Cataloger - Americana/Political

Heritage Auctions; Irving (TX); On-site; USD 52,000 - 72,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical coverage

Dental coverage

Vision coverage

401k savings

Onsite gym

Job summary

Heritage Auctions in Irving, Texas seeks a skilled Cataloger for Americana and political collectibles to research, describe, and prepare items for upcoming auctions. The role emphasizes authenticity, historical context, and clear catalog narratives.

The ideal candidate has strong knowledge of American history, 3–5 years cataloging experience in auctions or institutions, and proficient research/writing skills.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree required; major in History, Political Science, American Studies, or related field preferred.
• Minimum of 3–5 years of experience cataloging Americana, historical artifacts, or political memorabilia in an auction house, gallery, or institutional setting.
• Demonstrated research and writing experience related to U.S. history or political collectibles.

Responsibilities

• Research and catalog Americana and political collectibles, including documents, campaign items, presidential and historical artifacts, photographs, ephemera, and related memorabilia.
• Write concise, accurate, and engaging descriptions emphasizing authenticity, historical context, and collector significance.
• Verify factual information and provenance through primary and secondary research.
• Assist in determining item condition, value, and historical importance.
• Proofread and edit catalog text and imagery to ensure quality and consistency.
• Collaborate with department directors, specialists, and photographers to maintain high standards for catalog production.
• Respond to inquiries from prospective bidders before and during auctions.
• Assist in the organization and handling of materials for photography, display, and shipping.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Skills

Excellent written communication

Meticulous attention to detail

Strong organizational skills

Deadline-driven

Research abilities

Team collaboration

Education

Bachelor’s degree in History

Bachelor’s degree in Political Science

Bachelor’s degree in American Studies

Tools

Microsoft Outlook

Microsoft Word

Microsoft Excel

Job description

Description

Start your career with the nation’s fastest-growing auction house that focuses on treasured collectibles from Sports, Entertainment to Luxury Handbags and Fine Art. Headquartered in Dallas, Texas, with offices in New York, Chicago, Beverly Hills, London, Hong Kong, and Tokyo. For almost 50 years, Heritage Auctions has been the largest auction house founded in the U.S. and serves more than 50 different auction categories, including Coins, Sports, Comics, Historical, Jewelry, Fine & Decorative Art, Wine, and many more.

SUMMARY

Heritage Auctions’ Americana & Political Department is seeking a skilled and detail-oriented Cataloger to research, describe, and prepare Americana and political collectibles for upcoming auctions. The ideal candidate has a strong knowledge of American history, political memorabilia, and historical artifacts, and can produce accurate, engaging catalog descriptions that reflect Heritage’s high editorial standards.

LOCATION:

South of Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport, NW corner of W. Airport Freeway (Hwy. 183) and Valley View Lane

BENEFITS:

• Medical, Dental, Vision coverage
• Paid time off
• 401k savings plans
• Onsite gym with access to a personal trainer

COMPENSATION:

Commensurate based on experience.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

• Research and catalog Americana and political collectibles, including documents, campaign items, presidential and historical artifacts, photographs, ephemera, and related memorabilia.
• Write concise, accurate, and engaging descriptions emphasizing authenticity, historical context, and collector significance.
• Verify factual information and provenance through primary and secondary research.
• Assist in determining item condition, value, and historical importance.
• Proofread and edit catalog text and imagery to ensure quality and consistency.
• Collaborate with department directors, specialists, and photographers to maintain high standards for catalog production.
• Respond to inquiries from prospective bidders before and during auctions.
• Assist in the organization and handling of materials for photography, display, and shipping.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Requirements

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor’s degree required; major in History, Political Science, American Studies, or related field preferred.
• Minimum of 3–5 years of experience cataloging or handling Americana, historical artifacts, or political memorabilia in an auction house, gallery, or institutional setting.
• Demonstrated research and writing experience related to U.S. history or political collectibles.
• Knowledge of authentication practices and familiarity with campaign material eras (18th–20th centuries) preferred.

SKILLS & ABILITIES

• Excellent written communication and research skills.
• Meticulous attention to detail and accuracy.
• Strong organizational and multitasking abilities in a deadline-driven environment.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Outlook, Word, and Excel.
• Collaborative and team-oriented, with a professional and proactive attitude.
• Ability to work independently and handle multiple projects under tight deadlines.

Heritage Auctions welcomes and encourages applications from women, minorities, veterans, mature workers, and persons with disabilities. EOE