Under general supervision performs complex technical work to maintain accurate real estate records. Reviews legal documents such as deeds and contracts to determine whether or not these documents are technically accurate and complete; performs research utilizing a variety of resources to verify information, resolve discrepancies and problems and ensure that property tax records are accurate. Determines the legal and technical content of property descriptions by interpreting deeds, contracts, surveys, etc. in order to divide, consolidate or otherwise impact tax parcels; drafts technical legal descriptions. Reviews title changes to determine if the legal descriptions correspond with the tax roles; reviews related information available through the plat maps, transfer and grantor/grantee books as necessary; develops a map of the area in question if necessary. Reviews plats of survey submitted for recording to determine if the requirements specified in the Code of Iowa have been met; determines what tax parcels, legal descriptions, titleholders and plat maps are involved; divides or consolidates property for the tax roles by retiring existing and creating new ones. Provides assistance to co-workers and employees of other County departments with questions relating to legal descriptions, tax parcels, plat maps, Code requirements, office policies and procedures, and applicable property description terms and procedures. Interacts with the general public, engineers, real estate agents, attorneys, abstractors, and other professionals to identify and resolve problems and answer inquiries. Determines the technical content of property descriptions in preparation for the collection of taxes and/or special assessments prior to issuing a platting certificate. Assists in preparation and maintenance of data records in related databases. Performs related duties as assigned.
Qualifications:
Associate’s degree in a closely related field such as paralegal studies or drafting and a minimum of two (2) years of experience working with property legal descriptions as a paralegal or assistant in a related office environment such as a law firm, abstract company or real estate office. Four (4) or more years of experience working with legal descriptions may substitute for the Associate’s degree requirement. Three (3) or more years of experience with a one (1) year Legal Assistant Certification may also substitute for the Associate’s degree requirements. Knowledge of the terms, procedures and techniques used in property description and record keeping. Knowledge of drafting techniques. Knowledge of modern office practices and procedures. Knowledge of the principles of algebra and geometry. Knowledge of the codes and ordinances that govern the description and division of land. Ability to write and interpret difficult legal descriptions. Ability to read and interpret property description records and reach appropriate conclusions. Ability to accurately follow verbal and written instructions. Ability to maintain accurate property description records. Ability to perform detailed property description work with accuracy. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with co-workers, the general public, real estate agents, engineers, attorneys and other professionals. Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing. Ability to read and understand land surveys. Must demonstrate the ability to read, write and interpret legal descriptions by successfully completing an aptitude test administered by the Linn County Auditor’s Office prior to employment. Must pass a County physical examination which includes a drug test after offer of employment. Regular attendance required.
Shift:
8:00 a.m. – – 5:00 p.m.
SALARY: $18.25/hour
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