Framer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Framer

Company: Michaels Stores

Location: Virginia Beach, Virginia, United States

Job Type: PART_TIME

Category: Retail Operations / Custom Framing Specialist

Date Posted: May 22, 2026

Experience Level: 0-2 Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Focus on building strong customer relationships through personalized custom framing consultations and solutions.

• Drive sales and production targets within the Custom Framing department by offering expert advice and high-quality craftsmanship.

• Maintain exceptional visual merchandising and inventory management standards for both the framing department and the broader retail floor.

• Ensure operational efficiency by adhering to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), including cash handling, truck unloading, and general store upkeep.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role, while titled "Framer," extends beyond just production. It emphasizes a consultative sales approach, requiring individuals to actively engage with customers to understand their needs and translate them into compelling framing solutions. The "Elevated ABC Deliver" mention suggests a structured sales methodology focused on building rapport and delivering exceptional customer experiences.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Engage customers in consultative sales conversations to understand their framing needs, offering expert design advice and product recommendations.

• Execute custom framing orders with a high degree of quality and precision, ensuring timely completion and adherence to customer specifications.

• Manage and maintain the ready-made frame department, including visual merchandising, stock replenishment (SISO and Directed Replenishment), and overall presentation.

• Provide outstanding customer service by assisting shoppers, locating products, and ensuring a well-merchandised and in-stock store environment.

• Operate the cash register accurately, execute all cash handling procedures to company standards, and assist with omni-channel fulfillment processes.

• Participate actively in truck unloading and stocking, adhering to established truck standards and contributing to efficient inventory management.

• Uphold company policies, programs, and SOPs, with a strong focus on shrink reduction and safety initiatives.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a dual focus: direct customer interaction for sales and consultation, alongside the operational execution of framing production and general retail duties. The emphasis on "Elevated ABC Deliver" points to a specific sales training program that candidates should be prepared to discuss.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: High school diploma or equivalent strongly preferred.

Experience:

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

Required Skills:

• Basic computer proficiency for point-of-sale (POS) and potential inventory systems.

• Competency in basic measuring skills for accurate framing consultations and production.

• Ability to operate framing equipment and glass cutting tools safely and effectively.

• Strong customer service orientation with excellent interpersonal and communication skills.

• Ability to manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced retail environment.

Preferred Skills:

• Prior retail sales experience, particularly in a consultative or design-focused capacity.

• Experience with custom framing processes, materials, or design principles.

• Familiarity with visual merchandising techniques and inventory management.

• Experience with omni-channel retail operations (e.g., buy online, pick up in-store).

📝 Enhancement Note: The "0-2 Years" experience level indicates that this role is suitable for individuals new to framing or retail, with a strong emphasis on trainability and a customer-centric attitude. The core requirements focus on foundational skills and the ability to learn specialized equipment and processes.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• While a formal portfolio is not explicitly required for this entry-level role, candidates are encouraged to highlight any relevant experience or projects demonstrating their ability to:
  • Design or create visually appealing solutions (e.g., personal art projects, DIY framing examples).
  • Manage customer interactions and address their needs effectively.
  • Demonstrate attention to detail and quality in their work.

Process Documentation:

• Candidates should be prepared to discuss their understanding of and approach to:

  • Following established Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for consistency and quality.

  • Implementing customer service protocols to ensure a positive experience.

  • Managing workflow for custom orders, from consultation to completion.

  • Maintaining organized workspaces and inventory.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an entry-level position like this, the emphasis is less on a formal portfolio and more on demonstrating an aptitude for following processes, learning quickly, and showcasing a customer-focused mindset through resume and interview responses. Experience with any craft or hands-on creation can be framed as relevant.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: As a part-time, entry-level position in Virginia Beach, VA, the estimated hourly wage typically ranges from $12.00 to $16.00 per hour. This range is based on industry benchmarks for similar retail associate roles with specialized duties, factoring in the location's cost of living and the specific skills required for framing.

Benefits:

• Health Insurance (Medical, Dental, and Vision) for eligible team members.

• Paid Time Off (PTO) accrued based on hours worked.

• Tuition Assistance programs to support ongoing education.

• Generous Employee Discounts on Michaels products and services.

• Potential for other benefits as outlined by company policy for part-time employees.

Working Hours: This is a part-time position. Actual hours will vary based on store needs and scheduling, but typically involve a mix of weekdays, evenings, and weekends. The role requires flexibility to work during peak retail hours and potentially up to 40 hours per week during busy seasons, though part-time status suggests fewer consistent hours.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on data from reputable sources for retail associate and specialized craft positions in the Virginia Beach area, considering the specified experience level. Benefits are listed based on common offerings for retail companies of Michaels' size and industry standing, as indicated in the provided text.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Arts & Crafts Retail. Michaels operates as a leading retailer in the arts, crafts, and home decor space, offering a wide range of products and services.

Company Size: Large (Over 10,000 employees globally). Michaels is a significant employer with a substantial retail footprint across North America.

Founded: 1973. Michaels has a long-standing history in the retail sector, known for its expertise in creative supplies and custom framing.

Team Structure:

• The Framer will be part of the in-store retail team, working closely with other Sales Associates, a Framing Department Manager (if applicable, or a senior associate overseeing framing), and reporting to the Store Manager or Assistant Store Manager.

• Collaboration is key, involving interaction with colleagues across different departments (e.g., General Merchandise, Seasonal) to ensure smooth store operations and customer assistance.

Methodology:

• Emphasis on adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for consistent service delivery and operational execution.

• A customer-centric approach, prioritizing relationship building and personalized solutions, particularly within the Custom Framing department.

• Data-driven decision-making is likely applied at the store management level for sales targets, inventory management, and staffing.

• Continuous improvement through adherence to company programs and feedback mechanisms.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture is geared towards fostering creativity and providing a positive customer experience. For operations roles, this translates to a structured environment with clear processes, but also a need for adaptability and strong interpersonal skills to engage with diverse customer needs.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Entry-Level Retail Associate / Specialist. This role serves as a foundational position within the retail operations of Michaels, focusing on a specific department (Custom Framing) while contributing to overall store performance.

Reporting Structure: Typically reports to a Store Manager or Assistant Store Manager. The Framer may also take direction from a Lead Framer or Department Manager for specific framing-related tasks and training.

Operations Impact: The Framer directly impacts store revenue through custom framing sales and contributes to overall customer satisfaction and retention by providing expert advice and quality products. Efficient store operations, including merchandising and inventory management, supported by the Framer, are crucial for the company's success.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Develop expertise in custom framing design, materials, and techniques, potentially becoming a go-to expert within the store.

• Retail Leadership: Progress to roles such as Lead Framer, Assistant Store Manager, or Store Manager through demonstrated performance, leadership potential, and additional training.

• Cross-Functional Experience: Gain exposure to various retail operations areas, supporting career development across different departments within Michaels.

• Skill Development: Enhance customer service, sales, and technical skills related to framing equipment and materials.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a clear path for individuals interested in retail careers. Growth is typically achieved through mastering current responsibilities, demonstrating leadership potential, and actively seeking opportunities to learn new skills and take on more responsibility within the store environment.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Public retail store setting. The primary work environment is the sales floor and the dedicated Custom Framing shop within a Michaels store.

Office Location(s): Virginia Beach-304 Constitution Dr, Virginia Beach, VA. The role is based at a specific, publicly accessible retail location.

Workspace Context:

• The work environment includes both climate-controlled public retail spaces and potentially non-climate-controlled stock rooms.

• The Frame shop itself contains specialized equipment like a glass cutter and heat press, requiring careful operation and adherence to safety protocols.

• Opportunities for collaboration exist with fellow team members on the sales floor, during truck unloads, and in shared workspace areas.

Work Schedule: The position is part-time, requiring flexibility to work various shifts, including nights, weekends, and early mornings, to meet store operational needs and customer traffic patterns.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment demands adaptability to different settings within the store, from customer-facing sales floors to production areas. Safety and efficient workflow management are critical in the framing shop.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Typically an online application followed by a brief phone screen with an HR representative or store management to assess basic qualifications and interest.

• In-Person Interview: A one-on-one or panel interview with the Store Manager or Assistant Store Manager. This will focus on behavioral questions, situational judgment, and assessing alignment with company values. Expect questions about customer service scenarios, problem-solving, and motivation.

• Skills Assessment/Demonstration: May involve a practical demonstration of basic measuring skills or a discussion about how you would approach a framing consultation. Candidates might be asked to explain their understanding of safety procedures for equipment.

• Final Interview/Offer: A concluding discussion, potentially with a higher-level manager, to confirm fit and extend an offer of employment.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• For this role, a formal portfolio isn't expected. Instead, prepare to discuss specific examples from your past experiences (even non-work related) that demonstrate:
  • Customer Service Excellence: A time you went above and beyond for a customer.
  • Problem-Solving: A challenge you faced and how you resolved it.
  • Attention to Detail: An instance where precision was critical to your success.
  • Teamwork: How you collaborate with others.
  • Learning Agility: How you've learned new skills or equipment.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be ready to answer situational questions such as:

  • "A customer wants a frame for a unique piece of art; how would you approach the consultation?"

  • "How would you handle a situation where a customer is unhappy with a framing order?"

  • "Describe a time you had to work with limited resources or under pressure."

  • "What steps would you take to ensure a safe working environment in the frame shop?"

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is designed to evaluate a candidate's customer service aptitude, problem-solving skills, and ability to learn technical aspects of the framing role. Highlighting transferable skills from previous experiences will be crucial.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Custom Framing Equipment: Standard framing shop tools including mat cutters, saws, jointers, and potentially specialized machinery like a heat press.

• Glass Cutter: Essential for precise glass sizing for frames.

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

• Safety Equipment: Gloves, safety glasses, and other protective gear as required for operating machinery.

Analytics & Reporting:

• POS System: For processing sales transactions, returns, and managing customer data.

• Inventory Management Systems: Potentially used for tracking stock levels of frame materials, ready-made frames, and other retail products.

CRM & Automation:

• Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Integration: POS systems often have basic CRM capabilities to track customer purchases and preferences, aiding in personalized recommendations.

• Omni-Channel Fulfillment Systems: Tools to manage online orders for in-store pickup or ship-from-store, requiring coordination between online and physical store operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency with basic measuring and the ability to learn specialized framing equipment are key technical requirements. Familiarity with POS systems and general retail technology is expected.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Creativity & Passion: Encouraging a love for art, craft, and creating.

• Customer Focus: Prioritizing customer satisfaction and building lasting relationships through helpfulness and expertise.

• Teamwork: Fostering a collaborative environment where team members support each other to achieve store goals.

• Integrity: Upholding company standards, ethical practices, and honest communication.

• Excellence: Striving for high quality in products, services, and operational execution.

Collaboration Style:

• In-Store Synergy: Working cohesively with all store associates to provide seamless customer experiences and maintain store standards.

• Open Communication: Encouraging clear and respectful dialogue among team members and with management.

• Shared Responsibility: Contributing to the overall success of the store by assisting in various operational tasks beyond the primary role.

• Supportive Environment: Creating a positive atmosphere where team members feel comfortable asking for help and offering assistance.

📝 Enhancement Note: Michaels emphasizes a culture that blends creativity with operational efficiency and strong customer engagement. Team members are expected to be supportive, reliable, and passionate about the company's mission.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Sales and Production: Effectively managing customer consultations and sales targets while also meeting production deadlines for custom framing orders.

• Customer Expectations: Handling diverse customer needs and expectations, including those with tight deadlines or specific design requests.

• Technical Skill Acquisition: Learning to operate framing equipment and glass cutters accurately and safely, especially for individuals with no prior experience.

• Pace of Retail: Adapting to the dynamic nature of retail, including busy periods, inventory management, and varied customer traffic.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Framing Expertise: Comprehensive training on framing techniques, materials, design principles, and equipment operation provided by Michaels.

• Sales & Customer Service Training: Development in consultative selling, relationship building, and conflict resolution through company programs like "Elevated ABC Deliver."

• Retail Operations Knowledge: Gaining experience in merchandising, inventory control, cash management, and omni-channel processes.

• Career Advancement: Opportunities to progress into leadership roles within the store or other areas of Michaels' operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents opportunities for individuals to develop specialized craft skills alongside core retail competencies. The main challenge lies in mastering both the technical aspects of framing and the customer-facing sales and service elements simultaneously.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Consultative Sales: "How would you approach a customer who is unsure about framing options for a valuable piece of art?" or "Describe your process for understanding a customer's design preferences and budget."

• Problem-Solving: "Imagine a customer received a framing order that wasn't quite right. How would you handle this situation to ensure customer satisfaction?" or "What would you do if you discovered a safety hazard in the frame shop?"

• Operational Efficiency: "How would you prioritize tasks if you had multiple framing orders with different deadlines and a customer waiting for assistance on the sales floor?" or "What steps would you take to maintain an organized and well-stocked framing department?"

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about working at Michaels, specifically in the Custom Framing department?"

• "How do you embody creativity and a passion for art or crafting in your daily life?"

• "Describe a time you worked effectively as part of a team to achieve a common goal."

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• While no formal portfolio is needed, be prepared to:
  • Articulate transferable skills: Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to describe experiences demonstrating customer service, attention to detail, problem-solving, and technical aptitude.
  • Showcase enthusiasm: Express genuine interest in framing, art, and helping customers bring their creative visions to life.
  • Discuss learning approach: Explain how you learn new skills and equipment, emphasizing your ability to follow instructions and adapt.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a blend of customer service acumen, a willingness to learn technical skills, and an understanding of operational best practices within a retail environment.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

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

• Tailor your resume: Highlight any customer service, sales, hands-on craft experience, or familiarity with tools and measurements. Use keywords from the job description such as "customer service," "sales," "measuring skills," and "retail operations."

• Prepare for behavioral questions: Think of specific examples from your past experiences (work, school, or personal projects) that demonstrate your ability to handle customer interactions, solve problems, work in a team, and learn new skills.

• Research Michaels: Familiarize yourself with Michaels' products, services, and company values. Understand the importance of custom framing within their broader retail offerings.

• Practice your communication: Be ready to clearly articulate your interest in the role and how your skills align with the responsibilities. Practice explaining how you would approach customer consultations.

⚠️ 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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