EQ/GIS - Data Description Specialist

Emmet County; Petoskey (MI); On-site; USD 30,169 - 32,029; Full time

Job summary

Emmet County is looking for a Data Description Specialist to maintain accurate property descriptions and assign parcel numbers, aiding local governments with tax assessment responsibilities. The role requires effective communication and a strong eye for detail.

Ideal candidates will possess a high school diploma and familiarity with interactive mapping programs. Knowledge in BS&A and ESRI ArcMap software is beneficial. Join our team dedicated to outstanding service!

Qualifications

• At least 1 year’s experience with interactive mapping programs.
• Familiarity with addressing, maintaining property descriptions and assigning parcel numbers.
• Experience in assessor or title offices is preferable.

Responsibilities

• Maintains accurate property descriptions and assigns permanent parcel numbers.
• Assists the public with property description information.
• Analyzes property descriptions for accuracy.

Skills

Knowledge of BS&A database software

Knowledge of ESRI ARC Map program

Attention to detail

Effective communication

Ability to interpret policies

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Tools

BS&A tax system software

ESRI ArcMap software

Job description

POSITION: Data Description Specialist

SUPERVISOR: Equalization/GIS Director

DEPARTMENT: Equalization/GIS

FLSA CLASSIFICATION: Non-exempt

RATE OF PAY: $21.90 - $23.25

DATE: 6/8/2026

Here at Emmet County, we are a diverse group of team members who possess a friendly disposition, attention to detail, and an unwavering dedication to providing outstanding services to our constituents. Understanding that our team members are our most valuable asset, Emmet County is committed to providing the best experience and working environment any team member can imagine.

Position Summary

Serves as a specialist in the maintenance of accurate real property descriptions and parcel identification numbers for assessment and tax roll purposes. Verify and assign addresses; maintain master address maps in compliance with the Emmet County Addressing Ordinance.

Essential Functions

House Numbering Administrator

• Plot out all address points, streets, and polygons for internal and public use.
• Approves, coordinates, and verifies street names for county databases.
• Communicates changes of new address and roads to property owners and various agencies that need to be notified.
• Verifies addresses for several agencies, governmental offices, emergency response agencies, and the public.
• Assists the public with problems encountered with maps of their property, as they relate to address points and streets, when necessary.
• Maintain all necessary files and documentation to support addressing changes.
• Work with 911 to coordinate changes to service providers.
• Compiles written reports, digital drawings, aerial photos, and images as required.
• Provides information, maintains records and files, and acts as a general resource in the area of addressing.
• Maintain an addressing database.

Data Description Specialist

• Maintains accurate property descriptions and assigns permanent parcel numbers to assist local units of government with their responsibility for preparing tax assessment rolls.
• Assists the public with information about real property descriptions as they pertain to property assessment rolls.
• Provide technical assistance with property descriptions to GIS Coordinator, local Assessors, County Treasure and Equalization.
• Responds to inquiries from local officials, other County departments, title companies, banks, attorneys and other interested parties regarding tax roll description related issues.
• Check legal documents and property tax related data received from the Register of Deeds or the public for possible changes to property descriptions and ownership changes, land division, or land combination.
• Analyzes property descriptions to ensure their accuracy.

Desired Behavioral Traits

• Communicate effectively at all levels and in a variety of media.
• Works productively under pressure.
• Deal tactfully and courteously with the public and county departments.
• Solve problems within scope of responsibility.

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities

• Knowledge of BS&A database software.
• Knowledge of Emmet County interactive mapping program. Knowledge of north and south grid system, knowledge of road ranges, knowledge and ability to maintain addressing, road database and to be able to consult with all 911 related entities and property owners.
• Knowledge of ESRI ARC Map program.
• Knowledge and ability to conduct title searches by researching old documents in the Register of Deeds office, consulting with title companies and surveyors regarding property descriptions and property ownership.
• Ability to interpret and explain policies, and procedures.
• A good eye for detail and accuracy are essential.

Education / Experience

• High School Diploma or GED. At least 1 year’s experience with interactive mapping programs. Familiarity with addressing, maintaining property descriptions and assigning parcel numbers.
• Desired experience in the research and retrieval of public records, mapping principles, understanding of property description and drawings, knowledge and experience in working with computers to utilize database such as BS&A tax system software, ESRI ArcMap software.
• Equivalent combination of experience and training which provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.
• Experience in assessor office, title or abstract office is preferable.