Deputy Tax Assessor

Deputy Tax Assessor

The Municipality of Princeton is seeking a qualified and experienced Deputy Tax Assessor to assist in the administration of the municipal property assessment program. This work involves the valuation, inspection, analysis, and assessment of property. The successful candidate will assist in maintaining accurate and equitable property assessments; reviewing property transfers, permits, and assessment data; responding to property-owner inquiries; processing exemptions and deductions; supporting assessment appeals; and ensuring compliance with applicable New Jersey statutes, regulations, and assessment practices. This position requires a high degree of accuracy, sound judgment, professionalism, confidentiality, and the ability to communicate effectively with property owners, municipal officials, attorneys, real estate professionals, and members of the public.

Employee benefits include medical and dental insurance, vision reimbursement, and prescription drug plan access; fourteen paid holidays, vacation, sick, and personal leave; training and continuing education, including tuition reimbursement up to $2,750 annually; non-resident benefits of Princeton Public Library and recreation program use.

Essential Functions Performed

• Assist with the administration of the municipal property assessment program
• Inspect and evaluate residential, commercial, industrial, and other real property for assessment purposes
• Review property characteristics, building permits, property transfers, construction activity, and other information affecting assessments
• Research and analyze real estate sales, income and expense information, market trends, property records, and other relevant valuation data
• Assist with maintaining and updating assessment records, property cards, tax maps, computerized assessment systems, and related files
• Assist with the preparation and maintenance of the annual tax list and assessment records
• Review applications and documentation relating to property tax exemptions, deductions, abatements, farmland assessments, and other applicable programs
• Assist with assessment appeals before the Mercer County Board of Taxation and the New Jersey Tax Court
• Respond professionally and accurately to inquiries from property owners and representatives regarding assessments, property records, valuation methodology, exemptions, deductions, and appeal procedures
• Conduct field inspections and maintain accurate records of property conditions and improvements
• Review deeds, property transfers, plans, permits, and other documents relevant to property valuation
• Coordinate with municipal departments, county officials, and other governmental agencies as necessary
• Assist with revaluation, reassessment, and other municipal assessment projects when required
• Prepare reports, correspondence, calculations, spreadsheets, and other documents
• Other duties as assigned

Required Knowledge & Abilities

• Knowledge of New Jersey local property tax laws and assessment procedures
• Working knowledge of BRT Technologies' PowerCAMA MOD-IV assessment program
• Attention to detail and accuracy in maintaining assessment records
• Ability to interpret deeds, plans, property records, permits, and other technical documents
• Ability to explain complex assessment and valuation matters clearly and professionally
• Ability to work independently while also collaborating effectively with municipal staff
• Sound judgment and discretion in handling confidential or sensitive information
• Ability to prioritize multiple assignments and meet statutory and administrative deadlines
• Commitment to fair, consistent, and equitable property assessment practices
• Office Suite (MS suite of options – PowerPoint, Excel, Word)
• Maintain current knowledge of New Jersey property tax laws, regulations, court decisions, assessment practices, and applicable administrative procedures
• Demonstrated ability to analyze real estate market data and apply appropriate valuation techniques
• Strong written, verbal, organizational, mathematical, and analytical skills
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with municipal employees, public officials, property owners, professionals, and the general public
• Strong organizational, project management, and time management skills and experience
• Proactive self-starter with integrity, a strong work ethic, and sound judgment
• A positive attitude and commitment to working as a team player in a dynamic and fast-paced environment

Minimum Required Qualifications

• Possession of a valid New Jersey Tax Assessor Certificate (CTA) required for appointment
• Professional experience in municipal property assessment, real estate appraisal, property valuation, or a closely related field
• Valid New Jersey driver's license and ability to conduct field inspections
• Must satisfy employer paid physical, drug screen and criminal background check
• NJ residency required by N.J.S.A. 52:14-7 (L. 2011, Chapter 70)
• Pursuant to Federal Law, proof of US Citizenship or immigration status will be required upon hire