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Staff Appraiser (PAS4)

State of Washington, Bay View, Maryland, United States

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About WSDOT Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is a multimodal organization with a global reputation for excellence! Our dedicated workforce is responsible for planning, designing, building, and operating an integrated transportation system that safely and efficiently moves people and goods throughout the state. In addition to maintaining over 18,000 lane miles of state highway and 4,100 bridges, WSDOT manages the world’s longest floating bridge, executes an award‑winning Active Transportation Plan, holds a record for the world’s widest tunneling project, and operates the largest ferry system in the nation.

Opportunity WSDOT is eager to hire a real estate professional to serve as our next Staff Appraiser supporting our Northwest Region (NWR), comprised of King, Snohomish, Skagit, Island, and Whatcom counties. This position will complete all types of property valuation assignments for WSDOT in compliance with Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP), Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) and WSDOT rules and regulations. The position applies independent judgement and advanced technical knowledge to appraise/co‑appraise complex/non‑complex properties for surpluses, leases, and acquisitions as well as prepare Scoping Estimates, Project Funding Estimates and Appraisal Waivers. The successful candidate will serve a vital role in supporting WSDOT’s mission to provide safe, reliable, and cost‑effective transportation options to improve communities and economic vitality.

What to Expect Among the varied range of responsibilities held within this role, the Staff Appraiser will:

Complete compelling, well‑supported, and professional‑looking real estate appraisals/valuations for WSDOT owned properties being sold or leased to other private/public entities or for Right of Way acquisitions for WSDOT projects.

Independently complete assignments and assist/train internal staff with all types of real property valuation assignments for WSDOT in compliance with USPAP, FHWA, the State, and WSDOT.

Perform visual site inspections, using a camera to take photos of the property and a measuring device to estimate dimensions of site improvements.

Traverse a variety of terrain including uneven ground, slopes, and through brush while completing property inspections.

Research and analyze the market using in‑depth knowledge of the rights being acquired for each subject property largely using online resources.

Create efficient, well‑documented, and compelling deliverables supported by market research and analysis.

Apply independent judgement and advanced technical knowledge to value complex/non‑complex acquisition/surplus rights as well as prepare deliverables including Project Funding Estimates and Appraisal Waivers, abbreviated/long‑form narrative appraisals, and assorted memorandums.

Qualifications To be considered for this opportunity, the following are required:

Appraisal Certification: State Certified General Appraiser, State Certified Residential Appraiser, State Licensed Real Estate Appraiser, or Appraisal Trainee.

Appraisal Knowledge and Experience: Knowledge in business or public administration, real estate, economics, accounting, science, or a related field, and experience appraising most types of improved and vacant real property including, but not limited to, agriculture, single‑family, multifamily, recreational, commercial, and industrial.

Appraisal & Valuation Skills: Ability to perform real property appraisals in accordance with USPAP, FHWA, and WSDOT standards. Skill in valuing multiple property types and a variety of property rights.

Market Research & Analysis: Ability to research and analyze market data, comparable sales, and property rights using online tools and public records. Skill in applying analytical methods and professional judgment to reach well‑supported value conclusions.

Field Inspection: Ability to conduct onsite inspections, photograph properties, and take accurate measurements. Ability to safely traverse uneven terrain, brush, slopes, and other outdoor conditions.

Communication & Collaboration: Exhibits strong written and verbal communication skills and works collaboratively and respectfully with internal and external partners across diverse backgrounds. Ability to clearly explain valuation findings and highly technical material to technical and non‑technical staff, as well as the general public.

Time Management and Adaptability: Adjusts to shifting priorities, performs effectively under pressure, and consistently meets project deadlines.

Growth Mindset: Actively demonstrates a commitment to learning and growth.

Service‑Oriented: Demonstrates a willingness to take action to meet the needs of others.

Preferred / Desired It is preferred that qualified candidates also have:

Right of Way Appraisal Compliance: Demonstrated ability to prepare and complete complex, compliant Before and After right of way appraisal reports, project funding estimates, and appraisal waivers that meet Review Appraiser expectations.

Important Notes

This recruitment may also be used to fill additional positions per business needs.

The salary listed includes the legislative approved 5% salary premium for positions in King County.

In addition to base salary, employees may be entitled to other forms of compensation depending on the type, duties, or location of the position. For union‑represented positions, more information on other forms of compensation can be found in the applicable Collective Bargaining Agreements. Information on other compensation types for non‑represented positions can be found in Chapter 357‑28 of the Washington Administrative Code.

WSDOT does not use the E‑Verify system, therefore we are not eligible to extend STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT). For more information, please visit www.uscis.gov.

Why WSDOT

Work‑Life Balance – We offer flexible work schedules that allow you time for your life outside of this excellent opportunity.

Paid Leave – In addition to 12 paid holidays, full‑time employees may earn up to 25 paid vacation days per year!

Tuition Assistance – Permanent employees have several options for assistance with education expenses, including tuition reimbursement programs, government discounts at participating colleges throughout the state, and eligibility for federal student loan forgiveness.

Plan For Your Future – WSDOT offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes a variety of healthcare options. Employees also have their choice of state retirement programs, and much more. Go to State Benefits for more information.

How To Apply Applications for this recruitment will be accepted electronically. Your relevant experience may be evaluated to determine salary. Therefore, it is very important that the “Work Experience” portion of the application be completed in as much detail as possible.

In order to be considered for this opportunity, please include the following with your online application:

An attached 1 or 2 page Resume outlining (in reverse chronological order) your experience to date.

An attached 1‑Page Cover Letter that further explains your qualifications and indicates why you believe you are a viable candidate and would thrive in this role.

Contact details for a minimum of three (3) individuals who can attest to your work performance, technical skills, and job‑related competencies. This information can be entered in the “References” section of the online application; does not require an additional attachment.

Please click the "APPLY" button to proceed.

Note that you will be prompted to either sign in or create an account. This step is required in order to submit an application to this opportunity.

Contact Us For inquiries about this posting, you may contact the assigned Recruiter at Sidra.Fields@wsdot.wa.gov. Please be sure to reference

Appraiser – 13326

in the subject line.

Equal Opportunity Statement WSDOT is an equal opportunity employer. We value the importance of creating an environment in which all employees can feel respected, included, and empowered to bring unique ideas to the agency. Our diversity and inclusion efforts include embracing different cultures, backgrounds and viewpoints while fostering growth and advancement in the workplace. All persons, regardless of race, ethnicity, age, veteran status, sexual orientation, and/or gender identity, are encouraged to apply. Persons with disabilities needing assistance in the application process, or those needing this job announcement in an alternative format may contact the listed recruiter.

Additional Benefits Overview Employees and their families are covered by medical (including vision), dental and basic life insurance. Staff are eligible to enroll each year in a medical flexible spending account which enables them to use tax‑deferred dollars toward their health care expenses. Employees are also covered by basic life and long‑term disability insurance, with the option to purchase additional coverage amounts.

To view premium rates, coverage choice in your area and how to enroll, please visit the Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) website. The Washington Wellness program from the Health Care Authority works with PEBB to support our workplace wellness programs.

Dependent care assistance allows the employee to save pre‑tax dollars for a child or elder care expenses. Other insurance coverage for auto, boat, home, and renter insurance is available through payroll deduction. The Washington State Employee Assistance Program promotes the health and well‑being of employees.

Retirement And Deferred Compensation State Employees are members of the Washington Public Employees’ Retirement System (PERS). New employees have the option of two employer‑contributed retirement programs. For additional information, check out the Department of Retirement Systems’ web site. Employees also have the ability to participate in the Deferred Compensation Program (DCP), a supplemental retirement savings program (similar to an IRA) that allows you to control the amount of pre‑tax salary dollars you defer and the flexibility to choose between multiple investment options.

Public Service Loan Forgiveness If you are employed by a government or not‑for‑profit organization, and meet the qualifying criteria, you may be eligible to receive student loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.

Leave Policies Full‑time and part‑time employees are entitled to paid holidays and one paid personal holiday per calendar year. Employees who are members of certain unions may be entitled to additional personal leave days, please refer to position‑specific Collective Bargaining Agreements for more information.

Full‑time employees who work full monthly schedules qualify for holiday compensation if they are employed before the holiday and are in pay status for at least 80 non‑overtime hours during the month of the holiday; or for the entire work shift preceding the holiday. Part‑time employees who are in pay status during the month of the holiday qualify for the holiday on a pro‑rata basis. Compensation for holidays (including personal holiday) will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status in the month to that required for full‑time employment, excluding all holiday hours.

Full‑time employees earn eight hours of sick leave per month. Overtime eligible employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month earn a monthly proportionate amount of sick leave, while overtime exempt employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month do not earn a monthly accrual of sick leave. Sick leave accruals for part‑time employees will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status.

Full‑time employees accrue vacation leave at rates specified in WAC 357‑31‑165(1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA). Full‑time employees who are in pay status for fewer than 80 non‑overtime hours in a month do not earn a monthly accrual of vacation leave. Part‑time employees accrue vacation leave hours on a pro‑rata basis in accordance with WAC 357‑31‑165(1) or the applicable CBA.

Washington State supports members of the armed forces with 21 days paid military leave per year. Most employees whose family member or household member dies, or for loss of pregnancy, are entitled to five days of paid bereavement leave. The employer may approve other available leave types for the purpose of bereavement leave.

Additional leave options include leave sharing, parental leave, Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), and leave without pay. For more detailed information, please visit the State HR website.

Application Questionnaire Updated 01‑07‑2026

Which appraisal credential(s) do you currently hold? (Select all that apply)

State Certified General Appraiser

State Certified Residential Appraiser

State Licensed Real Estate Appraiser

Appraisal Trainee

None

Is your credential issued by Washington State?

Yes

No

N/A

Please indicate the types of real property appraisals you have performed. (Select all that apply)

Agricultural

Mixed‑Use (E.G. Single or Multifamily with Commercial or Retail with Office)

Single‑family residential

Multifamily residential

Recreational

Commercial

Industrial

Vacant land

Complex Right‑of‑Way

Uncomplicated Right‑of‑Way

None

Do you have experience conducting onsite property inspections, including photographing and measuring properties?

Yes

No

Are you able to safely traverse uneven terrain, brush, slopes, and other outdoor conditions during field inspections?

Yes

No

Do you have experience orally explaining valuation findings or technical material to non‑technical audiences or the public?

Yes

No

How would you rate your experience preparing appraisal waivers and project funding estimates?

Limited – Minimal exposure or basic familiarity; requires guidance or supervision.

Moderate – Practical working knowledge; performs independently in standard situations.

Extensive – Advanced proficiency; independently handles complex or non‑routine situations.

Have your right of way appraisal products been reviewed and accepted by a Review Appraiser?

Yes

No

How would you rate your experience working closely and collaboratively with a large team?

Limited – Typically have worked almost exclusively independently.

Moderate – Often work in collaboration with team members, though most assignments are largely independent.

Extensive – Typically rely on close collaboration with a large team for work production.

How did you learn of this employment opportunity?

Indeed

LinkedIn

Direct Email Notification

WSDOT social media (Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, etc)

Career Fair

Monster

WorkSource

Handshake

AASHTO

NACTO

COMTO

APWA

"NOW HIRING" banner/sign

Radio advertisement

WSDOT Employment Site

Careers.wa.gov

governmentjobs.com

Other (specify below)

If You Selected 'Other' On The Previous Question, Please Specify How You Learned Of This Employment Opportunity In The Space Provided

Required Question

Final Remarks We look forward to receiving your application.

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