Nature and Variety of Work

APPRAISER

Grade: I

Status: Non-exempt

Nature and Variety of Work

Responsible for the discovery, listing, analysis and valuation of all real estate located in the City for the purposes of taxation. Maintains computerized assessment information by inspecting and listing real estate determining the pertinent physical characteristics including measurements and photographs. May assist in citywide reviews of all properties for periodic valuation updates. May assist with taxpayer hearings during periodic valuation updates. Responsible for the defense of values to taxpayers and appeal boards. Prepares real estate abatements and supplemental assessments for Assessor approval.

Compiles and maintains accurate records, computerized and paper, of all business personal property items by actual physical inspections, lists submitted by taxpayers, and other pertinent information collected through sources such as Code Enforcement, City Clerk, local directories, etc. Supervises mailing of declaration notices to taxpayers, gathers trade information regarding the value of property, and explains valuation process to taxpayers. Responsible for the defense of values to taxpayers and appeal boards. Prepares all personal property abatements and supplemental assessments for Assessor approval. Maintains personal property assessment records for property exempt under the BETE program. Processes BETR form 801 for taxpayer reimbursements.

Responsible for assisting property owners, both in the office and on the telephone, concerning their valuations, exemptions or lot mapping. May assist in providing historical information including valuation history, deeds, plans and maps.

Responsibility and Supervisory Relationships

Works under the general supervision of the Tax Assessor, who provides technical guidance and makes actual assessment decisions for legal purposes. Performs most assignments independently, developing both information and rationale to support valuations. Responsible for inspecting both real estate and personal property at taxpayer locations with minimal supervision.

Skills Required

Excellent computer, verbal, written, analytical and interpersonal skills are required, together with accuracy and self-motivation.

Must have sufficient mathematical skills in order to perform the duties of this position..

Must possess ability to learn and apply knowledge of local ordinances, statutes and amendments, court decisions, market conditions, construction costs, State Bureau of Taxation guidelines, and other factors appropriate to determining the value of personal property and real estate and have sufficient analytical ability to determine value of property in view of these facts.

Requires ability to operate computer, specialized computer software and other office equipment.

Valid driver’s license required. Position also requires visual acuity and mobility to visit a wide variety of physical environments.

A minimum of an Associate’s Degree and at least two years of related experience is preferred, or equivalent combination of education, training and/or equivalent experience or aptitude in assessing and/or appraising or related field such as real estate

Certified Maine Assessor (CMA) designation or ability to obtain CMA within 18 months of hire.

Revised 10/11/2017