Auction Inventory Cataloger

Principal Responsibility: The Auction Cataloger is responsible for photographing and taking measurements of items consigned for auction following APAA standards for clarity, color, and scale, and for accurately and fairly describing the items photographed in our auction management software.

Position is: Hourly                                                                           Position Reports to: Cataloging Manager          

Position Supports: Auction Curator & Auction Inventory Laborer

The Auction Cataloger is Responsible For:

1. Check the APAA Catalogers Communications Chat resource at the beginning of the work shift to identify Lot assignments and other important instructions.


2. Consult with the Cataloging Manager to resolve questions or issues about Lot assignments or daily instructions.


3. Gather a camera phone, tools, and other accessories, and prepare a photography studio to use for the day.


4. Retrieve inventory from the Intakes Staging area and move to a photography studio.


5. Shoot a high volume of inventory by APAA standards for clarity, color, and scale.


6. Ensure proper exposure, lighting combinations, color balance, detail accuracy, and focus of items.


7. Through photography, capture and represent proof marks, serial numbers, signatures, unique features present on the item, and any damage also present. Utilize a scale reference model when necessary.  


8. Accurately, completely, and fairly describe the item and its overall condition in the auction Lot.


9. Open and re-package items efficiently.


10. Maintain a clean and organized photography studio.


11. Follow all rules regarding the return and storage of camera phones, tools, and accessories used for cataloging.


12. Consult with the Auction Intakes Department Manager or Outtakes Department Manager when locating items in the warehouse.


13. Consistently and accurately record vital information for inventory control measures.


14. Works in a constant state of alertness and a safe manner.


15. May be temporarily assigned to catalog items off-site at clients’ estates or places of business liquidation.


16. Performs other duties as assigned.

Supervisory Responsibilities

This position does not have any supervisory responsibilities.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

1. Experience with a digital camera or smartphone with a camera.


2. Experience shooting on a camera stand, tripod, and hand-held, preferred, but not required.


3. Knowledge of photography & lighting techniques is preferred.


4. Ability to accurately estimate project timelines and deliver high-quality completed assignments on time.


5. An eye for detail, shape, color, focus, and form.


6. Good communication skills.


7. Good organizational skills.


8. Ability to meet attendance requirements.


9. Ability to maintain a positive, supportive, solution-focused attitude.


10. Ability to lift 50 pounds independently safely, and heavier weights with team lift methods safely.


11. Ability to stand or sit for extended periods while cataloging inventory.

Minimum Qualifications

1. High school diploma or GED equivalent.


2. A minimum of one year of photography experience and/or training are preferred but not required.


3. Proficiency in MS Office and/or Google Workspace Applications.


4. Valid Alaska Driver’s license


5. Ability to pass a background and reference check.

Working Environment

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.  APAA is a locally grown and Alaskan-owned small business that maintains high standards within a fast-paced environment that requires regular attendance and attention to multiple ongoing tasks that may overlap. Occasional overtime is required.

 Job Type:         Full-time

 Benefits:          401(k)

                           401(k) matching

                           Employee Assistance Program

                           Employee Discount

                           Paid Time Off

                           Paid Holidays

                           Professional Development Assistance

                           Referral Program

                           Employer Funded Short-Term, Long-Term disability, dental, and vision.

                           Employee Health Benefits

Schedule:         M-F, 9a-6p, 1-Hour Unpaid Break for an 8-Hour Shift

Experience:      Minimum one year of photography experience and/or training preferred but not required.

              Proficiency in MS Office and/or Google Workspace Applications.

General Standards

1. All client materials and information will be held strictly confidential outside the company.  


2. All telephone calls and correspondence, both internal and external, will be returned within one business day and within two hours whenever possible.


3. All employees are responsible for utilizing company technology accurately to leverage online resources and further our competitive advantage in the market.


4. Every member of the team is responsible for bringing solutions to the table; we never present a problem without a recommendation for its resolution.


5. Each member of the team is responsible for the relationships we have with our clients; attention to client experience is always top of mind.


6. Employees will provide staff assistance as requested, with a spirit of helpfulness. This means each employee may be asked occasionally to cover in other departments as a matter of exception, not routine.


7. Employees are encouraged to recommend ideas for the betterment of the company, innovations, and improvements within their department and position.