Design Specialist

Heritage Auctions•New York, NY

4h•$75,000 - $110,000•Onsite

About The Position

About Heritage Auctions Start your career with one of the nation’s fastest-growing auction houses. Heritage Auctions is a global auction house driven by curiosity, innovation, and the stories behind extraordinary objects. For nearly 50 years, Heritage has connected collectors and consignors through a dynamic marketplace that celebrates history, culture, and craftsmanship. Headquartered in Dallas, Texas, with offices in New York, Chicago, Beverly Hills, London, Hong Kong, and other major cities, we support a worldwide network of experts and enthusiasts across more than 50 auction categories. From Sports and Entertainment memorabilia to Luxury Handbags, Fine Art, Jewelry, Coins, Wine, and rare historical artifacts, every item tells a story. We are dedicated to bringing those stories to life through deep research, cutting-edge technology, and thoughtful presentation. Known for our expertise and innovation, we offer a dynamic environment where passion for history, culture, and storytelling brings collectors together to discover, learn, and connect. ROLE SUMMARY: We’re seeking a Design Specialist who will contribute expertise, build meaningful client relationships, and help bring extraordinary objects to market. The Design Specialist is responsible for evaluating Design property in all media from late 19th century to present, securing consignments, cultivating client relationships, and contributing to catalogue production and sales initiatives. This role combines research, market knowledge, communication, and hands-on involvement throughout the auction process.

Requirements

5+ years of experience at a major auction house or as a commercial dealer specializing in design preferred; or equivalent relevant experience and education.
An energetic, proactive, and professional approach—someone who thrives in relationship-driven environments.
Strong verbal and written communication skills.
High attention to detail; ability to juggle multiple projects and meet tight deadlines.
Excellent organization, follow-through, and time-management abilities.
Team-oriented mindset with willingness to learn and adapt.
Ability to analyze information, solve problems, and propose effective solutions.
Comfort working in a fast-paced, dynamic, and multi-project environment.

Responsibilities

Evaluate property and determine appropriate auction estimates.
Source and secure consignments through Heritage Auctions channels and self-generated leads.
Research, authenticate, and catalog incoming property.
Review and proof catalog text, photography, press releases, marketing emails, and advertising copy.
Promote auction lots to clients and support sales initiatives.
Assist with expanding and maintaining the client database.
Respond to client inquiries before, during, and after each auction.
Travel as needed for client meetings, property evaluation, and consignment acquisition.
Travel as needed to Heritage’s Dallas headquarters for cataloguing and catalogue production.
Actively participate in auction events.