Technical Grader, Trading Cards (Salary + comp.)

This is an exempt/salary role with a bonus calculation based on hours worked.

We're looking for detail-oriented, motivated individuals who want more than just another job - we're looking for people who are ready to build a long-term career and grow with a team that values hard work, accuracy, and commitment. As a Technical Grader, you'll play a critical role in evaluating and maintaining quality standards that directly impact operations and performance. This position is ideal for someone who takes pride in precision, learns quickly, and wants an opportunity to earn competitive pay with performance-based growth potential. If you're dependable, driven to improve, and excited to be part of a company that rewards effort and dedication, we want to hear from you.

Overview

MBA Grading Services delivers professional grading and authentication solutions for trading cards and collectible assets. By combining consistent evaluation standards with a focus on reliability and transparency, we help support confidence in the collectibles marketplace. Our team plays a critical role in preserving value, enhancing marketability, and maintaining the integrity of graded assets.

This position reports to the Grading Manager.

As a Technical Grader, you'll be at the core of the grading process, using a trained eye and precise standards to evaluate the condition of trading cards and collectibles. This role is ideal for individuals who thrive on detail, consistency, and accuracy, and who take pride in making fair, objective assessments. You'll work hands-on with a wide range of cards, applying structured grading criteria to determine their quality and value in the marketplace.

This role includes travel.

Responsibilities

• Evaluate trading cards and collectibles using established grading standards, assessing factors such as centering, corners, edges, and surface condition.
• Assign accurate and consistent grades based on defined criteria, ensuring alignment with company standards and quality expectations.
• Inspect cards using magnification tools, lighting, and other equipment to detect imperfections, alterations, or damage.
• Identify signs of tampering, restoration, or counterfeit items and escalate concerns when necessary.
• Maintain detailed and accurate records of grading decisions within internal systems.
• Ensure consistency in grading by adhering strictly to documented processes and participating in calibration or review sessions.
• Handle all assets with extreme care to preserve condition and prevent damage during evaluation.
• Collaborate with team members to review flagged items or resolve grading discrepancies.
• Meet productivity targets while maintaining a high level of accuracy and attention to detail.
• Stay up to date with company grading standards, industry trends, and evolving best practices.
• Support continuous improvement efforts by providing feedback on grading processes and tools.
• Travel to Trade Shows as needed and/or directed.
• Additional duties as assigned.

Essential Skills

• Prior grading experience with trading cards and the collectibles market required.
• Exceptional attention to detail with the ability to detect subtle flaws and variations in card conditions.
• Strong visual analysis skills, including the ability to assess centering, edges, corners, and surface quality.
• Ability to make consistent, objective decisions based on standardized grading criteria.
• Integrity and accountability in applying grading standards fairly and consistently.
• Basic computer proficiency for entering grades and maintaining accurate digital records.
• Time management skills to balance accuracy with productivity expectations.
• Strong communication skills for collaborating with quality control and escalating discrepancies.

Additional Skills/Experience Recommended

• Familiarity with industry grading standards (e.g., centering ratios, defect classification).
• Experience using magnification tools or inspection equipment.
• Background in quality control, inspection, or other detail-oriented evaluation roles.
• Ability to identify counterfeit or altered cards.

MBA Grading Services is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity in our organization. We do not discriminate based on race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, disability status, or any other protected class.

MBA Grading Services delivers professional grading and authentication solutions for trading cards and collectible assets. By combining consistent evaluation standards with a focus on reliability and transparency, we help support confidence in the collectibles marketplace. Our team plays a critical role in preserving value, enhancing marketability, and maintaining the integrity of graded assets.