framer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Framer
Company: Michaels Stores
Location: Roanoke-4250 Electric Rd, Roanoke, Virginia, United States
Job Type: PART_TIME
Category: Retail Operations / Customer Service
Date Posted: August 23, 2025
Experience Level: Entry-Level (0-2 years)
Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role focuses on customer engagement and sales within the custom framing department, requiring direct customer interaction and consultative selling of framing solutions.
• Key responsibilities include order completion, quality control, and maintaining the visual presentation of the framing department and store.
• The position necessitates proficiency in basic computer skills, measuring, and operating specialized framing equipment to deliver high-quality custom products.
• It involves contributing to overall store operations, including customer service, cash handling, and maintaining a safe and organized retail environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the input data suggests an "entry-level" experience, operations roles in retail often require a blend of customer service, technical aptitude, and sales acumen. The "Framer" title implies a specialization within the retail operations context, focusing on a specific service offering (custom framing). This role is crucial for driving higher-margin sales and enhancing the customer's in-store experience.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Build and maintain strong customer relationships by providing consultative guidance on custom framing solutions, acting as a personal designer.
• Achieve sales and production targets through effective selling techniques and efficient order completion for custom framing projects.
• Ensure the high-quality and timely completion of all framing orders, adhering to established standards and customer specifications.
• Maintain the visual merchandising and operational readiness of the ready-made frame department, including in-stock (SISO) and directed replenishment processes.
• Deliver exceptional customer service by assisting customers in product location, providing solutions, and ensuring a well-merchandised and in-stock store environment.
• Adhere strictly to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company programs for compliance, safety, and operational efficiency.
• Support company-wide shrink reduction and safety initiatives, contributing to a secure and loss-preventative environment.
• Interact positively and respectfully with colleagues and customers, promoting a collaborative and customer-centric atmosphere.
• Participate actively in truck un-loading and stocking processes, ensuring adherence to truck standards and budget compliance.
• Operate the cash register accurately, execute cash handling procedures to company standards, and assist with all Omni-channel processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of direct sales, technical execution (framing), and general retail operations. The emphasis on "Elevated ABC Deliver" and "personal designer" indicates a focus on consultative selling and customer relationship management within the framing service. This is a key differentiator from a standard sales associate role.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: High school diploma or equivalent is typically expected for entry-level retail positions. Specific vocational training in art, design, or woodworking can be beneficial but is not usually a strict requirement.
Experience: 0-2 years of experience in a customer-facing role, preferably within a retail environment. Experience in sales, customer service, or a craft-related field is advantageous.

Required Skills:

• Basic computer skills for POS (Point of Sale) systems and potentially order management software.
• Proficient measuring skills to accurately capture dimensions for framing projects.
• Ability to operate specialized framing equipment, including mat cutters and potentially heat presses, safely and effectively.
• Strong customer service orientation with the ability to build rapport and provide solutions.
• Effective communication skills to understand customer needs and explain product options.
• Basic math skills for calculations related to pricing, discounts, and cash handling.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced retail environment.

Preferred Skills:

• Prior retail sales experience, particularly in consultative selling or custom product environments.
• Experience with selling products and/or services directly to customers, demonstrating persuasive and solution-oriented approaches.
• Familiarity with art, design principles, and framing techniques.
• Experience with inventory management and visual merchandising within a retail setting.
• Proficiency with CRM (Customer Relationship Management) tools for tracking customer interactions and preferences.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "minimum type of experience" clearly states "basic computer skills and basic measuring skills" and "ability to operate the framing equipment and glass cutter." The "preferred type of experience" includes "retail experience" and "Experience selling products and/or services to customers." This reinforces the blend of technical and sales skills required for the role.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• While a formal portfolio is not explicitly requested for this entry-level, customer-facing role, candidates are encouraged to highlight any relevant experience in their resume or during the interview that demonstrates:
  • Customer Interaction Examples: Instances where they successfully built customer relationships, understood needs, and provided effective solutions.
  • Sales Achievements: Any metrics or examples of exceeding sales targets or contributing to revenue growth.
  • Quality Control: Examples of attention to detail and commitment to delivering high-quality work, particularly in custom or handcrafted items.
  • Process Adherence: Demonstrations of following procedures and SOPs accurately.

Process Documentation:

• Candidates should be prepared to discuss their understanding of and approach to:
  • Workflow Management: How they would manage multiple framing orders to ensure timely and quality completion.
  • Customer Consultation Process: Their method for understanding customer needs, recommending appropriate framing solutions, and closing sales.
  • Quality Assurance: Their personal approach to ensuring the accuracy and aesthetic quality of finished framing projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an entry-level retail position like this, a traditional "operations portfolio" with formal documentation is unlikely to be required. However, candidates are expected to demonstrate practical understanding of sales processes, customer service workflows, and quality execution. The focus would be on their ability to articulate these processes through past experiences and their approach to performing the job duties.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: As a part-time, entry-level retail position, the salary is expected to be at or slightly above the local minimum wage, with potential for hourly increases based on performance and tenure. Based on typical retail operations in Roanoke, Virginia for similar roles, an estimated range of $10.50 - $13.50 per hour is reasonable.

Benefits:

• Health Insurance: Medical, dental, and vision insurance are available, which is a significant benefit for part-time roles, often with options for employee contributions.
• Paid Time Off (PTO): Accrued PTO is provided, offering flexibility for personal time, vacation, or sick days.
• Tuition Assistance: Support for employees pursuing higher education, aligning with Michaels' commitment to team member development.
• Employee Discounts: A generous discount on Michaels products and services, enabling employees to engage with the company's core offerings.
• Other Potential Benefits: This may include retirement savings plans (e.g., 401k), employee assistance programs, and opportunities for advancement within the company.

Working Hours: The role is explicitly listed as PART_TIME. Typical working hours can vary based on store needs and employee availability, but often involve a mix of weekdays, evenings, and weekends. While the job description doesn't specify a weekly hour target, part-time roles commonly range from 15-30 hours per week. Flexibility in scheduling is often a key component.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary estimates are based on general knowledge of retail pay scales in Virginia and the entry-level nature of the role. The provided benefits are substantial for a part-time position and are a key selling point mentioned in the company description.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Arts and Crafts Retail. Michaels is the largest specialty retailer of arts and crafts in North America, focusing on providing a wide range of supplies, custom framing services, and creative inspiration. Company Size: Michaels operates over 1,300 stores in 49 states and Canada, employing a significant number of individuals across its retail locations, distribution centers, and corporate offices. This large scale offers stability and numerous potential career paths. Founded: Michaels was founded in 1973 and is headquartered in Irving, Texas. The company's mission is to "fuel the joy of creativity."

Team Structure:

• Store-Level Operations: The framer will be part of the store's operational team, reporting to a Store Manager or an Assistant Store Manager, potentially with a dedicated Framing Department Manager overseeing custom services.
• Cross-functional Collaboration: The role requires collaboration with other store associates for general customer service, stock replenishment, and Omni-channel fulfillment. Team members often support each other across different departments.
• Customer-Centric Approach: The company culture emphasizes customer engagement, creativity, and providing a positive shopping experience, with a strong focus on building customer relationships.

Methodology:

• Customer Service Excellence: A core methodology is delivering friendly, helpful customer service to drive sales and loyalty.
• Process Adherence: Following SOPs for sales, operations, and safety is critical to maintain consistency and compliance across all locations.
• Visual Merchandising Standards: Maintaining appealing and organized store displays, particularly within the framing department, is a key operational practice.

Company Website: www.michaels.com

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture is deeply rooted in creativity and customer engagement. For operations professionals, this means an emphasis on creating a positive customer journey and ensuring the smooth functioning of store operations that support this mission. The size of the company suggests robust training programs and clear career progression opportunities.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Entry-Level Retail Associate, specializing in custom services. This position serves as a foundational role within the retail operations structure, providing exposure to customer interaction, sales processes, and operational tasks. Reporting Structure: Typically reports to a Store Manager or Assistant Manager, with direct supervision from a Framing Department Manager or lead associate if one is designated. Operations Impact: The Framer directly impacts store revenue through custom framing sales, which often carry higher profit margins. They also influence customer satisfaction and loyalty by providing a high-quality service and positive experience. Efficient management of framing orders contributes to the store's overall operational efficiency.

Growth Opportunities:

• Advancement within Framing: Potential to become a Framing Department Lead or Manager, taking on more responsibility for inventory, staff training, and sales performance within the department.
• Store Operations Progression: Opportunities to move into roles like Visual Merchandiser, Key Holder, Assistant Store Manager, or Store Manager, gaining broader operational and leadership experience.
• Specialized Skills Development: Continuous learning in custom framing techniques, sales strategies, and customer relationship management.
• Corporate Roles: With experience and further development, potential pathways exist into corporate roles related to Merchandising, Operations Management, or Training.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is a clear entry point into retail operations. The growth opportunities are well-defined within the store hierarchy and offer a structured path for career development in the retail sector. The company's emphasis on "fueling the joy of creativity" suggests a supportive environment for skill development.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Public retail store setting. The work environment is customer-facing and dynamic, requiring adaptability and engagement. Office Location(s): The specific store is located at 4250 Electric Rd in Roanoke, Virginia. This location is in a retail hub, likely accessible by car.

Workspace Context:

• Customer Areas: Work will primarily occur in the main retail floor and the dedicated custom framing area. These areas are climate-controlled and designed for customer accessibility and browsing.
• Stock Rooms: Some tasks might involve stock rooms, which may not always be climate-controlled, requiring adaptability to different environmental conditions.
• Framing Shop: The framing shop is equipped with specialized tools like a glass cutter and heat press, requiring careful operation and adherence to safety protocols.
• Team Interaction: Opportunities for collaboration and interaction with fellow store associates occur throughout the workday, fostering a team-oriented atmosphere.

Work Schedule: Work hours include nights, weekends, and potentially early mornings, depending on store operating hours and scheduling needs. Flexibility is key for part-time retail roles to cover various shifts and customer traffic patterns.

📝 Enhancement Note: The environment is typical of a busy retail store, with a focus on customer interaction. The framing shop area is a specialized workspace that requires specific equipment handling skills and safety awareness.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Likely involves an online application review and possibly a brief phone or video screening to assess basic qualifications and interest.
• In-Person Interview: Typically conducted by the Store Manager or Assistant Manager. This will likely include behavioral questions focused on customer service, problem-solving, teamwork, and sales aptitude.
• Skills Assessment: May involve a practical demonstration of basic measuring skills or a discussion about how they would handle specific customer scenarios related to framing.
• Final Interview: Could involve a review of their resume and a discussion about their career aspirations within Michaels.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Resume Focus: While not a formal portfolio, ensure your resume clearly highlights customer service achievements, any sales successes (even in non-retail settings), attention to detail, and any experience with tools or hands-on tasks.
• Behavioral Examples: Prepare specific examples using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for questions related to customer interactions, problem-solving, handling difficult customers, and teamwork.
• Framing Interest: Express genuine interest in the custom framing aspect of the role and the Michaels brand. Research popular framing styles or trends if possible.
• Operational Understanding: Briefly articulate your understanding of retail operations, such as the importance of visual merchandising, inventory accuracy, and customer flow.

Challenge Preparation:

• Customer Scenario: Be ready to discuss how you would approach a customer looking for framing advice, including asking clarifying questions and recommending solutions.
• Problem-Solving: Prepare for questions about how you would handle a customer complaint or a mistake made in an order.
• Teamwork: Think about examples of how you've collaborated effectively with colleagues to achieve a common goal.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for this role is geared towards assessing customer service skills, sales potential, and general work ethic. Candidates should be prepared to demonstrate their ability to engage with customers and their willingness to learn the specific craft of framing.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• POS System: For processing sales transactions, handling cash, and managing customer accounts.
• Custom Framing Software/Quoting System: Likely a proprietary system used to design framing layouts, calculate costs, and generate orders. Proficiency in similar quoting or design software is a plus.
• Framing Equipment: Includes specialized tools such as mat cutters, glass cutters, framing assembly tools (e.g., point drivers, v-nailers), and potentially heat presses for mounting or sealing.
• Measuring Tools: Tape measures, rulers, and possibly specialized measuring devices for accurate framing dimensions.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Sales Reports: Basic reporting on individual sales performance and department sales targets.
• Inventory Management Systems: For tracking stock levels of ready-made frames and framing supplies.

CRM & Automation:

• Customer Database: Used for tracking customer preferences, past orders, and loyalty program information.
• Inventory Replenishment Systems: Tools that help manage stock levels and ensure popular items are readily available.

📝 Enhancement Note: While this is an entry-level role, familiarity with POS systems is essential. Experience with any design or quoting software would be highly beneficial. The primary "tools" are the specialized framing equipment, requiring hands-on learning and adherence to safety protocols.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Customer Focus: Prioritizing customer satisfaction and building relationships is paramount, reflecting the company's mission to "fuel the joy of creativity."
• Creativity & Inspiration: Encouraging a creative mindset and helping customers bring their artistic visions to life.
• Quality & Craftsmanship: Commitment to delivering high-quality custom framing solutions that meet customer expectations.
• Teamwork & Collaboration: Working together effectively to support customers and achieve store goals.
• Efficiency & Accuracy: Maintaining organized processes for sales, production, and inventory management.

Collaboration Style:

• Customer-Centric Teamwork: Associates are expected to support each other in serving customers, sharing knowledge about products and services.
• Process-Oriented: Adherence to established SOPs ensures consistency and efficiency across the team.
• Open Communication: Encouraging feedback and open dialogue to resolve issues and improve store operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture at Michaels is built around creativity and customer engagement. Operations professionals in this environment are facilitators of that creativity, ensuring the store runs smoothly so customers can focus on their projects.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Multiple Tasks: Juggling customer service, sales consultations, order production, and general store duties in a dynamic retail environment.
• Meeting Sales Targets: Consistently driving custom framing sales and contributing to store revenue goals.
• Handling Diverse Customer Needs: Assisting customers with a wide range of artistic projects and framing requirements, requiring creative problem-solving.
• Mastering Framing Techniques: Learning and executing precise framing techniques, ensuring quality and efficiency.
• Managing Physical Demands: The role involves standing for long periods and lifting heavy boxes and frames.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• On-the-Job Training: Comprehensive training on custom framing techniques, sales processes, and store operations.
• Product Knowledge: Developing deep understanding of art supplies, framing materials, and design principles.
• Customer Service & Sales Skills: Enhancing consultative selling and relationship-building capabilities.
• Career Advancement: Clear pathways for promotion within the store management structure or specialized departments.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are typical of a hands-on retail role, requiring adaptability and a focus on both customer interaction and task execution. The growth opportunities are significant for individuals looking for a career in retail operations.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Customer Service: "Describe a time you went above and beyond to help a customer." or "How would you handle a customer who is unsure about their framing choices?"
• Sales: "What would you do if a customer seemed hesitant to purchase a custom framing solution?" or "How do you approach sales in a retail environment?"
• Problem-Solving: "Tell me about a time you made a mistake at work and how you corrected it." or "How would you handle a situation where a framing order was delayed?"
• Teamwork: "Describe your ideal team environment." or "How do you contribute to a positive team dynamic?"

Company & Culture Questions:

• "Why are you interested in working for Michaels?"
• "What does 'fueling the joy of creativity' mean to you?"
• "How do you stay motivated in a role that involves repetitive tasks?"

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Resume Walkthrough: Be prepared to elaborate on any relevant experience listed on your resume, focusing on achievements and responsibilities that align with the Framer role.
• Scenario-Based Answers: For questions about how you would handle specific situations, clearly articulate your thought process, focusing on customer satisfaction, efficiency, and adherence to company standards.
• Showcase Enthusiasm: Demonstrate passion for creativity, art, and helping customers achieve their project goals.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on behavioral questions and scenario-based responses that highlight customer service aptitude, problem-solving skills, and a proactive attitude. Demonstrating an understanding of the company's mission and values will be crucial.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Michaels Careers website.
• Tailor your resume: Highlight customer service experience, any sales achievements, attention to detail, and any experience with tools or hands-on tasks. Quantify achievements where possible (e.g., "Increased customer satisfaction by X%").
• Prepare specific examples: For behavioral interview questions, use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to illustrate your skills in customer service, sales, problem-solving, and teamwork.
• Research Michaels: Understand the company's mission, values, and the importance of the custom framing service. Be ready to articulate why you are a good fit for their creative culture.
• Practice your pitch: Be prepared to briefly and enthusiastically explain your interest in the role and why you would be a valuable team member during the interview.

⚠️ 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.