2027 Summer Intern Program (New York)

About the role

Sotheby’s, established in 1744, is the oldest and largest internationally recognized fine‑art auction house, offering auctions, private sales and retail across 70 selling categories including Contemporary Art, Modern and Impressionist Art, Old Masters, Chinese Works of Art, Jewelry, Watches, Wine and Spirits, Design, collectible cars and real estate. The 2027 Summer Intern Program (New York) is a 10‑week paid internship that provides practical training for undergraduate students interested in a career in fine art and auction work.

Responsibilities

• 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 leaders about Sotheby’s culture and the benefits and responsibilities of being a member through the 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

• Currently pursuing an undergraduate degree with a graduation date between December 2027 and June 2028.
• Strong academic record with a minimum 3.3 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.
• Ability to complete the entirety of the onsite 10‑week program.
• Submit a writing sample: a 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, also submit a 500‑word essay on a chosen work of art, artist, or exhibition tailored to your first‑choice GFA department.
• Application deadline: December 31, 2026 at 11:59 PM EST.

Benefits

• Paid full‑time 10‑week internship (onsite in New York).
• Eligible to apply for the Sotheby’s Summer Internship Grant – a one‑time $2,000 payment awarded to selected recipients prior to the program start.
• Grant essay question (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.”

Schedule

• Program dates: Monday, June 7 – Friday, August 13, 2027 (10 weeks).
• Onsite, full‑time schedule.