Property Appraiser 1

State of Montana • Billings, MT

7d

About The Position

The Property Appraiser 1 works in the Montana Department of Revenue’s Property Assessment Division, which manages the assessment and valuation of taxable property for property tax purposes. The position reviews and discovers residential properties, researches property data, conducts field appraisals and inspections, and determines final property valuations. It also supports land-model development and program operations, responds to taxpayer inquiries, helps resolve disputes, and participates in appeal hearings. The position does not supervise staff.

The successful candidate must be a primary resident of Montana. The position reports to an assigned Department of Revenue office and may be eligible for work from an approved worksite, subject to telework eligibility requirements and supervisor approval; full-time teleworking is not available. Work takes place in an office and outdoors, requires travel, and may exceed 40 hours from time to time, including weekends. Lifting is infrequent and involves less than 15 pounds. A valid driver’s license is required. The agency may use a training assignment, with any applicable conditions provided 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; other combinations of education and experience may be evaluated individually.
• Must 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.
• Must complete Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP) training, 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.
• Must be eligible to work in the United States and provide required work-authorization documents within three days of hire; the State of Montana does not sponsor.
• Must successfully pass Department of Revenue tax and background checks; tax status must be current, and conviction or tax-status circumstances may be reviewed.
• Must complete and submit the online application, resume, and complete state application; required application materials must be included for consideration.
• Ability to conduct research and analysis with accuracy and attention to detail.
• Ability to resolve conflicts and communicate in writing and verbally, including with a wide range of personalities using discretion, active listening, critical thinking, and problem sensitivity.
• Ability to use Microsoft programs and other database applications; basic computer skills.
• Ability to follow instructions, provide timely customer service, multitask, and prioritize work under deadlines.
• Self-motivation and strong interpersonal communication and customer-service skills.

Nice To Haves

• Work experience in appraisal, property tax appraisal, assessment, auditing, agriculture, forestry, surveying, real estate, or a related field.
• Knowledge of residential property appraisal methods, construction, mapping, GIS, cadastral systems, property sales, and valuation procedures.

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 residential property characteristics and estimate their effects 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 effects on property values.
• Conduct field appraisals and site inspections of subject properties.
• Perform comparable-sales analysis to identify valuation factors 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 document professional assumptions and limiting conditions.
• Estimate the value of site improvements and determine the appropriate cost or market appraisal method for residential properties.
• Verify title and ownership data, inspection reports, market models, and other information sources.
• Assist with specification, calibration, and benchmarking of land models, sales comparisons, and property characteristics.
• Support ongoing program operations and activities.
• Respond to taxpayer inquiries and explain appraisal activities.
• Provide dispute resolution and participate in appeal hearings.

Benefits

• Health, dental, and vision care; life insurance; and long-term disability.
• The State currently contributes $12,648 per year toward 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.
• Eleven holidays, including a floating holiday that can be used any time.
• Flexible hours.
• Eligibility to participate in the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program.
• Advancement opportunities throughout the Department of Revenue.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Associate degree