PT Framer
π Job Overview
Job Title: PT Framer
Company: Michaels Stores
Location: Chula Vista, California, United States
Job Type: PART_TIME
Category: Retail Operations / Sales & Service
Date Posted: May 23, 2026
Experience Level: Entry Level (0-2 years)
Remote Status: On-site
π Role Summary
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This role is centered on providing exceptional customer service within a retail environment, specifically focusing on the custom framing department.
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Key responsibilities include building customer relationships, understanding their needs, and designing tailored framing solutions that align with Michaels' sales and production standards.
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The position requires proficiency in basic computer skills, measuring, and operating specialized framing equipment, emphasizing quality and timely order completion.
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Candidates will also contribute to overall store operations, including merchandising, inventory management, and cash handling, ensuring a positive and efficient shopping experience for all customers.
π Enhancement Note: While the title is "PT Framer," the description indicates a broader retail operations scope that includes customer engagement, sales, and operational tasks beyond just framing. This role is entry-level, focusing on developing customer service and technical framing skills within a structured retail framework.
π Primary Responsibilities
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Develop and nurture customer relationships by actively engaging them, understanding their framing needs, and utilizing Elevated ABC Deliver strategies to propose and finalize custom framing solutions.
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Execute framing orders with a high standard of quality and ensure timely delivery, adhering to all Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and production timelines.
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Maintain the visual presentation and stock levels of the ready-made frame department, as well as supporting in-store sales and direct replenishment processes for other areas.
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Deliver friendly and proactive customer service, assisting customers with product location, offering solutions, and ensuring a well-merchandised and fully stocked store environment.
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Operate the cash register, handle financial transactions accurately, and execute cash handling procedures to company standards, while also supporting omni-channel fulfillment processes.
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Participate actively in truck un-loading and stocking activities, ensuring adherence to truck standards and efficient inventory management.
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Uphold company policies, safety programs, and shrink reduction initiatives, acting as a positive role model and maintaining a respectful and productive work environment.
π Enhancement Note: The primary responsibilities highlight a blend of specialized framing duties and general retail operations. The emphasis on "Elevated ABC Deliver" suggests a structured approach to sales and customer engagement, requiring candidates to be proactive in building relationships and driving sales within the framing department.
π Skills & Qualifications
Education: High school diploma or equivalent is typically expected for entry-level retail positions, though not explicitly stated, it is implied for basic computer and measuring skills.
Experience:
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Entry-level candidates with basic computer and measuring skills are encouraged to apply.
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Previous retail experience, especially in sales or customer-facing roles, is preferred.
Required Skills:
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Basic computer proficiency for point-of-sale systems and potentially order management.
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Accurate basic measuring skills for custom framing projects.
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Ability to safely and effectively operate framing equipment and a glass cutter.
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Strong customer service orientation with excellent interpersonal communication skills.
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Ability to handle cash transactions accurately and efficiently.
Preferred Skills:
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Previous retail sales experience, particularly in a consultative or design-oriented environment.
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Familiarity with merchandising principles and maintaining visual standards.
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Experience with inventory management or stocking processes.
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Proficiency with point-of-sale (POS) systems beyond basic cash handling.
π Enhancement Note: The requirements emphasize foundational skills necessary for a retail environment and specific technical skills for framing. The preference for sales experience suggests that this role is not purely transactional but involves a consultative selling component where candidates can guide customers towards valuable framing solutions.
π Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements
Portfolio Essentials:
- While a formal portfolio isn't explicitly required for this entry-level role, candidates are encouraged to highlight any experience demonstrating:
- Successful customer engagement leading to a sale or problem resolution.
- Examples of attention to detail and quality in work, especially if related to crafts or measurements.
- Familiarity with any process or system implementation, even in a basic capacity.
Process Documentation:
- Candidates should be prepared to discuss their understanding of following established processes and procedures, such as:
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Workflow design and optimization (e.g., how they would approach a framing order from initial consultation to completion).
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Implementation and adherence to company policies and safety protocols.
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Measurement and analysis of personal performance against sales and production goals.
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π Enhancement Note: For an entry-level PT Framer role, a formal portfolio is unlikely. However, candidates should be ready to discuss their experience in a way that demonstrates their understanding of processes, problem-solving abilities, and customer-centric approaches, which are crucial for success in this role.
π΅ Compensation & Benefits
Salary Range: $17.00 - $20.00 per hour
Benefits:
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Health Insurance: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage.
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Paid Time Off (PTO): Accrued time off for personal use.
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Tuition Assistance: Support for continuing education.
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Employee Discounts: Generous discounts on Michaels products.
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Other Benefits: Additional benefits are available, as per the company's commitment to team member well-being.
Working Hours: This is a part-time position. While the specific number of hours per week is not defined, it is typical for part-time retail roles to range from 15-30 hours, often including nights, weekends, and early mornings as mentioned in the work environment section.
π Enhancement Note: The provided salary range ($17.00 - $20.00/hour) is competitive for part-time retail roles in California, especially for positions requiring specialized skills like custom framing. The benefits package is robust for a part-time role, indicating Michaels' commitment to its employees' well-being.
π― Team & Company Context
π’ Company Culture
Industry: Retail (Arts and Crafts, Home Decor, Custom Framing)
Company Size: Large (Over 1,300 stores in North America)
Founded: 1973, headquartered in Irving, Texas. Michaels is a leading destination for creativity and celebration.
Team Structure:
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The framing team likely operates within a larger store structure, reporting to a Framing Manager or Store Manager.
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Collaboration is expected with other store associates for customer service, inventory, and operational tasks.
Methodology:
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Michaels emphasizes a customer-centric approach, focusing on building relationships and providing solutions ("Elevated ABC Deliver").
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Data-driven insights are likely used for inventory management, sales performance tracking, and operational efficiency.
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Workflow planning and optimization are critical for the framing department to ensure quality and timely order fulfillment.
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There's an emphasis on adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company programs for consistency and compliance.
Company Website: www.michaels.com
π Enhancement Note: Michaels positions itself as a supportive and creative environment. The company culture likely values customer engagement, teamwork, and a passion for arts and crafts. The emphasis on SOPs indicates a structured operational approach within a creative retail setting.
π Career & Growth Analysis
Operations Career Level: This role is at the entry-level ("PT Framer") within the retail operations and customer service ladder. It focuses on foundational skills in customer interaction, sales, and technical craft execution.
Reporting Structure: The PT Framer will report to a Store Manager, Assistant Store Manager, or a dedicated Framing Manager, depending on the store's organizational structure.
Operations Impact: While individual impact may seem localized to the framing department, PT Framers contribute significantly to overall store revenue through direct sales and customer satisfaction. Positive customer experiences in framing can lead to repeat business and influence broader store loyalty. Efficient operations in the framing department directly impact profitability and customer perception.
Growth Opportunities:
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Skill Advancement: Opportunity to become a highly skilled custom framer, potentially specializing in complex projects or design.
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Sales Growth: Develop advanced sales techniques, leading to increased commission or performance-based incentives if applicable.
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Leadership Potential: With demonstrated performance and leadership qualities, progression to roles like Framing Lead, Assistant Manager, or Store Manager is possible within Michaels' retail management track.
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Cross-Training: Opportunities to gain experience in other store departments, broadening skill sets and understanding of overall retail operations.
π Enhancement Note: This role serves as a solid foundation for a career in retail operations and customer service. The explicit mention of tuition assistance and a clear path for internal promotion suggests Michaels invests in employee development and offers tangible growth trajectories for motivated individuals.
π Work Environment
Office Type: Public retail store setting.
Office Location(s): Store - 1660 Millenia Ave, Chula Vista, California (and other Michaels store locations nationwide).
Workspace Context:
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The primary workspace is the retail floor and the dedicated custom framing shop within the store.
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The framing shop environment includes specialized equipment like a glass cutter and heat press, requiring adherence to safety protocols.
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Collaboration with fellow team members is frequent, involving customer assistance, task coordination, and shared operational duties.
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Access to climate-controlled public areas, with potential for less climate-controlled stock rooms and occasional outdoor work (e.g., truck unloading).
Work Schedule: The schedule will include nights, weekends, and early mornings, typical for a part-time retail position to cover store operating hours and customer traffic. Flexibility is key for this role.
π Enhancement Note: The work environment is dynamic and customer-facing. The framing shop is a specialized area requiring both technical skill and adherence to safety, while the broader store environment demands excellent customer service and operational efficiency.
π Application & Portfolio Review Process
Interview Process:
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Initial Screening: Likely a brief phone or online interview to assess basic qualifications, availability, and interest.
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In-Person Interview: A more in-depth interview at the store, potentially involving the Store Manager or Framing Manager. This stage will assess customer service skills, problem-solving abilities, and cultural fit.
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Skills Assessment: May include a practical demonstration or discussion of measuring skills, understanding of framing concepts, or ability to operate basic equipment.
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Final Offer: Based on the overall assessment of qualifications, experience, and fit with the team and company values.
Portfolio Review Tips:
- For this role, a formal portfolio isn't expected. Instead, prepare to discuss experiences that demonstrate:
- Customer Service Excellence: Specific examples of going above and beyond for customers.
- Problem-Solving: How you've handled challenging customer situations or operational issues.
- Attention to Detail: Instances where precision and accuracy were critical.
- Sales Aptitude: Any experience in upselling or advising customers on product benefits.
- Technical Aptitude: Familiarity with tools or equipment, even if not framing-specific.
Challenge Preparation:
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Be ready for behavioral questions assessing your approach to customer service, teamwork, and problem-solving.
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Prepare examples using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to illustrate your skills.
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Understand the Michaels brand and its commitment to creativity and customer experience.
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Familiarize yourself with the concept of custom framing and its value proposition.
π Enhancement Note: The interview process for this entry-level role will likely focus heavily on customer service aptitude, reliability, and a willingness to learn. Candidates should emphasize their interpersonal skills and any relevant hands-on or detail-oriented experience.
π Tools & Technology Stack
Primary Tools:
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Framing Equipment: Standard framing tools, including a glass cutter, mat cutters, framing guns, and potentially a heat press.
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Measuring Tools: Tape measures, rulers, and potentially specialized framing measurement devices.
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Point of Sale (POS) System: For processing sales, managing transactions, and potentially customer order tracking.
Analytics & Reporting:
- While direct analytical tools might not be used by the framer, they will operate within a system that tracks sales performance, order volume, and potentially customer satisfaction metrics.
CRM & Automation:
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The POS system may have basic CRM functionalities for customer data capture and order history.
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"Elevated ABC Deliver" suggests a structured sales process, potentially incorporating elements of CRM and sales workflow management.
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Omni-channel processes imply integration with online orders and in-store fulfillment systems.
π Enhancement Note: The technology stack is primarily operational and customer-facing. Proficiency with POS systems and specialized framing equipment is key. Familiarity with concepts like omni-channel operations and structured sales processes (like "Elevated ABC Deliver") will be beneficial.
π₯ Team Culture & Values
Operations Values:
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Customer Focus: Prioritizing customer needs and ensuring a positive experience through exceptional service and creative solutions.
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Creativity & Passion: Fostering an environment that celebrates and supports creative expression, both in products and in customer solutions.
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Teamwork & Respect: Collaborating effectively with colleagues, treating everyone with acceptance and respect, and maintaining a positive attitude.
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Accountability & Quality: Taking ownership of tasks, ensuring high-quality work, and adhering to company standards and procedures.
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Efficiency & Safety: Operating with an awareness of operational efficiency, safety protocols, and shrink reduction.
Collaboration Style:
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Emphasis on direct, face-to-face interaction with customers and team members.
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Collaborative problem-solving to meet customer needs and address store operational challenges.
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Supportive environment where team members assist each other in serving customers and completing tasks.
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Open to feedback and continuous improvement, especially regarding process adherence and customer service techniques.
π Enhancement Note: Michaels' values promote a positive, customer-centric, and collaborative retail atmosphere. The PT Framer role requires individuals who can embody these values while executing technical and sales-oriented responsibilities.
β‘ Challenges & Growth Opportunities
Challenges:
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Balancing Multiple Responsibilities: Juggling customer service, custom framing production, sales targets, and general store duties.
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Managing Customer Expectations: Meeting diverse customer needs for custom framing, which can range from simple to highly complex artistic visions.
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Technical Skill Development: Mastering the operation of framing equipment and techniques to ensure high-quality, error-free work.
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Pace of Retail: Adapting to busy periods, high customer traffic, and the demands of a fast-paced retail environment.
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Shrink and Safety: Actively participating in loss prevention and maintaining a safe working environment, especially with tools like glass cutters and heat presses.
Learning & Development Opportunities:
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Framing Certification: Potential to gain expertise and potentially formal certification in custom framing techniques.
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Sales Training: Development of consultative selling skills and product knowledge to drive higher sales volumes.
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Retail Management Path: Opportunities to advance into leadership roles within store operations.
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Product Knowledge: Deepening understanding of art, design principles, and framing materials.
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Continuous Improvement: Learning to optimize workflows and improve efficiency in framing production and customer service.
π Enhancement Note: This role presents opportunities for both technical skill development in framing and growth in customer service and sales. Candidates who are adaptable, detail-oriented, and eager to learn will find success and potential for advancement.
π‘ Interview Preparation
Strategy Questions:
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Customer Service Approach: "Describe a time you went above and beyond to help a customer. What was the situation, and what was the outcome?" (Prepare using STAR method, focusing on empathy, problem-solving, and customer satisfaction).
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Sales & Persuasion: "How would you approach a customer who is unsure about their framing choices?" or "How would you handle a customer who is unhappy with a framing quote?" (Focus on consultative selling, understanding needs, offering solutions, and managing expectations).
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Problem-Solving & Adaptability: "Tell me about a time you had to work with limited resources or under pressure. How did you manage?" (Highlight ability to prioritize, multitask, and remain calm in a retail setting).
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Attention to Detail: "Why is accuracy important in custom framing, and how do you ensure it?" (Emphasize meticulousness, measuring skills, and adherence to specifications).
Company & Culture Questions:
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"What do you know about Michaels and our custom framing services?" (Research Michaels' mission, values, and the importance of their framing department).
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"Why are you interested in working for Michaels?" (Connect your passion for creativity, customer service, or retail with the company's offerings).
Portfolio Presentation Strategy:
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Since a formal portfolio isn't required, be prepared to discuss relevant experiences vividly.
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Highlight Key Skills: Prepare to talk about specific instances where you've demonstrated customer service, sales aptitude, attention to detail, or technical ability (even if not framing-specific).
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Quantify Achievements: If possible, mention metrics like sales increases, positive customer feedback scores, or efficiency improvements you contributed to.
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Show Enthusiasm: Convey your interest in art, design, and helping customers bring their creative visions to life through framing.
π Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on showcasing strong customer service skills, a proactive sales attitude, attention to detail, and a genuine interest in Michaels and the creative arts. Behavioral questions are key, so practice using the STAR method.
π Application Steps
To apply for this operations position:
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Submit your application through the provided link on the Michaels Careers portal.
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Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight customer service experience, any sales achievements, and any detail-oriented or hands-on skills. Use keywords from the job description such as "customer service," "sales," "measuring skills," and "retail operations."
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Portfolio Preparation (Conceptual): While no formal portfolio is needed, mentally prepare to discuss specific examples from past roles that demonstrate your ability to handle customer inquiries, solve problems, and work with precision. Think about projects where attention to detail was crucial.
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Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Michaels' commitment to creativity, their custom framing services, and their company values. Understand their approach to customer engagement ("Elevated ABC Deliver").
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Interview Practice: Rehearse answers to common interview questions, especially behavioral ones, using the STAR method. Practice articulating your skills and enthusiasm for the role and the company.
β οΈ 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
Requires basic computer and measuring skills, with the ability to operate framing equipment and glass cutters. Physical ability to stand for long periods and lift heavy boxes is necessary.