FRAMER (CUSTOM FRAMING)

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: FRAMER (CUSTOM FRAMING)
Company: NEXCOM
Location: Great Lakes, Illinois, United States
Job Type: Full-Time (35+ hours)
Category: Retail Operations / Custom Fabrication
Date Posted: 2026-01-17
Experience Level: 2-5 Years
Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is focused on the hands-on creation of custom picture frames, directly impacting customer satisfaction through high-quality fabrication and personalized service.
• It involves a blend of direct customer interaction, sales advisory, and skilled craftsmanship using specialized tools and materials.
• The position requires meticulous attention to detail to ensure frames meet precise specifications for various artwork and display needs.
• Success in this role hinges on understanding customer requirements, offering expert recommendations, and executing the framing process efficiently and safely.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is not a traditional Revenue Operations, Sales Operations, or GTM role. It is a skilled trade position within a retail/service environment. The enhancement focuses on translating the core duties into operational and customer-centric terms relevant to a service-based business.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Customer Consultation & Design Advisory:
  • Engage with customers to understand their framing needs and preferences for artwork, photos, mirrors, and other items.
  • Provide expert recommendations on frame styles, materials (wood, metal), matting options, mounting techniques, and shadow-boxing possibilities to enhance the presentation and preservation of items.
  • Utilize product samples and visual aids to demonstrate various custom framing options, suggesting color schemes and textures that best complement the customer's merchandise.
• Accurate Measurement & Material Selection:
  • Employ precise measuring systems and techniques to determine exact frame dimensions required for oil paintings, canvas, photographs, glass, and mirrors.
  • Select appropriate molding, mat boards, and glass types based on customer specifications and item characteristics.
• Custom Framing Fabrication & Assembly:
  • Operate on-site equipment and tools (e.g., miter saws, mat cutters, glass cutters, assembly tools) safely and efficiently to cut and assemble custom frames, mats, and shadow boxes.
  • Ensure adherence to strict safety protocols when handling all power and manual tools, as well as during the disposal of waste materials like glass.
• Order Management & Quality Assurance:
  • Review finished custom frames with customers to confirm they meet all specified design and quality requirements.
  • Securely package merchandise for customer transport.
  • Oversee incoming merchandise, checking for damage or discrepancies, and signing receiving reports.
• Sales & Customer Service Excellence:
  • Practice suggestive selling techniques to promote additional custom framing services and related products.
  • Respond to customer inquiries promptly, courteously, and professionally, ensuring a positive and memorable customer experience.
  • Maintain a clean, orderly, and safe work environment, adhering to all company policies and procedures for cash and stock security.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary responsibilities have been detailed to reflect the operational flow of a custom fabrication service, emphasizing customer interaction, technical execution, and quality control.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• High school diploma or GED preferred.
• Completion of high school education can substitute for some general experience on a year-for-year basis.

Experience:

• Minimum of one (1) year of experience in general retail customer service.
• Specialized Experience: A minimum of three (3) years of direct experience in completing custom picture frames. This experience must demonstrate proficiency in:
  • Accurately measuring frame dimensions for various items (oil paintings, canvas, photographs, glass, mirrors).
  • Utilizing power and manual tools for cutting and assembling wood and metal frames.
  • Performing mat cutting and glass cutting techniques.
  • Assembling shadow boxes and other specialized framing projects.

Required Skills:

• Custom Framing Expertise: Proven ability to design, measure, cut, and assemble custom picture frames, mats, and shadow boxes.
• Customer Service & Consultation: Excellent interpersonal skills for engaging with customers, understanding needs, and providing informed recommendations.
• Tool Proficiency: Skilled in the safe and effective operation of various tools including miter saws, mat cutters, glass cutters, and assembly equipment.
• Measurement Accuracy: Meticulous attention to detail for precise measurements essential for custom framing.
• Suggestive Selling: Ability to identify and promote additional services and products to enhance customer value.
• Safety Consciousness: Strong understanding and adherence to safety procedures when operating tools and handling materials.
• Problem-Solving: Ability to address customer concerns and resolve issues related to custom orders and product specifications.

Preferred Skills:

• Visual Merchandising: An eye for aesthetics, color theory, and design principles relevant to framing and presentation.
• Inventory Management: Basic understanding of stock levels and ordering needs.
• Vendor Relations: Experience in communicating with suppliers regarding order status and specifications.
• Material Knowledge: Familiarity with different types of molding, mat boards, glass, and mounting materials.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications have been structured to highlight both general retail experience and the crucial specialized framing expertise, emphasizing the technical skills and customer-facing requirements.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Custom Framing Case Studies: Detailed examples of diverse custom framing projects completed, showcasing a range of styles, materials, and complexities (e.g., intricate matting, shadow boxes, oversized items).
• Customer Consultation Examples: Demonstrations of how customer needs were identified and translated into successful framing solutions, potentially including before-and-after visuals or customer testimonials.
• Tool & Technique Showcase: Visual or documented evidence of proficiency with key framing tools and techniques (e.g., clean mat cuts, precise joinery, secure assembly methods).
• Problem-Solving Scenarios: Examples of how unique customer requests or challenges were addressed creatively and effectively within the framing process.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design: Ability to articulate the end-to-end process of a custom framing order, from initial customer consultation through design, fabrication, quality check, and final handover.
• Quality Control Checklists: Documentation of internal quality assurance steps to ensure accuracy in measurements, cuts, assembly, and final product presentation.
• Safety Protocol Adherence: Demonstrated understanding and application of safety procedures for tool operation, material handling, and workspace maintenance.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a role focused on skilled fabrication, the "portfolio" is interpreted as documented evidence of past work and process understanding, rather than digital assets typical for operations roles.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on industry standards for skilled framers with 2-5 years of experience in the Great Lakes, Illinois area, the estimated hourly wage is between $17.00 - $23.00 per hour. This range can vary based on specific experience, skill set, and performance during the interview process.
• Methodology: This estimate is derived from analysis of similar retail and custom fabrication roles in the Chicago metropolitan area, factoring in cost of living indices and the specialized skill set required for custom framing. Data sources include national salary aggregators, regional job market reports, and industry-specific compensation benchmarks.

Benefits:

• Full-Time Employment: Offers consistent work hours (35+ hours per week).
• Health & Wellness: Potential for access to health insurance, dental, and vision coverage (details to be confirmed by NEXCOM).
• Retirement Savings: Opportunities for 401(k) or similar retirement savings plans.
• Paid Time Off: Accrual of paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays.
• Employee Discounts: Potential for discounts on NEXCOM products and services.
• Training & Development: Opportunities to enhance framing skills and learn new techniques.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time hours, typically 35+ hours per week.
• May include a mix of weekdays and weekends, with potential for flexible scheduling within operational needs. Specific shifts will be discussed during the hiring process.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary and benefits information has been estimated based on typical offerings for full-time retail/skilled trade positions in the specified region. Specific details must be confirmed with the employer.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Retail (likely focused on military and base communities given NEXCOM's typical operations). Company Size: NEXCOM (Navy Exchange Command) is a large, government-affiliated retail and services organization, employing thousands of individuals across numerous locations. This implies a structured corporate environment with established policies and procedures. Founded: NEXCOM was established in 1946, indicating a long history of service and operation.

Team Structure:

• The Framer will likely be part of a retail store team, potentially reporting to a Store Manager, Assistant Manager, or a specific Department Manager (e.g., Custom Framing/Arts & Crafts).
• Collaboration will occur with sales associates, other retail staff, and potentially inventory or administrative personnel.
• Cross-functional interaction may involve communicating with vendors for supplies or special orders.

Methodology:

• Customer-Centric Approach: Emphasis on providing excellent service and meeting individual customer needs for custom products.
• Process Adherence: Following established procedures for sales, order processing, fabrication, safety, and inventory management.
• Quality Focus: Commitment to producing high-quality custom frames that meet customer specifications and industry standards.

Company Website: [NEXCOM Website - Typically nexcom.navy.mil or a related portal]

📝 Enhancement Note: Company context is inferred from the organization name "NEXCOM," which is known for its retail operations serving the U.S. Navy community. This influences the likely culture and operational environment.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents a skilled trade position within a retail operational framework. It's an execution-level role focused on direct service delivery and product fabrication.

Reporting Structure:

• Typically reports to a supervisor or manager responsible for the department or store operations.
• May involve working independently on framing tasks after initial training and instruction.

Operations Impact:

• Directly contributes to customer satisfaction and loyalty through high-quality custom work and personalized service.
• Drives revenue through the sale of custom framing services and related products.
• Enhances the visual appeal and perceived value of items customers bring in for framing.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Opportunity to become a master framer, specializing in complex techniques, unique materials, or conservation framing.
• Lead Framer/Supervisor: Potential to move into a lead role, overseeing framing operations, training new staff, and managing inventory within a department.
• Cross-Training: Opportunity to gain experience in other retail departments or operational functions within NEXCOM.
• Management Track: For individuals demonstrating strong leadership and operational acumen, a path into broader retail management roles may be possible.

📝 Enhancement Note: Growth opportunities are framed within the context of a retail and skilled trade environment, focusing on skill mastery and potential progression within the organization's operational structure.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The work environment will be a retail store setting, specifically within or adjacent to a custom framing department or arts & crafts section. This includes a customer-facing area and a fabrication workspace.

Office Location(s):

• Great Lakes, Illinois, specifically within a NEXCOM facility serving the naval base.
• The specific location will be a physical retail store environment, requiring on-site presence.

Workspace Context:

• Fabrication Area: Equipped with specialized tools (saws, cutters, assembly stations) and materials (molding, mats, glass). Requires organization, cleanliness, and adherence to safety standards.
• Customer Interaction Area: A designated space for consulting with customers, showcasing samples, and discussing design options.
• Collaborative Environment: Interaction with fellow retail staff, requiring teamwork for store operations and customer service.
• Tools & Technology: Primarily involves manual and power tools for fabrication, with potential use of POS systems for sales transactions and basic computer systems for order management or inventory.

Work Schedule:

• Full-time hours, likely involving a mix of shifts including weekdays, evenings, and weekends, as dictated by retail operational needs and customer traffic.
• The role requires consistent on-site availability.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment description emphasizes the dual nature of the role – skilled fabrication in a workshop setting and direct customer engagement within a retail store.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of application and resume to assess general experience, specialized framing skills, and customer service background.
• Skills Assessment/Practical Test: Candidates may be asked to demonstrate basic framing techniques, measurement skills, or tool operation in a practical test. This is crucial for a hands-on role.
• Customer Interaction Simulation: A role-playing exercise to evaluate consultative selling skills, ability to understand customer needs, and make appropriate recommendations.
• Behavioral Interview: Questions focused on past experiences related to customer service, problem-solving, teamwork, and safety adherence.
• Final Interview: Discussion with the hiring manager to assess cultural fit, overall qualifications, and confirm salary expectations.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Documented Projects: Prepare clear photographs or physical samples (if feasible and appropriate) of custom framing work you have completed. Highlight variety in style and complexity.
• Process Walkthrough: Be ready to verbally describe your typical process for handling a custom framing order, from initial customer contact to final product delivery.
• Tool Proficiency Examples: Be prepared to discuss your experience with specific framing tools and your approach to safe operation.
• Customer Service Scenarios: Have examples ready of how you have successfully assisted customers, resolved issues, or made effective recommendations.
• Focus on Precision: Emphasize your commitment to accuracy in measurements and execution.

Challenge Preparation:

• Mock Customer Consultation: Practice engaging with a "customer" (interviewer) to understand their needs and suggest framing solutions.
• Tool Safety & Operation: Be prepared to discuss your knowledge of safety protocols for common framing tools.
• Problem-Solving Scenarios: Think about past challenges in custom work or customer service and how you overcame them.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview and portfolio review process is tailored to a skilled trade role, emphasizing practical demonstration of skills and customer interaction capabilities.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Miter Saw: Essential for precise angle cuts on frame molding.
• Mat Cutter (e.g., Logan, Fletcher): For cutting high-quality beveled mats for artwork.
• Glass Cutter: For sizing glass or acrylic glazing.
• Assembly Tools: Including V-nails, jointers, clamps, and staple guns for assembling frames.
• Measuring Tools: Tape measures, rulers, and precision measuring devices.
• Safety Equipment: Safety glasses, gloves, dust masks, and potentially hearing protection.
• Mounting Supplies: Adhesives, tapes, and backing boards.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Basic use of Point of Sale (POS) systems for transaction processing and sales tracking.
• Potential use of inventory management software or systems.

CRM & Automation:

• Limited CRM requirements, primarily focused on customer interaction notes and order history within the POS or order management system.
• Automation is primarily manual through tool operation and process execution rather than software-driven.

📝 Enhancement Note: The tools and technology are heavily focused on the physical tools and equipment required for custom framing fabrication, with minimal emphasis on typical software stacks found in operations roles.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Craftsmanship & Quality: A commitment to producing durable, aesthetically pleasing, and precisely executed custom frames.
• Customer Focus: Prioritizing customer satisfaction through attentive service, expert advice, and fulfillment of their vision.
• Safety First: Upholding rigorous safety standards in the workshop to protect oneself and colleagues.
• Efficiency & Productivity: Balancing speed with accuracy to meet operational demands and customer timelines.
• Teamwork & Support: Collaborating effectively with colleagues to ensure smooth store operations and a positive work environment.

Collaboration Style:

• Direct Communication: Clear and concise communication with customers regarding their needs and order progress.
• Cross-Functional Support: Willingness to assist team members with customer service, store upkeep, or other operational tasks as needed.
• Knowledge Sharing: Mentoring and learning from colleagues regarding framing techniques, customer service best practices, and operational procedures.
• Feedback Loop: Openness to receiving and providing constructive feedback to improve processes and customer outcomes.

📝 Enhancement Note: Team culture and values are interpreted based on typical expectations within a customer-facing retail environment that also involves skilled labor.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Diverse Customer Expectations: Catering to a wide range of aesthetic preferences, budgets, and technical requirements for custom framing.
• Precision & Error Prevention: Maintaining extremely high levels of accuracy in measurement and cutting to avoid costly material waste and customer dissatisfaction.
• Time Management: Balancing multiple custom orders with varying deadlines and complexity while ensuring quality.
• Physical Demands: The role can involve standing for extended periods, lifting materials, and operating power tools.
• Staying Current: Keeping abreast of new framing materials, techniques, and design trends.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Framing Techniques: Opportunities to learn specialized skills such as fillet insertion, multi-opening mats, reverse mats, or framing delicate/valuable items.
• Material Science: Deeper understanding of different types of wood, metal, glass, acrylics, and archival mounting materials.
• Customer Service Excellence: Training in advanced sales techniques, conflict resolution, and relationship building.
• Operational Efficiency: Learning best practices for workflow management, inventory control, and workspace optimization.
• Industry Certifications: Potential to pursue certifications from professional framing associations (e.g., PPFA) to enhance expertise and credibility.

📝 Enhancement Note: Challenges and growth opportunities are contextualized for a skilled trade role within a retail setting.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Framing Process: "Describe your typical process for taking a custom framing order, from the customer's initial request to the completed product." (Prepare to detail consultation, measurement, material selection, cutting, assembly, and quality checks).
• Customer Consultation: "How would you advise a customer who is unsure about the best framing options for a valuable piece of art?" (Focus on active listening, asking clarifying questions, and presenting informed, tailored recommendations).
• Tool Proficiency & Safety: "What experience do you have with [specific tool, e.g., miter saw, mat cutter]? What are your primary safety considerations when using power tools?" (Be prepared to discuss specific tools and demonstrate a strong understanding of safety protocols).
• Problem-Solving: "Describe a time you encountered a challenge with a custom framing order or a difficult customer. How did you resolve it?" (Use the STAR method: Situation, Task, Action, Result).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about NEXCOM and our mission?" (Research NEXCOM's role serving military personnel and families).
• "How do you contribute to a positive team environment in a retail setting?" (Highlight collaboration, support, and a customer-first attitude).
• "How do you ensure quality and accuracy in your work, especially under pressure?" (Emphasize attention to detail, double-checking, and adherence to procedures).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Visual Examples: Have clear, high-quality photos of your best framing projects readily available (on a tablet, phone, or in a physical binder).
• Explain Your Role: For each example, clearly articulate the customer's request, the design choices made, the materials used, and any unique challenges overcome.
• Highlight Key Skills: Point out specific techniques demonstrated, such as intricate matting, shadow box construction, or precise joinery.
• Quantify if Possible: While difficult for framing, mention if you improved efficiency or customer satisfaction metrics.
• Be Prepared for Practical Demonstration: If asked, be ready to discuss how you would approach a specific framing task.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation advice is tailored to assess the practical skills, customer service acumen, and safety consciousness required for a custom framing role.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this custom framing position:

• Submit your detailed application and resume through the provided NEXCOM Taleo portal link.
• Portfolio Preparation: Assemble a collection of high-quality images or documentation of your past custom framing projects. Be ready to discuss the design choices, materials, and techniques used for each.
• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly highlights your years of experience in custom framing, proficiency with relevant tools (miter saw, mat cutter, glass cutter), and strong customer service skills. Quantify achievements where possible.
• Interview Practice: Prepare to discuss your framing process, customer consultation approach, and tool safety. Practice answering behavioral questions using the STAR method.
• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with NEXCOM's mission, its customer base (military personnel and families), and its retail operations. Understand the importance of service and quality in this environment.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and industry-standard assumptions based on the provided data and general knowledge of the retail and custom fabrication sectors. Specific details regarding compensation, benefits, and exact interview processes should be confirmed directly with NEXCOM during the application and interview stages.