Staff Appraiser (PAS4)

Full Job Description

About WSDOTWashington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is a multimodal organization with a global reputation for excellence!

Our dedicated workforce is responsible to plan, design, build, and operate an integrated transportation system that safely and efficiently moves people and goods throughout the state.

In addition to maintaining over 18,000 lane miles of state highway and 4,100 bridges, WSDOT manages the world's longest floating bridge, executes an award-winning Active Transportation Plan, holds a record for the world's widest tunneling project, and operates the largest ferry system in the nation!

The OpportunityWSDOT is eager to hire a real estate professional to serve as our next Staff Appraiser supporting our Northwest Region (NWR), comprised of King, Snohomish, Skagit, Island, and Whatcom counties.

This position will complete all types of property valuation assignments for WSDOT in compliance with Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP), Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) and WSDOT rules and regulations.

This position applies independent judgement and advanced technical knowledge to appraise/co-appraise complex/non-complex properties for surpluses, leases, and acquisitions as well as prepare Scoping Estimates, Project Funding Estimates and Appraisal Waivers.

The successful candidate appointed to this unique position will serve a vital role in support of WSDOT’s mission to provide safe, reliable, and cost-effective transportation options to improve communities and economic vitality.

What to Expect
Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Staff Appraiser will:

• Complete compelling, well-supported, and professional looking real estate appraisals/valuations for WSDOT owned properties being sold/leased to other private/public entities or for Right of Way acquisitions for WSDOT projects.
• Independently complete assignments and assist/train internal staff with all types of real property valuation assignments for WSDOT in compliance with USPAP, FHWA, the State, and WSDOT.
• Perform visual site inspections. Use a camera to take photos of the property and a measuring device as needed to estimate dimensions of site improvements.
• Traverse a variety of terrain including uneven ground, slopes, and through brush while completing property inspections.
• Research and analyze the market using in-depth knowledge of the rights being acquired for each subject property largely using online resources.
• Create efficient, well-documented, and compelling deliverables supported by market research and analysis.
• Apply independent judgement and advanced technical knowledge to value complex/non-complex acquisition/surplus rights as well as prepare deliverables including Project Funding Estimates and Appraisal Waivers, abbreviated/long-form narrative appraisals, and assorted memorandums.

Qualifications
To be considered for this opportunity, the following are required:

• Appraisal Certification: State Certified General Appraiser, State Certified Residential Appraiser, State Licensed Real Estate Appraiser, or Appraisal Trainee.
• Appraisal Knowledge and Experience: Knowledge in business or public administration, real estate, economics, accounting, science, or a related field, and experience appraising most types of improved and vacant real property including, but not limited to, agriculture, single-family, multifamily, recreational, commercial, and industrial.
• Appraisal & Valuation Skills: Ability to perform real property appraisals in accordance with USPAP, FHWA, and WSDOT standards. Skill in valuing multiple property types and a variety of property rights.
• Market Research & Analysis: Ability to research and analyze market data, comparable sales, and property rights using online tools and public records. Skill in applying analytical methods and professional judgment to reach well-supported value conclusions.
• Field Inspection: Ability to conduct onsite inspections, photograph properties, and take accurate measurements. Ability to safely traverse uneven terrain, brush, slopes, and other outdoor conditions.

Communication & Collaboration: Exhibits strong written and verbal communication skills and works collaboratively and respectfully with internal and external partners across diverse backgrounds.

Ability to clearly explain valuation findings and highly technical material to technical and non-technical staff, as well as the general public.

• Time Management and Adaptability: Adjusts to shifting priorities, performs effectively under pressure, and consistently meets project deadlines.
• Growth Mindset: Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.
• Service-Oriented: Demonstrates a willingness to take action to meet the needs of others.

Preferred/Desired
It is preferred that qualified candidates also have:

• Right of Way Appraisal Compliance: Demonstrated ability to prepare and complete complex, compliant Before and After right of way appraisal reports, project funding estimates, and appraisal waivers that meet Review Appraiser expectations.

Important Notes

• This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.
• The salary listed includes the legislative approved 5% salary premium for positions in King County.

In addition to base salary, employees may be entitled to other forms of compensation depending on the type, duties, or location of the position.

For union-represented positions, more information on other forms of compensation can be found in the applicable Collective Bargaining Agreements.

Information on other compensation types for non-represented positions can be found in Chapter 357-28of the Washington Administrative Code.

• WSDOT does not use the E-Verify system, therefore we are not eligible to extend STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT). For more information, please visit www.uscis.gov.

Why WSDOT

• Work-Life Balance – We offer flexible work schedules that allow you time for your life outside of this excellent opportunity.
• Paid Leave – In addition to 12 paid holidays, full-time employees may earn up to 25 paid vacation days per year!
• Tuition Assistance – Permanent employees have several options for assistance with education expenses, including tuition reimbursement programs, government discounts at participating colleges throughout the state, and eligibility for federal student loan forgiveness.
• Plan For Your Future – WSDOT offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes a variety of healthcare options. Employees also have their choice of state retirement programs, and much more. Go to State Benefits for more information.

Check out this video to learn more: Why WSDOT?

How to Apply
Applications for this recruitment will be accepted electronically. Your relevant experience may be evaluated to determine salary. Therefore, it is very important that the “Work Experience” portion of the application be completed in as much detail as possible.

In order to be considered for this opportunity, please include the following with your online application:

• An attached 1 or 2 page Resume outlining (in reverse chronological order) your experience to date.
• An attached 1-Page Cover Letter that further explains your qualifications and indicates why you believe you are a viable candidate and would thrive in this role.
• Contact details for a minimum of three (3) individuals who can attest to your work performance, technical skills, and job-related competencies. This information can be entered in the “References” section of the online application; does not require an additional attachment.

Please click the "APPLY" button to proceed. Note that you will be prompted to either sign in or create an account. This step is required in order to submit an application to this opportunity.

WSDOT is an equal opportunity employer. We value the importance of creating an environment in which all employees can feel respected, included, and empowered to bring unique ideas to the agency.

Our diversity and inclusion efforts include embracing different cultures, backgrounds and viewpoints while fostering growth and advancement in the workplace.

All persons, regardless of race, ethnicity, age, veteran status, sexual orientation, and/ or gender identity, are encouraged to apply.

Persons with disabilities needing assistance in the application process, or those needing this job announcement in an alternative format may contact the listed Recruiter.

Contact Us
For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter Sidra.Fields@wsdot.wa.gov. Please be sure to reference Appraiser - 13326 in the subject line.