NEX NORFOLK - FRAMER (CUSTOM FRAMING)

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: NEX NORFOLK - FRAMER (CUSTOM FRAMING)

Company: NEXCOM

Location: Norfolk, Virginia, United States

Job Type: Part-time (20 - 34.5 hours)

Category: Retail Operations / Custom Framing Services

Date Posted: November 3, 2026

Experience Level: 2-5 Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Execute the end-to-end process of custom picture frame creation, from customer consultation to final product assembly, ensuring adherence to design specifications.

• Provide expert recommendations and consultative services to customers on framing options, including matting, mounting, and shadow-boxing techniques, to enhance merchandise presentation.

• Safely and proficiently operate a variety of power and manual tools for cutting wood, metal, mats, and glass, adhering to strict safety protocols.

• Manage inventory levels for framing supplies, track incoming merchandise for quality and accuracy, and communicate needs to supervisory staff.

• Foster a positive customer experience through exceptional service, including prompt assistance, clear communication, and effective suggestive selling of additional custom services.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is situated within NEXCOM, a large retail organization serving the military community. The "Framer" position is a hands-on, customer-facing role focused on custom design and fabrication, requiring a blend of artistic skill, technical proficiency with tools, and strong customer service capabilities within a retail operations environment. The part-time nature suggests a need for flexibility and potentially supporting peak operational demands.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Consult with customers to understand their custom framing needs, offering expert advice on molding styles, matting options, mounting techniques, and shadow-boxing possibilities.

• Accurately measure frame dimensions and customer items (e.g., oil paintings, photographs, needlework, mirrors) to ensure precise custom framing outcomes.

• Utilize on-site equipment, including mat cutters (oval and vertical), glass cutters, and assembly tools, to construct frames and shadow boxes according to customer specifications.

• Implement and enforce safety procedures for handling all power and manual tools, as well as proper disposal of waste materials like glass and matting scraps, to maintain a secure work environment.

• Engage in suggestive selling by recommending complementary custom framing services and product enhancements to maximize customer value and sales opportunities.

• Conduct final product reviews with customers, ensuring all custom framing details meet agreed-upon specifications and secure packaging for customer transport.

• Maintain strict adherence to retail operational policies regarding cash handling, stock security, and overall area cleanliness and organization.

• Liaise with vendors to communicate customer order specifications and track order status, proactively addressing any delays or issues.

• Inspect incoming merchandise for damage or discrepancies, signing receiving reports and escalating significant problems to the supervisor.

• Provide prompt, friendly, and courteous service to all patrons, tactfully responding to inquiries and offering assistance.

• Present and demonstrate custom framing samples, advising customers on color schemes and textures that best complement their items.

• Conduct regular inventory counts of framing merchandise and supplies, reporting stock needs to supervisory staff to ensure adequate material availability.

• Perform other related duties as assigned to support overall store operations and customer service objectives.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core responsibilities emphasize customer interaction, technical execution of framing, and operational management within a retail setting. The role requires a proactive approach to sales and inventory, with a strong emphasis on safety and quality control in the fabrication process.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: High School Diploma or GED required.

Experience:

• General Experience: A minimum of one year of experience providing knowledge of general retail operations and customer service skills is required.

• Substitution: One year of high school education can substitute for 3 months of general experience, up to a full diploma/GED for one year of general experience.

• Specialized Experience: A minimum of three years of direct experience in completing custom picture frames is essential. This must include expertise in accurate measuring for various items (paintings, photos, glass, mirrors), using power and manual tools for wood, metal, mat, and glass cutting, and assembling custom frames and shadow boxes.

Required Skills:

• Proficiency in custom picture framing techniques, including matting, mounting, and shadow-boxing.

• Demonstrated ability to accurately measure and cut materials for custom framing projects.

• Competence in operating and maintaining various power and manual tools relevant to woodworking, metal framing, and glass/mat cutting.

• Strong customer service skills with the ability to consult, advise, and build rapport.

• Experience with suggestive selling and upselling techniques within a retail environment.

• Basic inventory management and stock control understanding.

• Knowledge of safety procedures for tool operation and material handling. Preferred Skills:

• Experience with different types of framing materials (wood, metal) and their specific handling requirements.

• Familiarity with specialized cutting equipment (e.g., oval/vertical mat cutters).

• Ability to advise on aesthetic choices, such as color schemes and textures, for framing.

• Experience working within a retail chain or large organization.

• Basic understanding of visual merchandising principles related to displayed framed items.

📝 Enhancement Note: The specialized experience requirement is critical, indicating a need for candidates who can immediately contribute to the custom framing process without extensive on-the-job training for core framing tasks. The blend of technical framing skills and customer-facing retail experience is paramount.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Documentation of at least 3-5 diverse custom framing projects, showcasing a range of materials (wood, metal), complexities (matting, shadow boxes), and item types (artwork, photos, memorabilia).

• For each project, include high-quality visual examples of the finished product, clearly demonstrating craftsmanship, attention to detail, and adherence to customer specifications.

• Evidence of customer consultation process, illustrating how needs were identified and how recommendations were made and incorporated.

• Examples of problem-solving within framing projects (e.g., handling unusual shapes, unique artwork requirements).

• If available, documentation of any process improvements or efficiency gains implemented in previous framing roles. Process Documentation:

• Ability to articulate the step-by-step process of a custom framing order, from initial customer interaction to final product delivery.

• Understanding of workflow management for multiple custom orders, including prioritization and time estimation.

• Knowledge of quality control checks performed at various stages of the framing process to ensure accuracy and customer satisfaction.

📝 Enhancement Note: While a formal "portfolio" might not be explicitly required in the application system, candidates should be prepared to discuss their framing experience and demonstrate their capabilities through examples of past work, either verbally or through visual aids during an interview. The emphasis is on practical execution and customer-centric design.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on industry standards for a part-time Custom Framer with 2-5 years of specialized experience in a major metropolitan area like Norfolk, Virginia, a competitive hourly wage would likely range from $15.00 to $20.00 per hour. This estimate accounts for the specialized skills required, customer interaction, and the retail environment.

Benefits:

• Health & Wellness: Access to healthcare benefits (medical, dental, vision) may be available, consistent with part-time employment policies of large organizations.

• Retirement Savings: Potential eligibility for a 401(k) retirement savings plan with company matching contributions.

• Paid Time Off: Accrual of paid time off (vacation, sick leave) based on hours worked and length of service.

• Employee Discount: Significant discounts on NEXCOM merchandise and services, which could extend to framing services.

• Training & Development: Opportunities for skill enhancement in framing techniques and customer service.

• Work-Life Balance: Predictable part-time schedule offering flexibility.

Working Hours: Part-time, typically between 20 to 34.5 hours per week. Specific daily schedules will vary based on store hours, customer demand, and operational needs, likely including some weekend shifts.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary is estimated based on typical retail craftsperson roles with specialized skills in the US mid-Atlantic region. NEXCOM, as a large organization, typically offers a benefits package that may be prorated for part-time employees. Specific details would be provided during the offer stage.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: The retail and services sector, specifically serving the U.S. military community and their families through the Navy Exchange (NEXCOM). This industry demands reliability, excellent customer service, and an understanding of the unique needs of its clientele.

Company Size: NEXCOM is a large, global enterprise, employing thousands of individuals across numerous retail stores, services, and distribution centers worldwide. This scale implies structured processes, established career paths, and a robust operational framework.

Founded: NEXCOM was founded in 1946. This long history suggests stability, established operational procedures, and a deep understanding of its market.

Team Structure:

• The Framer will likely report to a Store Manager, Department Manager, or a designated Supervisor within the retail operations framework.

• The immediate team would consist of fellow retail associates, potentially including other sales staff, cashiers, and stock personnel.

• Collaboration is expected with other departments or service providers within the NEXCOM facility as needed. Methodology:

• Customer-Centric Approach: Operations are driven by meeting the needs of the military community, emphasizing service, value, and convenience.

• Process Standardization: While custom work is involved, core operational processes for sales, inventory, and customer interaction are likely standardized across the organization.

• Efficiency & Cost Management: As a large organization, there's a focus on efficient operations and cost-effective service delivery.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Working for NEXCOM means being part of an organization with a mission to support the U.S. military. The culture is likely to be professional, service-oriented, and community-focused. The scale of NEXCOM means established protocols and opportunities for growth within a structured environment.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is an entry-to-mid-level position within the retail operations and specialized crafts sector. It requires a specific technical skill set (custom framing) combined with customer service and sales aptitude.

Reporting Structure: The Framer typically reports to a supervisor or manager responsible for the department or store operations, indicating a clear line of management oversight and support.

Operations Impact: The Framer directly impacts customer satisfaction and revenue generation through high-quality custom framing services and effective suggestive selling. Their work contributes to the overall appeal and value proposition of the retail offerings.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Opportunity to deepen expertise in advanced framing techniques, material knowledge, and design consultation.

• Lead Framer/Supervisor: Potential progression to a lead role, overseeing framing operations, training new staff, and managing inventory for the department.

• Cross-Training: Possibility of cross-training in other retail departments or specialized services offered by NEXCOM, broadening skill set and career options within the organization.

• Management Track: For individuals demonstrating strong leadership and operational acumen, there could be pathways into broader retail management roles within NEXCOM.

📝 Enhancement Note: Growth potential within NEXCOM is often tied to demonstrating proficiency, reliability, and a commitment to service. For a specialized role like Framer, advancing often means becoming a subject matter expert or taking on supervisory responsibilities within the department.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is a retail store environment, specifically within a department that offers custom framing services. It will involve a customer-facing sales area and a dedicated workspace for frame creation and assembly.

Office Location(s): Norfolk, Virginia, at a NEXCOM facility. This location serves the military community, suggesting a professional and potentially busy environment.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The workspace will involve interaction with customers and potentially other team members for support or material assistance.

• Tools & Technology: Access to a range of specialized tools for cutting, assembly, and finishing, as well as basic POS (Point of Sale) systems for sales transactions.

• Customer Interaction: Frequent opportunities to engage with customers, understand their needs, and provide personalized service in a dynamic retail setting.

Work Schedule: Part-time, with hours varying between 20-34.5 per week. Flexibility will be key, as schedules may include weekdays, evenings, and weekends to cover store operating hours and customer demand.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is hands-on and customer-centric. Candidates should be comfortable working in a retail setting, managing both the creative/technical aspects of framing and direct customer engagement.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Application review to assess basic qualifications, experience in framing, and customer service background.

• First Interview: Likely a behavioral and skills-based interview, potentially with a hiring manager or department supervisor. Questions will focus on framing experience, customer interaction scenarios, tool proficiency, and problem-solving.

• Skills Assessment/Demonstration: Candidates may be asked to demonstrate basic framing skills (e.g., measuring, simple cuts, assembly) or present examples of past work. This is a critical stage for a hands-on role.

• Final Interview: May involve a broader discussion about company values, team fit, and career aspirations.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Visual Examples: Prepare clear, high-quality photos of 3-5 of your best custom framing projects.

Ensure they showcase variety in style, materials, and complexity.

• Project Descriptions: For each project, be ready to discuss:

  • The customer's initial request and your recommendations.
  • The materials used and why.
  • The specific techniques employed (e.g., mat cutting, joinery, mounting).
  • Any challenges faced and how you overcame them.
  • The final outcome and customer satisfaction.

• Tool Proficiency: Be prepared to discuss your experience with specific framing tools and machinery, including safety protocols.

• Customer Service Scenarios: Have examples ready of how you've handled difficult customer requests or resolved issues in previous roles.

• Focus on Craftsmanship: Highlight attention to detail, precision, and the aesthetic considerations that go into creating a high-quality frame.

Challenge Preparation:

• Practical Demonstration: If a practical test is given, focus on accuracy, efficiency, and safety. Follow instructions carefully.

• Problem-Solving Scenarios: Think about common framing challenges (e.g., warped frames, delicate artwork, unique object mounting) and how you would approach them.

• Sales Pitch: Be ready to articulate the value of custom framing and how you would upsell services to a customer.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will likely be very practical, assessing both technical framing skills and customer interaction abilities. A well-prepared portfolio or visual examples of work will be crucial for demonstrating competence.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Cutting Tools: Mat cutters (oval, vertical), glass cutters, saws (miter saw, chop saw), framing points drivers, hand saws.

• Assembly Tools: Staplers, glue guns, corner clamps, joiners, hand drills.

• Measuring Instruments: Tape measures, rulers, calipers, framing squares.

• Finishing Tools: Brushes, sanding tools, hardware for hanging.

• Safety Equipment: Safety glasses, gloves, dust masks.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Basic Point of Sale (POS) systems for sales transactions and customer order tracking.

• Potentially inventory management software for stock levels and reordering. CRM & Automation:

• While not a primary focus for this role, familiarity with customer databases or order management systems used by NEXCOM may be beneficial.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is heavily reliant on manual and power tools. Proficiency and safety in using these specific tools are paramount. Familiarity with basic retail technology like POS systems is also expected.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Customer Focus: Prioritizing customer needs and satisfaction through excellent service and quality craftsmanship.

• Integrity & Reliability: Upholding NEXCOM's standards of honesty, accountability, and dependability in all operations and customer interactions.

• Teamwork: Collaborating effectively with colleagues to ensure smooth store operations and a positive work environment.

• Quality & Craftsmanship: Commitment to delivering high-quality custom framing services that meet or exceed customer expectations.

• Safety & Responsibility: Adhering to all safety protocols to ensure a secure workplace for oneself and others.

Collaboration Style:

• Service-Oriented: Working collaboratively to ensure customers receive prompt and helpful service across different touchpoints in the store.

• Supportive: Assisting colleagues with tasks, sharing knowledge, and contributing to a positive team dynamic.

• Process-Driven: Following established procedures for sales, framing, and inventory management to ensure consistency and efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: NEXCOM's culture is likely to reflect its mission to serve the military community, emphasizing professionalism, respect, and a service-oriented mindset. Teamwork and adherence to established procedures are key.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Diverse Customer Needs: Handling a wide range of customer expectations, artistic preferences, and budget constraints for custom framing.

• Balancing Speed and Quality: Efficiently completing custom orders within customer timelines while maintaining high standards of craftsmanship and precision.

• Tool Maintenance & Safety: Ensuring all tools are in good working order and consistently adhering to safety protocols in a workshop environment.

• Inventory Management: Accurately tracking a variety of framing materials and supplies to avoid stockouts or overstocking.

• Suggestive Selling: Effectively recommending additional services without being overly pushy, ensuring it adds value for the customer.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Framing Techniques: Training in specialized mat cutting, framing complex objects, or working with unique materials.

• Customer Consultation Skills: Developing expertise in guiding customers through design choices and understanding aesthetic principles.

• Product Knowledge: Expanding knowledge of different frame moldings, glass types, mat boards, and preservation techniques.

• Retail Operations: Gaining broader experience in retail sales, inventory control, and customer service management within a large organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents opportunities to hone specialized craft skills while also developing customer service and sales acumen in a structured retail setting. Overcoming challenges will involve a combination of technical skill, problem-solving, and interpersonal effectiveness.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your experience with custom framing. What types of items have you framed, and what materials have you worked with?" (Focus on depth and variety of your experience.)

• "How do you approach a customer who is unsure about their framing choices? What questions do you ask to guide them?" (Highlight your consultative and customer-service skills.)

• "Walk me through the process of creating a custom frame, from initial consultation to final product." (Demonstrate your understanding of the end-to-end workflow and quality checks.)

• "Describe a time you had to use power or manual tools for cutting or assembly. What safety precautions did you take?" (Emphasize your technical proficiency and commitment to safety.)

• "How would you handle a situation where a customer is unhappy with the finished frame?" (Showcase your problem-solving and conflict-resolution abilities.)

• "What is your experience with suggestive selling? Can you provide an example of how you've successfully upsold a product or service?" (Focus on adding value for the customer through recommendations.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about NEXCOM and its mission?" (Research NEXCOM's role in supporting the military community.)

• "Why are you interested in working for NEXCOM specifically, rather than another retail establishment?" (Align your values with NEXCOM's mission.)

• "How do you handle working as part of a team in a retail environment?" (Discuss your collaborative approach and willingness to support colleagues.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Visual Storytelling: Use your prepared photos to tell the story of each project. Explain the customer's vision, your design process, and the final result.

• Highlight Key Skills: Explicitly point out examples of your precise measuring, intricate mat cutting, or secure assembly techniques.

• Quantify Impact (if possible): If you improved a process or achieved a sales target through suggestive selling, mention it.

• Be Prepared for Practical Tasks: If asked to demonstrate a skill, remain calm, focus on accuracy and safety, and communicate your steps.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interviews will likely be a mix of assessing technical framing skills, customer service aptitude, and cultural fit with NEXCOM's service-oriented mission. Being able to articulate your process and showcase your work visually is key.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the NEXCOM Taleo career portal.

• Portfolio Preparation: Gather high-quality photographs of your best custom framing projects, ready to discuss the details of each piece. Be prepared to describe your process, materials, and customer interactions.

• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly highlights your years of specialized framing experience, proficiency with relevant tools, customer service achievements, and any retail sales experience. Use keywords from the job description.

• Interview Practice: Rehearse answers to common framing, customer service, and problem-solving interview questions. Practice discussing your portfolio items and articulating your skills.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with NEXCOM's mission, values, and its role in supporting military personnel and their families. Understand the importance of customer service within this context.

⚠️ 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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