Auction Cataloger

Job Description

Job Description

Full-time Hourly Position

Reports to: Cataloging Manager

Supports: APAA Company

About APAA & Join Our Team

Alaska Premier Auctions & Appraisals (APAA) is a locally grown, Alaskan‑owned small business committed to excellence in auction services. We connect people to meaningful items, antique treasures, historical artifacts, fine art, vehicles, equipment, firearms, jewelry, and everyday collectibles, and bring their stories to light through photography and description. Previous auction experience or knowledge of photography is an asset. Comprehensive in-person hands-on training will be provided.

We're proud to have been named one of the 2025 Best Workplaces in Alaska by the Alaska Journal of Commerce. This recognition is based on feedback from an anonymous, third-party employee survey conducted by Best Companies Group. Achieving this honor reflects our team's dedication to fostering a positive and supportive work environment.

Here, you’ll join a collaborative, respectful, and creative team that values growth, integrity, and quality. We believe in supporting your development, celebrating your contributions, and giving you the tools and autonomy to shine.

If you’re detail-driven, creative, and excited by the intersection of photography and auctions, we’d love to hear from you. At APAA, your work truly matters. Every lot you catalog helps tell a story. Apply today and help us continue to shine, both in Alaska and beyond.

What the Auction Cataloger Does 

As an Auction Cataloger, your work is essential: you document the valuable items APAA has been entrusted with, using your photographs, descriptions, and attention to detail to set the stage for every auction. You help potential bidders see, understand, and trust each item.

Key Responsibilities Include:

• Check the APAA Catalogers Communications Chat for lot assignments and daily instructions.
• Coordinate with the Cataloging Manager when questions or issues arise.
• Set up your photography workspace: gather tools, accessories, and prepare the studio.
• Move inventory from the intake staging area to the photography station.
• Photograph a high volume of items following APAA standards for clarity, color, and scale.
• Optimize exposure, lighting, color balance, detail, focus, and accuracy.
• Capture proof marks, serial numbers, signatures, unique features, and any damage; use scale references when needed.
• Write accurate, complete, and fair condition descriptions in our auction management software.
• Open, repackage, and prepare items efficiently.
• Keep your workspace clean, organized, and safe.
• Follow protocols for returning and storing camera phones, tools, and accessories.
• Record vital inventory-control data accurately and consistently.
• Work with alertness and attention to safety at all times.
• Occasionally travel off-site to catalog items at clients’ estates or liquidation locations.
• Other duties and projects as assigned.

Supervisory Role: This position has no supervisory responsibilities.

The Impact You’ll Make

• Your photographic skill and descriptive clarity help every auction lot shine, boosting bidder confidence and sale success.
• You help ensure that APAA listings are trusted and professional, no surprises, only clarity.
• You support smooth operations between cataloging, intake, and auction teams.
• You contribute to a positive client experience by accurately reflecting items and their conditions.

What Success Looks Like

• You consistently deliver hundreds of sharp, detailed, and accurate images each week.
• Your descriptions are clear, honest, and trusted by bidders.
• You maintain strong communication and teamwork across departments.
• You stay organized, proactive, and solution-oriented in a fast-paced environment.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Experience with a digital camera or smartphone camera.
• Preferred: Experience with camera stands, tripods, and handhelds, but not required.
• Preferred: Knowledge of lighting and photographic techniques.
• Strong time estimation skills, delivering on schedule.
• Acute eye for detail, shape, color, texture, and form.
• Solid communication skills, internally and externally.
• Organizational skills and the ability to handle multiple tasks.
• Dependable attendance and punctuality.
• Positive, solution-focused attitude.
• Ability to lift to 50 lbs independently and heavier items via team lift.
• The capability to stand or sit for extended periods.

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED (or equivalent).
• Photography experience or training (1 year preferred, not strictly required).
• Proficiency with MS Office and/or Google Workspace.
• Valid Alaska driver’s license.
• Ability to pass a background & reference check.

Working Conditions & Schedule

You’ll work in a fast-paced, high-standard environment that values precision and consistency. Occasional overtime may be required. The role is primarily studio-based, but travel to client sites may occur when needed. Schedule: Monday – Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (8-hour shift + 1-hour unpaid break)

Perks & Benefits

• 401(k) with company matching
• Employer-funded short-term & long-term disability
• Employee Health Insurance
• Dental and Vision
• Paid time off and paid holidays
• Employee assistance program
• Employee discount
• Professional development support
• Referral bonus program

General Standards & Culture

• Maintain strict confidentiality of client materials and information.
• Return internal and external correspondence within one business day (or within two hours when possible).
• Use company technology responsibly to enhance operations and competitive edge.
• Bring solutions, not just problems; we expect proactive thinking.
• Represent APAA well, client experience is central.
• Be a team player; occasional cross‑team coverage may be needed.
• Offer ideas and improvements; your voice matters.