Custom Art Framer
๐ Job Overview
Job Title: Custom Art Framer
Company: Michaels Stores
Location: Chelmsford, Massachusetts, United States
Job Type: PART_TIME
Category: Retail Operations / Customer Service
Date Posted: 2026-04-15
Experience Level: Entry Level (0-2 years)
Remote Status: On-site
๐ Role Summary
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This role is centered on providing exceptional customer service within a retail environment, specifically focusing on custom art framing solutions.
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Key responsibilities include driving sales through personalized customer interactions and ensuring high-quality production of custom framing orders.
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Maintaining store standards, including visual merchandising and inventory management, is crucial for a positive customer shopping experience.
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The position requires proficiency in operating specialized framing equipment and adhering to standard operating procedures for safety and compliance.
๐ Enhancement Note: While the job title is "Custom Art Framer," the core responsibilities and required skills indicate a hybrid role blending direct customer sales, service, and specialized production within a retail setting. The "Operations" aspect primarily relates to in-store operational efficiency, inventory management, and process adherence rather than strategic GTM or RevOps functions.
๐ Primary Responsibilities
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Build and maintain strong customer relationships by understanding their needs and recommending tailored custom framing solutions.
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Drive sales performance by actively engaging customers, demonstrating product knowledge, and utilizing sales techniques like "Elevated ABC Deliver."
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Execute custom framing orders with precision and adherence to quality standards, ensuring timely completion and customer satisfaction.
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Maintain the visual presentation and stock levels of the ready-made frame department, including SISO (Single Item, Single Out) and Directed Replenishment processes.
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Provide friendly and efficient customer service, assisting shoppers in locating products and ensuring a well-merchandised and in-stock store environment.
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Operate the cash register, manage cash handling procedures accurately, and execute all transactions to company standards.
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Support company-wide shrink reduction and safety programs by adhering to established protocols and maintaining a safe work environment.
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Participate actively in truck unloading and stocking processes, ensuring adherence to truck standards and completion within designated timelines.
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Assist with and understand Omni channel processes, supporting customer orders and services that may span online and in-store interactions.
๐ Enhancement Note: The responsibilities emphasize a hands-on approach to customer interaction, sales generation, and detailed production work. The mention of "Elevated ABC Deliver" and "Omni channel processes" suggests a structured, customer-centric sales methodology and an understanding of integrated retail operations.
๐ Skills & Qualifications
Education: High school diploma or equivalent is typically expected for entry-level retail positions, though not explicitly stated.
Experience:
- 0-2 years of experience in a customer-facing role, preferably within a retail environment.
Required Skills:
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Basic computer skills for operating POS systems and potentially order management software.
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Basic measuring skills to accurately assess artwork dimensions for framing.
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Ability to safely and effectively operate framing equipment (e.g., mat cutters, saws, assembly tools) and glass cutters.
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Strong customer service orientation with a proven ability to build rapport and assist customers.
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Cash handling proficiency and accuracy in financial transactions.
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Merchandising skills to maintain an appealing and organized sales floor.
Preferred Skills:
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Previous retail experience, particularly in a specialty or custom service environment.
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Proven sales experience, including upselling and cross-selling techniques.
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Familiarity with art or design principles relevant to custom framing.
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Experience with inventory management and stock replenishment processes.
๐ Enhancement Note: The required skills are foundational for a retail associate with specialized production duties. The emphasis on "basic measuring skills" and "framing equipment" highlights the technical aspect of the role, while "customer service" and "sales" point to the client-facing responsibilities.
๐ Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements
Portfolio Essentials:
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While a formal portfolio is not typically required for this entry-level role, candidates demonstrating previous work in custom framing, visual merchandising, or sales initiatives may highlight relevant projects.
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Examples of successful customer interactions leading to sales or problem resolution can serve as informal portfolio pieces.
Process Documentation:
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Candidates should be prepared to discuss their understanding of and ability to follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for framing, sales, and store operations.
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Demonstrating an understanding of quality control in production processes will be beneficial.
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Familiarity with workflow management, from customer order to final product delivery, is advantageous.
๐ Enhancement Note: For an entry-level retail role like this, a formal process and systems portfolio is unlikely to be a strict requirement. However, candidates can strengthen their application by articulating their understanding of operational processes, quality control, and customer service workflows through their resume and interview responses.
๐ต Compensation & Benefits
Salary Range: The provided base pay range for this position is $16.25 - $19.10 per hour. This range is competitive for part-time retail associate roles in the Chelmsford, Massachusetts area, considering the specialized skills involved in custom framing.
Benefits:
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Health insurance (medical, dental, and vision)
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Paid time off (PTO)
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Tuition assistance programs
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Generous employee discounts on Michaels products
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Additional benefits may be available depending on employment status and hours worked.
Working Hours: This is a PART_TIME position. The role involves working nights, weekends, and early mornings as required by store operational needs. Specific weekly hours will vary.
๐ Enhancement Note: The salary range is based on the provided data and typical market rates for similar roles in the specified location. The benefits listed are comprehensive for a part-time retail position and highlight Michaels' commitment to employee well-being.
๐ฏ Team & Company Context
๐ข Company Culture
Industry: Michaels operates within the arts and crafts retail industry, serving as a primary destination for creative supplies, custom framing, and seasonal decor. The company focuses on inspiring and enabling creativity for individuals and families.
Company Size: Michaels is a large, publicly traded retail corporation with over 1,300 stores across North America. This scale offers stability and structured operational processes.
Founded: Founded in 1973 and headquartered in Irving, Texas, Michaels has a long-standing history in the retail sector, evolving to meet customer demands for creative products and services.
Team Structure:
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The store team typically includes a Store Manager, Assistant Store Managers, Team Leads, and Sales Associates/Framers.
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The Custom Art Framer will likely report to a Team Lead or Assistant Store Manager responsible for the framing department and sales floor operations.
Methodology:
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Customer engagement is driven by a structured sales approach ("Elevated ABC Deliver") focused on relationship building and solution-oriented selling.
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Operational efficiency is maintained through adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for all store functions, including framing production, inventory management, and customer transactions.
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Data-driven decision-making at the store level often involves tracking sales performance, inventory levels, and customer feedback to optimize operations.
Company Website: https://www.michaels.com/
๐ Enhancement Note: The company culture at Michaels emphasizes creativity, customer service, and a structured approach to retail operations. As a large retailer, adherence to established processes and a focus on sales performance are key.
๐ Career & Growth Analysis
Operations Career Level: This role is an entry-level position within retail operations, focusing on direct customer interaction and specialized production tasks. It's an ideal starting point for individuals looking to gain experience in retail sales, customer service, and hands-on crafting/production.
Reporting Structure: The Custom Art Framer typically reports to a Team Lead or Assistant Store Manager, who oversees daily store operations, sales targets, and team performance.
Operations Impact: The Custom Art Framer directly impacts store revenue through custom framing sales and overall customer satisfaction by providing excellent service and quality products. Their efficiency in production and ability to upsell contribute to the store's profitability and customer loyalty.
Growth Opportunities:
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Skill Development: Opportunity to become a highly skilled Custom Art Framer, mastering advanced framing techniques, design consultation, and sales strategies.
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Retail Advancement: Potential to advance into roles such as Team Lead, Assistant Store Manager, or Store Manager within Michaels, requiring further development in leadership, operational management, and sales strategy.
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Specialization: Possibility to take on additional responsibilities within the store, such as visual merchandising lead or inventory specialist.
๐ Enhancement Note: This role offers a clear entry point into the retail industry with opportunities for skill development and advancement within Michaels' operational structure. The growth path is primarily focused on increasing responsibility within the retail store environment.
๐ Work Environment
Office Type: This is a public retail store setting, specifically a Michaels store, which is a climate-controlled environment for customers. Some stock rooms may not be climate-controlled.
Office Location(s): The position is located at the Michaels store in Chelmsford, Massachusetts (265 Chelmsford St). This location serves the local community with arts, crafts, and framing services.
Workspace Context:
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The workspace includes a customer-facing sales floor for browsing and consultation, and a dedicated framing shop area equipped with specialized tools like glass cutters and heat presses.
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The environment requires constant interaction with customers and collaboration with fellow store associates.
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Access to POS systems, framing equipment, and potentially stockroom areas for inventory management is provided.
Work Schedule: The role is part-time, with working hours including nights, weekends, and early mornings. Flexibility in scheduling is often required to meet operational demands and customer traffic.
๐ Enhancement Note: The work environment is dynamic and customer-centric, typical of a retail setting. The framing shop itself is a specialized workspace requiring specific safety protocols and equipment handling.
๐ Application & Portfolio Review Process
Interview Process:
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Initial Screening: Application review to assess basic qualifications and experience.
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In-Person Interview: Typically, candidates will have an interview with the hiring manager (e.g., Store Manager or Assistant Manager) at the store. This will involve questions about customer service experience, problem-solving abilities, and fit with the company culture.
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Skills Assessment: A practical demonstration of basic measuring skills, potentially operating a glass cutter (under supervision), and discussing framing order customization.
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Final Interview/Offer: May involve a final discussion or confirmation of terms.
Portfolio Review Tips:
- For this role, a formal portfolio is not expected. However, prepare to discuss tangible examples of:
- Successful customer service interactions and conflict resolution.
- Instances where you went above and beyond to meet a customer's needs.
- Any experience with sales targets and how you achieved them.
- If you have prior framing experience, be ready to describe the types of projects you handled.
Challenge Preparation:
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Be ready to answer situational questions related to customer service scenarios (e.g., "What would you do if a customer was unhappy with their framing order?").
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Prepare to discuss your understanding of sales techniques and how you would approach a customer looking for custom framing.
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Think about how you would explain the custom framing process to a new customer.
๐ Enhancement Note: The interview process for this role is practical and focused on assessing customer service, sales aptitude, and basic technical skills required for framing. Demonstrating enthusiasm for the product and a willingness to learn are key.
๐ Tools & Technology Stack
Primary Tools:
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Custom Framing Equipment: Mat cutters, glass cutters, saws, mounting presses, assembly tools, and potentially specialized software for design and order processing.
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Point of Sale (POS) System: For processing sales transactions, handling cash, and managing customer orders.
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Basic Computer Skills: For accessing order information, company communications, and potentially training modules.
Analytics & Reporting:
- While direct involvement in advanced analytics is unlikely, understanding how sales data and inventory levels impact store performance is beneficial.
CRM & Automation:
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The "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodology suggests a customer relationship management approach, though likely managed through the POS system and sales associate interaction rather than a dedicated CRM platform.
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Omni channel processes may involve integration between online orders and in-store fulfillment.
๐ Enhancement Note: The technology stack is primarily focused on point-of-sale operations, specialized production equipment, and basic computer literacy. The emphasis is on efficient transaction processing and accurate production.
๐ฅ Team Culture & Values
Operations Values:
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Customer Focus: Prioritizing the customer experience through friendly service, personalized solutions, and high-quality products.
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Creativity & Inspiration: Fostering an environment that celebrates and encourages creativity, both for customers and team members.
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Teamwork & Collaboration: Working together to achieve store goals, support colleagues, and ensure a positive work environment.
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Integrity & Accountability: Adhering to company policies, SOPs, and ethical standards in all actions, from sales to cash handling.
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Efficiency & Quality: Striving for operational excellence in production, store maintenance, and customer service delivery.
Collaboration Style:
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A collaborative approach is essential, working closely with fellow associates to assist customers across departments, manage inventory, and complete operational tasks like truck unloads.
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Open communication and mutual support are encouraged to ensure smooth store operations and a positive team dynamic.
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Feedback exchange is likely informal but important for continuous improvement in customer service and production quality.
๐ Enhancement Note: Michaels emphasizes values that align with a customer-centric retail environment focused on creativity and teamwork. The culture supports a hands-on approach to service and operational excellence.
โก Challenges & Growth Opportunities
Challenges:
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Pace of Work: Managing multiple customer requests simultaneously, especially during peak seasons, while maintaining quality and speed in framing production.
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Technical Skill Acquisition: Learning to operate framing equipment safely and proficiently, including mastering different cutting and assembly techniques.
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Sales Pressure: Meeting individual and store sales targets for custom framing, which can be challenging given market demand and competition.
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Customer Satisfaction: Handling customer expectations and resolving any issues that may arise with custom orders to ensure satisfaction.
Learning & Development Opportunities:
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Framing Expertise: Intensive training on custom framing techniques, materials, and design principles.
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Sales & Customer Service Skills: Development in consultative selling, customer relationship building, and conflict resolution.
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Retail Operations: Gaining practical experience in inventory management, visual merchandising, and POS operations.
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Company Culture Integration: Understanding and embodying Michaels' values and commitment to creativity and customer satisfaction.
๐ Enhancement Note: The role presents opportunities to develop specialized skills in custom framing and sales, alongside foundational retail operations experience. Overcoming the challenges involves a combination of technical learning and strong interpersonal skills.
๐ก Interview Preparation
Strategy Questions:
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Customer Service: "Describe a time you dealt with a difficult customer and how you resolved the situation." "How would you approach a customer who seems unsure about their framing choice?"
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Sales & Product Knowledge: "What steps would you take to sell a custom framing package?" "How would you describe the benefits of custom framing versus ready-made frames to a customer?"
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Technical Aptitude: "What experience do you have with tools or machinery?" "How do you ensure accuracy and attention to detail in your work?"
Company & Culture Questions:
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"What do you know about Michaels and our commitment to creativity?"
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"How do you contribute to a positive team environment?"
Portfolio Presentation Strategy:
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Since a formal portfolio isn't required, be prepared to speak confidently about your past experiences.
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Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers to behavioral questions, highlighting relevant skills and accomplishments.
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For any questions about framing, articulate your understanding of the process and your eagerness to learn the technical aspects.
๐ Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating strong customer service skills, a proactive sales attitude, a willingness to learn technical framing skills, and alignment with Michaels' creative and team-oriented culture.
๐ Application Steps
To apply for this Custom Art Framer position:
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Submit your application through the provided link on the Michaels Careers website.
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Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight any relevant customer service, sales, or hands-on production experience. Use keywords from the job description such as "customer service," "sales," "framing," and "retail."
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Prepare for Interview Questions: Practice answering behavioral questions using the STAR method, focusing on examples that showcase your problem-solving, communication, and teamwork abilities. Be ready to discuss your interest in art and custom framing.
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Research Michaels: Familiarize yourself with Michaels' mission, values, and product offerings. Understand their commitment to creativity and customer experience.
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Highlight Technical Aptitude: If you have experience with tools, machinery, or any form of crafting or precise work, be prepared to discuss it, as this demonstrates your potential to learn framing equipment.
โ ๏ธ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.
Application Requirements
Candidates must possess basic computer and measuring skills, along with the ability to operate framing equipment and glass cutters. Previous retail experience and experience selling products or services to customers are preferred.