Part time retail Framer

Michaels Stores
Full-time$13-15/hour (USD)Virginia Beach, United States

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Part-time Retail Framer

Company: Michaels Stores

Location: Virginia Beach, VA (737 First Colonial Rd Ste 107)

Job Type: Part-time

Category: Retail Operations / Custom Framing Specialist

Date Posted: September 15, 2026

Experience Level: Entry-Level to 2 Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

  • This role is pivotal in driving customer engagement and revenue through expert custom framing solutions within a retail environment.

  • Responsibilities encompass not only specialized framing services but also general store operations, including merchandising, inventory management, and customer assistance.

  • A key focus is on building strong customer relationships to foster loyalty and drive repeat business for custom framing services.

  • The position requires adherence to operational standards, safety protocols, and a commitment to providing an exceptional shopping experience.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role, while primarily focused on custom framing, integrates deeply into broader retail operations. The emphasis on "personal designer by using Elevated ABC Deliver" suggests a structured sales and customer interaction methodology that candidates should be prepared to discuss.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

  • Cultivate and maintain strong customer relationships by acting as a dedicated personal designer, offering expert advice and creating memorable custom framing solutions.

  • Drive sales and achieve production targets for custom framing orders through effective consultation and upselling of framing options and services.

  • Execute the complete custom framing order process with a high degree of quality, ensuring timely completion and customer satisfaction.

  • Maintain the visual presentation and stock levels of the ready-made frame department, including SISO (Single Item, Single Order) and Directed Replenishment processes.

  • Deliver friendly and proactive customer service, assisting shoppers in locating products, providing solutions, and ensuring a well-merchandised and in-stock store.

  • Adhere strictly to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and Company programs to ensure compliance with all applicable laws, policies, and operational standards.

  • Actively support company-wide shrink and safety programs, contributing to a secure and loss-preventative retail environment.

  • Interact with colleagues and customers in an accepting and respectful manner, maintaining a positive and constructive attitude, especially during challenging situations.

  • Participate effectively in truck unloading and stocking processes, ensuring adherence to truck standards and completion within designated budgets.

  • Operate the cash register accurately and execute cash handling procedures to company standards, including processing various payment methods.

  • Acknowledge all customers entering the store, assist them in locating merchandise, and offer solutions to meet their needs.

  • Support and execute Omni-channel processes, such as buy online, pick up in-store (BOPIS) and ship-from-store, to enhance customer convenience and sales opportunities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit mention of "Elevated ABC Deliver" as a sales methodology implies a structured approach to customer interaction and sales. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their experience with consultative selling or similar frameworks if they have them.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: High school diploma or equivalent is typically expected for entry-level retail positions. While not explicitly stated, a background in art, design, or a related field could be beneficial for custom framing aspects.

Experience: 0-2 years of experience in a customer-facing role, with a preference for retail environments. Experience in sales or a service-oriented capacity is highly valued.

Required Skills:

  • Basic computer proficiency for POS (Point of Sale) systems and internal communications.

  • Fundamental measuring skills for accurate order placement and production.

  • Ability to safely and effectively operate framing equipment and glass cutters.

  • Strong customer service orientation with a genuine desire to assist customers.

  • Basic understanding of merchandising principles to maintain department appearance.

  • Familiarity with cash handling procedures and POS system operation.

  • Ability to work collaboratively within a team environment. Preferred Skills:

  • Previous retail sales experience, particularly in consultative selling or solution-based sales.

  • Experience selling products and/or services to customers, demonstrating an ability to understand needs and offer solutions.

  • Familiarity with custom framing processes or an aptitude for learning them quickly.

  • Experience with inventory management or stock replenishment tasks.

  • Knowledge of visual merchandising techniques.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "0-2" years of experience suggests that candidates with strong transferable skills from customer service or other retail roles will be considered, provided they can demonstrate the required basic skills and a willingness to learn the specialized framing aspects.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

  • While a formal portfolio is not explicitly required for this entry-level role, candidates are encouraged to highlight any projects or experiences demonstrating their ability to translate customer needs into tangible solutions, particularly in creative or custom work.

  • Examples could include personal art projects, custom creations, or instances where they designed or built something to meet specific requirements.

  • Showcase instances of successful customer interaction leading to a sale or positive outcome, demonstrating consultative selling skills.

  • Evidence of accuracy and attention to detail in previous work, especially if related to measurements or precise execution. Process Documentation:

  • Candidates should be prepared to discuss their understanding of following Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and how they ensure consistency and quality in their work.

  • Ability to articulate how they would approach learning and executing the custom framing process, from initial customer consultation to final product delivery.

  • Demonstrate an understanding of how to maintain a clean, organized, and safe workspace, crucial for framing operations.

  • Discuss how they would track orders and manage production timelines to ensure on-time delivery.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an entry-level retail role focused on custom framing, the "portfolio" is less about formal design work and more about demonstrating foundational skills, customer interaction capabilities, and a commitment to process. Highlighting examples of problem-solving, attention to detail, and successful customer engagements will be key.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $13.00 - $15.30 per hour.

This range reflects the entry-level to intermediate nature of the role and is aligned with retail associate compensation in the Virginia Beach area.

Benefits:

  • 401(k) with employer match: Provides retirement savings support with company contributions.

  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Offers confidential support for personal and work-related challenges.

  • Medical, Dental, and Vision Coverage: Comprehensive health insurance options for eligible team members.

  • Telemedicine Services: Convenient access to healthcare professionals remotely.

  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs): Allows pre-tax contributions for healthcare or dependent care expenses.

  • Commuter Benefits: Assistance with costs associated with commuting to work.

  • Tuition Assistance: Support for continuing education and skill development.

  • Adoption Assistance: Financial support for team members building their families through adoption.

  • Employee Discounts: Significant discounts on Michaels products and services, a major perk for creative individuals.

  • Overtime Compensation: Eligibility for overtime pay in accordance with state and local laws, applicable to hourly associates.

Working Hours: This is a part-time position. While the specific number of hours is not defined, typical part-time retail roles involve a flexible schedule, often including evenings, weekends, and early mornings, as stated in the work environment section. The provided "Working Hours: 40" in the input data likely refers to a full-time equivalent or maximum potential hours in a week if the role were to expand, but for a part-time role, expect fewer hours.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is explicitly provided. The benefits listed are standard for Michaels and are quite comprehensive for a part-time retail role, indicating a strong employee value proposition. The "40" working hours likely refers to the standard full-time work week, and for a part-time role, this would be significantly less.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Arts and Crafts Retail. Michaels is the leading destination for creating and celebrating in North America, operating over 1,300 stores.

Company Size: Large (over 1,300 stores across North America). This indicates a structured corporate environment with established processes and career pathways.

Founded: 1973. With decades of history, Michaels has a strong brand presence and a deep understanding of the creative consumer market.

Team Structure:

  • The retail store team typically includes a Store Manager, Assistant Store Managers, Team Leads (potentially including a Framing Lead or Senior Framer), and various associates like Framers, Cashiers, and Stock Associates.

  • The Framer likely reports to a Framing Lead or Assistant Store Manager, with oversight from the Store Manager.

  • Cross-functional collaboration is essential, with Framers interacting with sales associates for customer handoffs, stock associates for replenishment, and management for operational guidance. Methodology:

  • Data-Driven Customer Engagement: The "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodology implies a structured approach to understanding customer needs, presenting solutions, and closing sales, likely supported by CRM data and sales analytics.

  • Process Optimization: Adherence to SOPs ensures consistency and efficiency in framing production, merchandising, and store operations. Continuous improvement is implied through the focus on quality and timely order completion.

  • Automation & Efficiency: While not a tech-heavy role, the use of POS systems, potential inventory management software, and specialized framing equipment points to an environment that leverages technology to streamline operations and enhance productivity.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's scale and longevity suggest a well-defined operational framework. The emphasis on "fueling the joy of creativity" points to a culture that values passion, personal expression, and community engagement within the arts and crafts space.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is an entry-level to early-career position within the retail operations and specialized services (custom framing) domain. It serves as a foundational role for individuals looking to develop customer service, sales, and technical skills in a hands-on environment.

Reporting Structure: The Part-time Retail Framer typically reports to a Framing Lead, Department Specialist, or Assistant Store Manager, who in turn report to the Store Manager. This structure allows for direct supervision and guidance on daily tasks and performance.

Operations Impact: The Framer directly impacts store revenue through custom framing sales and indirectly through excellent customer service that drives overall store traffic and loyalty. Their ability to create high-quality custom framing solutions contributes to customer satisfaction and repeat business, reinforcing Michaels' brand as a premier destination for creative projects.

Growth Opportunities:

  • Specialization: Opportunity to become a Senior Framer or Framing Specialist, taking on more complex projects and potentially training new team members.

  • Retail Management: Progression into Team Lead, Department Specialist, Assistant Store Manager, and eventually Store Manager roles, requiring broader operational and leadership skills.

  • Cross-Functional Development: Exposure to various aspects of retail operations, including merchandising, inventory, customer service, and sales, providing a well-rounded retail skill set.

  • Continuous Learning: Access to company training programs for sales techniques, product knowledge, and operational procedures, fostering ongoing professional development.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth path from a Part-time Retail Framer at Michaels is well-defined within the retail sector, offering clear progression from individual contributor to leadership roles. The company's emphasis on a "joy of creativity" culture also suggests opportunities for personal and professional expression within the role.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Public retail store setting. The work environment is dynamic, customer-facing, and involves interaction with a diverse clientele.

Office Location(s): Virginia Beach, VA (737 First Colonial Rd Ste 107). This specific location is a physical retail store.

Workspace Context:

  • Customer Interaction: A significant portion of the role involves direct interaction with customers in the main retail area and the dedicated framing department.

  • Framing Shop: The framing area is equipped with specialized tools and machinery, including a glass cutter and heat press, requiring careful operation and adherence to safety protocols.

  • Stock Areas: May involve working in stock rooms, some of which may not be climate-controlled, for receiving and stocking merchandise.

  • Team Collaboration: Opportunities to collaborate with other store associates for customer assistance, task completion, and operational support.

Work Schedule: Work hours include nights, weekends, and early mornings, typical for a retail environment. As a part-time role, hours will vary but will likely include peak shopping times. The environment is climate-controlled in public areas, with potential variations in stock rooms.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is hands-on and fast-paced. The specific mention of a "glass cutter and heat press" in the frame shop highlights the specialized tools and the need for careful, safety-conscious operation.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

  • Initial Application Review: Screening of resumes and applications based on stated requirements (basic computer/measuring skills, ability to operate equipment, retail/sales experience).

  • Phone/Video Screen: A brief conversation to assess basic qualifications, availability, and interest in the role, potentially with an HR representative or hiring manager.

  • In-Person Interview: This will likely involve meeting with the Store Manager or Assistant Store Manager. Expect questions about:

    • Customer service philosophy and experience.
    • Sales approach and ability to build relationships ("Elevated ABC Deliver").
    • Problem-solving skills related to customer issues or operational challenges.
    • Understanding of safety protocols and attention to detail.
    • Availability and commitment to part-time hours, including nights/weekends.
    • Basic technical aptitude for operating framing equipment.
  • Skills Assessment (Potential): A practical demonstration or discussion regarding basic measuring skills, or how they would approach a framing consultation.

  • Final Offer: Based on interview performance and assessment of fit.

Portfolio Review Tips:

  • For this role, a formal portfolio is less critical than demonstrating transferable skills.

  • Prepare to discuss specific examples of successful customer interactions where you identified needs and provided solutions.

  • If you have any personal projects involving custom creation, design, or precise execution (e.g., crafting, DIY projects, custom builds), be ready to describe them and the process you followed.

  • Highlight instances where you had to learn a new skill or operate new equipment and how you approached it.

  • Be ready to articulate your understanding of quality and attention to detail in your work. Challenge Preparation:

  • Be ready to answer situational questions like: "How would you handle a customer who is unhappy with their custom framing order?" or "How would you approach a customer who seems unsure about what framing they need?"

  • Prepare to discuss how you would ensure accuracy when taking measurements for a custom frame.

  • Think about how you would balance customer service, sales, and production tasks simultaneously in a busy retail environment.

  • Understand the company's mission to "fuel the joy of creativity" and how your role contributes to that.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for this role will likely focus on assessing practical skills, customer service aptitude, and a willingness to learn specialized framing techniques, rather than extensive prior experience in custom framing itself.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

  • Custom Framing Equipment:

    • Framing Saw: For precise cutting of frames.
    • Mat Cutters: Specialized tools for cutting mats to size and shape.
    • Glass Cutter: For custom-fitting glass or acrylic to frame dimensions.
    • Heat Press: Used in some framing processes, likely for specific mounting or finishing techniques.
    • Measuring Tools: Tape measures, rulers, calipers for precise measurements.
  • Point of Sale (POS) System: For processing transactions, managing sales, and potentially customer order tracking.

  • Basic Computer Skills: For internal communications, accessing training materials, and potentially basic order entry or lookup.

Analytics & Reporting:

  • Sales Data: Performance metrics related to custom framing sales, potentially tracked through the POS system or specialized retail software.

  • Inventory Management Tools: Systems for tracking stock levels of ready-made frames, mats, and framing supplies.

CRM & Automation:

  • Customer Relationship Management (CRM) System: Michaels likely uses a CRM to track customer preferences, past orders, and engagement, especially for custom framing clients, to support the "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodology.

  • Omni-channel Support Tools: Systems that facilitate Buy Online, Pick Up In-Store (BOPIS) and Ship-From-Store processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency with specialized framing equipment is a core requirement. While advanced technical skills aren't expected, basic computer literacy and familiarity with POS systems are essential. The mention of "Elevated ABC Deliver" hints at a CRM or sales tracking system being used.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

  • Creativity & Joy: A core value is to "fuel the joy of creativity." This translates to an environment that encourages artistic expression, problem-solving, and a positive customer experience related to creative projects.

  • Customer Focus: Building relationships and providing memorable solutions are paramount, as highlighted by the "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodology.

  • Quality & Precision: In custom framing, accuracy and attention to detail are critical for customer satisfaction and product integrity.

  • Teamwork & Respect: The company emphasizes interacting with others in an accepting and respectful manner, fostering a collaborative and supportive work environment.

  • Efficiency & Compliance: Adherence to SOPs, safety programs, and operational standards ensures smooth store functioning and legal compliance.

Collaboration Style:

  • Cross-Functional Integration: Framers work closely with sales associates to engage customers, with stock teams for merchandise availability, and with management for operational oversight and problem resolution.

  • Process-Oriented Feedback: A culture that values adherence to established processes (SOPs) while also being open to feedback for continuous improvement in framing quality or customer service.

  • Knowledge Sharing: Team members are expected to share best practices, assist colleagues, and contribute to a learning environment, especially concerning new products or framing techniques.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture is deeply rooted in creativity and customer satisfaction. For a Framer, this means not only mastering technical skills but also embodying a passion for art and helping customers bring their creative visions to life.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

  • Balancing Multiple Demands: Juggling custom framing consultations, production, general store duties, and customer service simultaneously in a fast-paced retail setting.

  • Technical Skill Acquisition: Quickly learning and mastering the operation of specialized framing equipment and techniques to produce high-quality results.

  • Customer Expectations Management: Meeting diverse customer needs and aesthetic preferences for custom framing, sometimes with tight deadlines or budget constraints.

  • Physical Demands: The role requires standing for long periods, lifting, carrying, and using tools, which can be physically demanding.

  • Shrink & Safety: Proactively contributing to loss prevention and maintaining a safe working environment, especially with sharp tools and machinery.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

  • Framing Expertise: Deepening knowledge of framing materials, techniques, design principles, and conservation methods.

  • Sales & Customer Engagement: Enhancing consultative selling skills through company training and on-the-job experience with the "Elevated ABC Deliver" approach.

  • Retail Operations: Gaining a comprehensive understanding of store management, inventory control, visual merchandising, and Omni-channel fulfillment.

  • Leadership Development: Opportunities to move into supervisory or management roles through structured career progression paths within Michaels.

  • Industry Trends: Staying updated on new framing products, materials, and design trends in the art and home decor markets.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are typical of a hands-on retail role with a specialized component. The growth opportunities highlight a clear career trajectory within Michaels, emphasizing both specialized skill development and broader retail management capabilities.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

  • Operations Strategy: "How would you ensure that custom framing orders are completed on time while also managing other store responsibilities?" or "Describe your approach to learning and mastering new technical skills, such as operating framing equipment."

  • Collaboration & Stakeholder Management: "How would you collaborate with a sales associate to ensure a smooth handoff for a custom framing consultation?" or "How would you handle a situation where a customer is demanding a framing solution that is not feasible or safe?"

  • Problem-Solving: "A customer is unhappy with the matting color for their custom frame. How would you address this situation?" or "You notice a piece of framing equipment isn't functioning correctly. What steps would you take?"

Company & Culture Questions:

  • "What does 'fueling the joy of creativity' mean to you, and how does this role contribute to that mission?"

  • "How do you approach building rapport and trust with customers, especially when they are seeking personalized solutions?"

  • "Describe a time you had to work effectively as part of a team to achieve a common goal." Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

  • Focus on storytelling: Instead of just listing skills, describe specific situations where you applied them.

  • Quantify achievements where possible: "I increased custom framing sales by X% by recommending complementary services" (if applicable).

  • Highlight transferable skills: Emphasize customer service, problem-solving, attention to detail, and ability to learn quickly.

  • For custom framing, talk about your understanding of aesthetics, materials, and how you'd guide a customer through design choices.

  • Be ready to discuss your understanding of Michaels' "Elevated ABC Deliver" sales process.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a blend of customer service skills, a proactive sales attitude, technical aptitude, and an understanding of the company's creative mission.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Part-time Retail Framer position:

  • Submit your application through the provided link on the Michaels careers portal.

  • Prepare your resume: Tailor it to highlight customer service experience, any sales achievements, basic technical aptitudes (measuring, equipment operation), and any creative or hands-on projects. Use keywords like "customer engagement," "sales consultation," "merchandising," and "technical proficiency."

  • Research Michaels: Understand their mission, values, and the "Elevated ABC Deliver" sales methodology if possible. Familiarize yourself with their product offerings, especially custom framing services.

  • Practice interview responses: Prepare answers for common retail and customer service questions, situational questions related to problem-solving and sales, and questions about your availability and interest in part-time work. Be ready to discuss your understanding of quality, precision, and customer satisfaction in a framing context.

  • Prepare to discuss your skills: Be ready to talk about your basic computer skills, measuring abilities, and any experience you have operating tools or equipment. If you have personal projects related to crafting or design, be prepared to briefly describe them to showcase your creative aptitude and attention to detail.

⚠️ 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.


Application Requirements

Candidates must possess basic computer and measuring skills, along with the ability to operate framing equipment and glass cutters. Retail experience and a background in selling products or services are preferred.