Retail Picture Framer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Retail Picture Framer
Company: Michaels Stores
Location: Nashua, New Hampshire, United States
Job Type: PART_TIME
Category: Retail Operations
Date Posted: October 18, 2025
Experience Level: 0-2 Years
Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role focuses on providing exceptional customer service within a retail environment, specifically in the custom framing department.
• Responsibilities include building customer relationships, understanding their creative vision, and translating it into high-quality custom framing solutions.
• Key operational duties involve accurately completing framing orders, maintaining department standards, and ensuring efficient store operations.
• The position requires strong interpersonal skills, attention to detail, and the ability to operate specialized framing equipment.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the provided data points to a retail associate role, the core functions heavily emphasize custom framing and customer-facing sales within a specialized department. This suggests a hybrid role with a strong operational component in production and sales, rather than a purely transactional retail position. The focus on "building customer relationships while creating a memorable framing solution" indicates a consultative sales approach.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Customer Engagement & Sales:
  • Actively engage with customers to understand their framing needs and creative vision, utilizing consultative selling techniques.
  • Propose and design custom framing solutions that align with customer aesthetics and budget, leveraging product knowledge and design principles.
  • Drive sales by effectively communicating the value and benefits of custom framing services.
  • Build and maintain strong customer relationships to foster loyalty and repeat business.
• Production & Order Fulfillment:
  • Accurately measure, cut, and assemble framing materials according to customer specifications and quality standards.
  • Operate framing equipment, including glass cutters and heat presses, safely and efficiently.
  • Ensure all framing orders are completed on time and to the highest quality, meeting or exceeding customer expectations.
  • Maintain a clean and organized workspace within the frame shop to ensure operational efficiency and safety.
• Store Operations & Merchandising:
  • Adhere to all Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company programs to ensure compliance and operational excellence.
  • Maintain the ready-made frame department, including visual merchandising and stock replenishment (SISO and Directed Replenishment).
  • Assist with truck un-load and stocking processes, ensuring adherence to store standards and timelines.
  • Operate the cash register, execute cash handling procedures accurately, and process customer transactions efficiently.
  • Support shrink and safety programs through diligent adherence to protocols and proactive identification of risks.
• Omni-Channel Support:
  • Assist with and support various omni-channel processes as required, ensuring seamless customer experiences across physical and digital touchpoints.
• Team Collaboration & Store Support:
  • Interact positively and respectfully with colleagues, contributing to a collaborative and supportive team environment.
  • Serve as a role model by projecting a positive image and upholding organizational values.
  • Assist in maintaining a safe, clean, and clutter-free store environment for both customers and associates.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities listed are a combination of direct customer interaction, specialized production tasks (framing), and general retail operations. The emphasis on "Elevated ABC Deliver" and "personal designer" suggests a structured approach to sales and customer relationship management within the framing context.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• High school diploma or equivalent preferred, demonstrating foundational academic achievement.

Experience:

• 0-2 years of experience in a customer-facing role, with a preference for retail environments.
• Experience in a consultative sales or design-oriented role is highly advantageous.
• Prior experience in picture framing or a related craft is a plus.

Required Skills:

• Customer Service Excellence: Proven ability to build rapport, understand customer needs, and provide solutions in a friendly and helpful manner.
• Basic Measuring & Math Skills: Accurate application of measurement techniques and basic arithmetic for order customization and pricing.
• Operational Proficiency: Ability to operate specialized framing equipment (e.g., glass cutter, heat press) safely and effectively.
• Cash Handling & POS Operation: Competence in accurately processing transactions, managing cash, and utilizing point-of-sale (POS) systems.
• Adherence to Procedures: Strong commitment to following Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company policies.

Preferred Skills:

• Retail Sales Experience: Demonstrated success in driving sales and achieving targets in a retail setting.
• Product Knowledge: Familiarity with art, framing materials, design principles, and creative products.
• Basic Computer Skills: Proficiency in using computers for tasks such as order entry, inventory look-up, and communication.
• Visual Merchandising: Ability to maintain appealing and organized retail displays.
• Problem-Solving Aptitude: Capacity to address customer issues and operational challenges effectively.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "0-2 years" experience level suggests a focus on foundational skills and on-the-job training, particularly for the technical aspects of framing. The emphasis on "basic measuring skills" and "basic computer skills" indicates that advanced technical expertise is not a prerequisite, but rather a capacity to learn and apply these skills.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• While a formal portfolio is not explicitly required for this entry-level role, candidates are encouraged to showcase examples of their attention to detail and creative problem-solving through their resume and during the interview.
• Project Examples: If applicable, highlight any personal or past professional projects where creative design, precise execution, and customer satisfaction were key components. This could include craft projects, event planning, or any role involving custom creation.
• Process Improvement Contributions: Evidence of identifying opportunities to improve workflow or customer experience in previous roles, even if informal.
• System Familiarity: Demonstration of comfort in learning and utilizing new systems, such as POS software or order management tools, is beneficial.
• Outcome-Oriented Descriptions: When describing past responsibilities, focus on the tangible outcomes achieved, such as customer satisfaction improvements or accurate order completion rates.

Process Documentation:

• Candidates should be prepared to discuss their understanding of adhering to established processes and procedures.
• Workflow Adherence: Ability to follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for framing, sales, and store operations.
• Quality Control: Understanding the importance of quality checks at various stages of the framing process to ensure customer satisfaction and reduce errors.
• Efficiency Awareness: Demonstration of an awareness of how efficient processes contribute to overall store performance and customer experience.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an entry-level retail position, a formal portfolio is less common. The emphasis is more on demonstrating foundational skills, a willingness to learn, and an understanding of process and quality through interview responses and resume content. The "Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements" section has been adapted to reflect this, focusing on how candidates can demonstrate these capabilities rather than requiring a formal submission.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Estimated Range: $13.00 - $17.00 per hour (part-time)
• Methodology: This estimate is based on typical retail associate and specialized retail roles in Nashua, New Hampshire, for an experience level of 0-2 years. Factors considered include the local cost of living, industry benchmarks for part-time retail positions, and the specialized nature of the framing duties which may command a slightly higher hourly rate than a general associate. The range also accounts for potential variations based on specific skills and interview performance.

Benefits:

• Health Insurance: Access to medical, dental, and vision insurance plans, providing comprehensive coverage for eligible associates.
• Paid Time Off (PTO): Accrual of paid time off for vacation, sick days, and personal needs, supporting work-life balance.
• Tuition Assistance: Support for continuing education through tuition reimbursement or assistance programs.
• Employee Discounts: Generous discounts on Michaels products and services, empowering creative pursuits.
• Retirement Savings Plan: Options for 401(k) or similar retirement savings plans for long-term financial planning.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Confidential counseling and support services for personal and work-related challenges.

Working Hours:

• This is a PART_TIME position, with hours that will vary based on business needs.
• The role requires availability to work nights, weekends, and potentially early mornings, aligning with typical retail operating hours.
• Flexibility in scheduling is expected to meet store demands, including peak seasons and promotional events.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate for Nashua, NH, for a part-time retail role with specialized duties. Benefits are drawn from the provided "ai_benefits" and supplemented with common offerings for part-time retail employees in the US. Working hours are detailed as part-time with flexibility, reflecting the nature of the role.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Arts and Crafts Retail. Michaels Stores is a leading specialty retailer focused on providing a wide range of arts, crafts, and home decor products. Company Size: Large (over 10,000 employees). Michaels operates over 1,300 stores across North America, indicating a significant operational footprint and a structured corporate environment. Founded: 1973. With decades of history, Michaels has established itself as a well-recognized brand with deep roots in the creative community.

Team Structure:

• Store-Level Operations: The Retail Picture Framer works within a specific store location, reporting to store management (e.g., Store Manager, Assistant Manager, Framing Department Lead).
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: While primarily focused on the framing department, the role involves collaboration with other store associates for general customer service, sales support, stocking, and operational tasks. Interaction with other departments like visual merchandising and cashiers is common.
• Specialized Department: The framing department functions as a specialized unit within the store, requiring specific skill sets and customer interaction protocols.

Methodology:

• Customer-Centric Approach: Michaels emphasizes a customer-first philosophy, focusing on providing inspiration, solutions, and a positive shopping experience.
• Process Standardization: The company relies on Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to ensure consistent service delivery, operational efficiency, and safety compliance across all locations.
• Data-Driven Insights (Store Level): While not directly managing data analytics, associates contribute to data collection through sales transactions and inventory management, supporting store performance metrics.
• Continuous Improvement: The company encourages associates to contribute to a culture of improvement, from enhancing customer interactions to optimizing in-store processes.

Company Website: https://www.michaels.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: The company context is derived from the provided description and general knowledge of Michaels Stores. The emphasis is on how this translates to the daily work environment and operational expectations for a Retail Picture Framer. The "Methodology" section infers common retail operational strategies.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Entry-Level Retail Associate with Specialized Department Focus. This role serves as a foundational position within the retail operations of Michaels Stores. It offers exposure to customer service, sales, and a specific production/craft function (framing).

Reporting Structure:

• Typically reports to the Framing Department Lead, Assistant Store Manager, or Store Manager.
• Operates within the store's hierarchy, with clear lines of accountability for daily tasks and performance.

Operations Impact:

• Customer Satisfaction: Directly impacts customer satisfaction through the quality of framing services and the helpfulness of service provided.
• Revenue Generation: Contributes to store revenue through direct sales of custom framing and related products, as well as general store sales.
• Brand Perception: Represents the Michaels brand, influencing customer perception of creativity, quality, and service.
• Operational Efficiency: Efficient execution of framing tasks and adherence to store procedures contribute to overall store performance and profitability.

Growth Opportunities:

• Framing Specialist/Lead: Progression to a Framing Department Lead role, involving greater responsibility for training, inventory management, and customer consultations.
• Keyholder/Supervisor: Advancement to a supervisory role within the store, such as Keyholder or Shift Supervisor, managing daily operations and team members.
• Cross-Training: Opportunities to gain experience in other store departments (e.g., visual merchandising, cash office) to broaden skill sets.
• Management Track: Potential pathway to Assistant Store Manager or Store Manager positions for individuals demonstrating strong leadership, operational acumen, and sales performance.
• Specialized Roles: Development of expertise in specific craft areas or customer segments.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section interprets the role's place within a larger retail organization and outlines potential career trajectories, focusing on operations and leadership development within the retail sector.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Public Retail Store Setting. The primary work environment is a customer-facing retail store.

Office Location(s):

• Nashua, NH: Specifically located at 268A Daniel Webster Highway, Nashua, NH. This is a standard retail store location accessible to the local community.

Workspace Context:

• Customer Interaction Areas: The role involves significant time on the sales floor, assisting customers and managing displays, as well as in the dedicated framing area.
• Frame Shop: This specialized workspace contains framing equipment, tools, and materials, including glass cutters and heat presses, requiring careful handling and adherence to safety protocols.
• Stock Rooms: Associates may also work in stock rooms for inventory management and replenishment, which may not always be climate-controlled.
• Collaborative Atmosphere: The environment encourages interaction with fellow team members to provide comprehensive customer support and maintain store operations.

Work Schedule:

• Part-time hours, with flexibility required to cover various shifts, including nights, weekends, and early mornings.
• The schedule will adapt to business needs, including seasonal peaks and promotional periods.
• While primarily on-site, there may be occasional outdoor tasks, such as retrieving shopping carts or during truck unloads.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section details the physical and operational aspects of the work environment, emphasizing the blend of customer interaction, production work, and general retail duties.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Application review and potentially a brief phone screen to assess basic qualifications and interest.
• In-Person Interview: Typically conducted by the Store Manager or Assistant Manager. This will involve:
  • Behavioral Questions: Assessing customer service skills, problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and adaptability. Examples: "Tell me about a time you dealt with a difficult customer," or "How do you handle competing priorities?"
  • Situational Questions: Presenting hypothetical scenarios related to customer interactions, framing challenges, or operational issues. Examples: "A customer wants a frame for a very unusual item, what steps would you take?"
  • Skills Assessment: Discussion of required skills like measuring, basic computer use, and any prior framing experience.
  • Company Fit: Evaluating alignment with Michaels' culture and values (creativity, customer focus, teamwork).
• Potential Skills Demonstration: For framing roles, there may be a practical assessment involving basic measuring, cutting, or discussing design concepts.
• Final Interview/Offer: Following successful interviews, a job offer may be extended.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Resume Emphasis: Since a formal portfolio isn't standard, ensure your resume clearly highlights:
  • Customer Service Achievements: Quantify achievements where possible (e.g., "Improved customer satisfaction scores by X%").
  • Sales Contributions: Detail any sales targets met or exceeded.
  • Detail-Oriented Tasks: Mention experience with precise work, measurements, or quality control.
  • Technical Aptitude: List any experience with tools, equipment, or software (even basic).
• Verbalizing Experience: Be prepared to verbally walk through specific examples of projects or responsibilities that demonstrate your suitability for the role, focusing on problem-solving and creative solutions. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers.

Challenge Preparation:

• Framing Scenarios: Think about common framing challenges: oversized items, delicate artwork, budget constraints, unusual shapes, or customers unsure of design. How would you approach these?
• Customer Service Scenarios: Prepare for questions about handling customer complaints, managing busy periods, or going the extra mile for a customer.
• Operational Scenarios: Consider questions about maintaining store standards, working efficiently, or ensuring safety.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section outlines a typical retail interview process and provides actionable advice on how to prepare, emphasizing how to showcase relevant skills and experience even without a formal portfolio.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Custom Framing Equipment:
  • Glass Cutter: For precise cutting of glass or acrylic to frame size.
  • Mat Cutter (if applicable): For cutting custom mats to fit artwork.
  • Framing Assembler/Moulding Chopper: For cutting and joining frame mouldings.
  • Heat Press: For applying materials or sealing frames.
  • Measuring Tools: Tape measures, rulers, calipers for accurate dimensions.
• Point of Sale (POS) System: For processing customer transactions, managing sales, and potentially inventory look-up.
• Computer/Tablet: For accessing customer orders, company information, training modules, and basic computer tasks.
• Hand Tools: Various tools for assembly, mounting, and finishing framing projects.

Analytics & Reporting:

• POS Reports (Basic): Associates may access basic sales reports or inventory look-up functions through the POS system to assist customers.

CRM & Automation:

• Customer Relationship Management (CRM) System (Basic Functionality): The POS system or an integrated store system may capture customer information for order history and loyalty programs. While direct CRM management is unlikely, understanding how customer data is used is beneficial.
• Inventory Management Systems: Used for tracking stock levels, processing incoming shipments, and managing replenishment of framing materials and ready-made frames.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section details the specific tools and technology a Retail Picture Framer would encounter, focusing on both production equipment and retail operational systems.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Creativity & Inspiration: A core value of Michaels, encouraging associates to be passionate about creative pursuits and to inspire customers.
• Customer Focus: Prioritizing customer needs, providing excellent service, and creating memorable experiences.
• Quality & Craftsmanship: Commitment to delivering high-quality custom framing solutions and maintaining high standards in all tasks.
• Teamwork & Collaboration: Working effectively with colleagues to achieve store goals, support each other, and create a positive work environment.
• Integrity & Respect: Upholding ethical standards, treating everyone with respect, and fostering an inclusive atmosphere.
• Efficiency & Productivity: Striving for efficient workflows in both production and general store operations to meet business objectives.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Support: Associates are expected to support each other across different store functions, from framing to sales floor assistance.
• Open Communication: Encouraging clear and respectful communication to resolve issues, share information, and coordinate tasks.
• Shared Goals: Working towards common store objectives, such as sales targets, customer satisfaction, and operational efficiency.
• Feedback Exchange: Being open to receiving and providing constructive feedback to improve individual performance and team effectiveness.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section extrapolates the company's stated values and purpose to the day-to-day operational culture of a store team, emphasizing how these values translate into expected behaviors for associates.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Multiple Roles: Effectively managing the demands of customer service, sales consultations, intricate framing production, and general store operations simultaneously.
• Customer Expectations: Meeting diverse customer needs, budgets, and design preferences for custom framing, which can be subjective.
• Technical Skill Acquisition: Learning to operate specialized framing equipment safely and accurately, especially for individuals with no prior experience.
• Pace of Retail: Adapting to the dynamic nature of retail, including busy periods, seasonal demands, and unexpected operational issues.
• Maintaining Quality Under Pressure: Ensuring high-quality framing work even during peak times or when facing tight deadlines.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Framing Expertise: Deepening knowledge of framing techniques, materials, design principles, and conservation methods through on-the-job training and potential company resources.
• Sales & Customer Service Skills: Enhancing consultative selling abilities, customer relationship management, and conflict resolution skills.
• Operational Proficiency: Gaining a comprehensive understanding of retail operations, including inventory management, visual merchandising, and cash handling.
• Leadership Development: Potential to develop leadership skills through progressive roles, such as keyholding responsibilities or department supervision.
• Industry Trends: Staying informed about current trends in art, decor, and custom framing to better serve customers.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section identifies potential challenges inherent in the role and outlines specific learning and development pathways available within Michaels, tailored to the operations and retail context.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Customer Service Scenarios: "Describe a time you helped a customer find the perfect solution for their needs." "How would you handle a customer who is unhappy with their custom framing order?"
  • Preparation: Prepare specific examples using the STAR method, focusing on empathy, problem-solving, and achieving positive outcomes.
• Sales & Design Questions: "Imagine a customer brings in a valuable painting and is unsure about framing options. What questions would you ask, and how would you guide them?" "What do you think are the key elements of good custom framing design?"
  • Preparation: Research basic framing principles (matting, glass types, moulding styles) and be ready to discuss how you would consult with a customer to understand their aesthetic and the artwork's needs.
• Operational & Technical Questions: "What steps would you take to ensure the accuracy of a custom framing order?" "How comfortable are you learning to operate new equipment?"
  • Preparation: Emphasize attention to detail, commitment to following procedures, and a willingness to learn and be trained on equipment.

Company & Culture Questions:

• "Why are you interested in working at Michaels?" "What does 'fueling the joy of creativity' mean to you?"
  • Preparation: Research Michaels' mission and values. Connect your personal interests in creativity, crafting, or art to the company's purpose.
• "How do you approach working as part of a team?" "What are your expectations regarding work hours and flexibility?"
  • Preparation: Highlight your teamwork skills and demonstrate flexibility regarding the part-time schedule, including nights and weekends.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Resume as a Portfolio: Treat your resume as your primary "portfolio." Be prepared to elaborate on any experience listed that demonstrates relevant skills (customer service, detailed work, creative problem-solving, sales).
• Verbal Case Studies: If asked about hypothetical situations, present your thought process clearly, outlining the steps you would take, the considerations you would make (e.g., customer needs, material limitations, company procedures), and the desired outcome.
• Demonstrate Enthusiasm: Show genuine interest in the creative aspects of the role and a passion for helping customers bring their artistic visions to life.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section provides specific, actionable advice for preparing for interviews for this role, focusing on likely question types and how to frame answers effectively, drawing parallels to operations interview strategies where applicable.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Retail Picture Framer position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Michaels careers portal.
• Resume Customization: Tailor your resume to highlight customer service achievements, any experience with detailed or precise work, sales contributions, and familiarity with creative environments or tools. Use keywords from the job description like "customer service," "framing," "sales," and "attention to detail."
• Prepare Your Narrative: Be ready to articulate your interest in Michaels, your understanding of the role's responsibilities (especially the blend of customer interaction and production), and how your skills align with the company's values of creativity and customer focus.
• Practice Interview Responses: Rehearse answers to common retail interview questions, focusing on behavioral and situational scenarios related to customer service, problem-solving, and teamwork. Consider how you would describe your approach to learning new technical skills.
• Research Michaels: Familiarize yourself with Michaels' products, services (especially custom framing), mission, and recent initiatives to demonstrate genuine interest and cultural fit.

⚠️ 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.

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