Description This position is responsible for managing parcel data, interpreting land records, and maintaining accurate and compliant parcel mapping for the County. The role requires strong technical skills, independent judgement, and the ability to work with legal documents, GIS systems, and the public. The position supports the County's land information, parcel mapping, and Geographic Information System (GIS) functions.
Duties and Responsiblities Parcel Management & Land Records Administration Assign parcel numbers for new land splits and maintain ongoing updates to the land records file. Process all recorded documents affecting land ownership, title, or taxing status. Read, interpret, and evaluate legal instruments to ensure accuracy, completeness, and validity.
Communicate with document preparers to obtain corrections for incomplete or unclear recordings. Analyze recorded documents to determine whether they represent full transfers of interest or parcel divisions, and verify compliance with the Polk County Subdivision Ordinance. Determine and document ownership extents; perform mathematical closures to confirm accuracy of legal descriptions.
Report parcel violations and survey discrepancies to the Land Information Director. Mapping & GIS Development Prepare automated digital parcel maps using data derived from land records and mathematical computations. Coordinate and maintain parcel mapping development to ensure compliance with Polk County Mapping Standards and Procedures.
Assist with the development and maintenance of the county-wide Geographic Information System (GIS), particularly the parcel mapping layer. Public Assistance & Interdepartmental Support Assist the public, County departments, and government agencies with inquiries related to parcel locations, ownership, descriptions, title issues, and related information. Maintain professional working relationships with staff, peers, and upper management.
Professional Standards & Additional Responsibilities Maintain general knowledge of Wisconsin Platting Standards (Chapter 236) and WI Administrative Code A-E 7 (Minimum Standards for Property Surveys). Attend training and staff development activities as needed. Perform other duties as assigned by the County Surveyor or Land Information Director.
Qualifications To perform this job successfully, individuals should be able to meet all essential requirements: Education & Experience Associate's degree in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Technology or Land Surveying Technician, plus two years of experience in land surveying or land title investigation, and two years using coordinate geometry software (AutoCAD, ArcGIS, or similar); OR Bachelor's degree in Geography, Cartography, Computer Science, or a closely related field; OR An equivalent combination of education and experience. Certificates/Licenses Valid Driver's License or access to reliable transportation required for travel to educational opportunities, satellite offices, or other work locations. Skills Candidates should be able to demonstrate: Ability to interpret land records and legal descriptions.
Experience with AutoCAD, ArcGIS, and other mapping/GIS tools. Strong mathematical and geometric skills for parcel accuracy checks. Effective communication and customer service with the public and agencies.
High attention to detail and strong problem-solving abilities. Ability to organize, prioritize, and manage multiple tasks efficiently. Additional Information Work Environment Essential functions of this job are typically carried out in work environments with the following characteristics: Takes place in standard office setting with a moderate noise level Utilizes office equipment such as computers, phones, and photocopiers.
Position may require occasional travel to other County facilities, training sites, or community locations. Duties may require occasional evening or weekend hours to meet business needs. Physical Requirements Must be able to perform the physical demands of the position, including frequent sitting, walking, standing, and manual tasks; occasional lifting of up to 20 pounds; and maintaining required vision abilities.
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. EEO Statement We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company.
We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status. ADA Statement (Reasonable Accommodations) We are committed to providing reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities. If you need assistance or accommodation during the application process, please contact humanresources@polkcoutywi.gov.