What are the responsibilities and job description for the Abstract Research position at Melden & Hunt?
***Level/Salary Range: Commensurate with experience.***
About us
Melden & Hunt, Inc. is one of the Rio Grande Valley’s well-respected and sought-after engineering, surveying, and consulting firms. For more than 76 years, we have been responsible for numerous projects throughout Texas and continue to meet clients’ needs and satisfaction with a broad spectrum of engineering services and qualified staff.
The Abstract Researcher supports the land surveying team by processing and analyzing survey data, preparing survey reports, and assisting with project coordination. They work in an office environment and collaborate closely with surveyors, engineers, and project managers to ensure the accuracy and reliability of surveying projects.
DESCRIPTION DUTIES
· Process and analyze survey data using surveying software and tools.
· Prepare survey reports, maps, and drawings based on survey data and specifications.
· Assist in project coordination, including organizing and maintaining survey records, project files, and documentation.
· Conduct research on property records, legal descriptions, and historical survey data.
· Assist with drafting and preparing survey plans and documents.
· Collaborate with surveyors, engineers, and other team members to ensure project objectives are met.
· Utilize CAD software to create and modify surveying drawings.
· Maintain and update surveying equipment and software as needed.
· Research and examine public records such as deeds, mortgages, liens, easements, and probate records to trace the history of ownership and legal interests associated with a property.
· Compile and create an abstract or summary of title, detailing the ownership history, encumbrances, and other relevant legal information affecting the property.
· Analyze and interpret complex legal documents and records to extract key information regarding the property's title status.
· Verify the accuracy and completeness of information gathered through thorough documentation and record-keeping practices.
· Prepare detailed reports or summaries of findings for use by real estate attorneys, title insurance companies, lenders, and property buyers.
· Assist in resolving title issues and providing support for legal disputes related to property ownership.
· Communicate effectively with various stakeholders, including clients, attorneys, real estate agents, and government agencies, to facilitate property transactions.
· Stay informed about changes in laws, regulations, and procedures related to property titles and real estate transactions.
· Maintain confidentiality and integrity in handling sensitive information and legal documents related to property titles.
QUALIFICATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS
- High school diploma, G.E.D. or equivalent.
- An associate degree in surveying or a related field is preferred.
- Minimum of 2 years of experience in Abstract Research or in a similar role.
- Valid driver's license and a clean driving record
REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, & ABILITIES
· Proficiency in surveying software and tools, including AutoCAD, Civil 3D, and GIS software.
· Strong knowledge of surveying principles, practices, and techniques.
· Strong attention to detail.
· Familiarity with legal descriptions, property records, and surveying regulations.
· Basic understanding of CAD drafting and technical drawing.
· Excellent organizational and time management skills.
· Good communication skills and the ability to work effectively in a team.
· Familiarity with legal documents such as deeds, mortgages, liens, easements, and probate records.
· Strong research and analytical skills to interpret complex legal documents and records.
· Critical thinking and problem-solving abilities to resolve title issues and discrepancies.
· Adaptability to changes in laws, regulations, and industry standards affecting property titles.
· Ensuring the accuracy and reliability of property title information.
REPORTS TO
- Supervision Received: Business Partners, General Manager, and Surveying Coordinator.
- Supervision Given: This position does not oversee the work of others.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
- Moving objects may require lifting, carrying, pushing, pulling, or applying a small amount of force up to 10 pounds occasionally or regularly.
- Bending the body downward and forward or bending the leg and spine at the waist.
- Picking, pinching, typing, or otherwise working, primarily with fingers rather than the whole hand.
- Applying pressure to an object with the fingers and palm.
- Ability to receive detailed information through oral communication and to make the distinction in sound.
- Ability to make rational decisions.
- Sitting and possibly standing, particularly for prolonged periods.
- Mobility to accomplish tasks, particularly for long distances or moving from one work area to another.
Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this job.
WORK ENVIRONMENT
This position operates in a professional office setting, utilizing a computer, office equipment, and software to coordinate and analyze surveys, with occasional visits to project sites.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
MHI provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.
The above job description is not intended as, nor should it be construed as, exhaustive of all responsibilities, skills, efforts, or working conditions associated with this job, and may be amended at any time at the employer's sole discretion.
Job Type: Full-time
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Flexible spending account
- Health insurance
- Health savings account
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Parental leave
- Professional development assistance
- Retirement plan
- Vision insurance
Schedule:
- 8 hour shift
- Day shift
- Monday to Friday
Supplemental Pay:
- Bonus opportunities
Education:
- Associate (Required)
Experience:
- Abstract Research: 2 years (Required)
- AutoCAD: 1 year (Required)
Ability to Commute:
- Edinburg, TX (Required)
Work Location: In person