Estate Settlement Professional Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the realm of property management, the role of estate settlement professionals is increasingly crucial.

As the complexities of estate planning and inheritance grow, the need for skilled professionals who can adeptly navigate, manage, and protect our property legacies rises.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from an estate settlement professional?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker aiming to understand the intricacies of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the ins and outs of estate settlement,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable estate settlement professional job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Estate Settlement Professional Duties and Responsibilities

Estate Settlement Professionals handle the complex process of settling a deceased person’s estate.

They work with financial institutions, government agencies, and the court to ensure the accurate distribution of assets.

Their duties and responsibilities are varied and often include:

• Interpretation and execution of the decedent’s will and estate plan
• Identification, inventory, and assessment of the estate’s assets and liabilities
• Working with financial institutions to claim, liquidate, or transfer assets
• Payment of the decedent’s debts and taxes using the estate’s assets
• Filing and addressing legal documents with the probate court
• Communicating with beneficiaries and handling disputes if they arise
• Ensuring the correct distribution of assets as per the will or state laws
• Keeping detailed records of all transactions and correspondences for the estate
• Providing final accounting to the court and beneficiaries

 

Estate Settlement Professional Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a detail-oriented and experienced Estate Settlement Professional to join our team.

The candidate will be responsible for managing and settling estates, including overseeing the distribution of assets and payment of debts in accordance with the law and the decedent’s wishes.

The ideal candidate should be well-versed in estate laws and regulations, estate planning, and probate procedures.

They should have a strong understanding of financial matters and excellent communication skills to interact with clients, beneficiaries, and legal professionals.

 

Responsibilities

• Manage the administration and settlement of estates in accordance with estate laws and the decedent’s will
• Prepare and file necessary court documents
• Identify, gather, appraise, and distribute assets
• Pay debts, taxes, and estate administration expenses
• Communicate with beneficiaries, creditors, and legal professionals
• Keep detailed records of all estate transactions
• Provide regular updates to the client on the estate settlement process

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as an Estate Settlement Professional, Probate Administrator, or similar role
• Knowledge of estate laws, probate procedures, and taxation
• Strong financial and asset management skills
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• High degree of professional ethics and integrity
• Attention to detail and problem-solving skills
• Bachelor’s degree in Law, Finance, or relevant field. A law license is highly desirable

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Estate Settlement Professional
• Work Environment: Office setting with occasional travel for court appearances and meetings.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Estate Planning Director or Senior Estate Settlement Professional.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $70,000 minimum to $110,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does an Estate Settlement Professional Do?

Estate Settlement Professionals, also known as probate or estate administrators, typically work for law firms, financial firms, or independently.

They specialize in managing the process of settling a deceased person’s estate.

They work closely with the deceased person’s family or legal representative, court officials, and sometimes creditors or debtors to ensure the accurate distribution of the estate’s assets according to the deceased’s will or legal requirements.

Estate Settlement Professionals are responsible for identifying and inventorying the deceased person’s assets, paying off any debts or taxes, and distributing the remaining assets to the rightful beneficiaries.

They are also required to obtain necessary legal documents, such as death certificates, and file necessary court documents.

In cases where the deceased did not leave a will, the Estate Settlement Professional may be tasked with identifying legal heirs and distributing assets according to state law.

They may also provide consultation to the family members regarding the estate and probate process, helping them navigate through complex legal procedures and financial matters.

Throughout the process, Estate Settlement Professionals ensure that all actions are carried out in compliance with the law and in the best interests of the estate and its beneficiaries.

 

Estate Settlement Professional Qualifications and Skills

An Estate Settlement Professional should possess the necessary skills and qualifications that correspond to their job role, including:

• Knowledge of estate planning and tax laws to handle the proper distribution of assets and tackle any legal issues related to the estate.
• Excellent problem-solving skills to manage any disputes or issues that arise during the estate settlement process.
• Strong attention to detail to ensure all aspects of the estate are accurately accounted for and properly distributed.
• Good interpersonal and communication skills to interact effectively with heirs, beneficiaries, attorneys, and other involved parties.
• Negotiation skills to handle any disputes between parties involved in the estate.
• Proficiency in using estate management software and other technology tools for record keeping and managing estate-related tasks.
• Ability to work under pressure and handle sensitive situations with discretion and professionalism.
• Organizational skills for managing multiple estates simultaneously, keeping track of important documentation and deadlines.
• Experience in financial planning or accounting may be beneficial for managing and distributing financial assets within the estate.

 

Estate Settlement Professional Experience Requirements

Entry-level Estate Settlement Professionals may have 1 to 2 years of experience, often gained through an internship or part-time role in a legal or financial institution.

In these roles, they learn about estate planning, probate, and tax laws.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience often develop their skills in estate settlement, asset distribution, and client relations.

These professionals can gain significant experience in roles such as Estate Planner, Trust Administrator, or Probate Lawyer.

Those with more than 5 years of experience are generally well-versed in the complexities of estate laws and tax regulations.

They may have experience dealing with complex cases involving large and complicated estates.

They may also have some leadership experience, potentially having managed a team of junior Estate Settlement Professionals or paralegals, and may be ready for a supervisory or managerial role.

Specialized roles, such as those in high net worth estate settlements, may require additional experience and a demonstrated track record of successful settlements.

Advanced degrees in law or finance, as well as professional certifications in estate planning and tax law, can further enhance an Estate Settlement Professional’s qualifications.

 

Estate Settlement Professional Education and Training Requirements

Estate Settlement Professionals, often known as Probate or Estate Lawyers, typically have a bachelor’s degree followed by a Juris Doctor (JD) degree from a law school accredited by the American Bar Association (ABA).

They must also pass the state bar exam, which allows them to practice law in the state where they intend to work.

This exam tests their knowledge of the law, including property law and probate law, which are crucial to their role.

Often, Estate Settlement Professionals specialize in Elder Law or Estate Planning.

These specializations may require additional courses or certifications, such as a Certified Elder Law Attorney (CELA) certification.

Continuing education is also essential for Estate Settlement Professionals to stay updated with changes in laws and regulations.

They may also consider joining professional organizations, like the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (NAELA), to gain access to resources and networking opportunities.

Moreover, these professionals need to have strong analytical, negotiation, and communication skills.

Experience in estate planning, trust administration, or other relevant fields can be beneficial.

 

Estate Settlement Professional Salary Expectations

An Estate Settlement Professional can expect to earn an average salary of $58,000 (USD) per year.

The actual salary may fluctuate based on factors such as years of experience, level of expertise, geographic location, and the company of employment.

 

Estate Settlement Professional Job Description FAQs

What skills does an Estate Settlement Professional need?

An Estate Settlement Professional should have excellent organizational and communication skills, as the role involves dealing with various legal, financial, and personal matters.

They should have a good understanding of probate law and estate taxation, as well as the ability to coordinate with various parties such as family members, attorneys, and financial institutions.

Patience, empathy, and the ability to handle potentially sensitive situations are also crucial.

 

Do Estate Settlement Professionals need a degree?

While there is no specific degree required for the role, a background in law, finance, or estate planning can be beneficial.

Some professionals in this role may have a law degree or a certification in estate planning.

Ultimately, the most important aspect is a thorough understanding of estate laws and regulations, which can be obtained through various educational or training programs.

 

What should you look for in an Estate Settlement Professional resume?

Firstly, check their educational background and relevant certifications.

Look for experience in handling estates, especially in roles like estate planner, attorney, or financial advisor.

They should have experience in probate law, estate taxation, and related areas.

Strong communication skills and the ability to deal with sensitive situations should also be evident from their work history.

 

What qualities make a good Estate Settlement Professional?

A good Estate Settlement Professional is highly organized and detail-oriented, as they need to manage and track various legal and financial processes.

They need to be compassionate and understanding, given that they often work with people who are dealing with the loss of a loved one.

Good problem-solving skills and the ability to work independently are also important.

 

Is it difficult to hire Estate Settlement Professionals?

Hiring an Estate Settlement Professional can be challenging, as it requires finding someone with a unique combination of legal knowledge, financial savvy, and excellent interpersonal skills.

The candidate must be capable of handling potentially complex and sensitive situations with professionalism and empathy.

However, with a thorough vetting process, it’s possible to find the right fit for this crucial role.

 

Conclusion

So there you have it.

Today, we’ve shed light on the realities of being an Estate Settlement Professional.

And guess what?

It’s not just about dealing with legal documents.

It’s about helping families navigate through challenging times, one estate at a time.

With our trusty Estate Settlement Professional job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to make your move.

But why stop there?

Delve deeper with our job description generator. It’s your next step to crafting precise listings or enhancing your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every estate settlement is a part of a bigger journey.

Let’s navigate that path. Together.

How to Become an Estate Settlement Professional (Complete Guide)

The Stress Endurance: What It Takes to Survive These Jobs!

The Grindstone Groaners: The Most Hated Jobs in the Market

Trending Career Paths: The Jobs Redefining the Market

Millionaire’s Roadmap: Pinpointing the Highest Paying Jobs Today!