Assessor Trainee

Mille Lacs County•Milaca, MN

About The Position

The Assessor Trainee determines equitable appraisal values and appropriate classifications for non-commercial and non-industrial real and personal property in assigned areas for tax assessment purposes. This is a non-union position. The complete 2026 salary range is $24.74–$32.36 per hour. Exam plans #00913 and #00914 are posted together; only one position will be filled. The role supports the County Assessor in locating, identifying, researching, valuing, and classifying taxable residential and agricultural property. It involves maintaining assessment records and area files, verifying real estate sales information, inspecting and documenting properties, establishing estimated market values, responding to property owners, and communicating assessment and tax information to the public. The incumbent may also perform other duties as apparent or assigned.

Requirements

High school diploma or G.E.D., and six months of experience working with mathematical calculations or real estate, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Ability to obtain a Certified Minnesota Assessor (CMA) license within two years from the date of hire.
Class D Driver’s License.

Responsibilities

Assist with appraising residential and agricultural property and determining values for real estate tax purposes in assigned areas.
Locate and identify taxable property; research ownership; interpret legal descriptions; and maintain and update assessment records, maps, files, and sales records.
Ensure newly constructed properties are added accurately to the tax rolls.
Analyze, verify, and research sales data reported on certificates of real estate value, and assist the County Assessor in adapting the information for mass appraisal.
Assist in establishing equitable assessments by considering factors affecting property value; physically inspect properties; measure, photograph, sketch, and describe structures; determine classifications and homestead status; determine land acreage, breakdowns, and valuation; and establish structure depreciation.
Use assessment procedures and research to establish defendable estimated market values.
Prepare reports and defend assessment decisions at Board of Review meetings.
Respond to property owners’ requests for re-evaluation.
Provide accurate verbal and written information about valuation, assessment procedures, and the property tax system.
Communicate professionally with the public and help resolve issues related to the appraisal process, department policies, and County Assessor’s Office services and activities.
Answer questions and handle routine complaints regarding assessments, tax laws, values, structures, computations, and property legal descriptions, as required.
Assist with public informational meetings about tax law changes and updates.
Provide accurate calculations and tax estimates when requested.