Weapons Specialist

Rock Island, IL

Full Time

Experienced

Rock Island Auction Company (RIAC), the #1 firearms auction house in the world, is searching for professional and reliable Weapons Specialist.

We are seeking a knowledgeable and versatile Weapons Specialist (Generalist) to join our team. This role is responsible for providing subject-matter expertise on a broad range of weapons, including firearms (historic and modern), edged weapons, and military artifacts, while supporting auction operations, catalog production, and client engagement. The ideal candidate combines deep historical knowledge with practical handling skills, ensuring accuracy, safety, and professionalism.

A strong working knowledge of firearms and a firm commitment to firearms safety are essential for success in this role.

This is a full-time position requiring 40 hours per week with overtime and weekend hours, as needed. RIAC standard hours of operations are Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. CST.

Essential Job Functions

Identify, evaluate, and catalog firearms, edged weapons, military memorabilia, and related items.
Conduct research and verify authenticity through documentation, historical references, and expert networks
Write clear, detailed, and accurate catalog descriptions that appeal to both collectors and general buyers.
Ensure safe handling, storage, and compliance with ATF, FFL, and state/federal regulations.
Provide subject-matter expertise to consignors and buyers regarding historical significance, valuation, and condition of items.
Assist across departments with photography, logistics, and inventory tracking as needed.
Represent RIAC as a knowledgeable, professional resource at events and industry gatherings.
Train and educate staff in proper handling and identification of weapons.
Contribute to continuous improvement of cataloging processes and auction operations.
Assist with setup, handling, and display of weapons during preview events and auctions.
Ability to work up to six (6) auction weekends per year.
Support staff and clients during live and online auctions.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Strong working knowledge of historical and modern firearms, edged weapons, and military memorabilia.
Demonstrated experience in research, cataloging, or appraising weapons and related collectibles.
Knowledge of ATF/FFL regulations and commitment to strict compliance and safety standards.
Excellent written communication skills with the ability to create accurate, engaging catalog descriptions.
Strong attention to detail and organizational skills in a fast-paced environment.
Ability to work collaboratively across teams and interact professionally with consignors and collectors.
Effective interpersonal skills with a professional, positive, and positive demeanor.
Strong attention to detail and organizational skills in a fast-paced environment.
Commitment to continuous professional development and staying current with industry trends.
Intermediate proficiency using Microsoft Office (Outlook, Word, Excel).
Ability to use and operate mobile devices; office machinery such as computer, copier, printer, and scanner; and other relevant equipment.
Reads, writes, speaks, and understands English fluently.

Education and Experience

High school diploma, GED, or equivalent required.
Bachelor’s degree in History or related field; or completion of a Gunsmithing Diploma/Associate program strongly preferred.
Prior experience in an auction house, museum, or firearms/collectibles industry.
Hands-on knowledge and experience working directly with firearms and related consignment items required.
Hands-on experience with photography or condition reporting of collectibles a plus.

Physical Requirements
Constant sedentary work for prolonged periods up to 100% of the time with routinely moving and transporting up to 10 pounds, occasionally up to 25 pounds. Must be able to travel up to 5% using various modes of transportation including airplane. Must be able to detect, identify, inspect, troubleshoot, test, observe, perceive, and assess web development operations. Must be able to constantly communicate and exchange accurate information. Constantly operates and uses computer and other relevant equipment and office machinery while performing repetitious movements. Constantly works with and around firearms, bladed weaponry, militaria, historic relics, and valuable collectibles.

*Must be authorized to work in the US without sponsorship.

The employer and its subsidiaries are Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employers. To learn more about EEO, please review "EEO is the Law" poster in English (including a screen-readable electronic version), Spanish, Arabic, and Chinese.

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With exhilarating auctions, award-winning catalogs, and outstanding customer service, RIAC welcomes résumés and/or applications from individuals with an interest in history, firearms culture, military memorabilia, or serving clients in a unique and progressive environment.

As a rapidly growing and expanding auction company, RIAC is located in Rock Island, Illinois, and Bedford, Texas! Click HERE to check out available job opportunities and apply online!

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Weapons Specialist

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