establish acquisition performance metrics, risk mitigation strategies, and recovery plans for delayed projects.
• Maintain acquisition tracking in Microsoft Project Online (MSPO) and related tools.
• Drive process and policy improvements to enhance statewide efficiency.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Engineering, or related field
• PE or PMP certification (required)
• 5+ years of progressive experience in:
• Right-of-way management, civil engineering, property acquisition, or commercial real estate project management
• Negotiating property transactions and reviewing title reports
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, MS Project Online, SharePoint, and Smartsheet
• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills

Preferred Qualifications

• Surveyor License or Water System Certifications (Water Distribution, Water Treatment)
• Familiarity with Public Utilities Commission (PUC) processes
• Strong analytical and business acumen