Researcher II, Comics/Magazines

Collectors is the leading creator of innovative technology that provides value-added services for collectors worldwide. We grade, authenticate, vault, and sell millions of record-setting collectibles, all while modernizing and digitalizing the process to further our mission of helping collectors pursue their passions. We’re always on the lookout for talented people to join our growing team.

Our services span collectible coins, trading cards, Funko Pops!, video games, event tickets, autographs, and memorabilia. Our subsidiaries include PSA, PCGS, SGC, WATA, and Card Ladder.

Since our founding in 1986, we have graded and authenticated millions of items. We employ more than 1,900 people across our headquarters in Santa Ana and offices in Jersey City, Tokyo, Shanghai, Hong Kong, Toronto, Guadalajara, Dallas, and Paris.

We're looking for a Researcher II to join our Pop Culture team. You'll report to the Director of Comic Grading and work from our Santa Ana, CA office.

What You'll Do:

• Spec and authenticate all forms of Pop Culture, but most focused on sports magazines and comic books.

• Effectively communicate with team members and management.

• Demonstrate perceptive decision making in researching and creating valid specs in alignment with Comics and Magazines and Industry Standards at the highest level.

• Ensures submissions are processed efficiently through research and authentication.

• Check and monitor crackouts, re-holders, CRC orders, ensuring they get through research & authentication efficiently.

• Work on special projects as needed, such as population reports.

• Work cross-functionally with the Research team to resolve mech errors.

• Provide appropriate feedback.

• Prioritize orders and operate with sensitivities.

• Assist Authentication Manager in determining methods and procedures on new assignments.

• Safely handle and account for valuable merchandise, ensuring its security and proper handling throughout all process stages.

Who You Are:

• Interest in and familiarity with comic books and magazines. Interest in sports magazines specifically is preferred. Understanding of comic book authentication standards is a plus.

• Previous research experience is preferred but not required.

• Ability to provide and receive constructive feedback, mentor team members, and give recognition for positive performance.

• Strong communication skills; someone who speaks clearly and persuasively in positive and negative situations, listens and gets clarifications, responds well to questions, demonstrates group presentation skills, and participates in meetings.

• Team player who can balance team and individual responsibilities, exhibiting objectivity and openness to others' views; someone who contributes to building a positive team spirit and environment, putting the success of the team above their own interests.

• Strong interpersonal skills including but not limited to solving conflict, maintaining confidentiality, listening, and having an openness to others's ideas including new ideas that may benefit the department.

• Dependable and emotionally mature with an ability to remain calm during high-stress situations.

• Ability to manage time effectively, as well as adapting to on-going changes in priorities; demonstrated ability to change direction according to business demands.

Physical Requirements:

• Computer Use: Typing, mouse work, and sitting and looking at a computer potentially for long periods of time.

• Hand Use: Regular hand use for various tasks.

• Hearing Requirements: Ability to hear alarms, signals, and verbal instructions.

• Lifting and Carrying: Ability to lift, carry, and move materials up to 25 pounds.

• Sitting or Standing: Ability to sit or stand for extended periods of time.

Hourly Range:  The hourly range for this position is $21. Actual compensation in this range will be based on a variety of non-discriminatory factors, including location, job level, prior experience, and skill set.

Collectors uses e-Verify to validate your ability to work legally in the United States.

We are aware that there are instances where individuals are receiving job offers that fraudulently allege to be from Collectors or one of our business units. This type of fraud can be carried out through false websites, through fake e-mails claiming to be from the company or through social media. We never ask for personal information such as your bank account, Social Security numbers or National IDs, nor do we send or request payments for the purchase of business-related equipment. If you suspect fraud, please reach out to [email protected].

We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ethnicity, ancestry, religion, national origin, gender, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital or parental status, disability, veteran status, or other class protected by applicable law. We believe that a team that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills will better service the diverse community of collectors we support.

If you require an accommodation to apply or interview with us due to a disability or special need, please email [email protected].

U.S. residents: for disclosures relating to personal information we collect during the employment application and recruitment process, please see our Privacy Notice for U.S. Applicants.

If you are based in California, you can read information for California residents here.