Appraisal Technician I

Position Summary:

The Appraisal Technician I is an entry-level technical position responsible for conducting field inspections, collecting property data, and supporting the appraisal and assessment functions of the Hampton County Assessor’s Office. This position performs a combination of onsite inspections, data collection, digital sketching, property documentation, and administrative assistance to ensure the integrity and accuracy of the County’s real property records.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities:

• Conducts onsite field inspections of residential, agricultural, and commercial parcels to verify dimensions, occupancy, physical condition, and land use.
• Measures structures, additions, mobile homes, and improvements using standard equipment such as tape measures or laser tools.
• Collects and uploads field photos and relevant documentation into the County’s CAMA and GIS systems.
• Prepares digital sketches of structures and mobile homes for property records.
• Updates parcel data in the assessment database based on field observations and building permits.
• Assists with verification of Certificates of Occupancy, mobile home registrations, and final building inspections.
• Organizes building permit packets and communicates with municipalities and the Building Codes Office as directed.
• Assists in locating and reviewing new dock permits or property changes via state and local databases (e.g., DHEC).
• Operates a County vehicle to travel to and from assigned field inspection areas.
• Provides basic customer service support, responding to inquiries from taxpayers, appraisers, and interdepartmental staff.
• Supports damage assessments for properties affected by storms or disasters under supervision.
• Maintains accurate field logs, records, reports, and documentation of site visits.
• Performs related administrative duties and other job-related tasks as assigned.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Valid South Carolina driver’s license with a clean driving record.
• One (1) year of experience in real estate, property inspection, appraisal support, permitting, or a related field preferred.
• Ability to read and interpret plats, deeds, tax maps, and property layout plans.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to work independently in the field.
• Familiarity with GPS, tablets, or property sketching software a plus.

Special Requirements

Knowledge of:

• County assessment processes and field data collection standards
• Customer service principles and interdepartmental coordination
• Data entry, document review, and parcel-level recordkeeping

Skills in:

• Measuring and documenting property improvements
• Reading maps, permits, and land use documents
• Using mobile field technology and office software systems
• Communicating clearly with taxpayers and staff in person and in writing

Ability to:

• Work outdoors in various environmental conditions
• Lift and carry up to 25 pounds
• Maintain accurate records and follow established procedures
• Apply discretion when dealing with the public or sensitive property information