FRAMER

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Framer

Company: Michaels Stores

Location: Waldorf, Maryland, United States

Job Type: Part-Time

Category: Retail Operations / Sales

Date Posted: May 17, 2026

Experience Level: Entry Level (0-2 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Drive customer engagement and build relationships by providing expert custom framing solutions.

• Execute sales and production targets within the framing department, ensuring high-quality, on-time order completion.

• Maintain visual merchandising standards for the ready-made frame department and other assigned store areas.

• Provide exceptional customer service, assisting with product location, sales, and omni-channel fulfillment.

• Uphold operational standards, including cash handling, safety protocols, and inventory management.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is focused on direct customer interaction and sales within a specialized retail department (Custom Framing). While it involves operational tasks, its primary emphasis is on sales performance and customer relationship building, aligning more with a Sales Associate or Specialist role with framing expertise rather than a traditional Revenue Operations or Sales Operations function. The "operations" aspect pertains to in-store retail operations and process adherence.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Build and nurture customer relationships by understanding their framing needs and recommending appropriate solutions, utilizing Elevated ABC Deliver methodologies.

• Achieve and exceed personal sales and production goals for custom framing orders through effective consultation and upselling.

• Ensure the quality and timely completion of all custom framing orders, adhering to production standards and timelines.

• Maintain the visual presentation and stock levels of the ready-made frame department, including SISO (Sales In, Stock Out) and Directed Replenishment processes.

• Deliver friendly and helpful customer service, assisting shoppers in locating products, answering inquiries, and providing solutions to their creative needs.

• Operate the cash register, process transactions accurately, and adhere to cash handling procedures and standards.

• Support company-wide shrink reduction and safety programs through diligent adherence to policies and procedures.

• Participate actively in truck unloading and stocking processes, ensuring adherence to truck standards and delivery within budget.

• Assist with the execution of omni-channel processes, including online order fulfillment and customer pickup.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of sales, customer service, and operational execution typical of a specialized retail associate. The emphasis on "Elevated ABC Deliver" suggests a specific customer engagement methodology that candidates should be prepared to discuss.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: High School Diploma or equivalent is typically expected for retail roles, though not explicitly stated. Continuous learning through on-the-job training and potential certifications in framing is encouraged.

Experience: 0-2 years of experience in a customer-facing role, preferably within a retail environment. Experience in sales or customer service is highly valued.

Required Skills:

• Basic computer proficiency for POS systems and order management.

• Fundamental measuring skills for accurate framing specifications.

• Ability to operate framing equipment and glass cutters safely and effectively.

• Strong customer service and interpersonal skills for building rapport.

• Cash handling and transaction processing accuracy.

Preferred Skills:

• Previous retail experience, particularly in a sales-focused role.

• Proven experience selling products and/or services, with a track record of meeting sales targets.

• Familiarity with visual merchandising techniques and retail display standards.

• Experience with omni-channel retail operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "basic" nature of the required skills suggests that comprehensive training will be provided for the technical aspects of framing and equipment operation. The preference for sales experience indicates that candidates who can demonstrate revenue generation potential will be highly regarded.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• While a formal portfolio is not explicitly required for this entry-level retail role, candidates demonstrating an understanding of process adherence and customer-centric solutions in previous roles will be advantageous.

• Examples of how you've contributed to sales targets or improved customer satisfaction in a previous role can serve as a proxy for portfolio elements.

Process Documentation:

• Candidates should be prepared to discuss their understanding of following Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company programs to ensure compliance and consistency.

• The ability to follow established workflows for order processing, production, and customer service is critical.

• Familiarity with inventory management processes, such as SISO and Directed Replenishment, is a plus.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an entry-level part-time retail role, a traditional "process and systems portfolio" is unlikely. The focus will be on understanding and demonstrating adherence to established company processes and the ability to learn and utilize their specific retail systems and framing equipment.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $15.25 - $17.90 per hour. This range reflects entry-level to slightly experienced retail associate compensation in the Waldorf, Maryland area, considering the stated responsibilities and market conditions.

Benefits:

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

• Paid Time Off (PTO) to support work-life balance.

• Tuition Assistance programs to support ongoing education and development.

• Generous Employee Discounts on Michaels products and services.

• Potential for other benefits as outlined by The Michaels Companies Inc.

Working Hours: Part-time employment. This role may require working nights, weekends, and early mornings, aligning with retail operational needs and customer traffic patterns.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is provided based on the explicit information in the job description. The benefits listed are also drawn directly from the provided text, highlighting the company's commitment to supporting its team members, including part-time staff. The working hours are typical for a part-time retail position.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Arts and Crafts Retail. Michaels is the leading specialty retailer of arts and crafts supplies in North America.

Company Size: Large (over 10,000 employees). This indicates a structured corporate environment with established processes and career paths.

Founded: 1973. With decades of experience, Michaels has a well-established brand presence and operational framework.

Team Structure:

• The role operates within a store-level team, reporting to a Store Manager or Assistant Manager, with direct supervision from a Framing Department Lead or Manager.

• Collaboration is key, involving interaction with various store associates for customer service, inventory, and omni-channel tasks.

Methodology:

• Emphasis on Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company programs for consistent execution.

• Customer-centric approach driven by building relationships and providing solutions (Elevated ABC Deliver).

• Data-driven decision-making in sales and inventory management (SISO, Directed Replenishment).

• Focus on operational efficiency, safety, and shrink reduction.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The company context highlights Michaels as a stable, large-scale retailer with a strong emphasis on structured operations and customer engagement. Understanding this context is crucial for candidates to align their responses with the company's values and operational priorities.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Entry-Level Retail Specialist. This role is designed for individuals starting their careers in retail or looking to specialize in a specific department like custom framing. It requires learning core retail functions and specialized framing skills.

Reporting Structure: The Framer reports to store leadership, such as the Store Manager or Framing Department Manager, and works collaboratively with other store associates. This structure allows for direct mentorship and operational guidance.

Operations Impact: While not a strategic operations role, the Framer significantly impacts the store's revenue through direct sales of custom framing services and contributes to customer satisfaction and loyalty. Efficient operations in the framing department directly support the store's overall financial performance and customer experience.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Develop advanced skills in custom framing design, sales techniques, and production, potentially becoming a lead or manager within the framing department.

• Cross-Training: Gain experience in other store departments (e.g., customer service, merchandising) to broaden retail skill sets and increase internal mobility.

• Leadership Track: Progress to roles like Assistant Store Manager or Store Manager by demonstrating strong performance in sales, operations, and team leadership.

• Continuous Learning: Utilize company resources like tuition assistance to pursue further education or certifications relevant to retail management or design.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth opportunities are framed within a retail career path, emphasizing skill development within the company's structure. Candidates should highlight their eagerness to learn and grow within the Michaels organization.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Public Retail Store Setting. The primary workspace is the retail floor and the dedicated framing shop within the store.

Office Location(s): Waldorf, Maryland. This specific location is a physical retail store environment.

Workspace Context:

• The framing shop is a specialized area requiring specific tools and equipment, including a glass cutter and heat press. Safety protocols are paramount in this area.

• The general store environment is climate-controlled, but stock rooms might not be. Some outdoor work may be required for tasks like retrieving shopping carts or during truck unloadings.

• Opportunities for collaboration exist with fellow store associates, particularly when handling customer inquiries across departments or during team stocking efforts.

Work Schedule: Flexible, part-time schedule that includes nights, weekends, and early mornings. This requires adaptability to meet store operational needs and customer demand.

📝 Enhancement Note: The description emphasizes a hands-on, dynamic work environment. Candidates should be comfortable with physical demands and varied work hours common in retail.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

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

• In-Person Interview: Expect a one-on-one or panel interview with store management (e.g., Store Manager, Framing Manager). Questions will focus on customer service experience, problem-solving abilities, sales aptitude, and understanding of the Framer role.

• Skills Assessment: You may be asked about your experience with measuring, basic computer skills, and your ability to learn new equipment. Demonstrating a willingness to learn is key.

• Situational Questions: Be prepared for questions like "How would you handle a difficult customer?" or "How would you approach selling a custom framing solution?"

• Store Walkthrough: You might be given a brief tour of the store and framing area, which could include a practical demonstration or discussion about the equipment.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• While a formal portfolio isn't expected, prepare to discuss specific examples from past roles that demonstrate your sales skills, customer service successes, and ability to follow processes.

• For instance, if you've exceeded sales targets, quantify it. If you've resolved a customer complaint effectively, explain your approach and the positive outcome.

Challenge Preparation:

• Sales Scenarios: Practice how you would engage a customer entering the framing department, ask qualifying questions about their artwork and needs, and recommend appropriate framing options and materials.

• Problem-Solving: Think about how you would handle common retail challenges, such as stock shortages, customer complaints about product quality, or managing multiple customer requests simultaneously.

• Process Adherence: Be ready to articulate your understanding of why following SOPs and company guidelines is important for consistency, safety, and customer satisfaction.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is geared towards assessing practical skills, customer interaction abilities, and cultural fit for a retail environment. Candidates should prepare specific examples to illustrate their capabilities.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Point of Sale (POS) System: For processing transactions, managing sales, and potentially customer order entry. Proficiency in basic POS operations is required.

• Custom Framing Equipment: Including but not limited to glass cutters, mat cutters, framing tools (e.g., saws, jointers, presses), and potentially heat presses for specialized applications.

• Measuring Tools: Tape measures, rulers, and other precision instruments for accurate order specifications.

• Basic Computer Skills: For accessing company systems, training modules, and potentially order management software.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While the Framer role is not directly involved in complex analytics, they will interact with sales reports and inventory data at a basic level through the POS system and store management tools.

CRM & Automation:

• The company's POS and order management systems likely have CRM functionalities to track customer purchases and preferences, facilitating personalized service and relationship building.

• Automation might be present in inventory replenishment systems (Directed Replenishment) and potentially in order processing workflows.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is focused on core retail operational tools. Candidates should emphasize their ability to quickly learn and adapt to new systems and equipment.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Customer Focus: Prioritizing customer satisfaction and building lasting relationships through exceptional service and tailored solutions.

• Creativity & Passion: Fostering an environment that celebrates creativity and encourages team members to share their passion for arts and crafts.

• Teamwork & Collaboration: Working together effectively to support colleagues, achieve store goals, and ensure a positive shopping experience for all customers.

• Integrity & Accountability: Upholding company standards, acting with honesty, and taking responsibility for tasks and commitments.

• Efficiency & Quality: Striving for operational excellence in all tasks, from sales transactions to meticulous framing production.

Collaboration Style:

• Supportive: Team members are encouraged to assist each other, particularly during busy periods or when complex customer needs arise.

• Process-Oriented: Adherence to established procedures ensures consistency and efficiency across the team.

• Communication-Focused: Open communication is vital for coordinating tasks, sharing information about customer needs, and resolving issues promptly.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture emphasizes a blend of customer-centricity, creativity, and operational discipline. Candidates should demonstrate how their values align with these principles.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

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

• Customer Expectations: Handling diverse customer needs, artistic preferences, and budget considerations for custom framing projects.

• Physical Demands: Meeting the physical requirements of the job, including standing for long periods, lifting heavy items, and working with tools.

• Learning Curve: Acquiring proficiency with framing equipment, software systems, and company-specific sales methodologies.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Framing Expertise: Deepen knowledge of matting techniques, glass types, frame materials, and preservation methods.

• Sales & Design Skills: Enhance consultative selling abilities and develop an eye for design to better assist customers.

• Retail Operations: Gain broader experience in visual merchandising, inventory management, and omni-channel fulfillment.

• Leadership Development: Opportunities to take on more responsibility, train new team members, and potentially move into supervisory roles.

📝 Enhancement Note: Understanding these challenges allows candidates to prepare thoughtful responses during interviews, showcasing their problem-solving skills and proactive approach to development.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Customer Engagement: "Describe a time you successfully helped a customer find the perfect product or solution. How did you approach understanding their needs?" (Focus on active listening and consultative selling).

• Sales Aptitude: "If a customer is hesitant about the price of custom framing, how would you address their concerns and highlight the value?" (Emphasize quality, craftsmanship, and long-term value).

• Problem-Solving: "Imagine you have multiple framing orders due today, and a new, urgent customer request comes in. How would you prioritize and manage your workload?" (Highlight time management, communication, and prioritization skills).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "Why are you interested in working for Michaels, specifically in the framing department?" (Research Michaels' mission, values, and product offerings).

• "How do you approach teamwork and collaboration in a retail environment?" (Provide examples of helping colleagues or contributing to team goals).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Showcase Relevant Experience: Instead of a formal portfolio, prepare to discuss specific achievements from previous roles that demonstrate customer service excellence, sales success, attention to detail, and adherence to procedures.

• Quantify Achievements: Use numbers and data whenever possible (e.g., "exceeded sales targets by 15%," "handled an average of 50 customer inquiries per shift").

• Demonstrate Learning Agility: Express enthusiasm for learning the technical aspects of framing and confidence in your ability to master new equipment and systems.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparation should focus on aligning personal experiences and skills with the specific demands of the Framer role and Michaels' company culture. Highlighting a proactive, customer-focused, and detail-oriented approach will be key.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

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

• Customize your resume: Highlight any relevant customer service, sales, or retail experience. Emphasize your ability to learn new skills and operate equipment.

• Prepare for situational questions: Think about how you would handle customer interactions, sales scenarios, and operational tasks specific to a framing department.

• Research Michaels: Understand the company's mission, values, and commitment to creativity. Be ready to articulate why you are a good fit for their culture.

• Practice your "elevator pitch": Be ready to briefly introduce yourself and explain your interest in the Framer role and Michaels Stores.

⚠️ 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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