Cataloguer, Books and Collectibles

sothebys

New York, United States · New York · United States

Posted Aug 6, 2026

Other
Books and Manuscripts

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Job description

ABOUT SOTHEBY'S

Established in 1744, Sotheby’s promotes access and ownership of exceptional art and luxury objects through auctions, private sales and retail. Our deep expertise across 70 selling categories is supported by a leading technology platform and a global network of specialists spanning 40 countries. Selling categories include Contemporary Art, Modern and Impressionist Art, Old Masters, Chinese Works of Art, Jewelry, Watches, Wine and Spirits and Design, as well as collectible cars and real estate through RM Sotheby’s and Concierge. Sotheby’s Financial Services is a leading art lender and provides capital solutions for collectors around the world, having originated more than $12 billion in loans since its inception. Sotheby’s new global headquarters is now open at the iconic Breuer building at 945 Madison Avenue in New York City.

THE ROLE

The function of this role is to support the Books and Collectibles Department in New York including, but not limited to, coordinating and cataloguing books, vintage posters, prints and other collectibles. Additionally, general assistance is required for RTCs, pricing, and inventory management.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Assist with the evaluation of works for Marketplace, including responses to phone, written, and online platform estimate requests.
Work with the Manager on valuations and close follow-up on property that has been estimated but not yet consigned for sale.
Assist Manager in securing consignments of property for sale, including client correspondence, preparation of Marketplace estimate listings, and writing, proofreading, and coordination of proposals.
Liaise with the team to maintain running lists of property already consigned, potential future consignments, as well as client and consignment files and records
Conduct research, especially to establish provenance, publication and exhibition history of consigned or appraised property, maintaining the highest standard of completeness and accuracy.
Write and proofread for catalogue notes and essays, maintaining the highest standard of quality
In conjunction with the Manager, assist with catalogue production including:
Entering and editing catalogue text in ADM, ensuring catalogue data is accurate and recorded in a timely manner
Liaising with Central Receiving, Photo Catalogue and other support departments
Assisting with shoot lists and layout
Coordinate and manage sellers and their property through the pre- and post-sale processes
Partner with other business areas to respond to client inquiries, resolve client issues and execute client transactions to ensure the highest level of client satisfaction

IDEAL EXPERIENCE & COMPETENCIES

Bachelor’s degree in a related field
Three years’ experience in a related field, with an auction background preferred
Excellent communication and client service skills
Excellent organizational skills including ability to multi-task and prioritize
High level of attention to detail
Good working knowledge of Microsoft Office, particularly Outlook, Word and Excel
Good working knowledge of SAP, MARQ, ADM, and Brightspot preferred
Enthusiasm and willingness to broaden knowledge
Flexibility to work overtime and weekend hours when necessary
Proven administrative and/or relevant experience is desirable

The proposed base salary for this position ranges from $60,000-$68,000. 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.

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The Company is an equal opportunity employer and considers all applicants for employment without regard to race (including, without limitation, traits historically associated with race, such as natural hair, hair texture, and protective and treated or untreated hairstyles), color, creed, religion, sex, sexual orientation, marital or civil partnership/union status, national origin, age, disability, pregnancy, genetic predisposition, genetic information, reproductive health decision, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, alienage or citizenship status, domestic violence victim status, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state/province or local law. The Company complies with applicable state and local laws prohibiting discrimination in employment in every jurisdiction in which it operates.