2026 Summer Intern Program (New York) at Sotheby’s

New York, New York, United States

Sotheby’s Logo
Not SpecifiedCompensation
InternshipExperience Level
InternshipJob Type
UnknownVisa
Fine Art, Auctions, Luxury GoodsIndustries

Requirements

  • Currently pursuing an undergraduate degree with a graduation date between December 2026 and June 2027
  • Strong academic record with a minimum 3.2 GPA
  • Adaptive, multi-tasker with a positive attitude, strong work ethic, and demonstrated leadership skills
  • Curiosity and passion for the fine art or luxury markets
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills
  • Must be able to complete the entirety of the onsite 10-week program (Monday, June 1 – Friday, August 7, 2026)
  • 500-word maximum essay answering: "What is Sotheby’s role in the global art and luxury market and how do we continue to diversify ourselves as a brand?"
  • If applying to a Global Fine Art department: 500-word maximum essay on a work of art, artist, or exhibition, tailored to first choice GFA department

Responsibilities

  • Take on responsibilities of full-time employees, working on a variety of projects and making meaningful contributions
  • Participate in ongoing Speaker Series to learn from leaders about company culture, benefits, and responsibilities
  • Gain on-the-job training by working alongside experienced professionals on meaningful projects
  • Exchange ideas and network with peers, mentors, and senior managers through team-building sessions, museum tours, and other organized events
  • Collaborate with peers on a final Capstone project and present to executives during the final week

Questions & Answers

Common questions about this position

Is the summer internship program paid?

Yes, it is a paid full-time 10-week program.

Is the internship remote or onsite, and where is it located?

The program is onsite in New York and runs from Monday, June 1 to Friday, August 7, 2026.

What qualifications and skills are required for the internship?

Candidates must be currently pursuing an undergraduate degree with a graduation date between December 2026 and June 2027, have a minimum 3.2 GPA, and demonstrate adaptability, multi-tasking, a positive attitude, strong work ethic, leadership skills, and passion for the fine art or luxury market.

What is the company culture like for interns at Sotheby’s?

Interns experience the culture through hands-on responsibilities like full-time employees, ongoing Speaker Series with leaders, team-building sessions, museum tours, networking with peers and senior managers, and a final Capstone project presented to executives.

What makes a strong candidate for the Sotheby’s summer internship?

Strong candidates have a minimum 3.2 GPA, are adaptive multi-taskers with a positive attitude, strong work ethic, leadership skills, and a genuine curiosity and passion for the fine art or luxury market.

Sotheby’s

Auction house for fine art

About Sotheby’s

Sotheby's is a global auction house that specializes in selling fine art, luxury items, and collectibles through live and online auctions, as well as private sales. The company provides online estimates to help sellers determine the value of their items, which is a key differentiator from competitors. Sotheby's holds auctions in major cities worldwide, attracting a diverse audience and ensuring a competitive market for high-end items. The goal is to connect buyers and sellers in the luxury market while offering a personalized and discreet experience.

New York City, New YorkHeadquarters
1744Year Founded
$4MTotal Funding
POST_IPO_EQUITYCompany Stage
Real Estate, Consumer GoodsIndustries
1,001-5,000Employees

Benefits

Health Insurance
Dental Insurance
Vision Insurance
Life Insurance
Disability Insurance
Paid Vacation
Paid Sick Leave
Paid Holidays
401(k) Company Match
Professional Development Budget

Risks

NFT market volatility poses financial risks for Sotheby's digital collectibles sales.
Recent staff layoffs indicate potential financial instability or auction performance downturn.
The $100 million Breuer building acquisition could strain financial resources if unprofitable.

Differentiation

Sotheby's offers both live and online auctions, catering to diverse client preferences.
The company provides private sales for clients seeking privacy and exclusivity in transactions.
Sotheby's expertise in valuing rare items attracts high-end collectors and investors.

Upsides

Sotheby's collaboration with The Luxury Group offers unique luxury auction experiences.
The acquisition of the Breuer building enhances Sotheby's brand and auction venue prestige.
Sotheby's acceptance of cryptocurrency payments attracts crypto-wealthy buyers.

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