Custom Framer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Custom Framer

Company: Michaels Stores

Location: Fredericksburg, Virginia, United States

Job Type: Part-Time

Category: Retail Operations / Customer Service & Sales

Date Posted: 2026-04-20T00:00:00

Experience Level: Entry Level (0-2 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role focuses on building customer relationships through personalized custom framing solutions, directly impacting store sales and customer satisfaction.

• Responsible for executing operational procedures, including merchandising, inventory management, and maintaining a safe, clean retail environment.

• Requires proficiency in operating specialized framing equipment and glass cutters, alongside basic computer and measuring skills.

• Emphasizes providing excellent customer service, assisting shoppers, and supporting omni-channel fulfillment processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the job title is "Custom Framer," the responsibilities extend beyond just framing to encompass core retail operations, sales, and customer engagement within a Michaels store. The "Elevated ABC Deliver" mentioned points to a specific sales methodology focused on building customer connections.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Cultivate strong customer relationships by acting as a personal designer, utilizing the "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodology to understand customer needs and propose tailored custom framing solutions.

• Drive sales and production results by effectively selling custom framing services and ensuring orders are completed with high quality and within established timelines.

• Maintain the readiness and visual appeal of the ready-made frame department, including Single Item Single Order (SISO) and Directed Replenishment processes.

• Provide exceptional customer service by actively acknowledging shoppers, assisting them in locating products, and offering solutions that enhance their shopping experience.

• Ensure a safe, clean, and well-merchandised store environment by adhering to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), supporting shrink and safety programs, and participating in truck unloads and stocking.

• Operate the cash register and execute cash handling procedures with accuracy and efficiency, as well as support omni-channel processes such as buy online, pick up in-store.

• Interact positively and respectfully with colleagues and customers, remaining calm and professional in challenging situations, and serving as a role model aligned with company values.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of technical framing skills, sales acumen, and general retail operational duties. The emphasis on "Elevated ABC Deliver" suggests a structured approach to customer interaction and sales, requiring candidates to be coachable and adaptable to the company's sales framework.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Experience:

• 0-2 years of experience in a customer-facing role.

• Experience in retail sales or service environments is preferred.

Required Skills:

• Basic computer skills for POS operations and potentially order management.

• Basic measuring skills to ensure accurate framing dimensions.

• Ability to operate framing equipment and a glass cutter safely and effectively.

• Strong customer service and interpersonal skills for building rapport and addressing customer needs.

• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced retail environment, managing multiple tasks simultaneously.

Preferred Skills:

• Previous retail sales experience, particularly in custom product sales or consultative selling.

• Experience with merchandising and visual display principles.

• Familiarity with inventory management and stocking processes.

• Knowledge of art and framing techniques beyond basic operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirements are entry-level, focusing on foundational skills that can be developed through training. The "basic computer skills" are crucial for POS and potentially online order management, while "basic measuring skills" are fundamental for custom framing accuracy. The operations aspect is implicitly covered by the need to adhere to SOPs and participate in stocking/inventory.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• While a formal portfolio isn't explicitly required for this entry-level role, demonstrating a strong understanding of customer service processes and attention to detail in previous roles or through examples will be beneficial.

• Candidates should be prepared to discuss how they would approach the "Elevated ABC Deliver" sales process, showcasing their understanding of customer engagement and solution-oriented selling.

• Examples of how they have managed tasks, followed procedures, and ensured quality in previous roles can serve as a proxy for process documentation.

Process Documentation:

• Understanding and adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) is paramount. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their ability to learn and follow established workflows.

• The role involves contributing to team processes such as truck unloading, stocking, and maintaining store presentation, requiring an understanding of efficient workflow execution.

• For custom framing, the process involves customer consultation, order placement, production, and timely delivery, all of which require a systematic approach.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an entry-level position like this, a traditional operations portfolio is unlikely. However, candidates are strongly encouraged to think about how their past experiences demonstrate process adherence, customer-centric workflows, and quality output, especially in sales and service contexts. The "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodology is a key process to understand.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Benefits:

• Health Insurance: Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage.

• Paid Time Off (PTO): Accrued vacation and sick leave.

• Tuition Assistance: Support for continued education.

• Employee Discounts: Generous discounts on Michaels products.

• Retirement Savings Plan: Potential for 401(k) with company match (details may vary).

Working Hours:

• This is a part-time position. Specific hours will vary based on store needs and scheduling, but may include nights, weekends, and early mornings. The role implies approximately 20-29 hours per week, though this can fluctuate.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimation based on typical part-time retail roles with specialized duties in the Fredericksburg, VA area. Benefits provided are as listed in the company description, with specific details potentially varying for part-time employees. The "40" hours listed in the input data likely represents a maximum or standard full-time equivalent, but the official employment type is PART_TIME.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Arts and Crafts Retail. Michaels is a leading North American retailer of arts, crafts, and home décor products, with a significant presence in custom framing through its own stores and the Artistree manufacturing division.

Company Size: Large (Over 10,000 employees globally). Michaels operates over 1,300 stores across the US and Canada and employs a substantial workforce, indicating a structured corporate environment with established operational processes.

Founded: 1973. With a long history, Michaels has developed robust retail operations, customer service protocols, and a recognized brand in the creative space.

Team Structure:

• The Custom Framer will be part of the store's retail team, likely reporting to an Assistant Store Manager or a dedicated Framing Manager/Lead.

• The team is cross-functional, with associates specializing in different areas like cashiering, stock, visual merchandising, and custom framing.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Sales & Service: The "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodology emphasizes understanding customer needs through active listening and providing tailored solutions, which is a data-informed approach to sales.

• Process Optimization: Adherence to SOPs for all operational tasks, from stocking to framing production, ensures consistency and efficiency.

• Customer-Centric Operations: The entire store operation is geared towards customer experience, from product availability to personalized service in areas like custom framing.

Company Website: https://www.michaels.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture is rooted in creativity and customer engagement. For operations, this translates to a focus on systematic execution of retail processes while maintaining a friendly and supportive atmosphere for both customers and team members. The large company size suggests established training programs and career paths.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is at an entry-level or junior associate level within the retail operations framework. It focuses on executing defined tasks related to customer service, sales, and operational upkeep within the custom framing department and the broader store.

Reporting Structure: The Custom Framer typically reports to a Store Manager, Assistant Store Manager, or a designated Framing Department Lead. This structure provides direct oversight and guidance on daily tasks and performance.

Operations Impact: The Custom Framer directly impacts store revenue through custom framing sales and contributes to overall customer satisfaction by providing a memorable and positive experience. Their meticulous work in framing also upholds the store's reputation for quality.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Opportunity to become a highly skilled Custom Framer and potentially a go-to expert within the store for framing inquiries and complex projects.

• Sales & Leadership Development: Progression to roles like Sales Lead, Assistant Store Manager, or even Store Manager, by demonstrating strong sales performance, customer service, and operational leadership.

• Cross-Training: Potential to gain experience in other store departments (e.g., merchandising, inventory management, cashiering) to develop a broader understanding of retail operations.

• Specialized Training: Michaels often provides training on new products, sales techniques, and operational best practices, fostering continuous learning.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an entry-level role, the primary growth path is within the retail store structure, moving into supervisory or management positions. Demonstrating proficiency in the custom framing craft, combined with strong sales and customer service skills, would be key differentiators for advancement.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is a hybrid work environment, primarily on-site within a retail store setting. The role involves working within the main retail floor, the custom framing shop area, and potentially stock rooms.

Office Location(s): The specific store is located at 3102 Plank Rd, Ste 299, Fredericksburg, VA. This is a public retail store environment.

Workspace Context:

• Customer Interaction Focus: The primary workspace is the retail floor and the custom framing counter, designed for direct customer engagement and sales.

• Specialized Equipment Area: The framing shop will contain specialized tools like a glass cutter and heat press, requiring adherence to safety protocols.

• Collaborative Atmosphere: The environment encourages interaction with other store associates and managers, fostering a team-oriented approach to operations and customer service.

• Stock Room Access: May involve working in stock rooms for inventory management and stocking, which may not always be climate-controlled.

Work Schedule:

• The schedule is part-time and flexible, accommodating store operating hours which include nights, weekends, and early mornings. This allows for a balance between work and personal commitments but requires availability during peak retail times.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is dynamic and customer-facing. The custom framing area requires precision and safety awareness, while the broader store environment demands excellent customer service and operational efficiency. The schedule flexibility is typical for part-time retail roles.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Typically a brief phone or online application review to assess basic qualifications.

• In-Person Interview: This will likely involve meeting with the Store Manager or Assistant Manager. Expect questions about customer service experience, problem-solving abilities, and how you handle challenging customer interactions.

• Skills Assessment: You may be asked to demonstrate basic measuring skills or discuss your understanding of operating tools like a glass cutter (if you have prior experience).

• Situational Questions: Be prepared for questions like, "How would you handle a customer who is unhappy with their framing order?" or "Describe a time you went above and beyond for a customer."

• Cultural Fit: The interviewer will assess your alignment with Michaels' values of creativity, customer focus, and teamwork.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• For this role, a traditional portfolio is not expected. Instead, focus on highlighting relevant experiences in your resume and during the interview.

• Resume: Clearly list any experience with customer service, sales, custom product creation, or retail operations. Quantify achievements where possible (e.g., "Increased custom framing sales by X%").

• Interview Discussion: Be ready to elaborate on your skills with concrete examples. If you have any examples of custom projects you've worked on (even personal ones), be prepared to discuss them and your process.

• Demonstrate Understanding: Show you understand the "Elevated ABC Deliver" by discussing how you build rapport, understand needs, and present solutions.

Challenge Preparation:

• Customer Service Scenarios: Practice how you would respond to common retail customer service challenges.

• Sales Approach: Be ready to explain your approach to selling a service like custom framing, focusing on benefits and solutions for the customer.

• Operational Awareness: Discuss your understanding of retail operations such as stocking, merchandising, and maintaining a clean environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will likely be geared towards assessing customer service aptitude, sales potential, and basic operational understanding rather than formal operations analysis. Emphasize transferable skills and a willingness to learn the specific Michaels processes.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Point of Sale (POS) System: For processing transactions, managing customer orders, and potentially accessing customer history.

• Custom Framing Equipment: Including mat cutters, framing saws, assembly tools, and potentially heat presses for specific framing applications.

• Glass Cutter: For precision cutting of glass or acrylic for frames.

• Measuring Tools: Tape measures, rulers, and potentially specialized framing rulers for accurate measurements.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Basic Reporting Tools: Within the POS system for tracking individual sales performance and order volume.

• Inventory Management Systems: For tracking stock levels of frames, mats, and supplies.

CRM & Automation:

• Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Elements: Likely integrated into the POS system to track customer preferences and order history, facilitating personalized service and repeat business.

• Omni-Channel Fulfillment Systems: For managing online orders that require in-store pickup or fulfillment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is primarily focused on retail point-of-sale and specialized custom framing equipment. Proficiency with basic computer functions and a willingness to learn proprietary systems are essential.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Customer Focus: Placing the customer at the center of all interactions and striving to exceed their expectations, especially through personalized framing solutions.

• Creativity: Encouraging a passion for arts and crafts, which translates into innovative framing solutions and a vibrant store atmosphere.

• Teamwork: Fostering a collaborative environment where associates support each other to achieve store goals and ensure smooth operations.

• Integrity: Upholding honesty, ethical behavior, and adherence to company policies and procedures in all aspects of work.

• Accountability: Taking ownership of tasks, responsibilities, and performance, ensuring quality and timely completion of framing orders and daily duties.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Support: Associates are expected to assist in various store functions as needed, beyond their primary role, to ensure operational efficiency and customer satisfaction.

• Open Communication: Encouraging open dialogue about customer needs, operational challenges, and potential process improvements.

• Learning Environment: A culture that supports learning from colleagues and managers, particularly in mastering custom framing techniques and sales strategies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture strongly emphasizes customer experience and a shared passion for creativity. Operations professionals in this environment need to be adept at balancing process adherence with a flexible, customer-centric approach.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Sales and Production: Effectively managing customer consultations and sales efforts while ensuring timely and high-quality production of custom framing orders.

• Customer Expectations: Meeting diverse customer needs and expectations for custom framing, which can range from simple to highly complex projects, while managing budget constraints.

• Technical Skill Development: Mastering the operation of various framing tools and techniques to produce professional-quality work consistently.

• Retail Pace: Adapting to the fast-paced and often demanding environment of a retail store, especially during peak seasons or promotional periods.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Custom Framing Expertise: Deepen knowledge and skills in framing design, materials, and techniques through hands-on experience and potential specialized training.

• Sales & Customer Engagement: Develop advanced consultative selling skills and customer relationship management through the "Elevated ABC Deliver" program and ongoing coaching.

• Retail Operations Knowledge: Gain a comprehensive understanding of various retail operations, including inventory management, visual merchandising, and POS systems, with potential for cross-training.

• Leadership Potential: Opportunities to grow into supervisory roles within the store by demonstrating strong performance, leadership qualities, and a commitment to company values.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are typical for a specialized retail role that blends technical craft with customer service and sales. The growth opportunities are geared towards developing expertise within Michaels' framework, both in craft and in retail management.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Customer Service Scenarios: "Describe how you would handle a customer who is dissatisfied with the final framing of their artwork." Be ready to discuss empathy, problem-solving, and potential solutions within company policy.

• Sales Approach: "How would you approach a customer interested in custom framing, and what questions would you ask to understand their needs?" Prepare to discuss the "Elevated ABC Deliver" principles of building rapport, understanding needs, and presenting solutions.

• Problem-Solving: "Imagine you're running low on a specific mat board for a custom order. What steps would you take?" Focus on resourcefulness, communication with management, and finding alternative solutions.

Company & Culture Questions:

• Motivation: "Why are you interested in working for Michaels, and specifically in the Custom Framer role?" Connect your passion for creativity, customer service, or crafting to the company's mission.

• Teamwork: "Describe a time you worked effectively as part of a team to achieve a common goal." Highlight collaboration and support for colleagues.

• Values Alignment: "How do you embody creativity and customer focus in your work?" Provide specific examples.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Resume as a Snapshot: Ensure your resume clearly highlights relevant customer service, sales, and any crafting or hands-on experience. Quantify achievements where possible.

• Verbal Examples: Be prepared to verbally walk through examples of how you've handled customer interactions, solved problems, or created something of value.

• Showcase Enthusiasm: Express genuine interest in Michaels' products and the art of custom framing.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating strong customer service skills, a sales-oriented mindset, and an understanding of retail operations. While a formal portfolio isn't required, being able to articulate past experiences and demonstrate a proactive attitude is crucial.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided application link on the Michaels Careers portal.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight customer service experience, any sales achievements, and any hands-on crafting or detail-oriented skills. Use keywords from the job description such as "custom framing," "customer service," "sales," and "merchandising."

• Prepare for Situational Questions: Practice answering common retail interview questions related to customer interactions, problem-solving, and teamwork. Think about how you would apply the "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodology.

• Research Michaels: Familiarize yourself with Michaels' mission, values, and product offerings, particularly their custom framing services and commitment to creativity.

• Highlight Relevant Experience: Be ready to discuss any experience with tools, crafts, or detailed work, even if from personal projects, and how it translates to the skills needed for this role.

⚠️ 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.

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