The art of the perfect fit

Sale Room Assistant, Auction House

Posted: 30.09.2024
Contract Type: Full-time
Job Type: Permanent
Pay: Negotiable
Location: Edinburgh Scotland, UK
Tenure: Permanent
Job description:

Our client is a well established regional auction house covering a large geographical area of Scotland and Northern England and they are seeking a Saleroom Assistant for the busy saleroom in Edinburgh. They hold 100’s of auctions a year in four different salerooms, specialising in over 20 categories including fine antiques, coins, whisky, musical instruments etc. Due to growth in the business they  are seeking a reliable and enthusiastic Saleroom Assistant to join the dynamic team.

About the Role

You will report to the Saleroom Manager and the Director, and will have experience in a customer facing role and have a willing ‘can do’ attitude.  You will be a team player, willing to help out with varied tasks within a modern auction room. As this is a physically demanding role, the ability to help move and place heavy items such as furniture is necessary.  Flexibility, good work ethic and determination are key attributes.

Key responsibilities:

As Saleroom Assistant you will –

  • Prepare the saleroom for auctions by unpacking items, setting up and arranging items according to auction requirements. Post-auction, efficiently clear and clean the saleroom, correctly handing out goods to winning bidders.
  • Safely move, handle, and store auction items, ensuring they are presented in the best possible condition.
  • Greet clients and accept chattels into the saleroom, carrying out correct stock entry procedures.
  • Ensure efficient and accurate stock control.
  • Answer client and public enquiries by phone and email, ensuring enquiries are dealt with efficiently and courteously.
  • Assist auctioneers, cataloguers, and other staff with various tasks before, during, and after the auction.
  • Photographing lots for online presentation.
  • Other basic tasks as and when needed.

Training for the above will be provided.

Required Skills and Experience:

  • A flexible approach and a willingness to support outside of your core responsibilities.
  • Good interpersonal skills and the ability to work well within a team.
  • Ability to lift and move heavy items safely and comfortably.
  • Strong organisational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment.
  • On the odd occasion, the flexibility to work outside normal hours as and when required in order to meet deadlines.
  • Previous experience in a similar role or customer facing environment is desirable but not required. On-the-job training will be provided.

Salary negotiable around £22,000 to £25,000 depending on experience. 28 days holiday.

Staff parking and a supportive and collaborative team atmosphere in a reputable auction house.