Administrative and Research Assistant

Overview
We are seeking a detail-oriented Administrative Assistant to join our team. The ideal candidate will provide administrative support, ensuring efficient operation of the office, and will be eager to assist with appraisal report writing/editing and fine art auctions.

The candidates should have a background and/or demonstrated interest in art and antiques, possess a positive attitude, and be driven to make a difference.

About MIR Appraisal Services

MIR Appraisal Services, Inc. has been appraising fine art and personal property since 1994. We are a small, professional appraisal company with a main office in downtown Chicago, IL. Our clients include religious organizations, insurance agencies, law firms, educational institutions, government organizations, libraries, public parks, and museums & historical societies, as well as the general public.

Why MIR Appraisal?

Our small office environment fosters an immersive professional experience where candidates will have the opportunity to participate in every aspect of the appraisal and advisory process and learn something new every day.

The practices of our company are centered on employee retention. Rather than focusing on the short-term, we want our team members to feel like they have room to grow into their role. Additionally, we offer benefits such as health care and paid time off.

The primary Administrative responsibilities include:

• Office assistance for Chicago location
• Respond to general client inquiries via phone and email, and process new clients
• Schedule appraisal appointments
• Assist in proofreading and editing appraisal reports
• Help direct the company’s blog posts, website content, social media outlets, and monthly newsletter on the art market, artists, and appraisal-related topics

The primary Research & Appraisal responsibilities include:

• Assist in writing and editing appraisal reports
• Assist in valuation and historical research on appraisal items to a high degree of accuracy
• Assist Senior Appraiser at on-site inspections as needed

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in art history, fine art, marketing, business, communications, or related field
• Cumulative 3 or more years of proven experience in relevant office management or art-related field
• Sales experience, and experience in auctions and art handling is a plus
• Quick learner, motivated to see results, and dependable
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Ability to prioritize and multi-task
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to interact with clients professionally and confidently
• Excellent writing, proofreading, and organizational skills
• Competency in Microsoft Office, Google Suite, photo editing applications, and social media
• Familiarity with web development a plus

Benefits

• Healthcare and paid vacations are available for full-time employees.
• Compensation commensurate with experience.

MIR Appraisal Services, Inc. is an Affirmative Action/Equal Employment Opportunity employer. All employment decisions and personnel actions at MIR Appraisal Services, Inc. are administered without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including gender identity, sexual orientation, and pregnancy), national origin, age (40 or older), disability or genetic information.

To be considered for the position, please submit a cover letter, resume, and three references. Please send materials to opportunities@mirappraisal.com only.

Relevant experience is required, please keep this in mind when applying.

Job Type: Full-time

Benefits:

• Health insurance (after 3 month probationary period)
• Paid time off

Schedule:

• Day shift (8:30 AM-5:00 PM)
• 30 minute lunch break
• Monday to Friday

Education:

• Bachelor's (Required)

Experience:

• Art-related: 3 years (Required)
• Customer service: 3 years (Required)