Full time – Permanent (1 position)

Property Valuation Services Corporation (PVSC) is responsible for assessing all property in Nova Scotia. The assessment information we produce is used by municipalities as a way to fairly and equitably distribute property taxes among residents.  With seven offices across Nova Scotia, we provide annual property assessments to 54 municipalities and produce approximately 600,000 notices for property owners.

At PVSC, our people are our greatest asset and fundamental to achieving excellence across our business. We believe leadership is part of every employee’s job, at all levels of the organization. Therefore, we attract, develop and retain highly motivated leaders with a passion for learning and continuous improvement who also share our commitment to openness, accountability and excellence.

Working together in a fast paced environment that encourages and supports innovation and collaboration, our employees excel at delivering valuable service to our clients, partners and stakeholders.  In return, we offer a competitive salary and a full range of benefits, including a defined benefit pension plan (Public Service Superannuation Plan).

Position Summary
Under the general supervision of the Area Manager, the Commercial Assessor in accordance with legislation and internal policies and procedures, is responsible for the investigation and analysis of all information required for the valuation and defense of market value for a portfolio of commercial properties throughout the province.  He/she as part of the valuation team ensures that valuation methodologies are consistently and fairly applied throughout the province.
 
Summary of Duties

Determines market value assessments for a portfolio of commercial properties by using accepted valuation practices and mass appraisal standards in compliance with the International Association of Assessing Officers (IAAO) and in accordance with the Nova Scotia Assessment Act and generally accepted appraisal principles.
Investigates and analyses market transactions through sales ratio studies to measure the degree of activity, identify and correct valuation deficiencies, determine market changes and fluctuations by neighbourhood ensuring fairness, equity and uniformity of the assessment base.
Determines and reviews commercial neighbourhood boundaries and values by analysing data obtained through internal and external sources for commercial market data.
Conducts initial appeal inspection for commercial and/or resource properties, provides an explanation of value, determines specifics of appeal, and ensures accuracy of property characteristics and other relevant information affecting value.
When required, prepares for and appears as an expert witness before the Nova Scotia Assessment Appeal Tribunal and the Nova Scotia Utility and Review Board.
Reviews and recommends revisions to existing policies and procedures as they relate to the assessment of commercial properties.
Ensures effective public relations when visiting properties and when responding to inquiries from the general public, lawyers, real estate brokers, municipal officials, provincial government departments and others.
Reviews, updates and corrects information in iasWorld.
Performs other related duties such as assists in special projects or developmental opportunities.

Qualifications, Skills and Abilities

Bachelor’s degree and an Appraisal Institute of Canada’s Accredited Appraiser Canadian Institute (AACI) designation, the Canadian Residential Assessor (CRA) designation with the Appraisal Institute of Canada or any other recognized IAAO designation plus three (3) years’ experience in mass appraisal valuation OR an acceptable combination of relevant training and work experience.

Demonstrated Skills

Knowledge of the basic principles, techniques, terminology and valuation methodology including cost, market analysis and the income approach.
Knowledge of the economy and its impact, business versus real estate, as well as trends affecting real property values is essential.
Knowledge of business practices relating to ownership, rental, management and sale of real property and ability to interpret financial statements, leases, contracts, deeds and other documents required.
Comprehensive knowledge of the NS Assessment Act and other related legislation.
Familiarity with real estate conveyance practices.
Proficiency in the principles and practices of real estate appraisal and understand local market conditions.
Excellent research and analytical skills
Excellent written and oral communication skills and ability to serve as an expert witness.
Working knowledge of the iasWorld system and relevant software and commercial costing programs.
Familiarity with computers and windows based software applications is essential.

In addition, PVSC expects all employees to demonstrate the following leadership competencies:
Communication, Relationship Building, Decision Making, Client & Stakeholder Partnerships, Performance Excellence, Business Acumen, Pride & Ownership.

For more information about Property Valuation Services Corporation (PVSC), please visit our website www.pvsc.ca.

Competition: 2015 – 028-CB
Classification Range: PR 13 ($2,326.43 – $2,827.97 biweekly)
Closing Date: Friday, July 10, 2015

All applications may be sent by email to: PVSC-Careers@pvsc.ca. Submissions must be received by 4:30 p.m. on the closing date.