Retail - Picture Framer at Michaels Stores

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Retail - Picture Framer Company: Michaels Stores Location: Amherst-123 Rte 101a, Amherst, United States of America Job Type: PART_TIME Category: Retail Operations Date Posted: August 25, 2025 Experience Level: Entry Level (0-2 years) Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

This role focuses on providing exceptional customer service within a retail environment, specifically within the custom framing department.
Key responsibilities include building customer relationships, understanding their creative needs, and translating those into memorable framing solutions.
The position involves hands-on work with framing equipment and materials, requiring precision and quality in execution.
It also encompasses general retail duties such as maintaining store appearance, assisting customers with product location, and operating the point-of-sale system.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the job title is "Picture Framer," the description clearly positions this as a retail associate role with a specialization in custom framing. The emphasis is on customer interaction, sales, and store operations, rather than solely on advanced art conservation framing. The "Elevated ABC Deliver" mention suggests a structured sales and customer engagement methodology.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

Engage customers, build strong relationships, and understand their needs to create tailored custom framing solutions, driving sales through consultative selling.
Execute custom framing orders with a high degree of quality and within established timelines, adhering to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
Maintain the readiness and visual appeal of the ready-made frame department and other assigned areas, including stock organization and replenishment.
Provide friendly and efficient customer service, assisting shoppers in locating products, offering solutions, and ensuring a positive shopping experience.
Operate the cash register accurately, handle cash transactions according to company standards, and support all Omni-channel processes.
Maintain a safe, clean, and clutter-free store environment, adhering to all safety and shrink prevention programs.
Participate actively in truck un-loading and stocking processes to ensure adherence to truck standards and budgetary compliance.
Demonstrate respect and positivity in all interactions, acting as a role model and contributing to the organization's vision and values.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a dual focus: sales-driven customer engagement for custom framing and general retail operational duties. The mention of "Elevated ABC Deliver" implies a specific customer interaction model that candidates should be prepared to learn and implement.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: High school diploma or equivalent is typically expected for entry-level retail positions; specific operational certifications are not mentioned but would be a plus. Experience: 0-2 years of experience, with a preference for previous retail experience and demonstrated success in selling products or services. Experience in custom framing or a related craft is advantageous but not explicitly required.

Required Skills:

Strong customer service and interpersonal skills for building rapport and providing assistance.
Basic computer proficiency for point-of-sale operations and potential inventory management tasks.
Fundamental measuring skills essential for accurate framing work.
Ability to operate framing equipment and a glass cutter safely and effectively.
Cash handling proficiency and accuracy in financial transactions.
Product knowledge development regarding custom framing options and materials.

Preferred Skills:

Prior retail sales experience, particularly in a consultative or custom-order environment.
Experience in selling products and/or services, showcasing an ability to meet sales targets.
Familiarity with creative arts or craft industries can be beneficial for understanding customer projects.
Visual merchandising skills for maintaining an attractive frame department.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "minimum" and "preferred" experience sections clearly outline the baseline expectations and areas where candidates can differentiate themselves. The emphasis on basic measuring and framing equipment operation suggests that on-the-job training will be provided for the technical aspects of framing.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

While a formal portfolio is not explicitly required, candidates who can demonstrate past successes in customer service, sales, or creative projects (even personal ones) will stand out.
Examples of problem-solving in a customer-facing role or instances where attention to detail led to positive outcomes are valuable.
Showcase any experience with visual presentation or organization that contributed to a positive customer environment.
Quantifiable achievements in sales or customer satisfaction, if available, can be presented to demonstrate impact.

Process Documentation:

Candidates should be prepared to discuss their understanding of process adherence, particularly concerning Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and safety protocols.
The ability to articulate how they would approach learning and executing the custom framing process, from customer consultation to order completion, is important.
Demonstrate an understanding of maintaining organized workspaces and efficient workflows in a retail setting.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an entry-level retail role with a specialized function like picture framing, a formal portfolio is less critical than demonstrating a strong work ethic, customer focus, and willingness to learn. Highlighting transferable skills from previous roles or even academic/personal projects that showcase attention to detail and customer interaction is recommended.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: As a part-time, entry-level retail position in Amherst, NH, the hourly wage is expected to be competitive within the regional retail market. Based on industry standards for similar roles in New Hampshire, the estimated salary range is likely between $12.00 to $16.00 per hour.

Benefits:

Health Insurance: Access to medical, dental, and vision coverage.
Paid Time Off (PTO): Accrued paid time off for vacation, sick days, or personal needs.
Tuition Assistance: Support for continuing education, beneficial for skill development.
Employee Discounts: Generous discounts on Michaels products, fostering engagement with the brand.
Other potential benefits may include retirement savings plans (e.g., 401k) and employee assistance programs.

Working Hours: This is a part-time position. While the exact number of hours can vary, it typically involves a flexible schedule that may include evenings, weekends, and holidays, aligning with retail operating hours. The explicit mention of "40" in the input data may refer to the standard full-time work week, but for a part-time role, hours will be less.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on typical entry-level retail positions in the Amherst, NH area, considering the cost of living and prevailing wages. Benefits are as listed in the company's general information, applied to part-time roles where applicable.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Arts and Crafts Retail. Michaels is the leading creative destination in North America, operating over 1,300 stores and online platforms. Company Size: Michaels operates over 1,300 stores and employs a significant number of individuals across North America, indicating a large-scale retail organization. Founded: Founded in 1973 and headquartered in Irving, Texas. The company's purpose is to "fuel the joy of creativity."

Team Structure:

The retail store team typically includes a Store Manager, Assistant Store Managers, Department Specialists (like the Picture Framer), and Sales Associates.
The Picture Framer may report to a Department Manager or the Store Manager, depending on the store's organizational structure.
Collaboration is essential, with Picture Framers working closely with sales associates to assist customers across all departments and supporting visual merchandising efforts.

Methodology:

Customer engagement follows a structured approach, emphasizing building relationships and providing solutions ("Elevated ABC Deliver").
Operational efficiency is maintained through adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for tasks like stocking, cash handling, and framing execution.
A focus on visual presentation and maintaining an inviting store environment is part of the daily methodology.

Company Website: www.michaels.com

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture is centered around creativity, customer engagement, and operational efficiency within a large retail framework. Understanding Michaels' mission to "fuel the joy of creativity" is key to aligning with their values.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This position represents an entry-level, specialized role within the retail operations of Michaels. It provides foundational experience in customer service, sales, and hands-on production within a specific department.

Reporting Structure: The Picture Framer will likely report to a Store Manager or a designated Department Manager responsible for the Custom Framing department.

Operations Impact: The Picture Framer directly impacts customer satisfaction through quality work and excellent service, contributing to repeat business and positive word-of-mouth. Their sales efforts in custom framing also directly contribute to store revenue.

Growth Opportunities:

Skill Development: Opportunity to become a highly skilled custom framer with expertise in design, materials, and equipment operation.
Sales Progression: Potential to increase sales performance and achieve higher commission or bonuses based on custom framing sales.
Leadership Potential: With demonstrated performance and leadership qualities, a path to roles like Department Specialist Lead, Assistant Manager, or Store Manager may be available.
Cross-Training: Opportunities to learn about other departments within the store, broadening retail operational knowledge.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role serves as a strong entry point into retail operations, offering tangible skills in a specialized area. Growth is possible within the store structure or by leveraging the unique skill set developed in custom framing.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Public retail store setting. The primary work areas include the sales floor (ready-made frames) and a dedicated frame shop. Office Location(s): Amherst, NH (123 Rte 101a). This is a physical retail location accessible to the public.

Workspace Context:

The workspace includes the sales floor, which is climate-controlled and customer-facing.
The frame shop contains specialized equipment such as a glass cutter and heat press, requiring careful and safe operation.
Stock rooms may be present, which might not always be climate-controlled.
Some outdoor work may be assigned, such as retrieving shopping carts or assisting with truck unloads.

Work Schedule: The role is part-time, with working hours that can include nights, weekends, and early mornings to cover store operating hours and customer demand. Flexibility in scheduling is often a requirement in retail.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is dynamic and customer-focused, requiring adaptability to different tasks and locations within the store, including the specialized frame shop. Safety protocols around equipment like glass cutters and heat presses are paramount.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

Initial Screening: Application review and potentially a brief phone screen to assess basic qualifications and availability.
In-Person Interview: Typically involves a one-on-one or panel interview with the Store Manager or Assistant Manager. Questions will focus on customer service experience, problem-solving abilities, and understanding of the role's responsibilities.
Skills Assessment: May include demonstrating basic measuring skills or discussing how they would handle specific customer scenarios related to framing.
Onboarding: If successful, onboarding will cover company policies, safety training, and initial training on framing equipment and sales processes.

Portfolio Review Tips:

While not a formal requirement, be prepared to discuss any examples of detailed work, creative projects, or customer service successes.
If you have prior experience in custom work or with tools, be ready to articulate your process and attention to detail.
Highlight any instances where you've solved a customer's problem or gone above and beyond in a service role.

Challenge Preparation:

Be ready for behavioral questions asking how you've handled challenging customers, managed multiple tasks, or worked effectively in a team.
Prepare to discuss your understanding of customer service principles and what makes a positive retail experience.
Think about how you would approach learning a new technical skill like operating framing equipment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is standard for retail roles, emphasizing customer interaction and operational duties. While a portfolio isn't strictly necessary, being able to articulate relevant experiences and demonstrate a proactive learning attitude will be crucial.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

Point-of-Sale (POS) System: For processing transactions, managing customer orders, and handling payments.
Custom Framing Equipment: Including a glass cutter, mat cutter, framing tools (e.g., underpinner, staple gun), and potentially a heat press for certain framing applications.
Measuring Tools: Tape measures, rulers, and precision measuring devices for accurate cutting and assembly.

Analytics & Reporting:

Basic reporting on sales performance might be accessible through the POS system.
Inventory management systems for tracking frame stock and supplies.

CRM & Automation:

While not explicitly detailed, the company likely uses a Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system for tracking customer orders and preferences, especially for custom framing.
Omni-channel processes suggest integration between online and in-store systems.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency with POS systems is standard. The key technical skills involve operating specialized framing machinery safely and accurately. Familiarity with basic measurement tools is essential.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

Creativity: Encouraging a passion for arts and crafts, and helping customers bring their creative visions to life through framing.
Customer Focus: Prioritizing customer satisfaction by providing helpful service, expert advice, and quality products.
Collaboration: Working effectively with team members across different departments to ensure smooth store operations and a positive customer experience.
Efficiency & Quality: Adhering to processes and standards to ensure timely and high-quality custom framing results.
Respect & Positivity: Maintaining a positive and respectful work environment for both colleagues and customers.

Collaboration Style:

Team members are expected to support each other, assist customers regardless of department, and communicate effectively to resolve issues.
Cross-functional collaboration is vital for tasks like truck unloads, inventory management, and ensuring a cohesive customer experience throughout the store.
A culture of learning and sharing information about products and services is encouraged.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company values creativity and customer satisfaction highly. A collaborative spirit and a commitment to quality in both service and product are key cultural elements for success in this role.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

Balancing Multiple Roles: Effectively managing customer interactions on the sales floor while dedicating time to precise custom framing tasks requires strong time management.
Meeting Sales Targets: Consistently driving custom framing sales, especially in a retail environment where customer engagement can be variable.
Technical Skill Acquisition: Mastering the operation of framing equipment and developing an eye for design and aesthetics in custom framing.
Physical Demands: The role involves standing for long periods, lifting, and reaching, which can be physically demanding.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

Framing Expertise: Deepen knowledge of framing techniques, materials, design principles, and equipment maintenance.
Sales & Customer Service Skills: Enhance consultative selling abilities and customer relationship management through ongoing training and practice.
Retail Operations Knowledge: Gain a comprehensive understanding of various retail functions, from inventory management to visual merchandising.
Career Advancement: Potential to move into leadership roles within Michaels or leverage specialized framing skills in related creative industries.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a unique blend of creative service and retail operations. The challenges are typical of specialized retail positions, while the growth opportunities focus on developing both craft-specific skills and broader retail acumen.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

Customer Service Scenarios: Be ready to describe how you handle difficult customers, upsell products, or assist customers who are unsure of their needs. For example, "Describe a time you helped a customer find the perfect solution, even when they didn't know what they were looking for."
Process Adherence: Discuss your understanding of following procedures and why SOPs are important in a retail setting, especially concerning safety and quality. "How would you ensure a custom framing order is executed perfectly according to company standards?"
Teamwork and Collaboration: Prepare examples of how you've worked effectively with a team to achieve a common goal. "Tell me about a time you collaborated with colleagues to improve a process or customer experience."
Skills and Aptitude: Be prepared to talk about your comfort level with using tools, measuring accurately, and learning new technical skills. "What interests you about custom framing, and how do you approach learning new equipment?"

Company & Culture Questions:

Research Michaels' mission ("fuel the joy of creativity"), values, and recent initiatives.
Understand the importance of customer experience in a creative retail environment.
Prepare to discuss why you want to work for Michaels specifically.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

If you have any visual examples of your work (crafts, framing, design projects), be prepared to briefly showcase them and explain your process and attention to detail.
Focus on how your skills and experiences align with the responsibilities of a Picture Framer, emphasizing customer service, accuracy, and a creative approach.

📝 Enhancement Note: Focus on demonstrating a customer-centric approach, a commitment to quality and process, and a genuine interest in the creative aspects of custom framing. Being prepared with specific examples from past experiences will be highly beneficial.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

Submit your application through the provided link on the Michaels careers portal.
📝 Enhancement Note: Tailor your resume to highlight customer service, sales experience, attention to detail, and any relevant craft or technical skills. Use keywords from the job description such as "customer service," "framing," "sales," "cash handling," and "measuring skills."
📝 Enhancement Note: Prepare to discuss your understanding of custom framing processes and your ability to learn and operate specialized equipment. Think about how you would approach a customer consultation for a framing project.
📝 Enhancement Note: Research Michaels' commitment to creativity and customer experience. Be ready to articulate how your personal values and work style align with the company culture and the specific demands of the Picture Framer role.
📝 Enhancement Note: Practice answering common retail interview questions, particularly those related to customer interaction, problem-solving, and handling multiple responsibilities.

⚠️ 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.

Retail - Picture Framer