Framer - Full-time

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Framer - Full-time

Company: Michaels Stores

Location: Store - 17 Digital Way, Suite 6, Maynard, Massachusetts, United States

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Retail Operations / Customer Service

Date Posted: April 24, 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 custom framing solutions.

• Key responsibilities include building customer relationships, driving sales through consultative selling of framing services, and ensuring high-quality production of custom framing orders.

• The position requires maintaining store presentation standards, including merchandising ready-made frames and managing inventory for framing materials.

• Successful candidates will operate framing equipment and contribute to overall store operations, including stocking and cash handling, embodying a commitment to creativity and customer satisfaction.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the raw job description focuses on a "Framer" role, this enhancement translates it into a "Retail Operations / Customer Service" category, emphasizing the operational aspects of customer engagement, sales, and in-store processes, which are critical for revenue generation and customer retention in a retail setting.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Customer Engagement & Sales:

  • Build strong customer relationships by actively listening to their needs and recommending personalized custom framing solutions.
  • Utilize the "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodology to engage customers, understand their artistic vision, and translate it into profitable framing sales and production.
  • Act as a consultative sales associate, educating customers on framing options, materials, and design principles to meet their aesthetic and budgetary requirements.

• Custom Framing Production:

  • Execute custom framing orders with a high degree of quality, accuracy, and adherence to production timelines to ensure customer satisfaction.
  • Operate specialized framing equipment, including mat cutters and heat presses, safely and efficiently.
  • Maintain meticulous attention to detail throughout the framing process, from initial order placement to final product assembly.

• Store Operations & Merchandising:

  • Maintain the visual presentation and stock levels of the ready-made frame department, ensuring it is well-merchandised and appealing to customers.
  • Assist with inventory management, including directed replenishment and stocking processes, to ensure optimal stock availability for framing supplies and related products.
  • Support shrink prevention and safety programs by adhering to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company policies.

• Customer Service & Store Maintenance:

  • Provide friendly, proactive customer service, assisting shoppers in locating products, answering inquiries, and offering solutions to enhance their shopping experience.
  • Maintain a safe, clean, and clutter-free store environment, adhering to all company standards for store appearance and organization.
  • Operate the cash register accurately and efficiently, executing cash handling procedures to company standards.

• Omni-channel Support & Team Collaboration:

  • Assist with and support omni-channel processes, such as buy-online-pickup-in-store (BOPIS) or ship-from-store initiatives, as required.

  • Participate actively in truck un-loading and stocking processes, ensuring efficiency and adherence to established standards.

  • Interact positively and respectfully with colleagues, demonstrating teamwork and a commitment to organizational values.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary responsibilities have been expanded to detail the customer-facing, production, and operational aspects of the Framer role. Emphasis is placed on sales techniques ("Elevated ABC Deliver"), quality control in production, and general store operational duties, aligning with retail operations best practices.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• High School Diploma or equivalent required.

• Specific to Operations: While formal education isn't heavily emphasized, a foundational understanding of measurement, spatial reasoning, and visual aesthetics is beneficial for custom framing.

Experience:

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

• Experience in retail sales or service environments is highly preferred.

• Specific to Operations: Prior experience in a production or assembly role, even if informal, can be advantageous for understanding workflow and quality control.

Required Skills:

• Customer Service Excellence: Ability to engage customers, build rapport, and provide solutions that meet their needs.

• Basic Computer Skills: Proficiency in using point-of-sale (POS) systems, basic computer applications for order entry, and potentially internal inventory systems.

• Measuring & Spatial Reasoning: Accurate measuring skills are critical for custom framing orders. Basic understanding of dimensions and proportions.

• Equipment Operation: Ability to safely and effectively operate framing equipment, including mat cutters and glass cutters.

• Cash Handling Proficiency: Accurate processing of transactions, managing cash, and adhering to security protocols.

• Adherence to SOPs: Strong ability to follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company policies consistently.

Preferred Skills:

• Retail Sales Experience: Proven track record in selling products or services, with an understanding of consultative selling techniques.

• Custom Framing Knowledge: Familiarity with framing materials, techniques, and design principles.

• Merchandising Skills: Ability to create visually appealing displays and maintain product presentation standards.

• Inventory Management Basics: Understanding of stock replenishment and inventory control principles.

• Omni-channel Process Understanding: Familiarity with modern retail fulfillment methods.

📝 Enhancement Note: Qualifications have been structured to highlight both general retail requirements and specific operational skills needed for a Framer. Emphasis is placed on skills like "Measuring & Spatial Reasoning" and "Equipment Operation" as direct operational competencies for this role.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• While a formal portfolio is not explicitly requested for this entry-level role, candidates are encouraged to highlight relevant experiences that demonstrate their ability to manage processes and utilize systems. This could include:

  • Examples of previous work involving precision, assembly, or creative problem-solving.
  • Descriptions of how they have managed tasks or projects to completion, emphasizing efficiency and quality.
  • Instances where they have utilized technology or equipment to achieve specific outcomes.

• Process Documentation: Candidates should be prepared to discuss how they follow established processes (SOPs) and contribute to maintaining efficient workflows in a retail environment. This includes:

  • Understanding and executing defined procedures for customer orders, production, and store operations.

  • Identifying opportunities for minor process improvements within their scope of work.

  • Documenting or communicating task completion and any deviations from standard processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an entry-level role like this, a traditional "portfolio" is less common. This section focuses on how candidates can demonstrate process adherence and system utilization through their experience and interview discussions. The emphasis is on understanding and following SOPs and contributing to operational efficiency.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• $15.25 - $17.90 per hour

• Note: This range reflects the stated base pay for the position. Actual compensation may vary based on experience, performance, and other factors.

Benefits:

• Health Insurance: Comprehensive coverage including medical, dental, and vision plans.

• Paid Time Off (PTO): Accrued paid leave for rest and personal needs.

• Tuition Assistance: Support for ongoing education and professional development.

• Employee Discounts: Generous discounts on Michaels products and services, fostering engagement with the company's offerings.

• Other Benefits: Additional benefits are available and can be explored further at mikbenefits.com, indicating a commitment to employee well-being.

Working Hours:

• Full-time position, typically requiring approximately 40 hours per week.

• Work hours include nights, weekends, and early mornings to meet business needs. Flexibility is expected to cover various operational demands.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is directly provided. Benefits are detailed, highlighting their value to retail operations employees. Working hours are specified, emphasizing the need for flexibility in a retail setting, which is crucial for operational coverage.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Arts and Crafts Retail

• Michaels operates within the highly competitive arts and crafts retail sector, positioning itself as a destination for creativity and celebration. This industry context means a focus on product variety, seasonal demand, and inspiring customer experiences.

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

• As a large, established retail organization, Michaels offers a structured environment with defined processes and career paths. This size implies significant operational scale, robust supply chains, and a broad customer base.

Founded: 1973, headquartered in Irving, Texas.

Team Structure:

• Store-Level Teams: This role operates within a store team structure, typically reporting to a Store Manager or Assistant Store Manager.

• Departmental Focus: The Framer is part of the Custom Framing department, working closely with other sales associates and potentially production specialists.

• Cross-functional Collaboration: Collaboration extends to all store associates for general customer service, inventory management, and operational tasks. There's also collaboration with online fulfillment teams for omni-channel orders.

Methodology:

• Customer-Centric Approach: The company emphasizes building customer relationships and delivering memorable experiences, particularly through personalized services like custom framing.

• Process Adherence: Reliance on Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for consistent execution of tasks, quality control, and compliance.

• Data-Informed Operations (Implied): While not explicitly stated for this role, a large retailer like Michaels likely uses sales data, inventory metrics, and customer feedback to inform operational decisions and strategies.

Company Website: www.michaels.com

📝 Enhancement Note: This section contextualizes the role within Michaels' broader business, highlighting how its industry, size, and history shape the daily work environment and operational expectations for a Framer. The team structure emphasizes the collaborative nature of retail store operations.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Entry-Level Retail Associate / Specialist

Reporting Structure:

Operations Impact:

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Development:

  • Advanced framing techniques and design principles.
  • Enhanced sales and customer relationship management skills.
  • Proficiency in various retail systems and operational processes.

• Career Advancement:

  • Potential to progress to roles like Lead Framer, Framing Department Specialist, or other specialized sales positions within the store.

  • Opportunity to move into broader retail management roles, such as Assistant Store Manager or Store Manager, by demonstrating leadership, operational acumen, and sales performance.

  • Development into omni-channel fulfillment roles as the company's digital strategy evolves.

📝 Enhancement Note: This analysis frames the Framer role as a starting point for a career in retail operations, detailing potential growth paths and the operational skills that contribute to the company's success.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Public Retail Store Setting

Office Location(s):

• Store - 17 Digital Way, Suite 6, Maynard, Massachusetts.

Workspace Context:

• Customer Interaction Zone: The sales floor and framing counter are areas of high customer traffic, requiring excellent interpersonal skills and a professional demeanor.

• Production Area: The frame shop is a specialized workspace where equipment like glass cutters and heat presses are used, requiring adherence to safety protocols.

• Stock Rooms: May include climate-controlled and non-climate-controlled areas for inventory storage and processing.

• Collaborative Environment: Team members work together to ensure smooth store operations, customer satisfaction, and efficient task completion.

Work Schedule:

• Flexible schedule required, including nights, weekends, and early mornings. This ensures operational coverage during peak business hours and across all operational needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section details the physical and social aspects of the work environment, emphasizing the customer-facing nature, specialized production area, and the need for schedule flexibility in a retail operations context.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Application Review: Resumes and applications will be screened for basic qualifications, relevant experience (retail, customer service, sales), and demonstrated ability to follow procedures.

• In-Person Interview:

  • Customer Service & Sales Scenarios: Expect questions assessing your ability to handle customer interactions, resolve issues, and drive sales, particularly in a framing context. Be prepared to discuss how you'd approach a customer needing framing advice.
  • Operational Understanding: Questions about your familiarity with retail processes like cash handling, inventory, and maintaining store standards.
  • Equipment & Safety: Discussion of your comfort level with operating equipment and your understanding of workplace safety.
  • Problem-Solving: Situational questions assessing how you would handle common retail challenges (e.g., difficult customers, production delays).

• Practical Assessment (Potential): You may be asked to demonstrate basic measuring skills or discuss how you would approach a framing consultation.

• Final Interview: May involve meeting with a Store Manager or District Manager to discuss cultural fit and long-term potential.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• For this role, a traditional portfolio isn't expected. Instead, focus on preparing to discuss:
  • Specific Examples: Have concrete examples ready from past experiences that showcase your customer service skills, sales achievements, problem-solving abilities, and attention to detail.
  • Process Adherence: Be ready to describe how you've followed instructions, SOPs, or guidelines in previous roles.
  • Technical Aptitude: Discuss any experience you have with tools, equipment, or technology, highlighting your ability to learn and operate new systems.
  • Sales Approach: Articulate your sales philosophy and how you build rapport with customers to meet their needs.

Challenge Preparation:

• Customer Interaction Simulation: Practice how you would greet, engage, and advise a customer looking for custom framing solutions.

• Problem-Solving Scenarios: Think about how you would handle common retail issues, such as a customer complaint about a framed item or a delay in production.

• Operational Awareness: Be ready to discuss the importance of store cleanliness, organization, and efficient workflows in a retail environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section provides actionable advice for candidates, translating the typical interview process for a retail operations role into specific preparation steps, focusing on demonstrating practical skills and operational awareness rather than a formal portfolio.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Point-of-Sale (POS) System: Essential for processing sales transactions, managing customer accounts, and potentially initiating framing orders. Proficiency in a retail POS system is key.

• Custom Framing Software/Design Tools (Potential): While not explicitly mentioned, advanced framing roles might use specialized software for design, quoting, and order management. Basic familiarity with design interfaces is a plus.

• Measuring Tools: Tape measures, rulers, and potentially specialized framing measurement devices.

• Framing Equipment: Mat cutters, glass cutters, heat presses, and assembly tools. Safe and proficient operation is required.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Inventory Management Systems: Used for tracking stock levels of framing materials, ready-made frames, and related products.

• Sales Reporting Tools (Store Level): Access to reports on individual sales performance, department sales, and customer transaction data.

CRM & Automation:

• Customer Relationship Management (CRM) (Basic): The POS system may have CRM functionalities for tracking customer preferences and purchase history, aiding in personalized service.

• Order Management Systems: Systems for tracking custom framing orders from placement through production to completion.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section identifies the likely technology stack for a Framer role in a retail environment, focusing on POS systems, specialized framing tools, and basic inventory/sales tracking software.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Customer Focus: A strong emphasis on creating positive customer experiences, building loyalty, and exceeding expectations, particularly through personalized framing services.

• Creativity & Passion: Encouraging a love for art, craft, and creative expression, both for employees and customers.

• Quality & Craftsmanship: Commitment to delivering high-quality custom framing solutions that meet professional standards.

• Teamwork & Collaboration: Working together effectively to achieve store goals, support colleagues, and ensure smooth operational flow.

• Efficiency & Productivity: Striving for efficient processes in sales, production, and store operations to maximize productivity and profitability.

Collaboration Style:

• Customer-Centric Collaboration: Team members work together to ensure the customer's needs are met, from initial consultation to final purchase.

• Cross-Functional Support: Associates assist each other across different store functions (e.g., sales floor, framing, stocking) to maintain operational efficiency.

• Process-Oriented: A culture that values adherence to established procedures (SOPs) to ensure consistency and quality in all operations.

• Open Communication: Encouraging open dialogue about customer feedback, production challenges, and operational improvements.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section details the company's operational values and collaboration style, emphasizing customer service, creative spirit, and process adherence, which are crucial for success in a retail operations role.

⚡ 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 Management: Handling diverse customer needs and expectations regarding design, budget, and turnaround time for custom framing.

• Technical Skill Development: Quickly learning to operate specialized framing equipment and mastering techniques for high-quality results.

• Standing/Physical Demands: The role requires prolonged periods of standing, bending, lifting, and reaching, which can be physically demanding.

• Seasonal Fluctuations: Adapting to busy periods (e.g., holidays, art show seasons) and managing workflow accordingly.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Framing Expertise: Deepen knowledge in custom framing design, materials, and advanced techniques through on-the-job training and potential workshops.

• Sales & Customer Service Skills: Develop consultative selling techniques, customer relationship management, and conflict resolution skills.

• Operational Process Mastery: Gain proficiency in retail POS systems, inventory management, and store operations procedures.

• Cross-Training: Opportunity to learn about other areas of store operations, enhancing versatility.

• Career Progression: Potential to advance into leadership roles within the store or specialize further in custom framing.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section outlines potential challenges inherent in the role and the corresponding growth opportunities, providing a realistic outlook for candidates interested in this operational position.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Customer Service & Sales:

  • "Describe a time you helped a customer find the perfect solution for their needs. How did you approach it?" (Focus on consultative selling and problem-solving).
  • "How would you handle a customer who is unsure about the best framing options for their artwork?" (Demonstrate ability to guide, educate, and build confidence).
  • "What steps would you take to upsell or cross-sell framing services or related products?" (Show understanding of maximizing sales opportunities).

• Operational & Technical Skills:

  • "How do you ensure accuracy when taking measurements or completing a detailed order?" (Highlight attention to detail and process adherence).
  • "Describe your experience with operating machinery or tools. What safety precautions would you take when using framing equipment?" (Assess technical aptitude and safety awareness).
  • "How do you prioritize tasks when you have multiple customer requests and production deadlines simultaneously?" (Evaluate organizational and time management skills).

• Company & Culture Fit:

  • "Why are you interested in working for Michaels, specifically in a framing role?" (Show genuine interest in the company and the craft).
  • "How do you contribute to a positive team environment?" (Assess collaboration and interpersonal skills).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Since a formal portfolio isn't required, prepare to speak confidently about:
  • Relevant Experience: Have specific examples ready that showcase your customer service, sales, problem-solving, and any hands-on or technical skills.
  • Process Understanding: Be ready to explain how you follow instructions and adhere to procedures.
  • Learning Agility: Demonstrate your ability to learn new skills, equipment, and processes quickly.

Challenge Preparation:

• Mock Consultation: Practice walking through a framing consultation scenario, from greeting the customer to recommending materials and finalizing the order.

• Problem-Solving Scenarios: Think through how you would handle common retail issues like a production delay, a customer complaint, or a stockout of a key framing material.

• Equipment Familiarity: If you have prior experience with similar tools, be prepared to discuss it. If not, express your eagerness to learn and your understanding of safety protocols.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section provides concrete interview questions and preparation strategies tailored for a retail operations role like the Framer, focusing on demonstrating relevant skills and cultural fit rather than a formal portfolio.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

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

• Tailor your resume: Highlight any experience in customer service, sales, retail, or hands-on work. Use keywords from the job description such as "customer service," "sales," "framing," "merchandising," and "cash handling."

• Prepare for the interview:

  • Practice articulating your customer service and sales approach. Think of specific examples where you've successfully assisted customers or driven sales.
  • Be ready to discuss your understanding of retail operations, including cash handling, store presentation, and following procedures.
  • Express your enthusiasm for craft, creativity, and helping customers bring their artistic visions to life.

• Research Michaels: Familiarize yourself with the company's mission, values, and product offerings, particularly their custom framing services. This will help you demonstrate genuine interest and cultural alignment.

⚠️ 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.