Auctioneer
SOC 41-9091.00 · ESCO 3339 · OSCA 622231
Role snapshot
Overview
Conducts public auctions for property, livestock, vehicles, or goods by calling bids and managing the pace of bidding. This includes appraising items, marketing upcoming sales, and handling settlement paperwork. Auctioneers are dynamic communicators who facilitate sales and ensure fair transactions.
Facilitates the efficient sale of assets, providing fair market value for sellers and opportunities for buyers. Drives commerce and supports various industries from agriculture to real estate.
On the job
- Call bids clearly and rapidly to maintain auction momentum and encourage participation
- Appraise items and establish fair starting bids or reserve prices for goods
- Market and promote upcoming auctions to attract potential buyers and sellers
- Manage registration, bidding processes, and post-sale settlement paperwork
- Maintain an energetic and engaging presence to control the auction environment
Tools & technology
Average salary
Job outlook
StableDemand is steady. This is an established role with consistent hiring across sectors.
Education & training
High school diploma or equivalent, often combined with specialized auctioneering training, licensing, or apprenticeship.
Career pathways
WHERE YOU COULD GO
CURRENT ROLE
Auctioneer
Retail & Customer Service
ADJACENT MOVES
STARTING POINTS
Who thrives here
Interest profile
enterprising · ECR
Individuals who enjoy persuading others, leading sales efforts, managing detailed transactions, and working with tangible goods or property often find auctioneering a rewarding career.
Personality characteristics
Charismatic
Comfortable and energetic in front of large crowds, adept at engaging and persuading potential buyers.
Organized
Diligent in managing appraisals, cataloging items, and handling the complex paperwork of sales and settlements.
Resilient
Able to handle the pressure of live sales, unpredictable bidding, and occasional setbacks without becoming flustered.
Adaptable
Open to new sales strategies and able to pivot quickly based on audience response and market conditions.
Fair-minded
Ensures transparency and equity in the bidding process for all participants, building trust with buyers and sellers.
Best for
- Individuals who thrive in dynamic, public-facing sales environments
- Those who enjoy the process of valuation, negotiation, and closing deals
- People who are natural performers and excellent communicators
Watch out for
- Requires regular weekend work for auctions, which may impact personal time
- Can be high-pressure and fast-paced, demanding quick decision-making and resilience
A week in the life
A representative working week for a Auctioneer — where the deep work, meetings, and admin actually land.
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