Auction Cataloger (Books)

Job Title: General Assignment Auction Cataloger (Full-Time)

Potter & Potter Auctions is accepting applications for a full-time General Assignment Auction Cataloger. Approximately 60–70% of this role will be dedicated to cataloging Fine Books & Manuscripts auction material.

The primary responsibility of this position is to organize, evaluate, and write catalog descriptions for a wide range of fine and rare books, manuscripts, historical memorabilia, and related material offered by Potter & Potter’s Fine Books & Manuscripts Department. Additional cataloging assignments will be made in other auction categories, including Vintage Posters, Art, Photography, and Paper Ephemera.

The ideal candidate will have substantial working knowledge of books, antiques, and collectibles, with prior experience as a seller or cataloger at an auction house or in a similar role. Applicants should be able to demonstrate a well-developed sense of value and market desirability within one or more collecting fields in which we conduct auctions.

Superior English writing and language skills are required, along with strong attention to detail, organization, and accuracy.

Responsibilities

• Catalog property with a high degree of accuracy while adhering to company style standards

• Inventory and organize property before and after auctions

• Conduct research to assess authenticity, provenance, and market value

• Support auctions by responding to client inquiries, executing phone and online bids, and assisting with other customer service duties as assigned

• Work under the direction of the Department Director and President, and regularly report on project status

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree preferred but not required; academic background in Library Science, Art History, or English is a plus

• Strong writing and research skills

• Minimum of one year of relevant experience (auction house, dealer, or e-commerce experience preferred)

• Excellent communication skills, with a strong emphasis on client service, follow-up, professionalism, and discretion

• Ability to work in a fast-paced, deadline-driven team environment

• Availability to work occasional weekends

• Willingness to travel occasionally, as needed

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift 40+ pounds

• Ability to push carts, hand trucks, and pallet jacks; and to shelve and retrieve boxes from high shelving

• Ability to properly handle and care for fragile and delicate items

How to Apply

Please submit your resume and a brief introduction to ethan@potterauctions.com. Cover letters and/or writing samples are welcome but not required. No phone calls, please.

Salary is commensurate with experience, starting at $50,000 annually. Benefits include health insurance, retirement contributions, generous paid time off, and professional development opportunities.

About Us

Potter & Potter Auctions is a Chicago-based auction house specializing in the sale of collectibles and antiques of all types, including paper Americana, rare books, vintage advertising, coin-operated machines, playing cards, gambling memorabilia, vintage posters, autographs, prints, and magicana—collectibles focused on the history of magic and magicians.