City Assessor

JOB SUMMARY

The City of East Lansing is seeking a seasoned and strategic City Assessor to direct, manage, and coordinate the full scope of operations within the Assessing Division of the Finance Department. This leadership role is responsible for maintaining uniform and equitable assessments across all classes of property within the City, in accordance with Michigan law. The City Assessor oversees the preparation of the City’s annual property tax assessment rolls, maintains the integrity of the assessing database, manages staff, and provides expert administrative support to the Chief Financial Officer.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Assessment Management
  Lead the assessment process for all property classes within the City, including residential, commercial, and industrial. Certify the annual assessment rolls and ensure valuation accuracy and legal compliance for all taxable parcels.
• Policy Development & Oversight
  Develop, implement, and refine assessing policies and procedures. Monitor staff performance and workflow to ensure adherence to standards and recommend improvements to enhance accuracy, efficiency, and transparency.
• Sales Analysis & Public Interaction
  Analyze real estate sales data and adjust valuations accordingly. Prepare and submit reports to local and state agencies. Act as a resource to the public by providing clear and timely property assessment information. Coordinate the annual Assessor’s Review and serve as Secretary to the City’s Board of Review.
• Parcel Management & Construction Valuation
  Oversee the processing of parcel splits and combinations. Conduct field inspections and determine values for new construction and improvements based on permit activity and blueprint review.
• Appeals & Litigation Support
  Represent the City in defense of property assessment and exemption appeals before the Michigan Tax Tribunal. Oversee the preparation of staff-generated appraisals and coordinate independent appraisals for higher-level appeals. Evaluate studies from county equalization departments for comparison and validation.
• Staff Leadership & Development
  Supervise assessing personnel including Deputy Assessor, assistant, and interns. Manage hiring, training, evaluation, and discipline processes in line with City policies. Foster a team culture of accuracy, service, and accountability.
• Budget & Forecasting
  Develop and administer the Assessing Division’s annual budget. Assist in citywide budget preparation by producing five-year forecasts of taxable value trends and property revenue projections.
• Cross-Departmental Collaboration & Community Engagement
  Act as liaison to other City departments, elected officials, and the general public. Respond professionally and knowledgeably to inquiries, concerns, and appeals regarding property assessment matters.

SKILLS & ABILITIES

• Extensive knowledge of Michigan property tax law.
• Expertise in valuation methods, municipal finance, and economic analysis.
• Exceptional leadership, analytical, and communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and maintain confidentiality and integrity

WHY SHOULD YOU APPLY?

• Competitive salary with annual cost of living increases
• Retirement programs including a hybrid pension (10% of salary) and 457(b) Deferred Compensation Plan
• $1,000 annual employer contribution to post-employment Health Care Savings Plan
• 14 paid holidays
• 25 days of paid time off
• 30 calendar days of paid parental leave for the birth or adoption of a child
• Health coverage (or receive a $200 monthly buy-out if you have coverage from another source), family dental and vision plan premiums fully covered by the city
• Life insurance of 2x annual salary w/optional supplemental coverage, and Long-Term Disability insurance
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA) to use pre-tax dollars for out-of-pocket health and daycare expenses
• An Employee Assistance Program, offering free counseling and support for employees and families
• Qualify for “Public Service Loan Forgiveness” which forgives eligible student loans for borrowers who work at least ten years in public service
• An ever-changing work environment! In the dynamic work of assessing, each day presents new and exciting challenges that keep your work fresh, engaging, and stimulating

UNION AFFILIATION:  Non-Union 

FLSA Status:  Exempt