Lead Cataloguer - Fine Art & Antiques Auction House

Company Description

Ahlers & Ogletree Auction Gallery is a full-service estate auction gallery located in Atlanta, GA. The gallery presents 15-20 auctions each year featuring a diverse range of items including fine art, antiques, estate jewelry, and fine Asian antiquities. Owned and operated by industry veterans Robert Ahlers and Christy Ogletree Ahlers, the gallery offers a comprehensive array of auction services and a variety of bidding experiences both in-person and online.

Position Overview:

We are seeking an experienced and highly motivated Full-Time Lead Auction Cataloguer to oversee catalogue production, research, describe, and prepare objects for auction catalogues, and manage a growing team of cataloguers responsible for researching, describing, and evaluating fine art, antiques, jewelry, and estate property. This role is not a library or data-entry cataloguing position - it requires art historical knowledge, aesthetic judgment, and experience describing artworks, antiques, and decorative arts for sale.

The Lead Cataloguer will supervise a team of cataloguers and work collaboratively with the inventory, sales, and operations departments to ensure efficiency, accuracy, and consistency throughout the pre-auction process. Suitable candidates combine deep expertise in art, antiques, and decorative arts with exceptional writing skills, leadership ability, and strong organizational discipline.

Key Responsibilities:

• Oversee day-to-day cataloguing operations, including workflow management, staff supervision, and deadline adherence.
• Assign lots and manage team workload; mentor cataloguing staff and provide feedback to maintain high standards of accuracy and consistency.
• Coordinate with Inventory, Photography, and Operations teams to ensure smooth property flow through intake, research, and production.
• Manage cataloguing timelines, quotas, and departmental priorities to ensure on-time catalogue completion.
• Research, write, and edit detailed catalogue entries and condition reports, serving as the department’s primary quality control lead.
• Review cataloguer research, descriptions, and condition reports for accuracy, consistency, and quality. Maintain consistency in voice, formatting, and terminology across all catalogues.
• Collaborate with the Sales and Business Development team to align cataloguing priorities with consignor commitments and deadlines.
• Liaise with Inventory, Sales, and Operations departments to manage property flow and resolve logistical issues.
• Work with Photography and Marketing teams to optimize catalogue presentation and listings.
• Participate in auction previews, assisting clients and verifying the accuracy of displayed lots.
• Support auction-day operations, including bidder registration and phone/online bidding as needed.
• Contribute to special projects, off-site auctions, and promotional events as assigned.

Qualifications:

• Required background: Minimum 3-5 years experience cataloguing fine art, antiques, or decorative arts in an auction house, gallery, or museum setting (lead or senior cataloguer experience preferred). Applications without relevant art or auction experience will not be considered.
• Required background: Minimum 1-3 years experience managing a team.
• USPAP certification preferred; ISA or ASA accreditation a plus.
• Proven ability to manage and motivate a small creative and technical team.
• In-depth knowledge of fine and decorative arts, antiques, and furniture, with strong valuation and research skills.
• Exceptional written communication and editing ability, with mastery of cataloguing standards.
• Strong project management and organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple deadlines simultaneously.
• Collaborative mindset and ability to work cross-departmentally with operations, photography, inventory, and marketing teams.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, Google Workspace, and relevant auction or cataloguing software.

Work Schedule & Conditions

• Standard full-time schedule with flexibility for evenings and weekends during peak auction cycles.
• Non-traditional work environment with high-intensity periods leading up to auctions.
• Physical activity required, including standing for extended periods and handling items of varying size and weight (with assistance where appropriate).

How to Apply:

Please submit your resume, a cover letter detailing your experience and interest in the position, and any relevant certifications to Elizabeth@AandOauctions.com.