Job Specifications
ABOUT SOTHEBY'S
Established in 1744, Sotheby’s is the world’s premier destination for art and luxury. Sotheby’s promotes access to and ownership of exceptional art and luxury objects through auctions and buy-now channels including private sales, e-commerce and retail. Our trusted global marketplace is supported by an industry-leading technology platform and a network of specialists spanning 40 countries and 70 categories which include Contemporary Art, Modern and Impressionist Art, Old Masters, Chinese Works of Art, Jewelry, Watches, Wine and Spirits, and Design, as well as collectible cars and real estate. Sotheby’s believes in the transformative power of art and culture and is committed to making our industries more inclusive, sustainable and collaborative.
2026 Summer Intern Program (New York)
Sotheby’s, the oldest and largest internationally recognized firm of fine art auctioneers in the world, has been uniting collectors with world-class works of art since 1744. We will be offering exceptional undergraduate students the opportunity to participate in a unique 10-week paid Summer Internship Program.
Sotheby’s Summer Internship Program provides practical training experience to students interested in pursuing a career in the fine art and auction world. Internships are available across various business areas and interns will work within a specific department based on their academic interests and professional goals. Over the course of the summer program, Sotheby’s interns will experience the inner workings of a world-renowned auction house, see great rarities and discover potential industry career opportunities. In addition, interns will gain exposure to the business through hands-on learning, mentorship, team projects and so much more.
Summer Intern Program Experience
Onsite, paid full-time 10-week program, Monday, June 1 – Friday, August 7, 2026
Experience the culture and atmosphere of Sotheby’s by taking on responsibilities of Full-Time employees, working on a variety of projects and making meaningful contributions
Learn from our leaders about our culture as well as the benefits and responsibilities of being a member of Sotheby’s through ongoing Speaker Series
Gain on-the-job training by working alongside experienced professionals on meaningful projects throughout the program
Exchange ideas and network with peers, mentors and senior managers through team-building sessions, museum tours and other organized events
Innovate with peers through a final Capstone project; interns will have the opportunity to present to executives during the final week of the program
Qualifications, Skills & Requirements
Currently pursuing an undergraduate degree with a graduation date between December 2026 and June 2027
A strong academic record with a minimum 3.2 GPA
Adaptive, multi-tasker with a positive attitude, strong work ethic and demonstrated leadership skills
A 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
Writing Sample(s)
Please include a 500-word maximum essay answering the following question: What is Sotheby’s role in the global art and luxury market and how do we continue to diversify ourselves as a brand?
Required: If you are applying to a Global Fine Art department, please choose a work of art, an artist, or an exhibition and write a 500-word maximum essay. This writing sample should be tailored to your first choice GFA department.
Deadline
Applications will close on January 1, 2026 at 11:59PM EST
Incomplete applications or applications completed following the deadline will not be considered
Sotheby's Summer Internship Grant
At Sotheby’s, we strive to build an organization that is diverse in experience and background. One way we demonstrate this commitment is through Sotheby’s Summer Internship Grant, which is an integral part of our recruiting efforts for college juniors and helps to attract candidates from all over the U.S.. Once you begin the application process for our 2026 Summer Intern Program (New York), you will have the opportunity to apply for the Grant. The Sotheby’s Summer Internship Grant is awarded to students who embody our Business Values; if selected as a recipient, you will receive a one-time financial payment of $2,000 prior to the program start date. We encourage students of all majors and disciplines to apply.
Sotheby's Summer Internship Grant Essay Questions
Please answer the short answer essay question below, as an opportunity for you to demonstrate your interest in Sotheby’s and the broader art and luxury markets. Your response should be 180 words or less.
What is a significant challenge that impacts historically excluded groups in the Art & Luxury markets and what do you believe is the root cause of this challenge? Have you been impacted by or overcome these challenges, if so please provide an example.
Sotheby's Summer Internship Departments
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About the Company
Established in 1744, Sotheby’s is the world’s premier destination for art and luxury. Sotheby’s promotes access to and ownership of exceptional art and luxury objects through auctions and buy-now channels including private sales, e-commerce and retail. Our trusted global marketplace is supported by an industry-leading technology platform and a network of specialists spanning 40 countries and 70 categories which include Contemporary Art, Modern and Impressionist Art, Old Masters, Chinese Works of Art, Jewelry, Watches, Wine a...
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