Under general supervision, processes the most complex work related to ad valorem property tax exemptions, change in ownership, probate cases, and appeals in the Assessor's office; applies laws, rules and policies pertaining to probate rules and the Revenue and Taxation Code; and does related or other work as required in accordance with Rule 3, Section 3 of the Civil Service Rules.
CLASS CHARACTERISTICS
This is the second certified level in the Assessment Specialist series. An employee in this classification performs the most complex changes in ownership, exemption claims, probate cases and assists with training of Assessment Specialist I and Assessment Specialist Trainee. This class is distinguished from the Assessment Analyst I because it requires working knowledge of assessment methodology, valuation techniques, legal requirements and restrictions.
TYPICAL DUTIES
Receives copies of all deed transactions as contained in a variety of recorded documents, including probate-related court documents; verifies recording sequence and initial screening for type of transaction, types of deeds, property transactions, property tax exemptions and ownership change.
Conducts field inspections of locations for initial exemptions filings in accordance with program regulations and requirements; determines if exemption(s) is granted based on inspection findings.
Prepares and maintains department probate files; reviews and prepares probate forms researches, matches and maintains system ownership records on probate-related transfers and sales and applicable property exclusions.
Applies pertinent probate laws and codes and determines if property is subject to reappraisal or if any exclusions apply in preparing and issuing a Property Tax Clearance Certificate; determines transfers, including partial interests, of property and maintains ownership records; codes documents appropriately for appraisal.
Clarifies conflicting ownership information and resolves discrepancies by searching assessment records and recorded documents and by contact with attorneys, estate representatives, estate fiduciaries and governmental agencies.
Assists property owners or their agents with explanation and completion of exemptions and ownership change forms, including probate information and related forms; determines need for additional transfer information and sends appropriate correspondence.
Assists with responding to assessment appeals as a representative on behalf of the County before courts, appeal boards, and other legislative bodies.
Answers inquiries from the attorneys, estate representatives, and the public concerning property tax exemptions, probate-related property ownership, values and assessment procedures.
Assists in the training of subordinate personnel; may provide supervision or lead supervision to subordinate personnel in the absence of a supervisor.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Experience: Two years of experience as an Assessment Specialist I in San Joaquin County or a comparable classification from a County Assessors' office.
Certificate: Possession of a valid State of California Board of Equalization’s Permanent Assessment Analyst Certificate: Exemption, Change in Ownership, or Combination.
License: For specified positions, a valid California Driver license or the ability to arrange necessary and timely transportation for field travel.
KNOWLEDGE
State and local probate rules and code requirements; State and local revenue and taxation laws governing property tax exemptions, preparation of assessment rolls in the assessment of property; procedures in analyzing deeds and other documents pertaining to changes of ownership; general terminology and concepts of assessment; methods of researching, gathering, organizing, and reporting data; personal computer systems and general office computer software; public relations techniques; principles of planning and organizing work, arithmetical operations related to advanced clerical/technical/financial processes.
ABILITY
Read and interpret legal property descriptions; read, understand, interpret, and apply laws, codes, ordinances, and regulations relating to the recording of title and maintenance of assessment records; tactfully deal with bereaved individuals in probate-related matters; trace title chains; utilize advanced office procedures and equipment; gather, organize, input and maintain program-specific data; follow complex oral and written procedures and directions; establish and maintain effective working relationships with others; communicate effectively with others; write clearly and legibly; perform advanced arithmetical operations.
PHYSICAL/MENTAL REQUIREMENTS
Mobility—frequent operation of a data entry device, repetitive motion, sitting for long periods, walking; occasional standing, pushing, pulling, bending, squatting, climbing; Lifting—frequently 5 pounds or less; occasionally 5 to 30 pounds; Visual—constant good overall vision and reading/close-up work; frequent color perception and use of eye/hand coordination; occasional use of depth perception and peripheral vision; Hearing/Talking—frequent hearing of normal speech, hearing/talking on the telephone, talking in person; Emotional/Psychological—frequent decision making, concentration, and public contact; Special Requirements--some assignments may require working weekends, nights, and/or occasional overtime; Environmental—occasional exposure to varied weather conditions.
San Joaquin County complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and, upon request, will consider reasonable accommodations to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions.
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