JOB TITLE: LICENSED REAL ESTATE APPRAISER TRAINEE

JOB CODE: 17151

SERIES NATURE OF WORK: The Real Estate Appraiser job series describes professional work in the appraisal of real property to secure legal rights-of-way or to acquire real estate.

DEFINITION: This is a structured and specialized training program to develop the knowledge and skills needed to perform real property appraisals for commonwealth agencies.

An employee in this job receives structured and on-the-job training designed to develop an understanding and competence in real property and eminent domain appraisal techniques. Work involves assisting in the inspection and appraisal of dwelling units, vacant land, and residential, commercial, agricultural, industrial, and special purpose properties. Work also involves collecting data, analyzing and applying appropriate valuation approaches and techniques, reviewing previous appraised values, and meeting with property owners to resolve property value disputes. Work includes assisting in analyzing data gathered and documenting on-site assessments through the use of photographs, measurements, and demographic information. Work also includes preparing various valuation reports, with guidance from a staff appraiser, to ensure that appraisals are procured, documented, and processed in compliance with applicable laws and regulations. Assignments become increasingly more complex as learning progresses and technical proficiency is acquired. Work is performed under the direct supervision of a certified appraiser and is reviewed in progress and upon completion for development of competence in current appraisal techniques and procedures.

EXAMPLES OF WORK: (NOTE: The examples of work are representative of the work, but every position classified to this job may not perform all examples of work listed. Conversely, this is not an all-inclusive list of work examples.)

• Shadows higher-level appraisers performing property inspections by measuring dwelling units and land; and assessing properties for condition, construction, and design.

• Assists certified appraisers with real property appraisals to fulfill requirements for the PA State Board of Certified Real Estate Appraisers Required Checklist for Licensed Appraiser Trainee.

• Conducts courthouse record research to locate title records to determine the ownership of property, obtain requested deeds, and review property tax records.

• Prepares intent to acquire letters, plot plans, photographs, and portfolios to provide property owners a detailed explanation of the acquisition process.

• Collects and analyzes data relative to the valuation of real property.

• Interprets right-of-way plans, highway design plans, and assessment maps to determine if property can be developed.

• Assists in writing land descriptions, maps, plots, and exhibits necessary for legal property conveyances.

• Assists in the identification and completion of paperwork required for eminent domain appraisals.

• Assists in the development of parcel summaries to outline property history for appraisers and negotiators.

• Performs related work as required.

ENTRY LEVEL KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

• Knowledge of appraisal concepts and techniques.

• Knowledge of the use and functionality of Microsoft Office Suite software.

• Ability to analyze and interpret written information and numerical data.

• Ability to comprehend plans, maps, drawings, cross sections, contracts, specifications, legal agreements, deeds, mortgages, liens, and encumbrances.

• Ability to analyze written and numerical information.

• Ability to perform mathematical calculations.

• Ability to communicate effectively orally.

• Ability to communicate effectively in writing.

• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:

• All positions require an active Pennsylvania Certified Appraiser Trainee certification.

• All positions require possession of an active motor vehicle license.

• All positions must obtain an active Pennsylvania Certified Residential Real Estate Appraiser certification within 2 years of employment.