Cataloguer, Pop Culture, Science, Technology & Natural History

Christie's•New York, NY

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The Cataloguer, Pop Culture, Science, Technology & Natural History supports the cataloguing, research, and sale preparation for Pop Culture and Science, Technology & Natural History auctions and private sales. The role is responsible for processing consigned property through original research, accurate catalogue entry writing and proofing, coordination of photography, and support of sale logistics, working closely with Specialists and departmental leadership. The position plays a critical role in ensuring scholarly rigor, accuracy, and consistency across a wide range of material, including pop culture artifacts such as entertainment, music, and sports memorabilia, as well as scientific instruments, natural history objects, technology‑related works, archives, and other culturally significant ephemera.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Art History, Cultural Studies, History of Science, Natural History, Museum Studies, Film or Media Studies, or a related discipline preferred.
Minimum of 3 years’ paid experience in an auction house, museum, archive, gallery, or related cultural institution.
Strong research skills with the ability to work across diverse collecting categories and object types.
Proficiency with email, spreadsheets, word processing, and presentation software (Microsoft Office preferred).
Ability to learn and work within Christie’s internal systems (including COS, JDE, intranet, and website platforms).
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Strong typing skills with exceptional attention to detail.
Demonstrated commitment to exceptional client service.
Ability to remain calm and effective in deadline‑driven, high‑pressure environments.
Proven ability to multitask, prioritize, and follow up effectively.
Collaborative and professional working style with strong organizational skills.

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree preferred.

Responsibilities

Catalogue property for auction and online sales, examining objects first‑hand and preparing complete and proofed catalogue entries in Christie’s format.
Write and prepare catalogue descriptions and supporting essays, ensuring clarity, accuracy, and appropriate scholarly context.
Conduct research on property including bibliography, provenance, exhibition history, and comparative material using libraries, online databases, archives, and external experts (such as curators, scholars, dealers, and researchers).
Flag any authenticity, provenance, legal, ethical, or regulatory concerns (including cultural property, intellectual property, personality rights, export, or CITES considerations where applicable) to the appropriate Specialist in a timely manner.
Proof all catalogue content with Specialists prior to submission to Catalogue Production.
Prepare property for hilling sessions and update catalogue records following valuation, condition, and marketability discussions.
Coordinate photography, image tracking, color checking, measurements, and any required conservation or preparation.
Maintain sale images in the media library and in Christie’s systems, liaising with the photo studio to monitor progress and meet deadlines.
Support the coordination and production of online‑only sales, private sale presentations, and dedicated collection catalogues.
Prepare condition reports in Christie’s systems and forward to clients upon request.
Ensure accuracy of lot cards and support pre‑sale exhibition preparation and installation.
Assist with gallery exhibition layout and de‑installation as needed.
Occasionally support client visits on‑site or off‑site in connection with appraisal, consignment, or sale activity.
Participate in telephone bidding and provide client support during auctions as required.
Undertake research in support of appraisal, valuation, and insurance documentation.
Maintain departmental reference materials, digital resources, and research files.
Perform additional duties as assigned by the Manager or Specialists.

Benefits

Comprehensive Medical, Dental and Vision care plans for employees and dependents (On average, Christie’s pays 80% of total premiums)
401(k) Savings Plan – Christie’s provides a matching contribution up to 5% (subject to IRS limits)
Life Insurance - 3x base salary (100% paid by Christie’s)
Disability Insurance (100% paid by Christie’s)
Generous time-off and leave policies; including 100% Paid Family Leave up to 16 weeks.
Fitness Reimbursement Program: reimbursement of eligible fitness fees and memberships up to $600 per year
Annual Discretionary Performance Bonus Plan
Commuter Benefits - Pre-tax money towards your daily commute with a Christie’s contribution of $21 per month
Back Up Child & Elder Care – up to 10 days of back-up Child or Elder Care through Bright Horizons
CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility) Day- Each employee receives one paid day per year to dedicate their time to a charity of their choice.
Perks and Discounts through Zo and Plum Benefits