Property Appraiser 1

State of Montana • Missoula, MT

5d • Hybrid

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 role conducts residential property reviews, discoveries, research, field appraisals, and inspections to determine final property valuations. It also supports ongoing program operations, responds to taxpayer inquiries, explains appraisal activities, resolves disputes, and participates in appeal hearings. The position does not supervise staff.

The role requires two years of post-secondary education in a related area or training, plus one year of job-related experience, or an individually evaluated equivalent combination. Montana residential property appraisal certification (IAAO 101) and Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP) training are required within the first year of employment. All computer systems and tax guidelines are trained on the job.

The position is based in an office environment and includes working outside, travel, and occasional work exceeding 40 hours per week, including weekends. It may be eligible for telework from an approved worksite, but full-time teleworking is unavailable. The employee must be a primary resident of Montana and report to the assigned Department of Revenue office as required. A valid driver’s license is required. Lifting is infrequent and involves less than 15 pounds.

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 equivalent combination evaluated individually.
• Obtain Montana certification in residential property appraisal (IAAO 101) within the first year of employment, in accordance with ARM 42.18.206-208 and MCA Title 15.
• Complete Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP) training within the first year of employment, in accordance with 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.
• Successfully pass Department of Revenue tax and background checks; tax status must be current.
• 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 database applications, and written, verbal, and interpersonal communication.
• Ability to self-motivate, follow instructions, provide timely customer service, multitask and prioritize under deadlines, use basic computer skills, and communicate with a wide range of personalities using discretion, active listening, critical thinking, and problem sensitivity.
• Submit a resume, complete state application, and cover letter.

Nice To Haves

• Preferred work experience in appraisal, property tax appraisal, assessment, auditing, agriculture, forestry, surveying, real estate, or a related field.

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 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 effects on property values.
• Conduct field appraisals and site inspections of 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 select 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.
• Respond to taxpayer inquiries, explain appraisal activities, resolve disputes, 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 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.

What This Job Offers

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