City of Austin - JOB DESCRIPTION

Real Estate Services Officer

Under general direction of an Assistant City Manager, responsible for oversight of all activities and operations of the Office of Real Estate Services, including property and easement acquisition, expansion planning, leasing and purchasing activities for public purposes, contract negotiation, and associated community involvement.

1. Oversees the development and implementation of Office of Real Estate goals, objectives, policies, and priorities for each assigned service area; establishes, within City policy, appropriate service and staffing levels; and allocates resources accordingly.
2. Acts as official representative to other City departments, City Manager’s Office, elected officials, and outside agencies; explains, justifies, and defends department programs, policies, and activities; and negotiates and resolves sensitive, significant, and controversial issues.
3. Briefs and advises City management, the Mayor, and Council regarding disposition, acquisition, and management of real estate programs in-person and through written reports.
4. Oversees and participates in the development and administration of the department budget; estimates funds needed for staffing, equipment, materials, and supplies; directs the monitoring and approval of expenditures; and directs the preparation and implementation of budgetary adjustments as necessary.
5. Responds to and resolves sensitive inquiries and complaints from both internal and external sources. 
6. Coordinates assigned activities with other City departments and outside agencies.
7. Develops and negotiates contracts between the City, private developers, governmental entities, and the general public in real estate disposition and acquisition.

Responsible for the full range of supervisory activities including selection, training, evaluation, counseling, and recommendation for dismissal.

• Knowledge of fiscal planning and budget preparation.
• Knowledge of principles and practices of public administration.
• Knowledge of supervisory and managerial techniques and principles.
• Knowledge of Federal, State, and Local laws, and ordinances governing real estate management, disposition, and acquisition.
• Skill in oral and written communications.
• Skill in handling multiple tasks and prioritizing.
• Skill in using computers and related software applications.
• Skill in data analysis and problem solving.
• Skill in evaluating bids and making recommendations.
• Skill in preparing and analyzing budgets, reports, and studies.
• Ability to maintain effective communication and working relationships with City Officials, business leaders, financial institutions, developers, citizen groups, and City departments and employees.

• Graduation with a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with major coursework in Public or Business Administration, Real Estate, or in a field related to the job, plus seven (7) years of experience in real estate activities including disposition and acquisition of real estate, appraising, mortgage lending, or title conveyance.
• Graduation with a Master's degree from an accredited college of university may substitute for two (2) years of experience.