Property Handler

Location: Rago, Lambetville, New Jersey

Rago/Wright is a network of independent auction houses—Rago, Wright, LA Modern Auctions, Toomey & Co., Landry Pop Auctions, and Poster Auctions International—specializing in 20th century art and design. Our innovative style and superior expertise set us apart in the auction industry and together, we maintain a compelling and original voice in the worlds of art and design. Our Lambertville location is filled with iconic 20th century design and fine art. The work environment is fast-paced but most notably, creatively driven each step of the way.

Responsibilities:

• Proficient handling of artworks and sculpture for storage, display, packing and transport, including wrapping, packing and crating using museum-standard techniques
• Install/de-install items in both routine and challenging locations
• Communicate and coordinate projects with warehouse manager, photo studio
• Enthusiastically and diplomatically work in tandem with other handlers
• Handle, pack, secure, transport, and install artwork and property
• Expertly store and track items in our warehouse, as well as load/unload vehicles with care and efficiency
• Release items to shippers and clients, as needed, complete proper paperwork and update inventory system to reflect release
• Uncrating and throwing away debris
• Identify and tag incoming property when needed
• Assisting in making assessments concerning the safety of works and taking necessary action to secure artworks
• Maintain and organize materials and supplies used in the handling of inventory; dollies, carts, blankets, etc.
• Keep warehouse consistently clean and useable, bringing a proactive approach
• Occasional travel for local and regional pickups/deliveries, including interfacing with customers

Requirements:

• Minimum 3 years of experience at a museum, gallery, or art shipping organization
• Physical Requirements: lifting, moving, heavy objects (in excess of 50 lbs.), bending, kneeling, crouching, etc. Must be able to stand for extended periods of time.
• Installation and packing/unpacking experience
• Comfortable using tools such as Slack and email for effective collaboration and communication
• Professionally communicate with shipping vendors and customers when receiving or releasing inventory
  Comfortable using communication tools such as Slack and email for effective collaboration and communication
• Ability to take direction and ask for assistance, as needed, ensuring projects stay on schedule
• Demonstrate concern for detail, accuracy and precise execution of work, all while being adaptable and willing to learn a new direction or skill Professional commitment and adaptability; willingness to safely shift directions for the need of the artwork or client, in a moment’s notice
• Reliable, detail-oriented, able to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment, and committed to maintaining high standards of accuracy and productivity
• Demonstrated expertise in art handling techniques, packing, crating and storing protocols

Benefits:

• The hourly pay range for the role is $23.00-26.44 per hour, depending on the candidate’s experience, skillset, and qualifications
• Comprehensive medical, dental, vision insurance
• Safe Harbor 401(k) with 3% company contribution
• Basic life insurance at no cost to the employee
• Personal Paid Time Off
• Commuter Benefits Program and free on-site parking
• Approximately 10 paid company holidays each year, including company closure between Christmas and New Year’s Day
• 12 weeks of 100% paid Parental Leave
• Employee Assistance Program

This job description provides a general overview of the responsibilities and qualifications required for the role.

If you’re a motivated individual with a passion for property handling, we invite you to apply for this exciting opportunity. Research shows that candidates from underrepresented backgrounds often don’t apply for roles if they don’t meet all the criteria – unlike majority candidates meeting significantly fewer requirements. We strongly encourage you to apply if you’re interested!

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status, or any other legally protected basis, in accordance with applicable law.