Position Opening

Position: Chattel Appraiser Trainee                       

Location: In-Office Fresno, CA

Areas of Responsibility:

Fresno Madera Farm Credit is searching for a self-motivated, highly driven individual to join our fast-paced team environment. The Chattel Appraiser Trainee will report directly to the SVP, Appraisal Manager.  This entry-level role is designed to provide training and development in the appraisal of agricultural chattel property, including crops, equipment, and livestock. The trainee will assist with data collection, market research, report preparation, and research assignments.

Essential Responsibilities:

Field/Chattel Appraisal Services/Crop Inspections

• Conduct agricultural field and chattel appraisals under the supervision of a senior or licensed appraiser.
• Inspect crops, equipment, livestock and other collateral to assess condition, value, and production potential.
• Perform crop progress inspections to evaluate yield, identify risks, and monitor changes in operations.
• Prepare appraisal analyses, inspection summaries, and supporting documentation.
• Research and apply industry data, pricing, and production costs to support valuations and forecasts. 

Budgets, Forecasts, Annual Reviews

• Review budgets and projections to assess collateral position and loan risk.
•  Maintain accurate records and comply with appraisal standards and internal procedures.

Education

• Complete required education/training to become independent in field and chattel inspections.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:  

• Working knowledge of agricultural operations, crops, equipment and livestock preferred.
• Understanding of basic appraisal principles and valuation concepts.
• Strong analytical skills, including the ability to evaluate data, identify key issues, and apply sound judgement.
• Effective written and verbal communication.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage priorities and meet deadlines.
• Ability to work collaboratively and maintain professional working relationships.
• Commitment to data security, confidentiality, and ethical handling of customer and Association information.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in agriculture, agribusiness, finance or related field.
• No prior appraisal experience required; on-farm or agricultural experience preferred.
• Or an equivalent combination of education and experience sufficient to perform the essential functions of the job

Physical Requirements:

• Positions in this class typically require climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, reaching, standing, walking, pushing, pulling, lifting, grasping, talking, hearing, seeing, and repetitive motions.
• Light Work: Exerting up to 20 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 10 pounds of force frequently, and/or a negligible amount of force constantly to move objects.  If the use of arm and/or leg controls requires exertion of forces greater than that for sedentary work and the employee sits most of the time, the job is rated for light work.
• Employees may be subjected to environmental conditions and atmospheric conditions, including dust, fumes, extreme temperatures, inadequate lighting, and intense noises.
• Valid California driver’s license and the ability to travel for field inspections.

Applicants must be authorized to work for any employer in the U.S. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment Visa at this time.

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ABOUT US

Salary: DOE

Minimum $51,821 – Maximum $76,822

Application deadline: Tuesday, January 27, 2026. Only applications received by this date will be reviewed and considered.