TECHNICAL SPECIALIST II - RECORDER'S OFFICE

Position Summary

This position is an advanced technical position, requiring a high level of accuracy. This position is responsible for processing real property transactions for Abstract and Torrens property and recording Ministerial Licenses and Notary Public documents. This position provides customer service which involves extensive research, evaluation and in-depth problem solving. The position is also a Certified Federal Passport Acceptance Agent and will answer questions and accept/process passport applications based on U.S. Department of State requirements.

Supplemental:

• The 2025 salary range for this position is $18.39-$27.59 per hour depending on experience. A new hire without comparable experience should expect to start at $18.91 per hour.
• Applications will be reviewed upon receipt. Position will remain posted until filled.
• This is a trainable position with training provided, which must be successfully completed and maintained. Candidates must also possess a valid driver's license.
• This full-time position offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and life insurance, as well as paid holidays, sick leave, and vacation. Regular work hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM.
• 2025 Benefits Click HERE

Essential Functions/Responsibilities

Duties listed are normal for this position. These are not to be construed as exclusive or all-inclusive. Other duties may be required and assigned.

Position Duties

• Examine Abstract and/or Torrens documents for recordability to defined standards and process documents into the recording system. Complete processing by imaging documents, indexing and returning to the customer.
• Examine and determine if legal descriptions are for transfer and/or splits.
• Draw out legal descriptions as required to determine matches to a tax parcel identification number, determine whether property is Abstract or Torrens, and provide customer assistance.
• Calculate and validate system calculations, collect and maintain accounts for special tax collections such as State Deed Tax and Mortgage Registration Tax for Real Estate documents.
• Calculate and collect correct fees for services provided.
• Process and/or verify information in State systems through MN Department of Health and MN Department of Revenue.
• Determine ownership and encumbrances, perform title work on Torrens Certificates and create Certificates of Title for registered property.
• Perform financial duties that include: prepare receipts, disbursements, and financial reports for finance offices, investigate and resolve financial discrepancies and balance cash, escrow, and ACH accounts.
• Provide extensive customer service which involves informal guidance regarding the interpretation of the law requirements, researching discrepancy and boundary disputes and inaccurate information disputes regarding records and the tax system information.
• Assist, train and provide one-on-one help to customers when they are using the public terminals and accessing the Land Records and taxation software programs.
• Certified Federal Passport Acceptance Agent
  • Answer questions related to the process for applying for new passport or passport renewals.
  • Accept and process passport applications.
• Process documents for Notary Public and Ministerial Registrations.

Non-Essential Functions

• Perform job related duties as assigned or apparent.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities

• Ability to maintain confidentiality and regular, timely work attendance.
• Ability to effectively use and understand department software and hardware. Must have excellent computer skills on Microsoft products and iSeries/AS400 and provide computer management.
• Specialized knowledge in real estate title processes. Knowledge of policies, practices, and services of the department.
• Knowledge of MN laws, MN statutes, MN Real Estate Law and MN Bar Association Title Standards as they apply to a wide variety of document types.
• Ability to type a minimum of 50 words per minute.
• Knowledge of policies, practices, and services of the department.
• Ability to work independently using sound judgment when interpreting title and legal descriptions as they impact land records and taxing parcels.
• Ability to complete work accurately with numerous interruptions and proofread data for accuracy.
• Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing and professional conduct.
• Must have good organizational and time management skills, and the ability to multi-task.
• Ability to provide timely, accurate, calm and effective customer service.
• Ability to be responsible, dependable, public oriented and work as part of a team.
• Must have accounting skills and mathematical aptitude.

Minimum Qualifications

Education and Experience

• Two-year Legal Administrative Degree or other related degree and two years of experience.
• Or four years of experience in a Recorder’s Office, Real Estate Attorney’s Office, or the title industry.
• Or an equivalent combination of education and experience sufficient to perform the essential functions of the job.

Required Certifications/Licenses

• Passport Certification (training upon employment).
• Must pass yearly certification tests to be a Certified Federal Passport Acceptance Agent.
• Valid Minnesota driver’s license with proof of insurance.

Preferred education and Experience

• Have worked in a Recorder’s Office, the title industry or for a Real Estate Attorney.
• Experience in drawing legal descriptions.

Relationships

• Regular interaction with County and State of Minnesota staff.
• Interaction with the public and industry specific professionals.
• Local, regional, state and federal agencies and personnel.

Working Conditions

• Work is mainly performed in a standard office setting.
• May be exposed to irate individuals.

Physical Requirements Of This Position

• Desk work involving use of a computer, telephone, and other devices.
• Communicate effectively with County staff, County Board members, and citizens.
• Ability to read screens and documents.
• Ability to drive in various light and weather conditions.
• Ability to type and use a computer or mobile device.
• Perform manual tasks such as handwriting, compiling material and searching through documents.
• Office work may include reaching for documents, grasping documents, standing, kneeling, walking, and repetitive motions.
• Lift and carry files and material weighing up to 30 pounds.

Equipment Required to Perform This Job

• Computers and software
• Telephones and office equipment
• Mobile devices
• Motor vehicles

Additional Notes

• All positions at McLeod County are subject to a background check. This may include, but is not limited to, the following checks: criminal history, credit, driver’s license, pre-employment physical assessment, pre-employment drug and alcohol screening and psychological testing.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities

The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor’s legal duty to furnish information. 41 CFR 60-1.35(c)