Auction Operations Specialist

Auction Operations Specialist

Location: Unicorn Auctions HQ, 1801 W Foster Ave, Chicago, IL 60640 (Ravenswood). Fully in person.

Job Type: Full Time

Schedule: Four 10-hour shifts or five 8-hour shifts per week, within our operating hours (7AM–7PM Mon–Fri, 9AM–7PM Sat–Sun). Weekend availability required, and flexibility across our hours is a plus.

Pay: Starting at $19/hour

Benefits: Health, dental, and vision insurance, plus 401(k) contribution

About Unicorn Auctions

Unicorn Auctions is a fast-growing online auction house for spirits, wine, and collectibles, connecting seasoned collectors and new enthusiasts. Every bottle we sell passes through our Chicago HQ, and we care about getting every one of them right.

About the Role

As an Auction Operations Specialist, you'll own the first step of every bottle's journey at Unicorn: receiving it, inspecting it, and getting it accurately cataloged and ready for auction. You'll handle bottles arriving by parcel and by in-person seller drop-off, many of them rare and high-value. You'll report to our Auction Operations Manager and work alongside a team of about 20 people.

What You'll Do

• Bottle intake and cataloging: Record each bottle's details accurately, including brand, vintage, single barrel pick, proof, age, and condition.
• Receiving: Check in incoming packages, verify shipments against what sellers sent, and welcome sellers during in-person drop-offs.
• Inspection: Inspect bottles for condition and authenticity before they go to auction. We'll train you on how to inspect bottles, and our managers and spirits experts are always available for second opinions and questions.
• Problem-solving: Track incoming shipments, flag discrepancies, and work with the team to resolve them quickly.
• Teamwork: Partner with the team that builds and schedules our auctions, and with warehouse staff, to keep bottles moving on time.
• Cross-training: Learn other areas of operations as the business grows.

What We're Looking For

• Strong attention to detail, especially when the bottle in your hands is worth thousands
• A fast learner who's eager to grow and comfortable being cross-trained in different areas
• Comfort with technology: data entry, Google Workspace, Microsoft Office, and new internal tools
• A friendly, professional manner with sellers
• Ability to stay organized and prioritize in a fast-paced environment
• Ability to lift and move packages and cases up to 40 lbs
• Must be 21 or older
• Knowledge of wine or spirits is a bonus, not a requirement. Curiosity is.

Why Unicorn

We're a fast-growing startup, and we promote from within. High performers here have real room to grow, whether that's deeper into Auction Operations or into other parts of the company. You'll also get hands-on experience with some of the rarest bottles on the market.