Property Appraiser 1

State of Montana•Kalispell, MT

5d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Property Appraiser 1 works in the Montana Department of Revenue’s Property Assessment Division, which manages property assessment and valuation of taxable property for property tax purposes. The position conducts residential property reviews, discoveries, research, field appraisals, and inspections to determine final property valuations. It analyzes land use, property characteristics, comparable sales, construction costs, and other appraisal information, and supports the specification, calibration, and benchmarking of land models and sales comparisons. The role also responds to taxpayer inquiries, explains appraisal activities, assists with dispute resolution, and participates in appeal hearings. The position does not supervise other staff. The successful candidate must be a primary resident of Montana and report to the assigned Department of Revenue office. The position may be eligible for approved telework, but full-time teleworking is not available. Computer systems and tax guidelines are trained on the job.

Requirements

Two years of post-secondary education in business, accounting, economics, public administration, construction technology, or training, and one year of job-related experience, or an individually evaluated equivalent combination of education and experience.
Must obtain Montana certification in residential property appraisal (IAAO 101) and Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP) training within the first year of employment.
Valid driver's license with fewer than 12 conviction points in the most recent completed 36 months.
Must be a primary resident of Montana as a condition of employment.
Must be eligible to work in the United States; the State of Montana does not sponsor.
Must complete a criminal background check and have current tax status; circumstances involving convictions or tax-status issues will be reviewed.
Applicants must submit a resume and a complete state application.
Knowledge of residential property appraisal methods, construction, mapping, GIS, cadastral information, and property sales and valuation procedures.
Skills in research and analysis, accuracy and attention to detail, conflict resolution, Microsoft programs and other database applications, and written, verbal, and interpersonal communication.
Ability to follow instructions, provide timely customer service, multitask and prioritize work under deadlines, and communicate with a wide range of personalities using discretion, active listening, critical thinking, and problem sensitivity.
Basic computer skills and strong customer service skills.

Nice To Haves

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

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 to estimate their impact on property values.
Analyze 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 effect on property values.
Conduct field appraisals and site inspections of subject properties.
Perform comparable sales analysis to identify valuation factors.
Collect data required for maps, plats, and sketches used in appraisals.
Determine the primary use of appraised properties.
Document professional assumptions and limiting conditions.
Determine comparable sales data and adjustments to valuations.
Estimate the value of site improvements.
Determine the appropriate cost or market appraisal method for residential properties.
Verify information in title and ownership data, inspection reports, market models, and other sources.
Respond to taxpayer inquiries and 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.
State contribution of $12,648 per year toward benefits.
Free health care for employees and eligible family members at Montana Health Centers.
Free employee assistance resources, including counseling, legal assistance, well-being coaching, and financial information.
Retirement plans, with a State contribution of 9.17% and 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.