This is technical office work in title searching and abstracting.

This position acts as the official Abstractor for Dade County. Work involves responsibility for making reliable and up-to-date title searches for the various county departments. The work is clerical in nature but requires considerable detailed knowledge of the procedures, documents, offices and agencies involved in recording the ownership of and transferring real property in the county. Duties are performed with considerable technical independence and require the use of much independent judgment. All work is performed under the general supervision of the County Engineer.

ILLUSTRATIVE TASKS

Abstracts rights-of-way for roads and highways; inspects and examines public records to find definite information in regard to land titles; searches through files and records in appropriate county, city and state departments.

Makes detailed search of title to the parcel or parcels to be acquired from the records of a reputable abstract or title company; makes notes regarding information secured during search; takes notes to county recorders office to check necessary or questionable instruments; makes summary of essential data necessary to show the true status of the parcel under search; takes special note of exceptions or reservations in prior title which may not have been mentioned in subsequent conveyances; checks for previous right-of-way deed given by tax deed, tax foreclosures.

Reviews a heavy volume and wide variety of recorded information to insure that no essential data remain unreviewed in attempting to get all the basic information essential to an understanding of the title of the parcel or parcels involved.

After taking notes of all pertinent information, personally typewrites an abstract of information gained.

Certifies in a letter to the County Engineer that the grantor appearing in said deed is the legal title holder thereof and that there are no outstanding mortgages, judgments or liens of record against same; County Engineer accepts his certification as the basis for acceptance of the deed and the filing of same for record.

Prepares title abstracts which are used by the County Attorney as a basis for instituting condemnation suits.

Performs related work as required.

KNOWLEDGES, ABILITIES AND SKILLS

Thorough knowledge of the legal processes and documents pertinent to the acquisition and transfer of real property in the county.

Thorough knowledge of the organizations and offices, public and private, which are the repositories of information regarding real property in the county.

Knowledge of modern office procedures and practices.

Knowledge of topographic mapping sufficient to read, interpret and work from property, tax and road maps.

Ability to express one's self clearly and concisely, orally and in writing.

Ability to analyze complex technical and legal documents relating to the acquisition and transfer of real property quickly and accurately.

Ability to prepare and submit detailed reports.