Appraiser / Forester
(Forester)
Full Time
Eureka, California, United States
ABOUT US:
At American AgCredit, working in farming and ranching isn't just a job, it's a way of life. The more you get to know us, the more you'll begin to understand no one is more dedicated to agriculture and the values of the people who work in this industry than the people at American AgCredit. For a work environment which will demand the best you have to offer and appreciate everything you have to give, there's no place better.
ABOUT THE ROLE:
This is an entry level unlicensed appraiser position for an individual holding a California Registered Professional Forester license or have the minimum qualifying forestry work experience for taking the licensed forester exam. Individuals in this position may be working towards state licensing as a real estate appraiser and California Registered Professional Forester. Once the individual becomes proficient, the individual will be able to complete moderately complex chattel reports and real estate/timber appraisals under the supervision of a licensed appraiser / forester.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
1. Obtain the Registered Professional Foresters license and the Certified General Real Estate Appraiser license.
2. Conduct economic analysis (supply, demand, cost bench-marking and prices) all as relates to the segments of the forest products industry (logs, chips, lumber, pulp and paper) and agriculture in which the Association makes and services loans and other financial products. Review and report on economic trends to Association staff and clients.
3. Assist licensed staff in developing real estate appraisals on various assignments which may include timber, forest products, manufacturing facilities, and agricultural properties. Gathering data such as a location maps, assessor maps, aerial maps, soils maps, FEMA maps, property profile, legal description, and various other information required to start an appraisal report. Completes appraisals under delegated authority or under the supervision of a licensed appraiser / forester.
4. Provide timberland and forest product inventory monitoring services including, but not limited to, evaluations, inspections, and timber harvest monitoring. With respect to collateralized properties, assist with partial releases, substitutions, easements and related real property transactions. Review borrower prepared reports, perform in-house and field audits and prepare reports for Association staff and clients.
5. Review title issues, legal descriptions, access issues, and environmental disclosures.
6. Inspects, reconciles and values chattels on small and large operations. Review customer records for accuracy and timeliness. Observe and report on management capabilities.
7. Maintain sources for comparison of values and other necessary job related information that facilitates the establishment of chattel values.
8. Collects sales information from a variety of sources. This may include county websites, MLS and realtor websites. Develop relationships with realtors and others in order to obtain documentation and verification of the sales.
9. Researches, verifies and enters sales into the sales data log.
10. May commence and/or complete the education requirements towards state real estate appraisal licensing.
11. Assist in locating and plotting area/neighborhood sales information. This will also include compiling data for the land value trends and assisting with drafting the report to management.
12. Respond to Association staff or others by providing written and verbal information about appraisal programs and projects.
13. Effectively works with customers and other Association employees. Responds independently to requests for information and assistance.
14. Represent the Association at community, agricultural, and forest industry meetings and projects.
15. Monitor follow-up requirements in assigned areas.
16. Initiate written and telephone communications to obtain information and related documents.
17. Perform other duties assigned.
TYPICAL EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:
1. A minimum of a Bachelor’s degree in forestry from an accredited university.
2. This is an entry level appraisal/forester position. Must have the minimum qualifying forestry work experience for taking the licensed forester exam.
3. Ability to work well with people at all levels; exercise initiative; convey ideas clearly; make sound appraisal decisions.
4. Ability to communicate/coordinate effectively with all levels of management throughout AAC. Ability to work harmoniously with employees at all levels of the organization.
5. Frequent traveling is required in performance of job.
6. Demonstrated ability to generate highly accurate work.
7. Must be proficient in organizing and prioritizing work to meet deadlines.
8. Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.
9. Exceptional persuasive and interpersonal skills.
10 Good working knowledge of the geographic region typically served and has ability to work in other geographic areas as needed.
11. Proficient in the use of mobile communication and navigational devices, PC, including e-mail, word processing and electronic spreadsheet software.
ESSENTIAL REQUIREMENTS
Must have the ability to perform basic office tasks and work in a typical office setting. Employee will be sitting for extended periods of time and accomplishing work at a desk, working at a computer, or driving for an extended period of time. Must have strong written and verbal communication skills to adequately convey ideas and work well with a team. Ability to talk and hear, sit and use their hands and fingers, and reach in all directions is essential in performance of the job. Some lifting and moving of items up to 50 pounds required. Work during established business hours and may require occasional weekend and/or evening work. Must be able to maintain a flexible travel schedule. Other physical activities may include: Adjusting, balancing, climbing, connecting, crawling, crouching, digging, feeling, grasping, hearing, kneeling, lifting, operating, pulling pushing reaching reading repetitive motions, standing, stooping, talking, walking, hiking, writing, measuring, physical observation, and driving. May require working near heavy equipment and following appropriate safety requirements.
EOE/AA/M/F/D/V