Collectibles Specialist

About the Role

Harrington's Auctioneers is launching a dedicated Collectibles department and we're looking for a seasoned specialist to build it from the ground up. This is an entrepreneurial, hands-on role for someone who lives and breathes collectibles—sports memorabilia, sports cards, stamps, and pop-culture/trading card categories (e.g., Pokémon, vintage TCGs, and related collectibles).

You'll help shape what this department becomes: sourcing, authenticating, valuing, and presenting standout consignments for auction and private sale. If you've been the "go-to" person in the hobby and you're ready to lead a new division, we want to meet you.

What You'll Do

Department Build-Out & Leadership

• Establish processes for intake, authentication, grading support, cataloging, and valuation.
• Develop category strategies across sports memorabilia, sports cards, stamps, and pop-culture collectibles.
• Advise on market positioning, client services, and growth opportunities.
• Collaborate with leadership to set targets and performance metrics.

Consignment & Client Development

• Source high-quality consignments through your network and active outreach.
• Build long-term relationships with collectors, dealers, estates, and institutions.
• Attend shows and events nationwide to represent Harrington's, evaluate items, and secure consignments.
• Deliver a white-glove experience from first conversation to final sale.

Valuation, Authentication & Cataloging

• Assess authenticity and condition of a wide range of collectibles.
• Provide accurate, market-driven estimates and recommendations on timing and channel.
• Prepare clear, compelling catalog descriptions that highlight value and provenance.
• Work with third-party graders/authenticators when needed.

Auction & Event Support

• Support pre-sale planning, lot curation, and auction execution.
• Participate in on-site previews, client meetings, and event days.
• Help educate internal teams and clients on trends and best practices.

What We're Looking For

Must-Have Experience

• Extensive, proven experience in collectibles (sports memorabilia, sports cards, stamps, and/or trading card/pop-culture categories).
• Strong valuation instincts and deep familiarity with current and historical market trends.
• Track record of sourcing or selling collectibles at a professional level (auction house, dealership, grading company, or equivalent).
• Ability to build a department or program—process, standards, and client pipeline—from zero.
• Confident communicator who can earn trust quickly with high-value collectors.

Required Skills

• Expertise in condition assessment and authentication indicators.
• Strong writing skills for cataloging and client-facing documentation.
• Organized, detail-driven approach to intake and tracking.
• Comfortable working independently and making judgment calls.
• Tech-savvy enough to work with inventory/catalog systems, spreadsheets, and photo workflows.

Logistics Requirements

• Valid driver's license and ability to drive.
• Willingness to work a hybrid schedule based out of Vaughan, ON.
• Comfortable with frequent national travel, including trips up to two (2) weeks at a time.
• Comfortable lifting/moving items and handling valuable materials safely.

Work Environment & Schedule

This role is hybrid. Expect a mix of:

• In-office days in Vaughan, ON for planning, cataloging, client follow-ups, and team coordination.
• Nationwide travel and event days for sourcing, evaluations, and relationship building. Travel can include multi-city trips up to two weeks depending on consignment opportunities, auctions, and shows.
• Occasional evenings/weekends aligned with auctions and major events.

Why Harrington's

• Opportunity to build and lead a brand-new department with real autonomy.
• Access to an established auction platform and client base.
• A chance to shape strategy, grow a team over time, and leave a mark on the business.
• Compensation that rewards expertise and results.

Compensation

$65,000 per year base salary + high commission (uncapped)

How to Apply

Submit your resume and a brief note highlighting your areas of collectibles expertise, notable collections/deals you've handled, and why you're excited to build this department.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $65,000.00 per year

Work Location: In person