Property Appraiser 1

State of Montana•Libby, MT

3h•Hybrid

About The Position

The Property Appraiser 1 works in the Montana Department of Revenue’s Property Assessment Division, which manages assessment and valuation of taxable property for property tax purposes. The position conducts residential property reviews, discoveries, research, and field appraisals; completes inspections to determine final residential property valuations; analyzes and classifies land uses; and supports land-model specification, calibration, and benchmarking, sales comparisons, property characteristics, and ongoing program operations. The role responds to taxpayer inquiries, explains appraisal activities, helps resolve disputes, and participates in appeal hearings. It does not supervise other staff. The position works in an office environment and outdoors, requires travel, and may require work exceeding 40 hours at times, including weekends. Lifting is infrequent and limited to less than 15 pounds. The role may be eligible for approved-site telework, but the employee must primarily reside in Montana and report to the assigned Department of Revenue office as required. Full-time teleworking is unavailable. The successful candidate must have a valid driver’s license and meet the stated driving-record requirements. Applicants must submit a resume and completed state application. Employment is subject to criminal-background and tax-status checks, and applicants must be eligible to work in the United States. The employee must obtain Montana residential property appraisal certification (IAAO 101) and complete Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP) training within the first year of employment. A training assignment may be used, with any conditions stated in writing at hire.

Requirements

Two years of post-secondary education in business, accounting, economics, public administration, construction technology, or training, and one year of job-related experience; equivalent combinations of education and experience may be evaluated individually.
Obtain Montana certification in residential property appraisal (IAAO 101) within the first year of employment, as required by ARM 42.18.206-208 and MCA Title 15.
Complete Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP) training within the first year of employment, as required by ARM 42.18.206-208.
Valid driver’s license with fewer than 12 conviction points in the most recent completed 36 months.
Eligibility to work in the United States; the State of Montana does not sponsor.
Successful completion of Department of Revenue tax and background checks; tax status must be current.
Ability to conduct research and analysis with accuracy and attention to detail.
Conflict-resolution ability and written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
Ability to use Microsoft programs and other database applications; basic computer skills.
Ability to provide timely customer service, follow instructions, multitask, prioritize work under deadlines, and communicate with varied personalities using discretion, active listening, critical thinking, and problem sensitivity.

Nice To Haves

Work experience in appraisal, property tax appraisal, assessment, auditing, agriculture, forestry, surveying, real estate, or a related field.
Self-motivation and outstanding customer service.

Responsibilities

Conduct property reviews and discoveries to identify appraisal needs and priorities, and recommend priorities based on property use, value, location, and other characteristics.
Review tax records, land use, improvements, valuation documents, and other information; identify properties for appraisal review.
Research and analyze individual residential property characteristics and estimate their effect on property values.
Analyze and evaluate appraisal information and determine final property values.
Examine site and improvement data, sanitation regulations, zoning, planning, covenants, deed restrictions, and other technical and legal documentation.
Compile and analyze construction cost data and determine its effects on property values.
Conduct field appraisals and site inspections of subject properties.
Perform comparable-sales analysis and determine comparable sales data and valuation adjustments.
Collect data for maps, plats, and sketches used in appraisals.
Determine the primary use of appraised properties and estimate the value of site improvements.
Determine the appropriate cost or market appraisal method for residential properties.
Document professional assumptions and limiting conditions.
Verify title and ownership data, inspection reports, market models, and information from other sources.
Respond to taxpayer inquiries, explain appraisal activities, assist with dispute resolution, and participate in appeal hearings.
Support ongoing program operations and activities.

Benefits

Health, dental, and vision care; life insurance; and long-term disability. The State currently contributes $12,648 per year toward these benefits.
Free health care for employees and eligible family members at Montana Health Centers.
Free Employee Assistance Benefits, including counseling, legal assistance, well-being coaching, and financial information.
Retirement plans; the State currently contributes 9.17%, with vesting after five years of continuous employment.
Paid vacation starting at 15 days per year.
Sick leave of 12 days per year.
11 holidays, including a floating holiday.
Flexible hours.
Eligibility to participate in the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program.
Advancement opportunities throughout the Department of Revenue.