FT Retail Framer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: FT Retail Framer

Company: Michaels Stores

Location: Danvers, MA

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Retail Operations

Date Posted: 2026-09-10

Experience Level: Entry-Level (0-2 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is pivotal in driving in-store customer engagement and sales through expert custom framing solutions, directly impacting the retail operational success of the Danvers store.

• The FT Retail Framer is responsible for executing Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company programs to ensure compliance, operational efficiency, and a positive customer experience.

• Key to this position is the ability to act as a lead in the absence of the Framing Manager, demonstrating leadership potential and operational oversight.

• This role emphasizes building strong customer relationships and providing exceptional service, contributing to overall store performance and customer loyalty metrics.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the raw job description focuses on retail tasks, the "FT Retail Framer" title and responsibilities like "acting in lead capacity in the absence of the Framing Manager," "Support and assist Framing Manager in driving KPI’s achievement," and "Complete framing orders with a high degree of quality and on time" indicate a specialized retail operations role with a strong emphasis on process adherence, performance metrics, and potential for operational leadership within the framing department.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Custom Framing Sales & Production:

  • Engage customers to understand their framing needs and provide expert consultation on custom framing solutions, utilizing sales techniques to close orders.
  • Execute custom framing orders with a high degree of quality and adherence to production timelines, minimizing errors and rework.
  • Operate and maintain specialized framing equipment, including mat cutters, framing tools, and potentially heat presses, ensuring safety and efficiency.

• Customer Relationship Management & Service:

  • Build and nurture customer relationships by providing personalized design consultations and memorable framing experiences, focusing on Elevated ABC Deliver methodology.
  • Deliver friendly and efficient customer service, assisting shoppers in locating products and offering solutions to meet their creative needs.
  • Educate customers on the benefits of the Michaels Rewards program and facilitate enrollments to enhance customer loyalty and data capture.

• Store Operations & Merchandising:

  • Maintain the visual presentation and stock levels of the ready-made frame department, as well as other assigned areas, including SISO (Ship-from-Store) and Directed Replenishment processes.
  • Assist with truck un-loads and stocking processes, ensuring adherence to truck standards and efficient inventory management.
  • Contribute to a safe, clean, and clutter-free store environment by following all safety protocols and maintaining organized work areas.

• Team Support & Leadership:

  • Act as a resource for other team members, providing training and support in framing operations and customer service best practices.
  • Support the Framing Manager in achieving Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for sales, production, and customer satisfaction.
  • Assume lead responsibilities in the absence of the Framing Manager, overseeing daily operations and team performance.

• Operational Compliance & Efficiency:

  • Adhere strictly to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company programs to ensure compliance with applicable laws and operational standards.

  • Participate in loss prevention and safety programs, reporting any potential hazards or security concerns.

  • Assist with Omni-channel processes, ensuring seamless integration between online and in-store customer experiences.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of direct customer sales, specialized production work, and general retail operations. The emphasis on "Elevated ABC Deliver," "KPI achievement," and "acting in lead capacity" suggests a structured operational environment where performance is measured and team members are expected to contribute to broader store goals.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• High school diploma or equivalent is typically required for entry-level retail positions. Experience:

• 0-2 years of experience in a retail environment, with a focus on customer interaction and sales.

• Demonstrated ability to learn and implement new processes and operational procedures quickly. Required Skills:

• Basic Computer Skills: Proficiency in using point-of-sale (POS) systems, basic data entry, and potentially internal communication platforms.

• Measuring Skills: Accurate measurement capabilities essential for custom framing projects.

• Customer Service Excellence: Ability to engage, assist, and provide solutions to customers in a friendly and professional manner.

• Cash Handling: Adherence to cash handling standards and accurate transaction processing.

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

• Basic Measuring Skills: Essential for precise custom framing work.

Preferred Skills:

• Retail Sales Experience: Proven track record in selling products or services, with an understanding of sales techniques and customer needs assessment.

• Custom Framing Knowledge/Experience: Familiarity with custom framing processes, materials, and equipment is highly advantageous.

• Merchandising Skills: Ability to maintain visually appealing and well-stocked product displays.

• Team Training/Mentorship: Experience in assisting or training colleagues.

• Basic Framing Equipment Operation: Familiarity with operating framing equipment and glass cutters.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirements emphasize a foundational skill set suitable for entry-level retail, with a specific niche in framing. The "0-2 years" experience level suggests the company provides training for specialized skills like operating framing equipment and glass cutting, but prior retail or sales experience is a strong plus. Basic computer and measuring skills are non-negotiable operational foundations.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• While a formal portfolio may not be required for this entry-level role, candidates with prior framing or design experience are encouraged to highlight relevant projects.

• Demonstrate an understanding of quality control in production processes, ensuring finished products meet high standards.

• Showcase an ability to follow system-driven workflows, such as order processing and inventory management, as per company SOPs.

• Highlight any instances where process improvements were suggested or implemented to enhance efficiency or customer satisfaction. Process Documentation:

• Candidates should be prepared to discuss their understanding of following documented processes (SOPs) for tasks like custom order fulfillment, customer service interactions, and inventory management.

• Ability to adapt to and effectively utilize specific system workflows for sales transactions, customer data capture (Rewards program), and potentially inventory tracking.

• Understanding of how to document or report on production progress and quality checks as required by the operational workflow.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an entry-level retail role, a formal process portfolio is less common. However, the emphasis on SOPs and KPIs means candidates should be ready to discuss their experience with documented procedures and performance metrics. Highlighting any project work, even personal, that demonstrates precision, organization, or customer focus, particularly in crafting or design, would be beneficial.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• The provided salary range is $16.50 - $19.40 per hour. This range is competitive for entry-level retail positions in the Danvers, MA area, reflecting the specialized nature of custom framing and the full-time commitment. The specific rate within this range will depend on the candidate's experience level and demonstrated skills. Benefits:

• Health & Wellness:

  • Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage
  • Telemedicine services
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

• Financial Security:

  • 401(k) with employer match
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)
  • Commuter benefits
  • Voluntary insurance options

• Personal & Professional Development:

  • Tuition assistance
  • Adoption assistance

• Perks:

  • Employee discounts on Michaels products

  • Access to partner discount programs Working Hours:

• This is a Full-Time position, typically requiring approximately 40 hours per week.

• Work hours may include nights, weekends, and early mornings, aligning with retail operational needs and customer traffic patterns. Flexibility in scheduling is often a requirement for retail roles.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is specific and detailed. The benefits listed are comprehensive for a retail organization, offering a good mix of health, financial, and developmental support. The mention of overtime compensation indicates adherence to labor laws for full-time employees.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Arts and Crafts Retail. Michaels operates as a leading specialty retailer in North America, focusing on arts, crafts, and home decor. This industry context means the culture often emphasizes creativity, inspiration, and community engagement.

Company Size: The Michaels Companies, Inc. operates over 1,300 stores across North America, indicating a large, established retail organization with significant operational scale and structured processes.

Founded: Founded in 1973, Michaels has a long history in the retail sector, suggesting a stable company with established operational frameworks and a deep understanding of its market.

Team Structure:

• The retail store team typically includes a Store Manager, Assistant Store Manager(s), Framing Manager, and various Team Members specializing in different departments (e.g., Framing, Sales Floor, Stockroom).

• The FT Retail Framer reports to the Framing Manager, with potential oversight from the Assistant Store Manager or Store Manager.

• Cross-functional collaboration is expected, with Framers interacting with sales floor associates for customer assistance, stockroom personnel for inventory, and management for operational guidance and support. Methodology:

• Operations are guided by detailed Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to ensure consistency in customer service, sales, production, and inventory management.

• Performance is often driven by Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) related to sales, customer satisfaction, production efficiency, and shrink reduction.

• Emphasis on a customer-centric approach, with methodologies like "Elevated ABC Deliver" to foster relationships and provide tailored solutions.

Company Website: www.michaels.com

📝 Enhancement Note: The company context highlights a large, established retail entity with a strong focus on creativity and customer experience. The operational methodology is clearly defined through SOPs and KPIs, suggesting a structured environment where process adherence is crucial for success.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This FT Retail Framer role is positioned at an entry-level to early-career stage within retail operations. It requires executing defined processes and providing specialized services (custom framing), with opportunities to learn and grow within the department.

Reporting Structure: The role reports directly to the Framing Manager. This provides a clear line of communication for operational guidance, performance feedback, and skill development within the framing specialty. There's also an implicit reporting line to the Store Manager and Assistant Store Manager for broader store operations and adherence.

Operations Impact: The FT Retail Framer directly impacts store revenue through custom framing sales and contributes to customer satisfaction and loyalty. Their ability to execute high-quality work efficiently and provide excellent customer service influences repeat business and positive word-of-mouth, thereby contributing to the store's overall operational and financial performance.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Potential to become a highly skilled custom framer, mastering advanced techniques and design principles within the Michaels framework.

• Leadership Development: Opportunity to develop leadership skills by acting as a lead in the Framing Manager's absence, potentially progressing to a Framing Manager role or a supervisory position in other store departments.

• Cross-Functional Training: Exposure to various aspects of retail operations, including sales floor management, inventory control, and customer engagement strategies, offering a well-rounded retail career path.

• Career Advancement: Potential to move into roles such as Framing Manager, Assistant Store Manager, or other specialized positions within the Michaels retail network.

📝 Enhancement Note: The career path for this role emphasizes developing specialized skills in custom framing and demonstrating leadership potential within a retail store setting. Growth opportunities are clearly linked to mastering operational processes, excelling in customer service, and taking on additional responsibilities.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is a retail store environment. The workspace includes a customer-facing retail floor and a dedicated frame shop area.

Office Location(s): The specific location is Danvers, MA, at 35 Independence Way. This is a public retail store setting.

Workspace Context:

• The frame shop is a specialized area where hands-on work with tools, materials, and equipment takes place. It may involve exposure to materials like glass and heat.

• The retail floor requires constant interaction with customers, maintaining displays, and ensuring a pleasant shopping atmosphere.

• The work environment is generally climate-controlled, though some stock rooms might not be. Outdoor work may be required for tasks like retrieving shopping carts or during truck unloading.

• Access to necessary framing equipment, POS systems, and potentially other operational technology is provided. Work Schedule:

• Full-time hours (approx. 40 hours/week) are expected.

• The schedule will likely include a mix of shifts, including evenings, weekends, and potentially early mornings, to cover store operating hours and peak customer times. Flexibility is key.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is dynamic, blending customer interaction with specialized production tasks. The description highlights the need for adaptability regarding work hours and potential exposure to various conditions typical of a retail setting.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Likely a phone screen or online assessment to evaluate basic qualifications and interest.

• In-Person Interview: This will involve meeting with the Hiring Manager (likely the Framing Manager or Store Manager). Expect questions about customer service experience, problem-solving abilities, and understanding of retail operations.

• Skills Demonstration (Potential): For this role, a practical demonstration of basic measuring skills or a discussion about how they would approach a custom framing consultation might be part of the interview.

• Team Interaction: You may have an opportunity to meet other team members to assess cultural fit and collaboration potential.

• Final Assessment: Focus on alignment with Michaels' values, enthusiasm for the role, and ability to meet the physical and operational demands.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• For this role, a formal portfolio is less critical than demonstrating relevant experience and potential.

• If you have prior framing, design, or craft experience, prepare to discuss specific projects, highlighting your process, problem-solving, and the outcome. Use photos if available.

• Focus on showcasing your understanding of customer service, attention to detail, and ability to follow instructions or processes.

• Be ready to articulate how your skills and experience align with the responsibilities of a Retail Framer, particularly concerning customer interaction and precision in work. Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared for scenario-based questions such as: "How would you handle a customer who is unhappy with their custom framing choice?" or "Describe a time you had to balance multiple tasks simultaneously."

• Understand the company's mission and values ("fuel the joy of creativity and celebration").

• Familiarize yourself with Michaels' Rewards program and Omni-channel services, as these are often discussed in customer interactions.

• Be ready to discuss your understanding of safety protocols in a retail and workshop environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The application process is typical for retail positions. Emphasis will be on customer service aptitude, basic operational understanding, and enthusiasm for the craft. While a formal portfolio isn't mandatory, having examples of detail-oriented work or customer engagement success stories will be beneficial.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Point of Sale (POS) System: For processing transactions, managing customer accounts (Rewards), and potentially inventory lookups.

• Custom Framing Equipment: Includes mat cutters, framing tools, potentially saws, and assembly equipment. Proficiency or willingness to learn is key.

• Glass Cutting Tools: Specific tools for cutting glass to size for frames.

• Heat Press (Potentially): Used for specific framing applications.

• Measuring Tools: Tape measures, rulers, and other precision measuring devices.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Inventory Management Systems: For tracking stock levels of ready-made frames, mat boards, moulding, and supplies.

• POS Reporting: Used by management to track sales performance, customer trends, and transaction data.

• Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Features: Integrated within the POS or loyalty program for managing Rewards members and customer interactions.

CRM & Automation:

• Michaels Rewards Program: A key customer engagement tool requiring data capture and understanding of its benefits.

• Internal Communication Platforms: For team updates, task assignments, and operational announcements.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is typical for a retail environment with a specialized department. The emphasis is on POS systems, specialized equipment for framing, and inventory/customer management tools. Proficiency in basic computer operations is a prerequisite, with on-the-job training for specialized framing tools.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Creativity & Celebration: The core mission of Michaels is to "fuel the joy of creativity and celebration." This translates into a culture that values inspiration, artistic expression, and helping customers bring their ideas to life.

• Customer Focus: Providing exceptional customer service and building relationships is paramount. Team members are expected to be helpful, friendly, and solution-oriented.

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

• Integrity & Accountability: Adhering to company policies, SOPs, and ethical standards in all aspects of work, from cash handling to production quality.

• Efficiency & Quality: Balancing speed with precision, especially in the framing department, to deliver high-quality products on time.

Collaboration Style:

• Open communication and mutual support are encouraged among team members.

• Cross-functional collaboration is necessary, with framers working with sales associates to assist customers and management to achieve operational targets.

• A culture of sharing knowledge and best practices, particularly within the framing department, to enhance skills and consistency.

• Constructive feedback is valued to drive continuous improvement in both individual performance and team operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture at Michaels is deeply rooted in its mission of creativity and celebration. For operations roles like the FT Retail Framer, this means a blend of customer-facing enthusiasm, a passion for craft, and a commitment to operational excellence that supports the creative endeavors of their customers.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Speed and Quality: The primary challenge in custom framing is to produce high-quality work efficiently, meeting customer deadlines without compromising precision.

• Customer Expectations Management: Handling diverse customer needs, design preferences, and budget constraints while providing expert advice and solutions.

• Productivity Under Pressure: Meeting sales and production targets while maintaining a high level of customer service, especially during peak retail periods.

• Learning Specialized Skills: Acquiring proficiency with framing equipment, design software (if applicable), and material knowledge requires dedicated learning and practice.

• Physical Demands: The role involves standing for long periods, lifting, and repetitive motions, which can be physically demanding.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

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

• Sales and Customer Service Skills: Development in consultative selling, relationship building, and handling customer inquiries effectively.

• Retail Operations Knowledge: Exposure to various store operational functions, including merchandising, inventory management, and POS systems.

• Leadership Potential: Opportunities to gain experience in team support and lead responsibilities, paving the way for future management roles.

• Continuous Learning: Access to company training programs, product knowledge updates, and potential for cross-training in other store departments.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are common in specialized retail roles that require both customer interaction and technical skill. The growth opportunities are well-defined, focusing on developing expertise in framing and progressing within the retail management structure.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Customer Service Scenarios: Be ready to discuss how you would engage a customer, understand their needs for custom framing, and offer solutions. Example: "A customer wants to frame a valuable piece of art but is unsure about the best materials. How would you guide them?"

• Problem-Solving: Prepare examples of how you've handled difficult customer situations or resolved issues in previous roles. Example: "Describe a time you had to deal with a customer who was unhappy with a product or service."

• Operational Understanding: Discuss your understanding of following procedures and working efficiently. Example: "How do you ensure accuracy and quality when working on a task with multiple steps?"

• Motivation & Fit: Be prepared to articulate why you are interested in Michaels, custom framing, and this specific role.

Company & Culture Questions:

• Research Michaels' mission, values, and recent initiatives. Understand their commitment to creativity and community.

• Be prepared to discuss how you embody creativity and customer focus in your work.

• Understand the importance of the Michaels Rewards program and Omni-channel services.

• Discuss how you contribute to a positive team environment and support colleagues. Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• If you have a portfolio (photos of past framing projects, crafts, or design work), be ready to present 1-3 key pieces.

• For each piece, explain:

  • The client's need or the project's objective.
  • Your process and the materials/techniques used.
  • Any challenges faced and how you overcame them.
  • The final outcome and customer satisfaction.

• Even without a formal portfolio, be prepared to describe specific projects in detail, focusing on your role, the skills you applied, and the results.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating strong customer service skills, an aptitude for detail and precision, and an understanding of retail operations. Highlighting any creative or hands-on experience will be particularly beneficial for this role.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

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

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight customer service experience, any retail sales achievements, and any hands-on or detail-oriented work. Quantify achievements where possible (e.g., "Increased customer satisfaction by X%" or "Completed X custom framing orders per week").

• Portfolio Preparation (if applicable): If you have relevant work samples (e.g., custom framing projects, crafts, design work), prepare clear photos and be ready to briefly describe your process and the outcome.

• Interview Practice: Practice answering common retail interview questions, focusing on scenarios related to customer service, problem-solving, and operational efficiency. Be ready to discuss your understanding of custom framing.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Michaels' brand, mission, values, and the specific offerings of their custom framing department. Understand their commitment to creativity and customer experience.

⚠️ 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.