CHIEF ASSESSOR
FLSA STATUS: Exempt, full-time, benefited
AFFILIATION: Salem Public Administrators Association (SPAA)
Salary range is $91,327 - $124,266 per year, depending on experience
ABOUT THE ROLE: The Town of Salem, NH is seeking an experienced, knowledgeable, and collaborative Chief Assessor to lead our Assessing Department. This department head position is responsible for ensuring accurate and equitable property assessments, supervising staff, and maintaining compliance with federal, state, and local laws and regulations. As a key leader within Town administration, the Chief Assessor oversees all appraisal and assessing functions, budget administration, state reporting, and public interactions, while also providing strategic guidance to ensure efficiency and transparency.
ACCOUNTABILITY: Reports directly to and is accountable to the Town Manager or their designee.
What You Will Do: (The following is illustrative of the duties and responsibilities associated with the position and is not intended to be all-inclusive.)
- Direct and manage the Town's Assessing Department, including staff supervision and strategic planning.
- Administer town-wide property assessments, revaluations, and related activities in compliance with NH statutes.
- Serve as an expert witness in Superior Court and before the Board of Tax and Land Appeals on property tax cases.
- Oversee preparation and submission of property tax warrants, exemptions, abatements, and state documentation.
- Ensure accurate property inspections, appraisal reviews, and compliance with assessing codes and ordinances.
- Manage departmental budget, contracts, and consultants, including mass appraisal systems.
- Provide professional support to the Town Council in their role as the Board of Assessors.
- Act as E-911 Liaison for street/address updates and coordinate with state agencies.
- Respond to public inquiries with professionalism and courtesy.
REQUIREMENTS: (below is a summary, please see attached job description for full details.)
- Bachelor’s degree in business administration, Finance, Accounting, Public Administration, Engineering, or a related field.
- Minimum 5 years of progressively responsible municipal property assessment experience, including 2 years in a supervisory role (or equivalent combination of education and experience).
- Certified NH Assessor (C.N.H.A.) designation required, or attainable within 1 year.
- Certified Property Assessor Supervisor (CPAS) through the NH Assessing Certification Board required.
- Strong knowledge of property assessment laws, regulations, and valuation principles.
- Proficiency in mathematics, written/oral communication, and computer technology.
- Experience with municipal software; Vision CAMA experience is a plus.
- Valid driver's license required.
What We Offer: Holidays, paid time off and benefits in accordance with the SPAA Collective Bargaining Agreement
HOW TO APPLY: All candidates interested in applying must complete a Town of Salem Employment Application, submit a resume and cover letter. Please follow this link to apply on our website. All applications for this position will be held in confidence. A rating of applicants will be based on education, assessment, training, and experience as it relates to the requirements for this position. Therefore, applicants must provide complete and accurate educational and employment information on your application. Pre-employment testing will include educational and criminal background.
CLOSING DATE: Open until filled.
The Town of Salem is an equal opportunity employer.