Tax Administrator

Overview Orange County, NC seeks a community-minded, mission- and data-driven Tax Administrator to lead the Tax Administration Department. This position focuses on property assessment, mass appraisal, and related tax processes within North Carolina laws and regulations. The Tax Administrator will guide organizational transformation, foster a positive culture, and ensure transparent, equitable tax services for residents. Responsibilities Demonstrate expertise in property assessment, mass appraisal systems, appraisal and revaluation methodologies, and North Carolina tax laws and regulations for both commercial and residential properties. Lead organizational transformation with impact and enthusiasm while promoting a culture of trust, accountability, and collaboration within the tax department. Communicate complex technical concepts clearly to diverse groups; engage residents and elected officials; conduct public outreach; listen empathetically; and respond professionally under public scrutiny. Collaborate with key stakeholders including staff, the County Manager, the Board of County Commissioners, community organizations, and other county departments; maintain transparency and build partnerships across diverse groups. About The Department The Orange County Tax Administration Department values and collects property taxes on homes, land, buildings, vehicles, and certain business property. It also manages tax relief programs and maintains public records, serving as careful stewards of records and data while providing clear, fair tax services for all residents. About The Position The Tax Administrator is appointed by the Board of County Commissioners and reports to the Board and County Manager. The role oversees the tax department’s services, including property appraisal, listing and reevaluation of taxes, maintaining property records, maps, and files, collecting taxes and handling appeals, and serving as the billing and collections agent for Emergency Medical Services. The position manages a $5.5M budget and a team of 44 FTE (including five direct reports: Deputy Tax Assessor, Systems Analyst, Land Records Manager, Business Officer, Revenue Collections Manager). Successful candidates maintain a positive outlook, remain calm under pressure, communicate with professionalism amid scrutiny, and actively engage with the community to build trust across stakeholder groups. Minimum and Preferred Qualifications Bachelor's Degree from an accredited college or university in Finance, Accounting, Public Administration, Business Administration, or a related field. Five (5) years of progressive experience in managing the administration and operations of real and personal property appraisal, real estate, tax collection and revenue, and three (3) years of direct supervision of staff. Possess certifications by the North Carolina Department of Revenue as required by the North Carolina Machinery Act; or be able to achieve all necessary certifications within two (2) years of employment. Must possess a driver’s license valid in North Carolina. Experience with county government, particularly overseeing real property assessment for similarly sized communities, is strongly preferred. Salary and Benefits: The salary range for this position is $116,002 – $173,945. The starting salary will depend on qualifications and experience. Orange County provides a comprehensive benefits package including 100% employer-paid health, dental, and life insurance; biannual leave accrual; sick leave; 11 paid holidays; participation in the NC Local Governmental Employees’ Retirement System; supplemental retirement plans; tuition reimbursement; longevity pay; and more. Residency is not required for this position. Additional Terms Please note: The new Tax Administrator will work in the office for the first six months. Thereafter, limited remote work may be considered, with all County employees required to be in the office at least three days per week. How to Apply To apply, please visit and click on the Tax Administrator – Orange County, NC title. #J-18808-Ljbffr