Assessor - Equalization Office

The Hutchinson County Equalization Office is looking for a full-time Assessor.

As an Assessor for the County, you’ll work under the direct supervision of the Director of Equalization and be responsible for performing technical and professional work in establishing real property values for tax assessment purposes.

You’ll perform a variety of duties including:

• Identify and appraise the market value of agricultural land, residential homes, commercial businesses, and accessory buildings for ad valorem tax purposes.

• Conduct on-site property inspections. Including the measurement of structures, review of submitted plans, and assessment of physical attributes of the property.

• Record and maintain current and historical information on properties with detailed observations as to quantity, quality construction components together with observed age and condition of improvements.

• Provide customer service in office and on-site. Provide information concerning appraisals and respond to questions regarding aspects of real estate tax process.

• Assist in maintaining of mapping from recorded transaction records, surveys, legal descriptions, subdivisions, and other plats. Locate and identify parcels of land on maps.

• Defend appraisal estimates and methods used to assess value during the appeals process by taxpayers during local and county Equalization Boards.

• Assist the Director by conducting physical inspections, comparative sales analysis and assist with writing reports as needed.

• Remain informed about changing state laws.

• Attend annual schools, conferences, and workshops to retain professional appraiser/assessor certification.

• Keep updated and trained on job specific software.

• Other duties as assigned.

To be qualified for this position, you’ll need:

• High School Diploma or GED plus clerical and math skills. Additional education or real estate experience and/or construction experience preferred.
• Possess a valid driver’s license with safe driving record and be able to drive to various County sites.
• MUST be able to receive South Dakota Department of Revenue Assessor Certification within the first year of employment. Continued education is required to maintain employment.

In addition, we’re looking for someone who:

• Is able to learn state laws governing the assessment and collection for real property taxes, and knowledge of the appraising method.

• Is able to read legal descriptions

• Demonstrates good verbal and written communication and organizational skills

• Has a working knowledge of public records, applied mathematics, and property descriptions

• Is able to effectively work with a variety of people and analyze and resolve problems

Physical Requirements:

• Must be able to work indoors and outdoors in all types of weather conditions with prolonged walking over uneven terrain.

• Upper body strength is a requisite to lift/move a maximum of 20 lbs.

• Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing.

• Some travel required with multiple overnight stays.

We offer outstanding benefits including health insurance and participation in the South Dakota Retirement Plan.

Apply on-line. Applications accepted until the position is filled.