Associate Cataloguer, American Art

THE ROLE

This person will work on cataloguing and coordinating sales for the American Art department., including Marque, VOA and Online Sales.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Assist with cataloguing and researching items for the American Art department, encompassing late 18th to mid-20th century works:

• Independently researching and cataloguing objects to the highest standard while also meeting strict scheduled deadlines
• Corresponding with and establishing relationships with external experts, while also following up on all outstanding research inquiries
• Writing condition reports for the lots on offer

Working with senior business getters to lead the online “discovery” sale program, including cataloguing, digital catalogue production, lot order finalization, proofreading, color-checking, producing marketing material and editorial content, assisting with exhibition layout and set-up, staffing exhibitions, and helping to target potential bidders

General department support, including answering phones, and helping with day-to-day client enquiries at the front desk, through the online inquiry portal, by email and on the telephone

Maintaining excellence in client service when responding to estimate enquiries, general correspondence, and photo requests

Developing and managing client relationships

Assisting the senior team with the research of paintings for auction, fair market and insurance valuations, proposals, and others

IDEAL EXPERIENCE & COMPETENCIES

• Bachelor’s Degree in Art History, preferably with an American art area of specialization
• Strong experience in American art, ideally in an auction or gallery environment
• Excellent research, organization, interpersonal, and communication skills
• Proven capacity to prioritize multiple highly important processes and responsibilities in a high-pressured environment while meeting constant deadlines
• Ability to work effectively both individually and as a team, while also pitching in to provide senior members of staff and colleagues with support
• Commitment to an exemplary level of client service
• Demonstrates a strong record in client relationship management and a sensitive approach to problem solving
• Possesses high levels of integrity and discretion in line with Sotheby’s corporate governance and legal framework
• Self-motivated and proactive
• Requires on-site presence, as well as flexibility in work hours as needed

The proposed base salary for this position ranges from $51,000-$56,000. In addition to base salary successful candidates are eligible to receive a discretionary bonus, as well as a competitive benefits package. Salary offers are based on a wide range of factors including relevant skills, training, experience, education, and, where applicable, licensure or certifications obtained. Market and organizational factors are also considered. 

Client-provided location(s): New York, NY

Job ID: 5631899004

Employment Type: OTHER

Posted: 2025-08-26T18:29:24