Fine Art Specialist/Appraiser

Michaan's Auctions is a leading, full service auction house on the West Coast specializing in the appraisal and sale of antiques and fine art. Some of Michaan's specialty departments include Asian Works of Art, Furniture and Decorative Arts, Modern & Contemporary European and American Paintings/Prints and Jewelry. Established in 2002, Michaan's Auctions holds up to thirty sales each year that attract a broad base of buyers and consignors the world over. With one of the largest facilities in Northern California, Michaan's offers buyers the ability to preview and bid on many unique and desirable pieces.

Michaan's Auctions is seeking an enthusiastic, organized and detail-oriented Fine Art Specialist. The Fine Art Specialist is responsible for evaluating and acquiring various mediums of fine art to be auctioned in multiple levels of auctions on an annual basis, ensuring excellent prices realized, maximum sell-through rates, and optimal consignor and buyer satisfaction.

Job Description

• Successfully acquire quality consignments for all upcoming monthly Gallery Auctions and Fine Art Specialty auctions.

• Provide professional auction evaluations to potential clients on various types of artwork including paintings, prints, sculpture and photographs.

• Accurately identify and catalog artist period/style and medium.

• Attend on and off-site appraisal events and conduct private appraisal appointments.

• Provide photo appraisals via email.

• Respond to all client inquiries via the phone, email or in-person, sometimes requiring conflict resolution and troubleshooting.

• Build and maintain outstanding business relationships with all consignors, buyers and vendors.

• Promote, market, and advertise the Department in order to achieve maximum sell-through rates. Establish, build, and nurture exceptional working relationships and rapport with buyers. Sell the sale.

• Assess the Department sale results and overall Department performance on a monthly basis. Ensure that all necessary adjustments are made to maintain and grow the Department.

• Supervise the research and writing of catalog descriptions for all incoming Fine Art property.

• Generate detailed condition reports and take additional photos of lots, upon request.

• Proof and edit catalogs for both monthly Gallery Auctions and Specialty auctions.

• Proof, edit, and approve marketing materials while working effectively with marketing.

• Ensure that all Art Department projects are completed in a precise and timely manner by following-up with various Departments within the company.

• Assist in receiving incoming art consignments. This includes tagging property, safely moving property, maintaining the proper storage of property, and inventory data entry.

• Assist with Auction Preview on Preview and Auction days. Telephone bidding.

• Other duties as needed or required.

Requirements & Skills

• Master’s Degree or comparable professional experience with a focus in Fine Art and Appraising.

• Minimum 3+ years professional experience in appraising Fine Art within the auction industry.

• Exceptional customer service principles and practices.

• Highly organized with excellent time-management skills and the ability to multi-task and prioritize in a fast paced, deadline driven environment.

• Experience and confidence working with confidential information and/or issues using discretion and judgment.

• Excellent attention to detail and ability to handle high-value property responsibly and respectfully.

• Outstanding communication and the ability to work with several departments and clients.

• Self-motivator who can work independently and as part of a team to solve problems.

• Working knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, Email.

• Ability to lift and move heavy property (at least 20 lbs).

• Availability to work some nights, weekends and holidays.

Hours

This is a full-time position, Monday through Friday, 8:30 am to 5:00 pm. Must be available to work special events.

To apply, please submit your resume, cover letter and references to:

Marissa Bradley at marissa@michaans.com

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $60,000.00 - $80,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee discount
• Health insurance
• Paid time off

Physical setting:

• Office

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift
• Monday to Friday

License/Certification:

• Certified General Appraiser (Preferred)

Work Location: One location