Picture Framer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Picture Framer

Company: Michaels Stores

Location: Bloomingdale, Illinois, United States

Job Type: Part time

Category: Retail Operations / Creative Services

Date Posted: 2026-09-16

Experience Level: Entry-Level / 0-2 Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is pivotal in driving customer engagement and sales within the custom framing department, acting as a primary point of contact for customers seeking personalized art solutions.

• The Picture Framer will be responsible for managing the entire custom framing order lifecycle, from initial customer consultation and design to final production and delivery, ensuring a seamless and high-quality customer experience.

• This position requires a blend of artistic aptitude, customer service excellence, and operational efficiency to meet sales targets and maintain departmental standards.

• The role involves active participation in general store operations, including merchandising, inventory management, and point-of-sale transactions, contributing to the overall success of the retail environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Picture Framer," the responsibilities extend beyond just framing to encompass a significant customer-facing sales and general retail operations component. The role requires individuals who can build rapport, understand customer needs, and translate those into tangible, high-quality custom framing solutions, directly impacting store revenue.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Customer Consultation & Sales: Engage customers to understand their framing needs, preferences, and budget, utilizing consultative selling techniques to recommend appropriate framing solutions, materials, and designs.

• Custom Framing Design & Production: Accurately measure artwork and materials, design custom frames using design software or manual methods, and expertly operate framing equipment (e.g., mat cutters, framing tools, glass cutters, heat presses) to produce high-quality finished products.

• Order Management & Fulfillment: Manage the entire framing order process from order entry and production scheduling to timely completion and customer notification, ensuring adherence to quality standards and delivery timelines.

• Department Merchandising & Maintenance: Maintain the visual appeal and stock levels of the ready-made frame department and other assigned areas, ensuring products are displayed attractively, properly priced, and readily available for customers.

• Store Operations Support: Assist with general store duties, including truck unloading, stocking merchandise, maintaining store cleanliness and organization, and supporting omni-channel processes (e.g., buy online, pick up in-store).

• Point of Sale (POS) Operations: Accurately operate the cash register, handle cash and credit transactions, and adhere to all cash handling and security procedures.

• Relationship Building: Foster strong customer relationships through friendly, respectful interactions, aiming to create memorable experiences that encourage repeat business and positive word-of-mouth referrals.

• Adherence to Standards: Comply with all Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), company policies, safety guidelines, and shrink prevention programs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a dual focus: specialized custom framing expertise and broader retail operational duties. The emphasis on "Elevated ABC Deliver" and "personal designer" suggests a structured sales approach focused on building customer rapport and driving sales through personalized recommendations.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: High school diploma or equivalent required. Post-secondary education in art, design, or a related field is a plus but not mandatory.

Experience:

• 0-2 years of experience in a customer-facing role, with a focus on sales or service.

• Experience in a retail environment is preferred.

• Previous experience in custom framing, art, or design is a significant advantage. Required Skills:

• Customer Service Excellence: Ability to engage customers, understand their needs, and provide solutions in a friendly and professional manner.

• Basic Measuring Skills: Proficiency in taking accurate measurements for framing projects.

• Basic Computer Skills: Familiarity with computer systems for order entry, POS transactions, and potentially design software.

• Framing Equipment Operation: Ability to safely and effectively operate framing equipment, including glass cutters and mat cutters.

• Sales Acumen: Aptitude for identifying sales opportunities and recommending products or services to meet customer needs.

• Attention to Detail: Meticulousness in design, production, and order fulfillment to ensure high-quality outcomes.

• Teamwork & Collaboration: Ability to work effectively with colleagues and contribute to a positive store environment.

Preferred Skills:

• Retail Sales Experience: Proven track record in retail sales, particularly in a commission or performance-driven environment.

• Custom Framing Experience: Hands-on experience with various framing techniques, materials, and design principles.

• Art/Design Knowledge: Understanding of art, design principles, color theory, and different types of media.

• POS System Proficiency: Experience with modern point-of-sale systems and cash handling procedures.

• Inventory Management: Familiarity with stock replenishment, merchandising, and inventory control.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "0-2" years of experience level suggests this role is suitable for individuals early in their careers, potentially including recent high school graduates or those with some general retail experience looking to specialize. The emphasis on "basic" skills implies a willingness to train and develop candidates in specific framing techniques.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Visual Portfolio (Optional but Recommended): Candidates with prior framing experience are encouraged to bring a portfolio showcasing examples of their custom framing work, demonstrating design aesthetic, material choices, and quality of craftsmanship.

• Sales Achievement Examples: Be prepared to discuss instances where you successfully met or exceeded sales targets, built strong customer relationships, or resolved complex customer issues.

• Process Documentation (Conceptual): While formal documentation isn't required, be ready to articulate your understanding of a structured process for customer consultation, design, production, and quality control in a framing context.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design: Ability to follow and understand established Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for customer interactions, order processing, and production.

• Implementation & Automation: Familiarity with using POS systems and potentially design software for order entry and management. The role emphasizes hands-on execution of framing processes rather than system automation development.

• Measurement & Analysis: Understanding of how to track personal sales performance and contribute to departmental goals.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a role at this level, a formal portfolio might not be strictly required, but demonstrating practical skills and sales aptitude through examples or a visual showcase would be highly advantageous. The focus is on following established processes rather than creating new ones.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $15.25 - $17.90 per hour. This range reflects the part-time nature of the role and the entry-level to intermediate experience expected for a Picture Framer.

Benefits:

• 401(k) with Employer Match: Financial planning support for retirement.

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Confidential counseling and support services for personal and professional challenges.

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Coverage: Comprehensive health insurance options.

• Telemedicine Services: Convenient access to healthcare professionals remotely.

• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs): Pre-tax savings for healthcare and dependent care expenses.

• Commuter Benefits: Support for work-related transportation costs.

• Tuition Assistance: Financial aid for continuing education and skill development.

• Adoption Assistance: Support for employees building their families through adoption.

• Voluntary Insurance Options: Additional insurance coverage for life, disability, etc.

• Employee Discounts: Significant discounts on Michaels products and services, a key perk for this role.

• Potential for Overtime: Eligibility for overtime compensation in accordance with state and local laws.

Working Hours: This is a part-time position. While the exact hours will vary based on store needs and scheduling, typical full-time retail roles operate around 40 hours per week. Part-time roles will likely be less, with flexibility for nights, weekends, and early mornings as indicated in the work environment section.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is competitive for entry-level retail positions in the Bloomingdale, IL area, considering the specialized skill set of picture framing. The comprehensive benefits package, especially the employee discount, is a significant draw for individuals interested in creative retail environments.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Arts and Crafts Retail. Michaels is the leading specialty retailer of arts and crafts in North America, serving a broad customer base from hobbyists to professional artists.

Company Size: Over 1,300 stores across North America, indicating a large, established retail organization with significant operational infrastructure.

Founded: 1973. With decades of experience, Michaels has a well-established brand identity and operational framework.

Headquarters: Irving, Texas.

Team Structure:

• Store Level: The Picture Framer will be part of a store team led by a Store Manager, Assistant Store Manager, and potentially department specialists.

• Departmental Focus: The framing department operates with a degree of specialization, requiring close collaboration with other sales associates.

• Cross-functional Collaboration: While primarily focused on the framing department, the role requires interaction with all store staff for general operations, customer assistance, and task sharing.

Methodology:

• Customer-Centric Approach: Emphasis on building relationships and providing personalized solutions (e.g., "Elevated ABC Deliver").

• Process Adherence: Strong reliance on Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for consistent execution of tasks and compliance.

• Sales & Performance Driven: Focus on achieving sales targets and contributing to store profitability.

• Safety & Compliance: Commitment to maintaining a safe work environment and adhering to all regulations.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Michaels fosters a culture that values creativity, customer engagement, and operational efficiency. For a Picture Framer, this means balancing artistic expression with the demands of a retail sales environment, all while adhering to established company processes.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is an entry-level position within the retail operations and creative services domain. It serves as a foundational role for individuals interested in specialized retail functions and customer-facing sales.

Reporting Structure: The Picture Framer typically reports to the Store Manager or an Assistant Store Manager, who oversees daily store operations and departmental performance.

Operations Impact: The Picture Framer directly impacts store revenue through custom framing sales and contributes to overall store profitability by supporting general sales and operational efficiency. Their ability to create customer loyalty through excellent service and product quality is a key driver of repeat business.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Advance within the framing department, potentially becoming a lead framer or design specialist.

• Sales Leadership: Transition into roles with greater sales responsibility, such as a Sales Lead or Key Holder, focusing on driving store performance.

• Store Management Track: Progress into Assistant Store Manager or Store Manager roles, requiring broader operational and leadership skills.

• Cross-Departmental Experience: Gain experience in other store departments, broadening retail operational knowledge.

• Corporate Opportunities: Potential for advancement into corporate roles related to merchandising, visual arts, or operations management within Michaels or its parent company.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a clear path for growth within a large retail organization. For individuals who excel in customer service, sales, and creative tasks, Michaels provides opportunities to develop a long-term career in retail operations and management.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Public retail store setting. This involves working in a customer-facing environment that is largely climate-controlled, with potential for less controlled environments in stock rooms or during truck unloads.

Office Location(s): The specific store is located at 402 W Army Trail Dr, Bloomingdale, IL. The company operates over 1,300 stores across North America.

Workspace Context:

• Customer Interaction: The primary workspace is the sales floor and the framing department, requiring constant interaction with customers.

• Tools & Technology: Access to framing equipment, glass cutters, heat presses, a cash register, and basic computer systems.

• Team Interaction: Opportunities for collaboration with fellow store associates, department leads, and management to ensure smooth store operations and a positive customer experience.

• Physical Demands: The role involves standing for extended periods, bending, lifting (potentially heavy boxes and frames), reaching, and stretching.

Work Schedule: This is a part-time position. Work hours include nights, weekends, and early mornings, reflecting the typical demands of retail operations. Flexibility in scheduling is important.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is dynamic and fast-paced, typical of a large retail chain. The framing area itself involves specialized tools and materials, requiring a focus on safety and precision.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Application review to assess basic qualifications, experience, and alignment with role requirements.

• In-Person Interview: Typically involves a conversation with the Store Manager or Assistant Store Manager to discuss experience, skills, customer service philosophy, and fit with the company culture. This may include behavioral questions.

• Skills Assessment/Demonstration: For a Picture Framer role, there might be a practical component where candidates demonstrate basic measuring skills or discuss their approach to framing a specific item.

• Final Interview/Onboarding: If successful, an offer will be extended, followed by onboarding and training.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Showcase Versatility: If you have a portfolio, include a range of framing projects demonstrating different styles, materials, and complexities.

• Highlight Problem-Solving: Explain the challenges encountered in specific projects and how you overcame them to deliver a successful outcome for the customer.

• Quantify Achievements: For sales-related experience, be ready to discuss sales figures, customer satisfaction scores, or instances where you exceeded targets.

• Tailor to Michaels: If discussing past framing work, relate it to the types of projects Michaels typically handles and the customer needs they aim to fulfill.

Challenge Preparation:

• Customer Service Scenarios: Be prepared to discuss how you would handle common customer service situations, such as an unhappy customer, a complex framing request, or assisting multiple customers simultaneously.

• Sales Approach: Articulate your strategy for approaching customers, identifying their needs, and making recommendations.

• Operational Questions: Be ready to discuss your understanding of retail operations, including stocking, merchandising, and cash handling.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is likely to be multi-stage, focusing on both practical skills and cultural fit. Candidates should be prepared to demonstrate their enthusiasm for art, creativity, and customer service.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Custom Framing Equipment: Mat cutters, framing saws, underpinnings, staple guns, mounting tools, and potentially specialized framing machinery.

• Glass Cutter: Essential for precision cutting of glass or acrylic for frames.

• Heat Press: May be used for specific mounting or finishing techniques.

• Measuring Tools: Tape measures, rulers, and calipers for accurate project dimensions.

Analytics & Reporting:

• POS System: For processing sales transactions, managing inventory, and tracking sales data.

• Basic Computer Systems: For order entry, communication, and potentially accessing design templates or product information.

CRM & Automation:

• Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Lite: The "Elevated ABC Deliver" approach suggests a focus on customer relationship building, though likely managed through direct interaction and potentially notes within the POS or order system rather than a formal CRM platform.

• Order Management System: Integrated within the POS or a separate system for tracking custom framing orders from placement to completion.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency with specialized framing tools is critical. While advanced software skills aren't explicitly required, a comfort level with technology for order processing and basic computer tasks is necessary.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Creativity: Encouraging artistic expression and innovative solutions for customers.

• Customer Focus: Prioritizing customer satisfaction through excellent service and personalized recommendations.

• Quality: Commitment to producing high-quality framing solutions that meet customer expectations.

• Teamwork: Fostering a collaborative environment where associates support each other to achieve store goals.

• Integrity: Adhering to ethical business practices, safety standards, and company policies.

• Efficiency: Maintaining productive workflows and timely order fulfillment.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Associates work together across departments to ensure smooth store operations, from stocking to customer service.

• Process Review: Adherence to established SOPs is key, with a culture that values consistency and best practices.

• Knowledge Sharing: Encouraging team members to share tips, techniques, and insights, particularly within specialized areas like custom framing.

📝 Enhancement Note: Michaels emphasizes a culture that balances creative passion with operational discipline. The Picture Framer role embodies this by requiring both artistic skill and a commitment to retail best practices.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Sales and Service: Effectively managing customer consultations and sales targets while ensuring thorough and high-quality framing production.

• Handling Diverse Customer Needs: Catering to a wide range of artistic tastes, budgets, and framing requirements.

• Physical Demands: The physical nature of the job, including standing for long periods and lifting, can be demanding.

• Time Management: Juggling multiple framing orders, customer interactions, and general store duties within set timeframes.

• Keeping Up with Trends: Staying informed about current framing trends, materials, and design styles.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Framing Techniques & Skills: Extensive training on custom framing techniques, material selection, and equipment operation.

• Sales & Customer Service Training: Development in consultative selling, relationship building, and handling customer inquiries.

• Product Knowledge: Deepening understanding of art supplies, framing materials, and their applications.

• Retail Operations: Gaining experience in merchandising, inventory management, and POS operations.

• Career Advancement: Clear pathways for growth into leadership roles within the store or specialized creative positions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role presents opportunities for individuals to develop specialized craft skills and robust customer service and sales experience within a supportive retail environment.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Customer Service Approach: "Describe a time you went above and beyond to help a customer. How did you ensure their needs were met?" (Focus on empathy, problem-solving, and customer satisfaction.)

• Sales Tactics: "How would you approach a customer who seems unsure about their framing choice? What questions would you ask to guide them?" (Demonstrate consultative selling and product knowledge.)

• Handling Difficult Situations: "Imagine a customer is unhappy with their finished frame. How would you handle this situation?" (Showcase conflict resolution, active listening, and commitment to quality.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "Why are you interested in working for Michaels, and specifically in a custom framing role?" (Align your passion for art/creativity with the company's mission.)

• "How do you stay organized and manage multiple tasks simultaneously in a busy environment?" (Highlight time management and prioritization skills.)

• "What does 'customer experience' mean to you in a retail setting?" (Emphasize creating positive, memorable interactions.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Showcase Your Best Work: If presenting a portfolio, select a few key projects that highlight your skills in design, material selection, and craftsmanship.

• Tell the Story: For each project, explain the customer's initial request, the design choices you made, the challenges you faced, and the successful outcome.

• Quantify Impact (if applicable): If you have sales experience, be ready to share metrics on sales performance or customer satisfaction.

• Demonstrate Process: Be prepared to walk through your typical process for a framing job, from consultation to completion.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should prepare to discuss their artistic sensibilities, their ability to connect with customers, and their understanding of retail operations. Demonstrating enthusiasm for art and creativity will be key.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

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

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight relevant customer service, sales, and any art/craft or framing experience. Use keywords from the job description such as "customer service," "sales," "merchandising," and "framing."

• Portfolio Preparation (Optional but Recommended): If you have prior framing work, gather examples (photos or physical pieces if feasible) to showcase your skills. Be ready to discuss your process and design choices.

• Interview Practice: Prepare answers to common retail interview questions, focusing on customer service scenarios, sales approaches, and your understanding of the Picture Framer role.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Michaels' mission, values, and product offerings, particularly their custom framing services. Understand their commitment to creativity and customer experience.

⚠️ 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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