Auction Operations Associate

Job Summary

As an Auction Operations Associate at K&L Wine Merchants, you'll play a vital role in our online wine auction business. You'll work closely with our Auction & Acquisitions Advisors to prepare private collections for sale, handling tasks from pickup to inventory, quality control and authentication. Your attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and ability to work independently will contribute to our continued success.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Inventory and Processing: Pick up, receive, check-in, and accurately inventory collections. Sort and organize bottles, communicate variances, and create purchase orders.
• Authentication and Condition: Authenticate bottles, note condition, and escalate questions as needed. Understand our company's style guidelines for SKU creation.
• Preparation: Handle auction photo prep, including lot grouping and labeling.
• Customer Service: Carefully transport collectors' prized possessions from their cellars to our warehouse with professionalism and respect.
• Teamwork: Collaborate with colleagues, maintain a positive team environment, and contribute to company goals. Work with buyers to ensure end-to-end completion for each quote.
• Safety and Compliance: Adhere to safety regulations, maintain a clean work environment, and comply with company policies. 

About K&L Wine Merchants

K&L Wine Merchants is a family-owned and operated company dedicated to providing exceptional wine, spirits, and beer. We offer a world-class selection at four retail locations and online. We're a small but growth-minded company with a tight-knit team focused on providing excellent customer service.

Compensation Range:
$24-$26 hourly

Benefits:

• Opportunities for growth and development
• Competitive salary and benefits package
• Collaborative and supportive work environment
• Medical/Dental/Vision insurance - K&L pays 100% of individual premium
• Company-sponsored 401k
• 3 weeks of paid time off per year
• Generous product discount

Join our team and contribute to the success of our auctions!

Experience & Qualifications

• Valid CA driver's license and a clean driving record.
• Ability to work a full-time schedule, including Sunday and Monday.
• Experience: At least 2 years of experience in a retail or warehouse environment. Experience working with wine is preferred and a willingness to learn is a must.
• Skills: Proficient in relevant software (Office 365), able to learn proprietary software and use smart phones. Strong organizational and communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Physical Requirements: Ability to lift up to 50 lbs., stand and walk for extended periods, and perform physical tasks like bending and lifting.

Physical Demands

·        Prolonged standing and walking (6–8+ hours per shift)

·        Frequent bending, stooping, kneeling, and reaching

·        Lifting and carrying up to 25–50 lbs

·        Manual dexterity for handling tools, scanners, and paperwork

·        Possible operation of vehicles or equipment (e.g., forklifts, pallet jacks)

Environmental Demands

·        Work performed indoors and outdoors

·        Exposure to varying weather conditions and temperature changes

·        Moderate to loud noise levels during auction events

·        Exposure to dust, vehicle fumes, or warehouse conditions

·        Fast-paced, high-activity environment during auction days