Framer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Framer

Company: Michaels Stores

Location: Waldorf, Maryland, United States

Job Type: Part time

Category: Retail Operations / Customer Service & Sales

Date Posted: September 14, 2026

Experience Level: Entry Level (0-2 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is centered on providing exceptional customer service within a retail environment, specifically focusing on the custom framing department.

• Key responsibilities include building strong customer relationships, understanding their needs for custom framing solutions, and executing those solutions with high quality.

• The position requires adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company programs to ensure operational efficiency, compliance, and safety.

• A crucial aspect of the role involves maintaining the visual presentation and inventory levels of the ready-made frame department and other assigned areas.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Framer," the role encompasses broader retail operations and sales responsibilities beyond just framing. The emphasis on "customer relationships" and "helping customers shop" indicates a strong customer-facing component that requires sales acumen and a proactive approach to service. The role is explicitly part-time, suggesting a need for flexibility in scheduling and potentially a focus on specific shifts or operational needs.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Customer Engagement & Sales:

  • Build and nurture customer relationships by actively engaging with them, understanding their creative projects, and providing tailored custom framing solutions.
  • Utilize "Elevated ABC Deliver" (likely a sales methodology or training program) to enhance customer interactions and drive sales in the framing department.
  • Assist customers in locating products throughout the store, ensuring a positive and comprehensive shopping experience.

• Custom Framing Operations:

  • Accurately measure and cut materials for custom framing orders, ensuring precision and adherence to design specifications.
  • Operate framing equipment and tools, including glass cutters and heat presses, safely and efficiently.
  • Complete custom framing orders to a high standard of quality and within established production timelines.

• Store Operations & Merchandising:

  • Maintain the visual standards and inventory levels of the ready-made frame department, including SISO (Sales in Store Only) and Directed Replenishment processes.
  • Participate actively in truck un-loading and stocking processes to ensure efficient inventory management and adherence to store standards.
  • Operate the cash register, handle transactions accurately, and execute cash handling procedures according to company standards.

• Store Maintenance & Safety:

  • Ensure a safe, clean, and clutter-free store environment for both customers and team members.
  • Support and adhere to company-wide shrink and safety programs, reporting any potential hazards or security concerns.

• Team Collaboration & Compliance:

  • Interact positively and respectfully with colleagues, promoting a collaborative and supportive team environment.

  • Adhere to all Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company programs to ensure legal compliance and operational consistency.

  • Assist with Omni-channel processes, such as buy online, pick up in-store (BOPIS) or ship-from-store, as needed.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of specialized framing skills, customer service excellence, and general retail operational duties. The mention of "Elevated ABC Deliver" suggests a structured approach to sales and customer interaction that candidates should be prepared to discuss. Omni-channel support indicates the need for adaptability in a modern retail setting.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• No specific educational degree is listed as a minimum requirement, suggesting that practical experience and demonstrated skills are prioritized. Experience:

• 0-2 years of experience in a customer-facing or operational role is expected, with a focus on practical application of skills. Required Skills:

• Basic Computer Skills: Ability to navigate point-of-sale (POS) systems, inventory management software, and basic office applications.

• Basic Measuring Skills: Proficiency in accurate measurement for framing projects, ensuring precision and minimizing waste.

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

• Customer Service Excellence: Proven ability to build rapport, understand customer needs, and provide solutions in a retail setting.

• Sales Acumen: Capacity to engage customers, identify opportunities, and drive sales for custom framing services.

• Cash Handling Proficiency: Accuracy and reliability in processing transactions and managing cash.

• Merchandising Standards: Understanding of visual presentation principles to maintain an appealing and organized sales floor.

• Adherence to SOPs: Demonstrated ability to follow established procedures and company policies.

Preferred Skills:

• Retail Experience: Prior experience working in a retail environment, understanding store operations and customer flow.

• Sales Experience: Proven track record of selling products or services, particularly in a consultative or solution-oriented manner.

• Framing Equipment Operation: Familiarity with a wider range of framing tools and techniques, including potential heat press operation.

• Inventory Management: Experience with stock replenishment, cycle counts, and maintaining accurate inventory records.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "0-2" years of experience classification suggests this role is geared towards individuals early in their careers, potentially including high school students or those seeking entry-level positions. The emphasis on "basic" skills for required qualifications indicates a willingness to train candidates on specific framing techniques and equipment.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• While a formal portfolio might not be strictly required given the entry-level nature, candidates are encouraged to showcase examples of their work if available.

• Framing Samples: If personal framing projects have been completed, visual documentation (photos) can demonstrate skill and aesthetic sense.

• Customer Service Scenarios: Prepare to discuss how you have handled challenging customer interactions or resolved issues effectively in previous roles.

• Sales Achievements: Quantifiable examples of sales performance or contributions to team sales goals.

• Process Improvement Ideas: If applicable, brief descriptions of how you've identified and suggested improvements to operational processes in past roles.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Understanding: Be prepared to discuss your understanding of a typical custom framing workflow, from initial customer consultation to final product delivery.

• Quality Control: Articulate how you would ensure the quality and accuracy of a framing order throughout the production process.

• System Navigation: Demonstrate familiarity with using POS systems and potentially basic inventory tracking tools.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an entry-level role like this, a traditional operations portfolio is unlikely to be a strict requirement. However, framing the discussion around past experiences that demonstrate the core competencies—customer service, problem-solving, attention to detail, and sales aptitude—will be critical. Candidates should be ready to speak to their understanding of processes rather than present formal documentation.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Estimated Range: $15.25 - $17.90 per hour.

• Explanation: This range is based on the provided salary information and reflects entry-level to slightly experienced hourly rates for retail positions in the Waldorf, Maryland area. Factors influencing placement within this range include prior relevant experience, demonstrated skills, and performance during the interview process. The "Total Base Pay Range for this Position" is explicitly stated in the job description.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health & Wellness:

  • Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage options.
  • Telemedicine services for convenient healthcare access.
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP) offering confidential support.

• Financial & Retirement:

  • 401(k) retirement plan with a company match.
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) for healthcare and dependent care expenses.
  • Commuter benefits to assist with transportation costs.

• Professional Development & Support:

  • Tuition assistance programs to support continuing education.
  • Adoption assistance to help with the costs of growing a family.

• Additional Perks:

  • Voluntary insurance options for added protection.

  • Significant employee discounts on Michaels products.

  • Access to partner discount programs. Working Hours:

• Part-time: This is a part-time position, meaning hours will vary and are typically less than 30-40 hours per week.

• Flexibility: Work hours include nights, weekends, and early mornings, requiring flexibility to meet store operational needs and customer demand.

• Potential Overtime: The position may be eligible for overtime compensation in accordance with state and local laws.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided salary range is specific and directly stated in the job description. The benefits listed are extensive for a part-time retail role, indicating Michaels' commitment to supporting its team members. The mention of "work hours include nights, weekends and early mornings" is crucial for candidates to note regarding scheduling flexibility.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Retail (Arts and Crafts, Home Decor, Custom Framing)

Company Size: Large (Over 1,300 stores across North America)

Founded: 1973, headquartered in Irving, Texas. Michaels is a leading destination for creativity and celebration.

Team Structure:

• Store-Level Operations: The Framer will be part of a store team, likely reporting to a Store Manager, Assistant Store Manager, or a designated Framing Department Lead.

• Departmental Focus: While part of the larger store team, there's a specific focus on the Custom Framing department, implying collaboration with other framing specialists or associates if the store is large enough.

• Cross-functional Collaboration: The role requires interaction with various store functions, including sales associates, stock associates, and potentially management for Omni-channel fulfillment, inventory management, and customer issue resolution.

Methodology:

• Customer-Centric Approach: Emphasis on building relationships and providing solutions ("Elevated ABC Deliver").

• Process Adherence: Strong reliance on Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for consistency, compliance, and quality control.

• Data-Informed Operations: While not explicitly stated for this role, the company's scale suggests a data-driven approach to inventory management, sales performance, and operational efficiency.

• Teamwork and Support: A culture that values positive interactions, respect, and mutual support among team members.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Michaels positions itself as a place that "fuels the joy of creativity and celebration." This suggests a company culture that is likely vibrant, encouraging, and focused on the customer's creative journey. The emphasis on SOPs indicates a structured operational environment, while the broad reach implies robust training and development programs.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Entry-Level Retail Associate / Specialist

• This role represents an excellent starting point within the retail operations and customer service field. It provides foundational experience in customer interaction, sales, operational procedures, and specialized craft skills (framing). Reporting Structure:

• The Framer will typically report to a Store Manager or an Assistant Manager, who oversees daily store operations and staff. There might be a dedicated Framing Department Manager or Lead in larger stores. Operations Impact:

• Directly impacts customer satisfaction and loyalty through quality framing services and excellent service.

• Contributes to store revenue through custom framing sales and assisting with overall store sales targets.

• Supports operational efficiency by maintaining department standards, managing inventory, and assisting with stocking and POS operations.

• Plays a role in shrink reduction and safety compliance, contributing to a secure and efficient store environment. Growth Opportunities:

• Within Framing: Potential to become a Framing Department Lead or Manager, taking on more responsibility for training, inventory, and sales targets.

• Broader Retail Management: Opportunity to move into Assistant Store Manager or Store Manager roles, managing all aspects of store operations and staff.

• Specialized Roles: Development into other specialized areas within Michaels, such as visual merchandising, inventory control, or customer experience roles.

• Skill Development: Continuous learning and honing of customer service, sales, and technical framing skills, potentially leading to more advanced framing techniques or design consultations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth path at Michaels is clear, moving from a specialized associate role to broader retail management. The company's size provides ample opportunities for advancement and exposure to various facets of retail operations. Emphasizing the transferable skills gained (customer service, sales, operational execution) will be key for career progression discussions.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Public Retail Store Setting

Office Location(s): Waldorf-3026 Festival Way, Waldorf, Maryland, United States. The role is based within a physical retail store environment.

Workspace Context:

• Customer-Facing Areas: Primarily working on the sales floor and within the custom framing department, which are typically climate-controlled.

• Production Area: The frame shop itself contains specialized equipment like glass cutters and heat presses, requiring careful operation and attention to safety.

• Stock Rooms: Some stock rooms may not be climate-controlled, requiring tolerance for varying temperatures.

• Collaboration: Frequent interaction with customers and fellow team members. Opportunities for teamwork during stocking, merchandising, and customer assistance.

• Tools & Technology: Access to POS systems, framing equipment, glass cutters, and potentially inventory management tools.

Work Schedule:

• Part-time: Hours will vary based on operational needs and scheduling.

• Flexibility Required: Must be available to work nights, weekends, and early mornings. This flexibility is essential for meeting customer demand and ensuring adequate store coverage.

• Physical Demands: The role requires standing for long periods, regular bending, lifting (heavy boxes and frames), carrying, reaching, and stretching. Ladder use may be necessary for accessing high shelves.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is dynamic and fast-paced, typical of a retail setting. Candidates should be prepared for both customer interaction on the sales floor and hands-on work in the framing area. The physical requirements are significant and should be carefully considered.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Likely an online application followed by a brief phone or video screen to assess basic qualifications and interest.

• In-Person Interview: This will likely involve meeting with the hiring manager (Store Manager or Assistant Manager) at the store location.

• Skills Demonstration/Assessment: You may be asked to demonstrate basic measuring skills, talk through how you would approach a framing consultation, or discuss your customer service philosophy.

• Situational Questions: Expect questions about how you would handle specific customer scenarios, sales opportunities, or operational challenges (e.g., dealing with a difficult customer, managing multiple tasks).

• Cultural Fit: Assessment of how well your personality and work ethic align with Michaels' values of creativity, customer focus, and teamwork.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Focus on Relevance: Since this is an entry-level role, a formal portfolio isn't expected. Instead, prepare to discuss specific examples from previous jobs, volunteer work, or personal projects that demonstrate:

  • Customer Service Skills: How you've gone above and beyond for a customer.
  • Sales Aptitude: Instances where you successfully upsold, cross-sold, or met sales targets.
  • Problem-Solving: How you've resolved customer complaints or operational issues.
  • Attention to Detail: Examples of tasks where precision was critical.
  • Teamwork: Contributions to a team effort.

• Framing Knowledge (If Any): If you have personal framing experience, be ready to discuss the types of projects, materials used, and techniques employed.

• Visual Aids (Optional): If you have photos of framing projects you've completed, bring them on a phone or tablet to showcase your practical skills.

Challenge Preparation:

• Customer Interaction Scenarios: Practice articulating how you would greet a customer, identify their framing needs, offer solutions, and close the sale.

• Operational Knowledge: Be ready to discuss your understanding of retail operations, such as merchandising, inventory stocking, and POS transactions.

• Problem-Solving Scenarios: Think about how you would handle common retail issues like stock shortages, customer complaints, or equipment malfunctions.

• Company Research: Understand Michaels' mission, values, and product offerings. Be prepared to explain why you want to work for Michaels specifically.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will likely be practical and focused on assessing core competencies for a retail associate role with a specialized function. Candidates should prepare concrete examples rather than theoretical answers. The emphasis will be on attitude, willingness to learn, and customer engagement skills.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Point of Sale (POS) System: Essential for processing transactions, managing customer accounts, and potentially tracking sales performance.

Proficiency in using retail POS systems is expected.

• Custom Framing Equipment: Includes specialized tools for cutting, assembling, and finishing frames. Specific equipment mentioned includes:

  • Glass Cutter: For precise cutting of glass or acrylic to fit frames.
  • Heat Press: Likely used for applying adhesives, mounting artwork, or finishing certain types of framing materials.
  • Other Framing Tools: Assumed to include mat cutters, jointers, staple guns, and assembly tools.

• Basic Computer Skills: Navigating store-level computer systems for inventory, scheduling, or communication.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Sales Data: While not directly managed by the Framer, understanding basic sales reports or performance metrics related to the framing department could be beneficial.

• Inventory Management Systems: Used for tracking stock levels of ready-made frames and framing supplies.

CRM & Automation:

• Customer Relationship Management (CRM): The "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodology likely involves elements of CRM, focusing on building customer loyalty and tracking preferences.

• Order Management Systems: Used for tracking the status of custom framing orders from creation to completion.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is primarily focused on direct customer interaction and operational execution within a retail setting. Proficiency with POS systems and a willingness to learn specialized framing equipment are key. The "Elevated ABC Deliver" suggests a structured approach to customer relationship building, even if not through a formal CRM platform.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Customer Focus: Prioritizing customer needs and ensuring a positive, memorable experience. This is central to the "building customer relationships" aspect.

• Creativity: Embracing the company's core mission by supporting customer creativity and contributing to a creative store environment.

• Quality: Commitment to producing high-quality custom framing solutions that meet customer expectations and company standards.

• Efficiency & Productivity: Adhering to SOPs and best practices to manage time effectively, complete tasks accurately, and contribute to store productivity.

• Teamwork & Respect: Fostering a positive and supportive work environment where all team members are treated with respect and collaborate effectively.

• Safety & Compliance: Upholding safety protocols and adhering to company policies to ensure a secure workplace and compliant operations.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional: Working seamlessly with other store associates to assist customers, manage inventory, and complete operational tasks.

• Service-Oriented: A collaborative approach focused on serving the customer, whether directly in framing or by supporting other store functions.

• Process-Driven: Collaboration often revolves around following established SOPs and workflows to ensure consistency and efficiency across all tasks.

• Feedback Exchange: Openness to feedback from supervisors and peers to improve performance and operational processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: Michaels emphasizes values that align with a creative, customer-centric, and team-oriented retail environment. The role requires individuals who are not only skilled but also embody these values in their daily interactions and work approach.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Multiple Priorities: Juggling customer consultations, custom framing production, ready-made frame merchandising, stocking, and cashier duties in a fast-paced environment.

• Meeting Production Deadlines: Ensuring custom framing orders are completed accurately and on time, especially during peak periods.

• Handling Diverse Customer Needs: Adapting to a wide range of customer requests, artistic preferences, and budget constraints for framing projects.

• Physical Demands: Consistently performing physically demanding tasks such as lifting heavy items, standing for long periods, and working with tools.

• Adapting to Retail Fluctuations: Managing busy periods (holidays, sales events) and slower times effectively.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Framing Expertise: Deepen knowledge and skills in custom framing techniques, matting, design principles, and material selection.

• Sales & Customer Service Skills: Enhance consultative selling techniques and customer relationship management through ongoing training and practice.

• Retail Operations Management: Gain experience in visual merchandising, inventory control, loss prevention, and operational efficiency.

• Leadership Potential: Develop leadership qualities through taking on additional responsibilities, assisting with training new hires, or aspiring to supervisory roles.

• Industry Trends: Stay updated on new framing materials, techniques, and design trends within the arts and crafts industry.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers significant opportunities for skill development in both specialized craft and broader retail operations. The challenges are typical of a busy retail environment, providing a solid foundation for future career growth.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Customer Service: "Describe a time you provided exceptional customer service. What was the situation, and what was the outcome?" or "How would you approach a customer who is unsure about their framing choices?"

  • Preparation: Focus on the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result). Emphasize empathy, active listening, and solution-oriented approaches.

• Sales Scenarios: "Imagine a customer wants to frame a valuable piece of art. What steps would you take to guide them towards the best solution and close the sale?" or "How do you handle a situation where a customer is focused on price over quality?"

  • Preparation: Highlight your understanding of consultative selling, identifying customer needs, presenting value, and overcoming objections.

• Problem-Solving & Operations: "What would you do if a framing order was not completed on time?" or "How would you ensure the framing department is well-maintained and organized?"

  • Preparation: Demonstrate an understanding of operational procedures, prioritizing tasks, communicating issues, and taking initiative to resolve problems. Company & Culture Questions:

• "Why are you interested in working for Michaels?"

  • Preparation: Research Michaels' mission, values, and product offerings. Connect your personal interests (e.g., creativity, customer service) to the company.

• "What do you know about our custom framing services?"

  • Preparation: Briefly review the framing section of Michaels' website. Understand the range of services offered.

• "How do you handle working as part of a team?"

  • Preparation: Provide examples of successful teamwork, collaboration, and positive contributions to a team environment. Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Verbal Examples: Since a formal portfolio isn't required, be prepared to verbally walk through specific examples from your past experiences that align with the job requirements.

• Highlight Key Skills: Focus your examples on customer service, sales, attention to detail, problem-solving, and any relevant hands-on or technical skills.

• Show Enthusiasm for Framing: Express genuine interest in the craft of framing and in helping customers bring their creative visions to life.

• Demonstrate Learning Agility: Convey a willingness and eagerness to learn new skills, operate equipment, and follow company procedures.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview will assess practical skills, customer service aptitude, and cultural fit. Candidates should prepare specific examples of their abilities and demonstrate enthusiasm for both the role and the company's mission.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

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

• Resume Tailoring: Ensure your resume highlights any relevant customer service, sales, retail, or hands-on experience. Use keywords from the job description such as "customer service," "sales," "framing," "merchandising," and "operational procedures." Quantify achievements whenever possible (e.g., "Increased custom framing inquiries by X%").

• Portfolio Preparation (Verbal): Mentally prepare 2-3 specific examples using the STAR method that demonstrate your customer service skills, problem-solving abilities, sales aptitude, and attention to detail.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Michaels' mission, values, product lines (especially custom framing), and recent company news. Understand what "fueling the joy of creativity and celebration" means to you.

• Interview Practice: Practice answering common retail interview questions, focusing on demonstrating enthusiasm, a strong work ethic, and a customer-centric mindset. Be ready to discuss why you are interested in Michaels and the Framer role specifically.

⚠️ 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.