Appraisal Analyst (Trainee)

About the Role

Valbridge Property Advisors | Northern California is hiring Appraisal Analysts (Trainee) for their locations in San Jose and San Ramon, CA. In this entry-level position you will work directly with licensed commercial appraisers on valuation assignments across a variety of property types-including office, industrial, retail, multifamily, land, and special-use assets.

This role is designed to help you build skills, produce high quality work, and progress steadily toward earning your California Certified General Appraiser license

Core Responsibilities

· Market and subject property research

Gather, verify, and analyze, sales, lease, tax, expense, and permit data. Confirm comparables (comps) through phone/email outreach and public records. Input and manage this data in our proprietary database.

· Report drafting

Write or edit sections (e.g., market overviews, property descriptions, approaches to value) and compile reports and exhibits for a supervisor review.

· Field support

Assist on property inspections- photograph property, measure spaces, take notes, and interact with clients on-site.

Growth Path

· 90 days

Master property and comp data entry, research tools, and basic section drafting with minimal revisions.

· 6–12 months

Write portions of the appraisal report with minimal supervision, manage parts of client communication, select and analyze comps to be used in the valuation section, and contribute to early-stage financial analysis and valuation.

· 12–24 months

Lead simple property assignments’ research and initial value analyses; draft full approaches under review and continue logging experience hours toward certification.

Growth Path to Certified General Licensure (AG license)

We provide full mentorship and cover the cost of your required education. The licensure process can typically be completed in about two years, depending on your pace, with the following requirements-

· Education: 300 hours of qualifying appraisal coursework (completed outside work hours)

· Experience: A minimum of 3,000 hours over at least 18 months, including 1,500 hours of non-residential work.

· Exam: Pass the National Uniform Licensing & Certification Exam.

You’ll be paired with two certified real estate appraisers and receive structured guidance and feedback. After a 90-day probationary period, you can be eligible for education reimbursement. The Appraisal Institute, State of California, and BREA’s requirements are part of the process, and you will receive mentoring and help with planning and meeting those deadlines.

Minimum Qualifications

· Bachelor’s degree

· Strong analytical writing and above-average math ability

· High attention to detail and follow-through; clear and professional communication

· Proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel and Outlook; willingness to learn proprietary systems/tools

· Valid driver’s license, and access to a reliable vehicle

Preferred Criteria

· Internship or experience in commercial real estate (CRE), finance, planning, or a related field

· Progress toward California Trainee or AG license

· Familiarity with valuation tools such as Argus or Rockport is a plus

Schedule & Training

· First 90 days: Full-time in office

· After 90 days (with manager approval): Hybrid schedule-3 days/week in-office.

· Professional attire and regular attendance required during business hours

Compensation and Benefits

· Base Salary: $52,500 annually

· Commission: Fee split opportunity on appraisals (typically begins ~1.5years in)

· Benefits: Medical, dental, and vision. 401(k) with employer match.

· Educational Support: McKissock online licensing courses toward AG licensure + one industry conference per year

How to Apply

Send your cover letter and resume to:

Careers-NorCal@valbridge.com

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $52,500.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan
• Tuition reimbursement
• Vision insurance

People with a criminal record are encouraged to apply

Work Location: In person