Staff Appraiser (PAS4)

State of Washington; Shoreline (WA); Hybrid; USD 75,000 - 110,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible/hybrid remote work options

Job summary

Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) seeks a Staff Appraiser (PAS4) to perform complex and routine valuations for property rights, leases, and easements. You will prepare project funding estimates and waivers to support just compensation and budgets for transportation projects.

Your work supports WSDOT’s mission and involves independent judgment, market analysis, and collaboration with project teams to ensure accurate, defendable valuations.

Qualifications

• Knowledge in USPAP and professional appraisal practice.
• Experience valuing varied property types and rights.
• Ability to research market data and public records.
• Ability to conduct onsite property inspections and measurements.
• Strong written and verbal communication across diverse partners.
• Ability to manage priorities and deadlines with flexibility.

Responsibilities

• Prepare real estate appraisals/valuations for WSDOT properties or right-of-way projects.
• Independently complete assignments and support staff.
• Conduct site inspections and take measurements/photos.
• Research market data using online resources and public records.
• Produce clear, well-documented valuation reports with supporting analysis.
• Collaborate with reviewers and project teams on valuation planning.

Skills

Appraisal Knowledge & Experience

Appraisal & Valuation Skills

Market Research & Analysis

Field Inspection

Communication & Collaboration

Time Management

Growth Mindset

Service-Oriented

Education

State Certified General Appraiser

Job description

About WSDOT

The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is a multimodal agency with a global reputation for excellence. Our dedicated workforce plans, designs, builds, and operates an integrated transportation system that safely and efficiently moves people and goods throughout the state. In addition to maintaining over 20,000 lane miles of state highway and 4,100 bridges, WSDOT leads an award-winning Active Transportation Plan, manages the world's longest floating bridge, and operates the largest ferry system in the nation!

The Opportunity

WSDOT is currently seeking a skilled Staff Appraiser (PAS4) to perform a wide range of complex and routine property valuation assignments supporting right-of-way acquisitions, surplus, and leasing activities. This position applies advanced appraisal knowledge and independent judgment to value various property rights, including full-fee, permanent and non-permanent easements, leases, and other property interests. The Staff Appraiser also prepares project funding estimates and appraisal waivers used to establish just compensation, determine project feasibility, and develop property acquisition and disposal budgets. This work directly supports the delivery of WSDOT transportation projects and advances the department’s mission, vision, and strategic priorities.

What to Expect

Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, you will:

• Complete compelling, well-supported, professional real estate appraisals/valuations for WSDOT-owned properties being sold/leased to other private/public entities or for right-of-way acquisitions for projects by WSDOT.


• Independently complete assignments and assist/train internal staff with all types of real property valuation assignments.


• Locate and drive to and from each subject and comparable sale to perform a visual site inspection. Take photos of the property and estimate dimensions of site improvements.


• 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.


• Work with the appraisal reviewer/authorizer to prepare a defensible and well-supported valuation.


• Consult with project team concerning right of way plans and valuation, risks, and property impacts.

Qualifications

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

• Appraisal Knowledge and Experience: Demonstrated knowledge in business or public administration, real estate, economics, accounting, or a related field, and experience appraising most types of improved and vacant real property including, but not limited to, agriculture, single-family, multi-family, recreation, commercial, and industrial.


• Appraisal & Valuation Skills: Demonstrated ability to perform real property appraisals in accordance with Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP). Skill in valuing multiple property types and a variety of property rights.


• Market Research & Analysis: Demonstrated 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: Demonstrated ability to conduct onsite inspections, photograph properties, and take accurate measurements.


• Communication & Collaboration: Demonstrates effective written and verbal communication skills and works collaboratively and respectfully with internal and external partners across diverse backgrounds. Demonstrated 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: Demonstrated ability to adjust to shifting priorities, perform effectively under pressure, and consistently meet project deadlines.


• Growth Mindset: Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.


• Service-Oriented: Takes action to meet the needs of others.

The following qualifications are also required:

• One of the following Appraisal Certifications: State Certified General Appraiser, State Certified Residential Appraiser, or State Licensed Real Estate Appraiser.


• A valid driver’s license and the ability to operate state-owned vehicles.


• Ability to conduct onsite meetings and field inspection of properties in various locations, which may require working outdoors in varying weather conditions, possible inclement weather, and navigating uneven or steep terrain, brush, slopes, and other outdoor conditions.


• Ability to travel on a regular, sporadic, or as-needed basis for off-site meetings, meetings with property owners, property inspections or to attend or provide training.

It is preferred that qualified candidates also demonstrate:

• Right of Way Appraisal: Demonstrated experience successfully completing complex Before-and-After compliant right-of-way appraisal reports, project funding estimates, and appraisal waivers compliant with Review Appraiser’s expectations to Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) and WSDOT standards.

Important Notes

• This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.


• This position offers flexible/hybrid remote work options.


• 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 357-28 of 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 are committed to ensure that our staff experience the reward of public service, while also sustaining a routine that suits each individuals’ lifestyle. As such, there are a number of flexible schedule options available, including telework options for eligible positions.


• 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.


• PlanFor 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?

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.

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.