Under direction or supervision, the Appraiser I/II/III performs professional appraisal work to determine the value of real property for ad valorem tax purposes. Responsibilities range from learning and applying appraisal principles at the entry level to independently conducting complex property valuations and providing technical leadership at the advanced level. Incumbents conduct field inspections, analyze market and property data, prepare appraisal reports, and explain valuation methods, laws, and procedures to property owners and the public. As experience increases, incumbents may defend assessed values before the Assessment Appeals Board and assist with training, process improvement, and development of appraisal methodologies.

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The Ideal Candidate

The ideal candidate is analytical, detail-oriented, and committed to equitable property assessment practices. They possess strong critical thinking skills and the ability to interpret data, market trends, and legal requirements to make sound valuation decisions. Successful candidates communicate clearly and professionally, especially when explaining complex appraisal concepts to the public or responding to assessment inquiries or appeals.

At the entry level, the ideal candidate demonstrates a willingness to learn, adaptability, and a strong foundation in research and analysis. At the journey and advanced levels, candidates bring experience in property appraisal, the ability to work independently with minimal supervision, and confidence in defending valuations. Advanced candidates will also demonstrate leadership skills, the ability to mentor others, and contribute to improving appraisal systems and processes.

Across all levels, the ideal candidate values public service, maintains professionalism in challenging interactions, and builds collaborative working relationships with colleagues, stakeholders, and the community.

Department Overview

The Assessor’s Office is responsible for the discovery, listing, and valuation of all taxable property within the County in accordance with California law. The department ensures fair and equitable property assessments that support essential public services such as schools, infrastructure, and public safety. Staff work in a collaborative environment that combines fieldwork, data analysis, and public interaction, while adhering to the California Revenue and Taxation Code and guidelines established by the State Board of Equalization.

The department is committed to accuracy, transparency, and excellent customer service, providing property owners with clear information regarding assessment processes and values. Through ongoing training, technology, and process improvements, the Assessor’s Office strives to maintain high professional standards and public trust.

The Region

Mono County is a rural region with a dynamic community of 13,000 residents located in the eastern side of California’s Sierra Nevada range. Development is increasing in the area due to the consistent growth of the town of Mammoth Lakes. Known as “California’s Great Beyond” this natural playground offers a complete range of amenities and activities making it an ideal place to live and work. Enjoy fine shops, restaurants, and cafes. Snowboard, ski, or bike down mountain trails, fish for trout, explore the backcountry, play a round of golf, relax in soothing hot springs, or paddle a kayak along the shores of Mono Lake.

The town of Mammoth Lakes is the most populated region of Mono County, hosting Mammoth Mountain Ski area and various resort-community amenities. On the quieter side, June Lake, Lee Vining, Bridgeport, Walker, Coleville, Chalfant, and Benton offer a more rural atmosphere, unlimited outdoor adventures, and small-town charm.

Mono County, California’s Eastern Sierra

• Retirement: CalPERS retirement and 457/401(a) Plans available.
• Medical: CalPERS health plans
• Dental & Vision
• Generous vacation and sick pay
• Discounted gym membership

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MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Any combination of education, training, and experience that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities may be considered qualifying. A typical way to meet these requirements is as follows:

With respect to education and experience, applicants must meet one (1) of the following:

• Possess a bachelor’s degree from an accredited four-year college or university; or
• Be a high school graduate (or equivalent) and have four (4) years of relevant experience; or
• Have a combination of education from an accredited institution of higher education and relevant experience totaling four (4) years.

For applicants without a four-year degree, education will be calculated as follows:

• One (1) year of education equals 30 semester units or 45 quarter units.

Relevant experience must have been obtained within the last ten (10) years and include work in one or more of the following areas:

1. Professional roles such as accountant, auditor, real property appraiser, building cost estimator, engineer, real estate loan agent or underwriter, right-of-way agent, or licensed building contractor; or
2. Licensed real estate professional (through the California Department of Real Estate) engaged in buying, selling, leasing, or managing real property; or
3. Experience as an appraiser aide or appraiser trainee in a County Assessor’s Office or the State Board of Equalization’s Property Tax Department; or
4. Employment with a County Assessor’s Office or the State Board of Equalization’s Property Tax Department (in a role other than appraiser, appraiser aide, or appraiser trainee).
   • This experience may count toward a maximum of two-thirds (2.67 years) of the required four (4) years.
   • The remaining one-third (1.33 years) must be met through qualifying experience listed in items (1), (2), or (3), or through accredited higher education.
   • In counties where the Assessor also serves as Recorder or Clerk, only duties directly related to the Assessor’s functions will qualify as relevant experience.