Retail - Custom Picture Framer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Retail - Custom Picture Framer Company: Michaels Stores Location: Gilford, New Hampshire, United States Job Type: PART_TIME Category: Retail Operations / Customer Service Date Posted: September 10, 2025 Experience Level: Entry-Level (0-2 years) Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Engage with customers to understand their framing needs and design personalized, high-quality custom framing solutions.
• Execute framing orders with precision, ensuring adherence to quality standards and timely delivery.
• Contribute to a positive and efficient retail environment by maintaining store presentation and assisting customers with product location and selection.
• Operate point-of-sale systems and handle cash transactions accurately, adhering to company procedures.
• Support overall store operations, including inventory management, merchandising, and the execution of operational programs.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the core responsibilities focus on custom framing and customer service, the role also implies a need for understanding retail operational flow, including merchandising, inventory, and point-of-sale (POS) operations. This is typical for customer-facing roles in a retail environment that require a broad understanding of store functions.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Build customer relationships by actively listening to their needs and providing expert guidance on custom framing options, materials, and design.
• Utilize the "Elevated ABC Deliver" program to enhance customer interactions and drive sales in the custom framing department.
• Accurately measure artwork and select appropriate framing materials, ensuring precise order fulfillment.
• Operate and maintain specialized framing equipment, including mat cutters and framing assembly tools, safely and efficiently.
• Maintain the visual presentation of the ready-made frame department, including executing visual merchandising standards and directed replenishment tasks.
• Provide exceptional customer service by acknowledging shoppers, assisting with product location, and offering solutions to their creative needs.
• Adhere strictly to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for custom framing, cash handling, and general store operations to ensure consistency and compliance.
• Participate in the unloading and stocking of merchandise, ensuring adherence to truck standards and efficient inventory management.
• Process customer transactions accurately at the cash register, managing cash, checks, and credit card payments according to company policies.
• Support company-wide initiatives such as shrink reduction and safety programs through diligent adherence to protocols.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities emphasize a blend of direct customer sales, operational execution within the framing department, and general retail support. The mention of "Elevated ABC Deliver" suggests a structured sales approach focused on consultative selling and relationship building, key for driving higher-value custom framing sales.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: High school diploma or equivalent is typically expected for entry-level retail positions, providing a foundational understanding of communication and basic numerical skills.

Experience: 0-2 years of experience in a customer-facing role, preferably within a retail environment, is ideal for understanding sales dynamics and customer interaction strategies.

Required Skills:

• Basic computer skills for operating POS systems and potentially internal order management software.
• Basic measuring skills for accurate artwork and mat board sizing in custom framing.
• Ability to learn and operate specialized framing equipment, including mat cutters and assembly tools.
• Strong customer service orientation with a friendly and helpful demeanor.
• Effective communication skills for interacting with customers and team members.
• Basic cash handling proficiency for accurate transaction processing.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a retail team, supporting colleagues and store goals.

Preferred Skills:

• Previous retail experience, particularly in specialty departments or with custom services.
• Demonstrated experience in selling products or services, with a focus on understanding customer needs and recommending solutions.
• Familiarity with art, crafts, or design principles that can enhance custom framing recommendations.
• Experience with inventory management or visual merchandising principles.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Minimum Type of experience" and "Preferred Type of experience" directly translate into the required and preferred skills. The emphasis on basic computer and measuring skills, alongside the ability to operate framing equipment, highlights the technical requirements of the role, while retail and sales experience point to the customer engagement aspect.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• While a formal portfolio is not explicitly required for this entry-level role, candidates who can demonstrate past projects or initiatives involving creative problem-solving or customer-specific solutions (e.g., custom projects, event planning support) will stand out.
• Examples of successful customer interactions or customer satisfaction achievements can serve as a proxy for portfolio items, highlighting customer service prowess.
• Any experience with visual display or merchandising projects, even if not professionally documented, can showcase an understanding of presentation standards relevant to the ready-made frame department.
• Demonstrated ability to follow process guidelines and execute tasks accurately, as evidenced by past work experience or academic projects, is valued.

Process Documentation:

• Candidates should be prepared to discuss how they understand and follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for tasks such as order entry, cash handling, and equipment operation.
• An understanding of workflow, from initial customer consultation through order completion and delivery, is beneficial.
• The ability to articulate how they would measure the success of their customer interactions or framing orders (e.g., customer satisfaction, order accuracy, repeat business) would be a plus.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an entry-level retail position like this, a traditional "operations portfolio" is not expected. However, candidates can prepare by thinking about how their past experiences demonstrate adherence to processes, customer engagement skills, and a commitment to quality, which are crucial for success in this role.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on industry standards for part-time, entry-level retail framing positions in Gilford, New Hampshire, the estimated hourly wage would likely range from $12.00 to $15.00 per hour. This estimate considers the minimum wage in New Hampshire, the entry-level nature of the role, and the specialized skill of custom framing.

Benefits:

• Health Insurance: Access to medical, dental, and vision insurance plans, which is a significant benefit for part-time employees.
• Paid Time Off (PTO): Accrual of paid time off for vacation, sick days, or personal needs.
• Tuition Assistance: Support for continuing education, which can be valuable for employees looking to advance their careers or pursue further studies.
• Employee Discounts: Generous discounts on Michaels products and services, ideal for individuals interested in arts and crafts.
• Other Benefits: The company may offer additional benefits such as retirement savings plans (401k), employee assistance programs, and potential for career advancement within the organization.

Working Hours: This is a part-time position, with the expectation of working approximately 20-30 hours per week, potentially including nights, weekends, and early mornings as per the demands of public retail operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: Michaels is known for offering benefits even to part-time team members, which is competitive in the retail sector. The salary estimate is based on general retail associate wages in New Hampshire, adjusted slightly for the specific framing skill. The provided benefits list is directly from the input data.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Arts and Crafts Retail. Michaels operates as the largest specialty arts and crafts retail chain in North America, providing a wide range of supplies and services for creative individuals.

Company Size: Michaels Companies Inc. operates over 1,300 stores across North America and employs a significant number of team members, indicating a large, established corporate structure with extensive operational processes.

Founded: Michaels was founded in 1973 and is headquartered in Irving, Texas. This long history suggests a stable company with established operational methodologies and a strong brand presence in the creative sector.

Team Structure:

• The team within a Michaels store typically includes a Store Manager, Assistant Store Managers, Team Leads, and Sales Associates. The Custom Picture Framer would likely report to a Framing Department Lead or an Assistant Store Manager overseeing that section.
• The reporting structure is hierarchical, common in brick-and-mortar retail, with clear lines of responsibility.
• Cross-functional collaboration is essential, with framers interacting with sales associates for customer assistance, inventory personnel for stock management, and management for operational oversight.

Methodology:

• Data analysis is likely used at a corporate level for sales trends and inventory management, while store-level operations focus on executing established procedures for customer service, sales, and merchandising.
• Workflow planning involves managing customer orders from intake to completion, ensuring efficiency in the framing department.
• Automation is less likely to be a primary focus for the framer role itself, but efficiency practices in order processing and production are key.

Company Website: www.michaels.com

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's focus on "fueling the joy of creativity" suggests a culture that values passion, innovation, and customer engagement within the arts and crafts space. The size and history of Michaels imply a structured operational environment where adherence to brand standards and customer experience is paramount.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned at an entry-level to junior associate level within the retail operations framework. It focuses on specialized execution (custom framing) within a broader retail context, requiring adherence to established processes and quality standards rather than strategic operational design.

Reporting Structure: The Custom Picture Framer will report to a department supervisor or store management. This structure allows for direct oversight of performance, adherence to operational procedures, and immediate feedback on customer interactions and production quality.

Operations Impact: The operations impact of this role is primarily on the customer experience and in-store revenue generation. By providing high-quality custom framing solutions and excellent customer service, the framer directly contributes to customer satisfaction, repeat business, and sales targets for the framing department and the store overall. Efficient order fulfillment also impacts inventory turnover and operational throughput.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Opportunity to become a highly skilled custom framer, potentially taking on more complex framing projects or mentoring new team members.
• Retail Advancement: Potential to move into roles like Sales Associate, Key Holder, Department Lead, or Assistant Store Manager as experience and performance grow.
• Cross-Training: Possibility of cross-training in other store departments (e.g., Visual Merchandising, Inventory) to broaden retail operational knowledge.
• Company Growth: Michaels often promotes from within, offering pathways to leadership positions within stores or even corporate roles for high-performing individuals.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth path is typical for retail, moving from execution-focused roles to those with greater responsibility in sales, management, and operational oversight. The specialized framing skill can be a unique selling point for career progression within Michaels' creative retail niche.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The work environment is a public retail store setting, specifically within a Michaels arts and crafts store. This includes customer-facing sales floor areas and a dedicated custom framing shop within the store.

Office Location(s): The specific location is Store - 1458 Lakeshore Rd, Gilford, NH. This is a physical, brick-and-mortar retail location.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace is dynamic, involving constant interaction with customers and team members on the sales floor and within the framing area.
• The framing shop will be equipped with specialized tools for cutting, assembly, and finishing custom frames. This requires a focus on safety and organization.
• Opportunities for team interaction are high, fostering a collaborative sales and service environment.

Work Schedule: The work schedule is part-time and flexible, accommodating the needs of a retail operation. This means working hours can include nights, weekends, and potentially early mornings, with scheduling often varying based on business needs and employee availability.

📝 Enhancement Note: The mention of "some stock rooms may not be climate controlled" and "some outdoor work if assigned to retrieve shopping carts or while unloading trucks" indicates that the role involves varied physical environments beyond just the climate-controlled sales floor and framing shop.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Application: Submit resume and application online. Candidates should highlight relevant retail, customer service, and any creative or crafting experience.
• Phone Screen/Initial Interview: A brief interview, likely with a hiring manager or HR representative, to assess basic qualifications, availability, and cultural fit. Be prepared to discuss your interest in Michaels and the specific role.
• In-Person Interview: This may involve a one-on-one or panel interview with store management. Focus on demonstrating customer service skills, problem-solving abilities, and your understanding of the framing process. Be ready to discuss why you are a good fit for Michaels' creative culture.
• Skills Assessment (Potential): While not explicitly stated, there might be a brief practical assessment involving basic measuring or a simulated customer interaction to gauge aptitude for the framing tasks and customer service.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• For this role, a traditional portfolio isn't required. Instead, prepare to discuss specific examples from past experiences that demonstrate:
  • Customer Service Excellence: Detail instances where you went above and beyond for a customer.
  • Problem-Solving: Describe a time you resolved a customer issue or a challenging situation at work.
  • Attention to Detail: Highlight any experience requiring precision, like crafting, assembly, or detailed work.
  • Teamwork: Provide examples of successful collaboration with colleagues.
  • Adaptability: Discuss how you've handled changing priorities or learned new skills quickly.
• Be ready to talk about your interest in arts, crafts, and custom framing, showing genuine enthusiasm for the company's mission.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared for behavioral questions asking "Tell me about a time when..." related to customer service, teamwork, handling difficult customers, or managing multiple tasks.
• Anticipate questions about your understanding of the retail environment, your availability, and your interest in learning the custom framing craft.
• Think about how you would approach a customer looking for framing advice, demonstrating your consultative sales approach.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for this role will likely focus heavily on customer interaction skills, attitude, and a willingness to learn the technical aspects of custom framing. Highlighting passion for creativity and customer satisfaction will be key differentiators.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Point of Sale (POS) System: For processing transactions, managing customer accounts, and potentially order entry. Proficiency in POS systems is a key requirement.
• Custom Framing Equipment: This includes specialized tools such as mat cutters (e.g., Logan, Fletcher), framing saws, staple guns, rulers, and measuring tapes. Familiarity or ability to learn these is essential.
• Glass Cutter: For accurately cutting glass or acrylic to fit custom frames.
• Heat Press/Sealing Equipment: May be used for certain framing applications or mounting processes.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While the framer may not directly use advanced analytics tools, they will likely interact with reporting systems through the POS for sales tracking and performance metrics.
• Understanding basic sales data and how their performance contributes to store goals is beneficial.

CRM & Automation:

• The POS system may have basic CRM functionalities for tracking customer purchase history and preferences in custom framing.
• Automation is less relevant at this level, but efficient order processing and production workflows are key to operational success.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is heavily geared towards specialized retail and craft equipment. While modern retail often involves sophisticated software, this role's primary technical requirements are around hands-on equipment operation and POS system usage.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Customer Focus: A paramount value, emphasizing creating memorable customer experiences and providing solutions that meet creative needs.
• Creativity & Passion: Encouraging a love for arts and crafts, fostering an environment where creativity is celebrated and shared.
• Quality & Craftsmanship: Commitment to delivering high-quality custom framing that customers will cherish.
• Teamwork & Collaboration: Working together to achieve store goals, support colleagues, and ensure a positive shopping environment.
• Integrity & Accountability: Upholding company standards, being reliable, and taking ownership of tasks and customer interactions.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Framers collaborate closely with sales associates to ensure seamless customer handoffs and to provide comprehensive service.
• Process Review & Feedback: Openness to feedback from supervisors and peers to improve framing techniques, customer service, and operational efficiency within the department.
• Knowledge Sharing: Sharing best practices for framing, customer engagement, and store operations with team members to foster a learning environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: Michaels' brand promise of "fueling the joy of creativity" suggests a culture that is enthusiastic, supportive, and customer-centric, with a strong emphasis on shared passion for the arts and crafts.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Multiple Demands: Effectively managing customer consultations, order fulfillment, production tasks, and general store duties simultaneously, especially during peak seasons.
• Learning Technical Skills: Mastering the operation of specialized framing equipment and understanding the nuances of different framing materials requires dedicated learning and practice.
• Managing Customer Expectations: Accurately assessing customer needs and delivering framing solutions that meet their creative vision and budget.
• Seasonal Fluctuations: Adapting to increased customer traffic and order volume during holiday seasons, requiring enhanced efficiency and time management.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Comprehensive Training: Michaels typically provides thorough training on custom framing techniques, product knowledge, and customer service best practices.
• Skill Advancement: Opportunities to develop expertise in advanced framing techniques, design principles, and customer consultation.
• Industry Exposure: Gaining insight into the arts and crafts industry and customer trends related to home decor and personal expression.
• Retail Career Path: Developing a foundation in retail operations that can lead to further career opportunities within Michaels or the broader retail sector.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary challenge will be mastering the craft of custom framing while balancing it with the demands of a busy retail environment. Growth opportunities are rooted in skill development and internal advancement within the company's retail structure.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Customer Service Scenarios: Be ready to discuss how you would handle a customer who is unsure about their framing choices, or one who is unhappy with a completed order. Focus on empathy, active listening, and solution-oriented approaches.
• Teamwork Examples: Prepare to share an instance where you collaborated effectively with colleagues to achieve a common goal or resolve a team issue.
• Problem-Solving: Think about a time you encountered a challenge in a previous role and how you addressed it. For this role, consider challenges related to production, customer interaction, or time management.
• Motivation & Fit: Articulate why you are interested in Michaels, custom framing, and specifically this role. Connect your passion for creativity with the company's mission.

Company & Culture Questions:

• Research Michaels' history, mission, and values. Understand their position as a leader in the arts and crafts market.
• Be prepared to discuss how you embody creativity and customer focus, and how you would contribute to the store's positive atmosphere.
• Consider how you would fit into a team environment that values collaboration and shared passion.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Since a formal portfolio isn't required, prepare to speak confidently about your skills and experiences.
• Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers to behavioral questions, providing concrete examples of your capabilities.
• If you have any personal projects related to crafting, art, or design, be ready to briefly mention them to showcase your interest and aptitude.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview will likely assess your personality, customer service aptitude, and genuine interest in the creative field. Demonstrating enthusiasm for art and a willingness to learn are crucial.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Michaels Careers portal.
• Resume Customization: Tailor your resume to highlight any customer service experience, retail background, creative skills, attention to detail, and any experience with tools or precise work. Quantify achievements where possible (e.g., "Assisted an average of 30 customers per shift," "Maintained 98% accuracy in order processing").
• Portfolio Preparation (Verbal): Mentally prepare specific examples from your past to discuss during the interview that showcase your customer service, problem-solving, and teamwork skills. Think about situations where you demonstrated precision or a creative approach.
• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Michaels' product offerings, brand values, and commitment to creativity. Understand the role of custom framing within their business model.
• Interview Practice: Practice answering common retail interview questions, focusing on demonstrating your enthusiasm, reliability, and customer-centric approach. Be ready to discuss your availability clearly.

⚠️ 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.