Landman/Title Review Specialist

Stoel Rives LLP has an immediate opening for a Landman/Title Review Specialist experienced with ArcGIS in our Anchorage office.

This position supports the Firm’s Environmental, Land Use and Natural Resources group, and other practice groups as time permits, by working with attorneys, staff, and clients to conduct research and prepare maps to support the natural resources practice. The position will build on existing expertise in title matters, particularly matters involving surface and mineral title and water rights in various western states (especially Alaska, Idaho, and Nevada). This position will conduct title research using public records, including the online records maintained by local recorder’s offices, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), various western states (especially Alaska, Idaho, and Nevada), and other sources; assist with the preparation of title and due diligence reports, including creating maps to communicate research results; and support the Firm’s legal practice. This position may be involved in trade organizations, community events, and business development efforts to support the firm’s ongoing workflow.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Records Research and Analysis: This position assists attorneys with all aspects of our mineral title practice by conducting research and analysis of public records maintained by local recorder’s offices, BLM, the State of Alaska Department of Natural Resources, and other western states. This position will research and determine land status, including the effect and duration of withdrawal orders; analyze historical indices; and review federal tentative approvals, interim conveyances, and patents. This position will also find, interpret, and analyze Master Title Plats, Historical Indices, LAS Abstracts, online GIS mapping tools (including Alaska Mapper), and other instruments relevant to land title research. The position will develop an understanding of key provisions of the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act (ANCSA) and the Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act (ANILCA), how they affect lands in Alaska, and their implications for mineral lands in Alaska.

Mining: Research whether public lands were open and available for mineral locations at the time of location. Analyze location certificates, deeds, and other recorded instruments for adequacy. Conduct due diligence reviews for claim staking and claim acquisitions. Prepare the statement of annual labor required for state mining claims. Prepare claim sketch maps using ArcGIS and review claim sketch maps prepared by others.

Oil and Gas: Research land status at the time of leasing and confirm ownership is vested in the lessor. Research ownership transfers and prepare chains of title to assist in preparing title opinions. Calculate net revenue interests, including overriding royalties. Analyze leases, lease files, and unit files to determine whether leases are in good standing, whether there are clouds on title, and whether there are any defects in title documents. May assist attorneys in drafting reports based on research results.

Water: Research water rights issued by state water resources departments and other agencies, including ownership transfers and relevant chains of title, to assist in water right related transactions. Prepare maps reflecting water right authorizations and water uses, with ArcGIS and other tools. May assist attorneys in drafting reports based on research reports.

Business and Professional Development: Engage with the local landman community, mining community, and oil and gas community in western states, including in Alaska (e.g., through the Alaska Association of Professional Landmen, the Alaska Miners Association, and other appropriate opportunities). Build recognized expertise in all matters affecting mineral title in the western states (especially Alaska, Idaho, and Nevada) and a reputation for conducting timely and thorough due diligence and other research regarding mineral title matters. Participate in presentations of workshops and seminars at conferences, trade association meetings, and other events.

Additional Responsibilities: When requested, serve clients and attorneys throughout the firm by conducting real property title due diligence and other property or title related research and analyses.

Other duties as assigned.

ESSENTIAL CAPABILITIES

Strong candidates will possess the following attributes: Highly organized and detail oriented; enjoys problem solving; passionate about learning new skills; strong analytical skills; takes initiative; excellent oral and written communication skills; high work standards; effective at building positive relationships with clients and co-workers; desire to work as a team and be a good team player. This position requires the ability to create and follow detailed checklists and record keeping of research conducted and results; juggle multiple projects and establish priorities; meet deadlines; work independently; and learn and grow from constructive feedback.

Technical Knowledge

Prior experience with land title documents, recording district searches, how to research property information, and how to use and produce maps using ArcGIS is strongly preferred. Must be capable of rapidly learning, understanding, and applying principles of property ownership, including algebra skills to calculate interests in oil and gas leases.

Physical and Mental Capabilities

Operate a telephone, personal computer, and all types of photocopy equipment and other necessary office equipment; read and comprehend handwritten and typed notes or instructions; type on a computer keyboard in a sitting or standing position for extended periods of time during a 7.5‑hour workday; learn and effectively use firm style and software applications; accurately proofread documents; accurately record and deliver phone messages; carry files, binders, and pouches of files for short distances.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

Bachelor’s degree with a minimum of two (2) years of experience, or equivalent work experience, in fields related to real property, or research and analysis of public documents, with an emphasis on analytical, verbal, and written communication skills.

NORMAL WORK HOURS

This is a hybrid position, non-exempt, and eligible for overtime compensation. Regular office hours are 8:30 - 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. The ability to work longer hours during peak workload periods is essential. This position requires travel as needed, estimated to be one to two (1 to 2) times each year.

How You Will Live Life Well at Stoel Rives: Compensation, Benefits, and More!

The pay range for this position is $63,000 - $106,000; however, the base compensation presented to a candidate may vary based on skills and overall experience. This salary range is based on market location.

In addition to base compensation, Stoel Rives has a total rewards program that includes an annual discretionary bonus and rich benefits offerings. For example, our benefits offerings include paid family & medical leave, competitive PTO, and remote work options. We offer competitive and robust medical, dental, vision, life long-term disability, AD&D, EAP, FSA and Voluntary Life, ADD, and LTC options. We also provide a generous firm-contributed health savings account, a pre-tax transportation/parking plan including an employer monthly subsidy of $100 for individuals who work 3+ days/week in the office, and an annual contribution into the employee's retirement plan.