Tax Exemption Specialist

Overview

This position is within the Department of County Management, Division of Assessment, Recording, and Taxation (DART). The role focuses on administering Oregon property tax regulations, specifically determining eligibility for special property tax programs. The team supports local government revenue collection essential for funding public services.

Responsibilities

• Process and evaluate exemption, special assessment, and other program applications.
• Approve or deny applications based on applicable regulations.
• Notify applicants of decisions in writing and assist with inquiries.
• Calculate and notify applicants of fees when necessary.
• Coordinate with other departments or agencies as needed.
• Conduct field audits using a personal vehicle and prepare reports.
• Provide customer service related to special property tax programs.
• Review government leases to determine tax status.
• Analyze and investigate account irregularities and initiate corrections.
• Review and provide input on proposed legislation.
• Conduct legal research for County counsel and serve as an expert witness if required.
• Audit completed work for accuracy.
• Adjust Maximum Assessed Values (MAV) as needed.

Requirements

• Associate's degree or equivalent experience.
• Minimum of 2 years of experience in real estate practices, assessment, taxation, and appraisal methods.
• Ability to pass a background check.
• Valid driver's license in Oregon or Washington; use of a personal vehicle required for field inspections.
• Ability to apply Oregon statutes and regulations relevant to property tax programs.
• Strong mathematical skills and attention to detail.
• Excellent organizational skills.
• Commitment to providing inclusive and equitable service.
• Ability to work independently and exercise sound judgment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in commercial real estate appraisal.
• Knowledge of Oregon Revised Statutes related to exemptions.
• Familiarity with property tax exemption or special assessment programs.
• Experience with Computer Assisted Mass Appraisal (CAMA) systems.

Compensation & Benefits

• Hourly pay range: $35.80 - $43.83.
• Position is represented by Local-88, non-exempt, and eligible for overtime.
• Schedule: Monday through Friday with some flexibility in start and end times.
• Routine telework with a hybrid schedule available; occasional office presence required.
• Work location: Multnomah Building, 501 SE Hawthorne Blvd., Portland, OR 97214.

Application Process

Applicants must submit:

• Completed online application.
• Resume detailing relevant experience and education, including employer names, locations, dates, titles, and responsibilities.
• Cover letter explaining interest in the position and alignment with qualifications.

Applications will be screened for minimum and preferred qualifications. Top candidates may be invited for interviews and additional assessments.

Additional Information

• This recruitment may fill full-time, part-time, temporary, limited duration, or on-call positions.
• Candidates must reside in Oregon or Washington due to telework requirements.
• The role involves serving the public during emergencies and may require reassignment to emergency response duties.
• Equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion.
• Veterans' preference applies as per Oregon law.
• Reasonable accommodations are available for applicants with disabilities upon request.

This job posting is for internal candidates who are current or former employees on an active recall list. External applicants are not eligible for this posting.