Real Estate Project Manager

Contract Duration: Contract through March 31, 2027 (High potential for extension)

Location: Jackson, MI 49201

CMS Energy is seeking an experienced Real Estate Project Manager III to lead and manage complex right-of-way and land acquisition projects supporting the construction, operation, and maintenance of existing and new facilities. This role requires strong negotiation expertise, independent project leadership, and extensive experience within the Right of Way/Real Estate industry.

The Project Manager may operate independently on high-level assignments or lead a team supporting large-scale infrastructure initiatives.

• Lead negotiations with private landowners and governmental agencies to acquire land rights, including:
  Fee simple acquisitions;
  Rights-of-way;
  Easements;
  Leases;
  Temporary workspace agreements;
  Licenses and permits;
  Ordinances and related approvals.
• Manage and guide contract personnel in negotiations and acquisition activities.
• Perform comprehensive internal and external due diligence to verify land rights accuracy and identify deficiencies requiring curative action.
• Conduct land title research and interpret:
  Settlement instruments;
  Contract terms;
  Survey drawings;
  Engineering and construction drawings;
  Plan and profile drawings;
  Title reports and abstracts.
• Serve as liaison between landowners/tenants and the company regarding:
  Ownership matters;
  Easement rights;
  Damage claims;
  Property access issues.
• Represent the company at public meetings before:
  Municipalities;
  Zoning boards;
  Townships;
  Drainage boards;
  County commissioners;
  Other governmental entities.
• Plan and organize workload effectively while adapting to changing priorities.
• Work independently with minimal supervision while adhering to established company policies, procedures, and processes.

• Minimum 10 years of experience in the Right of Way and/or Real Estate industry.
• Strong negotiation and stakeholder management skills.
• Advanced knowledge of land acquisition processes and settlement documentation.
• Proficiency in land title research and curative actions.
• Ability to interpret legal descriptions, surveys, engineering, and construction drawings.
• Active Michigan Notary Public certification (required).
• Ability to work under pressure and manage shifting priorities.

• Experience working on utility or infrastructure-related projects.
• Demonstrated ability to lead cross-functional teams.
• Strong communication and public presentation skills.