Appraiser Iii: Residential​/Land​/Agriculture

Appraiser III – Hiring Range

Hiring Range $32.20 to $36.82 Hourly (

PLEASE NOTE:

hiring offers will be made within this range). Full salary range is $32.20 to $41.43 Hourly (range of potential position compensation).

Performs professional appraisals and data gathering functions for the assessment of residential, vacant land, and agricultural properties within assigned areas. This position involves lead roles in the reappraisal of complex and specialized properties, necessitating a high degree of technical accuracy and market analysis (under supervision). Key responsibilities include responding to taxpayer inquiries regarding property valuations and performing the comprehensive review work required to process protests filed by taxpayers.

The incumbent prepares and presents evidence for County Board of Equalization and abatement hearings, including single-property appraisals conducted in accordance with USPAP Standards 1 and 2. Additionally, this role acts as a lead appraiser and expert witness for high-level appeals involving District Court, Arbitration, or the Board of Assessment Appeals. The appraiser also participates in and may conduct ongoing professional training and continuing education.

• Complex Valuation & Appraisal: Performs the appraisal of complex residential properties, including apartments, manufactured homes, nursing homes, and assisted living facilities; may also value agricultural, commercial, vacant land, or other specialized property types.
• Litigation & Expert Testimony: Acts as lead appraiser and expert witness during litigation and appeals; represents the county before the County Board of Equalization, Colorado Board of Assessment Appeals, binding arbitration, or District Court.
• Independent Decision-Making: Makes independent decisions and applies sound judgment regarding technical tasks, difficult appeals, and departmental workflow issues.
• Geographic & Audit Responsibility: Responsible for setting values and ensuring state audit compliance within assigned geographic areas and property classes.
• Valuation & Appraisal: Responsible for the appraisal of land, residential, and agricultural properties within assigned areas; utilizes thorough knowledge of architectural styles and construction methods to ensure accurate valuations.
• Agricultural Specialization: Conducts research and advanced calculations to establish irrigated, orchard, grazing, and dry land values; determines soil classification based on USDA soil maps and actual surface usage; determines values for miscellaneous agricultural buildings and support structures.
• Data Collection & Compliance: Conducts sales verification and data collection for biennial reappraisals; ensures compliance with annual State Board of Equalization audits; discovers omitted property via site reviews, building permits, and aerial photography.
• Legislative Administration: Assists in the administration and explanation of changes in Colorado property tax laws and procedures to residential appraisal staff and market participants.
• Appeals & Litigation: Performs appraisal work associated with tax protests and complex litigation; prepares appraisals and exhibits for hearings and trials; acts as a lead appraiser and expert witness for the District Court, Arbitration, or the Board of Assessment Appeals.
• Administration & Technical Tasks: Processes parcel splits and combinations; calculates subdivision discounting and agricultural possessory interests; maintains accurate internal policies and procedures based on changes to Colorado property tax law.
• Leadership & Mentorship: Mentors and trains appraisal personnel; may direct team efforts or supervise junior appraisers for licensing purposes if the candidate holds a Certified Appraiser designation.
• Communication &
  
  Collaboration:
  
  Responds to specific taxpayer inquiries regarding assessment and valuation; interacts with other departments and neighboring Colorado counties to ensure regional uniformity in land and building values.
• Field Work: Completes work throughout rural and suburban areas of Mesa County, requiring regular travel to and from remote locations.
• Professional Conduct: Maintains…