Surface Landman

Job Summary:

We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Surface Landman at Phoenix Energy One, LLC to support land acquisition and management activities in the Dickinson and Williston, ND, and Sydney, MT areas. The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of local land use regulations, surface ownership, and permitting processes, with a proven track record of negotiating surface use agreements and maintaining positive landowner relationships. This role requires excellent writing and oral communication skills, the ability to draft documents with an understanding of land and legal matters (including purchase and sale agreements, deeds of conveyance, oil and gas leases, affidavits, etc.), and the capability to multitask and perform complex title due diligence and curative tasks while adhering to strict deadlines. The Surface Landman is expected to actively participate in and contribute to various meetings related to land issues and requests, play a key role in prospect evaluation and priority setting, and take an opportunistic approach to land work.

Responsibilities:

- Landowner Relations: Establish and maintain strong relationships with landowners, addressing concerns and negotiating surface use agreements, survey access, rights of way, and other agreements with landowners for exploration, drilling, and production activities.

- Surface Use Agreements: Draft, negotiate, and execute agreements for access roads, well sites, pipelines, and other infrastructure, ensuring terms are clear and protect the company’s interests while addressing landowner needs.

- Title Research: Conduct surface title research and verify ownership using county records and GIS systems.

- Permitting & Compliance: Coordinate with regulatory agencies to obtain necessary permits and ensure compliance with local, state, and federal regulations.

- Project Coordination: Collaborate with engineering, environmental, and legal teams to support project development and execution.

- Due Diligence: Assist in land due diligence for acquisitions, divestitures, and project planning.

- Conflict Resolution: Address and resolve disputes or issues with landowners, including damage claims or access disputes, in a professional and timely manner.

- Reporting: Maintain accurate records of landowner contacts, negotiations, agreements, and communications, and provide regular updates to management.

Skills:

- Take an opportunistic approach to Land work

- Address and resolve complex land-related issues

- Strong understanding of land and legal matters

- Excellent written and oral communication skills for drafting documents and participating in meetings

- Strategic thinking and ability to contribute to prospect evaluation and priority setting

- Flexibility and adaptability to handle various tasks and responsibilities in a dynamic environment

- Strong negotiation and interpersonal skills to effectively manage landowner relationships.

- Knowledge of land title research and surface rights acquisition processes.

- Familiarity with oil and gas operations, including drilling, pipelines, and production.

- Understanding of local, state, and federal regulations related to land use and environmental compliance.

- Excellent organizational and time-management skills to handle multiple projects and deadlines.

- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and land management software (e.g., Bolo, Quorum).

Certifications:

- Professional Landman certification (e.g., AAPL’s Registered Landman or Certified Professional Landman) is a plus.

Requirements:

- Minimum 3–5 years of experience as a Surface Landman, preferably in North Dakota and Montana.

- Strong knowledge of local land use laws, permitting processes, and surface title research.

- Excellent negotiation, communication, and interpersonal skills.

- Proficiency in land management software (e.g., Quorum, iLandMan, or similar).

- Valid driver’s license and willingness to travel to field locations as needed. Ability to work independently and in a team environment.

Education:

- Bachelor's degree in Land Management, Energy Management, Business Administration, or a related field preferred, but not required.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $100,000.00 - $150,000.00 per year

Benefits:

- 401(k)

- 401(k) matching

- Dental insurance

- Health insurance

- Paid time off

- Vision insurance

Work Location: On the road