What are the responsibilities and job description for the Business Support Specialist position at Northern Plains Appraisal, LLC?
Position Type: Part-Time 24 to 40 hours per week
Flexible scheduling Monday–Friday between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. – required on site
Compensation:
$18–$25 per hour, commensurate with background, experience, qualifications, and references
Location:
Required Work Location: 311 3rd Street, Brookings, South Dakota
Company Overview
Northern Plains Appraisal LLC is recognized as a leader in the valuation of real estate throughout eastern South Dakota. The firm provides valuation and consulting services for estates, private and public entities, financial institutions, legal professionals, government agencies, land trusts, recreation groups, and private individuals.
Position Summary
The Part-Time Business Support Specialist plays a critical role in supporting appraisers and firm leadership by coordinating administrative, research, reporting, and project-management functions. This position requires a proactive, detail-oriented professional capable of working independently, managing multiple priorities, and ensuring high-quality deliverables are completed accurately and on schedule.
Key Responsibilities:
Administrative & Operational Support
- Gather information and complete tasks related to proposals, appraisal reports, consulting engagements, and data entry
- Review, edit, proofread, print, bind, scan, upload, and file reports and documents
- Answer phones, manage correspondence, and handle mailings
Research & Data Management
- Conduct market research and public record searches
- Utilize assessor, FEMA, NRCS, wetlands, and valuation databases
- Maintain organized digital and physical filing systems
Project & Workflow Coordination
- Track assignments and deadlines across multiple appraisal projects
- Coordinate with appraisers and leadership to support timelines
- Manage client and internal expectations through clear communication
- Identify issues early and assist in resolving them
Technology & Systems
- Use Microsoft Office, Adobe Acrobat, AgWare, and DataLog
- Learn industry-specific appraisal and mapping software (training provided)
Professional Standards
- Maintain punctuality, confidentiality, and professional conduct
- Work independently and collaboratively
- Contribute ideas for process improvement
- Perform other duties as assigned
Personal Attributes & Candidate Profile
- Bright, articulate, and professional
- Self-starter able to work with limited supervision
- Strong multi-tasking and prioritization skills
- Able to motivate appraisers and manage expectations
- Proactive problem-solver focused on quality and accuracy
Qualifications & Requirements
- Minimum eight years of business administration experience
- Agriculture or real estate experience background preferred
- Strong Microsoft Office and Adobe skills with mechanical aptitude for problem solving
- Minimum typing speed of 45 wpm with accuracy
- Professional demeanor and appearance
- Background check may be required
- No felony convictions or pending illegal activity
- Three professional and three character references required
Location:
Northern Plains Appraisal, LLC
311 3rd Street, Suite 101
Brookings, SD, 57006
Contact:
Brian J Gatzke
605-692-9445
Brian.Gatzke@northernplainsappraisal.com
Pay: $18.00 - $25.00 per hour
Expected hours: 24.0 – 40.0 per week
Benefits:
- Flexible schedule
Work Location: In person
Salary : $18 - $25