Firearms Describer & Support

Kids for the Future; Illinois; On-site; USD 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

Kids for the Future in Rock Island, IL is seeking a Firearms Describer to research and write descriptions for firearms, edged weapons and military memorabilia used in auctions.

The role is 100% onsite, requiring a 4-year degree or firearm experience, strong writing skills, and the ability to meet production deadlines. Candidates must be able to travel up to 5% and obtain a FOID card where required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in history or related field preferred or 2+ years firearms experience.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office (Excel, Access and Outlook).
• Strong writing and research abilities required.
• Travel up to 5% to gun shows and related events.
• Must be 21+ and able to obtain FOID card (Illinois residents).

Responsibilities

• Research, collect information and write descriptions of firearms, edged weapons and military artifacts for catalogs and website.
• Specialize in a firearm genre and become the go-to describer for that group.
• Catalog complete collections and verify details for listings.
• Research historical significance of items for sale in auctions.
• Use on-site resources and databases to assemble accurate descriptions.
• Log and search past descriptions in the cataloging system.
• Work with Catalog Production to meet deadlines.
• Update descriptions and paperwork in the database.
• Occasionally assist with video promotions.

Skills

Strong writer

History knowledge

Research

Deadline driven

Organization

FOID eligibility

Travel readiness

Education

Bachelor’s degree in history or related field

2+ years firearms experience

Tools

Microsoft Office (Excel, Access, Outlook)

Job description

• Location 7819 42nd St W,Rock Island, IL, 61201,United States
• Base Pay $50,000.00 - $70,000.00 / Year
• Job Category Descriptions
• Employee Type FT Non-Exempt
• Required Degree 4 Year Degree
• Travel 5%
• Manage Others No

Description

The Firearms Describer is responsible for research and descriptive writing of firearms being placed into our auctions. This position works closely with firearms, bladed weaponry, and other types of military memorabilia, many of which are rare, one-of-a-kind items that can’t be found elsewhere.

Essential Job Functions

• Research, collect information and write descriptions of firearms, edged weapons and military artifacts for use in our catalogs, website and in marketing campaigns and advertisements. Consistently receives feedback and corrections of descriptions to complete from specialists and more-senior describers.
• Specialize in a specific firearm genre and be the go-to person for describing those firearms/weapons
• Responsible for cataloging complete collections
• Research the historical significance of items for sale in our auctions
• Use on-site research library, online resources, manufacturer serial number databases, and other available resources to accurately put together product descriptions
• Write, log, and search past descriptions using custom, proprietary inventory and cataloging program
• Review catalog pages by performing floor verification, proof reading, and entering corrections into database
• Work closely with other members of the Catalog Production department to meet production deadlines
• Accurately update database with product descriptions and complete additional paperwork for additions to a lot or description corrections
• Handles inventory/collectables in a safe and respectful manner.
• Required to work up to six auction weekends per year. Some overtime & additional weekend work required.
• Work with social media department to appear on video promoting specific firearms, edged weapons, and military artifacts.
• This is a 100% onsite position.
• Other duties as assigned

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Strong passion for history and knowledge in at least one genre of firearms required
• Strong writer with the ability to describe inventory in an understandable and appealing manner
• Well organized and highly motivated. Must be professional and dependable.
• Works at a quick pace and is capable of producing descriptions on a deadline
• Must be 21 years or older and able to obtain and keep a FOID card (Illinois residents)
• Ability to travel (up to 5%) to gun shows throughout the United States

Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in history or related field preferred or at least two years’ of previous experience working with firearms in a manufacturing or retail setting required.
• Must demonstrate sufficient knowledge to prove mastery of one genre of firearms.
• Research and writing experience required.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office suite, specifically Excel, Access, and Outlook. Strong typing skills required.

Requirements

Physical Requirements

Regularly required to sit for extended periods of time, with regular walking, bending, kneeling and stooping. Regular lifting of 25 pounds with occasional lifting of up to 50 pounds. Use of hands to reach and feel. Reads and writes, speaks and hears. Works with and around products associated with firearms.