Retail Custom Framer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Retail Custom Framer

Company: Michaels Stores

Location: Manassas, Virginia, United States

Job Type: PART_TIME

Category: Retail Operations / Sales

Date Posted: 2026-05-28

Experience Level: Entry Level (0-2 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Customer-Centric Sales & Design: Focus on building strong customer relationships by understanding their needs and translating them into memorable custom framing solutions, directly contributing to sales targets.

• Operational Excellence in Retail: Execute standard operating procedures (SOPs) and company programs to ensure compliance, maintain store presentation, and support overall operational efficiency.

• Production & Quality Assurance: Complete custom framing orders with a high degree of quality and adherence to timelines, ensuring customer satisfaction with the final product.

• Merchandising & Inventory Management: Maintain the ready-made frame department and assigned areas, including SISO (Ship-In-Stock-Out) and directed replenishment, to ensure product availability and visual appeal.

• Point of Sale & Transaction Processing: Operate the cash register and handle transactions with accuracy, adhering to all cash handling standards and supporting omni-channel processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the role is "Retail Custom Framer," the core responsibilities and skills align with a blend of sales, customer service, and operational execution within a retail environment, emphasizing custom product creation. The "Revenue Operations" context is interpreted through the lens of driving sales and ensuring efficient store operations that support revenue generation.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Customer Engagement & Design Consultation: Actively engage with customers to understand their framing needs, offer design advice, and guide them through the custom framing process to create tailored solutions.

• Sales Goal Achievement: Drive personal sales and production results by effectively selling custom framing solutions and meeting established performance metrics.

• Order Fulfillment & Quality Control: Accurately measure, cut, assemble, and finish custom framing orders, ensuring high-quality craftsmanship and on-time completion.

• Store Presentation & Maintenance: Maintain the visual appeal and stock levels of the ready-made frame department, as well as other assigned retail areas, including managing SISO and directed replenishment processes.

• Point of Sale Operations: Efficiently and accurately process customer transactions using the cash register, manage cash handling procedures, and support omni-channel fulfillment initiatives.

• Inventory & Stock Management: Participate in truck unload and stocking processes, ensuring adherence to store standards and contributing to efficient inventory replenishment.

• Customer Service Excellence: Provide friendly and helpful customer service, assist shoppers in locating products, and ensure a positive and accessible shopping environment.

• Adherence to Procedures: Consistently follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), company programs, and safety protocols to ensure compliance and operational integrity.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary responsibilities are highly focused on direct customer interaction, sales, and the physical execution of custom framing orders. The operational aspects include maintaining store standards and processing transactions, which are critical for revenue generation in a retail setting.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: High school diploma or equivalent preferred.

Experience:

• Required:

  • Basic computer skills for POS and order entry.
  • Basic measuring skills for accurate framing.
  • Ability to operate framing equipment and glass cutters safely and effectively.

• Preferred:

  • Previous retail experience, particularly in a sales or customer-facing role.

Required Skills:

• Customer Service: Ability to build rapport, understand customer needs, and provide solutions.

• Sales Acumen: Aptitude for selling custom products and achieving sales targets.

• Measuring & Precision: Accurate measurement and cutting skills for custom framing.

• Equipment Operation: Proficiency in using framing machinery and glass cutters.

• Cash Handling: Accurate and secure management of financial transactions.

• Computer Literacy: Basic proficiency with point-of-sale (POS) systems and other store software.

• Adherence to SOPs: Commitment to following established procedures and guidelines.

Preferred Skills:

• Retail Sales Experience: Demonstrated success in a retail sales environment.

• Design Consultation: Ability to offer creative and practical framing solutions.

• Visual Merchandising: Understanding of how to present products effectively.

• Inventory Management: Familiarity with stock replenishment and store organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications emphasize practical, hands-on skills related to custom framing and customer interaction, with a preference for prior retail sales experience. The "Entry Level" designation suggests that extensive prior experience in framing itself may not be mandatory, but a strong aptitude for learning and customer engagement is key.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• While a formal portfolio is not explicitly required for this entry-level role, candidates are encouraged to prepare examples of their work or explain past experiences that demonstrate:
  • Problem-Solving: How you've addressed customer needs or challenges in a previous role.
  • Sales Success: Instances where you successfully sold a product or service.
  • Quality Craftsmanship: Any experience where attention to detail and quality were paramount.
  • Process Adherence: Examples of following instructions or procedures to achieve a desired outcome.

Process Documentation:

• Candidates should be prepared to discuss their understanding of and ability to follow:
  • Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs): How you approach learning and implementing new procedures.
  • Workflow Management: Your ability to manage multiple tasks (e.g., customer service, framing production, stocking) efficiently.
  • Quality Control: Your personal approach to ensuring a high-quality output in your work.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an entry-level retail role, a formal portfolio is less common. The emphasis here is on the candidate's ability to articulate their skills and experiences through discussions and examples, demonstrating their potential to learn and execute defined processes.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: As this is a part-time retail position, hourly wages typically range from $12 - $17 per hour in the Manassas, Virginia area, depending on experience and prior retail sales performance.

Benefits:

• Health Insurance: Access to medical, dental, and vision insurance plans.

• Paid Time Off (PTO): Accrued paid time off for vacation, personal days, and sick leave.

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

• Employee Discounts: Generous discounts on Michaels products and services.

• Potential for Advancement: Opportunities for growth within the company.

Working Hours: This is a PART_TIME position. Standard working hours will vary based on store needs and scheduling, potentially including nights, weekends, and early mornings. The role is listed with an AI-calculated expectation of 40 hours/week, which may be an overestimation for a typical part-time role and should be clarified with the hiring manager.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary range is an estimate based on current retail associate wages in the Manassas, VA area for similar roles. The AI-calculated 40 working hours is noted as potentially high for a part-time role and needs verification. Benefits are detailed based on information provided in the job description.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Arts and Crafts Retail, Custom Framing Manufacturing. Michaels operates as a leading retailer in the arts and crafts sector, with a significant focus on providing creative materials and services, including custom framing.

Company Size: Large enterprise, with over 1,300 stores in North America and online presence. This scale indicates a structured corporate environment with established processes and potential for diverse career paths.

Founded: 1973, headquartered in Irving, Texas. This long history suggests a stable company with deep roots in the retail and creative industries.

Team Structure:

• Store Level: The Custom Framer will be part of a store team, likely reporting to a Store Manager or a departmental lead (e.g., Framing Department Manager, if applicable).

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Collaboration will occur with other store associates, including sales floor staff, cashiers, and potentially stock team members, to ensure smooth store operations and customer flow.

• Specialized Department: The framing department operates as a specialized area within the store, requiring coordination between custom order taking, production, and customer pickup.

Methodology:

• Customer-Centric Approach: Emphasis on building customer relationships and providing personalized solutions, particularly in the custom framing service.

• Process-Driven Operations: Adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for sales, production, inventory, and safety.

• Data-Informed Merchandising: Using sales data and replenishment directives to maintain an appealing and well-stocked store environment.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture emphasizes creativity, customer service, and operational adherence. The scale of Michaels suggests opportunities for learning within a well-defined retail framework.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned at an Entry Level within the retail operations and sales spectrum. It serves as a foundational position for individuals interested in customer-facing roles, custom product creation, and retail sales execution.

Reporting Structure: Typically reports to a Store Manager or Assistant Store Manager, with potential direct oversight from a dedicated Framing Manager or Lead if the store structure supports it.

Operations Impact: The Custom Framer directly impacts revenue through sales of custom framing services and products. Their efficiency in production, accuracy in order fulfillment, and ability to drive customer satisfaction contribute to store performance and customer loyalty. Effective merchandising and inventory management also support overall store sales and operational efficiency.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Develop expertise in custom framing techniques, design, and customer consultation.

• Sales Progression: Advance to roles with higher sales targets or management responsibilities within the framing department or store.

• Cross-Training: Gain experience in other store functions, such as visual merchandising, inventory management, or customer service leadership.

• Management Track: Potential to move into Assistant Store Manager or Store Manager roles through demonstrated performance, leadership skills, and company training programs.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a clear entry point into retail operations with specific skill development in custom product sales and execution. Growth paths are primarily within the retail store management hierarchy or specialized sales roles.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Public retail store setting. The workspace includes both customer-facing retail floor areas and a dedicated frame shop.

Office Location(s): 10828 Sudley Manor Dr, Manassas, VA. This location is a standard retail store environment.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: Works alongside other store associates to ensure smooth customer flow and operational efficiency.

• Tools & Technology: Access to point-of-sale (POS) systems, framing equipment (e.g., mat cutters, assembly tools), glass cutters, and potentially heat presses.

• Team Interaction: Regular interaction with customers and fellow team members throughout the workday. The frame shop environment requires focus and precision amidst the general store activity.

Work Schedule: This is a PART_TIME position. Work hours are variable and can include nights, weekends, and early mornings, reflecting the operational needs of a retail business. Flexibility in scheduling is typically expected.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is dynamic, requiring adaptability to customer traffic, production demands, and diverse tasks within a retail setting.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Likely an online application followed by a phone or video screening to assess basic qualifications and interest.

• In-Person Interview: A sit-down interview at the store location to evaluate customer service skills, problem-solving abilities, and cultural fit. This may include a brief tour of the framing area.

• Skills Assessment (Informal): Discussion about your ability to perform the core duties, including measuring, operating equipment, and handling customer inquiries. You may be asked to demonstrate basic measuring skills.

• Final Interview/Offer: May involve a discussion with a store manager or HR representative.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Prepare for Behavioral Questions: Be ready to discuss past experiences related to customer service, sales, problem-solving, and working with tools or equipment. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result).

• Highlight Relevant Skills: Emphasize any experience with measuring, crafting, attention to detail, or sales, even if not in a formal framing context.

• Demonstrate Enthusiasm for Creativity: Express your interest in art, design, and helping customers bring their visions to life through framing.

• Discuss Process Understanding: Be prepared to talk about how you follow instructions, learn new procedures, and ensure quality in your work.

Challenge Preparation:

• Scenario-Based Questions: Expect questions like, "A customer wants to frame a valuable piece of art but is unsure about the best materials. How would you assist them?"

• Customer Service Scenarios: Be ready to describe how you handle difficult customers or resolve issues.

• Operational Awareness: Questions may touch on safety procedures, cash handling, or maintaining store standards.

📝 Enhancement Note: For this role, preparation should focus on demonstrating strong interpersonal skills, a willingness to learn, and practical aptitude rather than a formal portfolio.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Point of Sale (POS) System: For processing transactions, managing customer orders, and potentially accessing inventory information. Proficiency in learning new POS systems is key.

• Custom Framing Equipment: Includes mat cutters, assembly tools, framing saws, and potentially specialized machinery for joining frames and mounting artwork.

• Glass Cutting Tools: For precise cutting of glass or acrylic to fit custom frames.

• Measuring Tools: Tape measures, rulers, and potentially specialized framing rulers for accurate dimensions.

• Heat Press (Potentially): Used in some framing processes for applications like mounting or sealing.

Analytics & Reporting:

CRM & Automation:

• The primary "CRM" interaction is direct customer engagement and order taking. There may be a system for tracking custom orders and customer preferences.

📝 Enhancement Note: Familiarity with retail POS systems is advantageous. The core "technology" involves specialized manual tools for custom framing, emphasizing precision and hands-on operation.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Customer-Centricity: Prioritizing customer satisfaction and building relationships through excellent service and tailored solutions.

• Creativity & Passion: Fostering an environment that celebrates creativity and supports customers in their artistic endeavors.

• Teamwork & Respect: Collaborating effectively with colleagues to achieve store goals and maintaining a positive, respectful work environment.

• Quality & Craftsmanship: Commitment to producing high-quality custom framing work that meets customer expectations.

• Efficiency & Process Adherence: Following established procedures to ensure smooth operations, safety, and compliance.

Collaboration Style:

• Customer-Focused Teamwork: Associates work together to assist customers, manage store operations, and ensure a seamless shopping experience.

• Process-Oriented: Adherence to company procedures and best practices is encouraged.

• Knowledge Sharing: Willingness to share information about products, services, and operational processes with colleagues.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture at Michaels emphasizes creativity, customer engagement, and operational discipline, reflecting a blend of artistic support and retail execution.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Multiple Demands: Juggling customer interactions, custom framing production, and general store duties simultaneously.

• Meeting Production Deadlines: Ensuring custom orders are completed on time, especially during peak periods.

• Handling Diverse Customer Needs: Accommodating a wide range of customer expectations and artistic visions for their framing projects.

• Learning New Equipment & Techniques: Quickly mastering the operation of framing machinery and glass cutters.

• Physical Demands: The role requires standing for extended periods, lifting heavy items, and working with sharp tools.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Custom Framing Expertise: Develop specialized skills in design, material selection, and production techniques.

• Sales & Customer Service Skills: Enhance abilities in consultative selling and customer relationship management.

• Retail Operations Knowledge: Gain experience in inventory management, visual merchandising, and POS operations.

• Potential for Leadership: Opportunities to advance into supervisory or management roles within Michaels stores.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role provides a solid foundation for developing specialized retail skills and offers clear pathways for growth within the company.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Customer Service Scenarios: "Describe a time you went above and beyond to help a customer." "How would you handle a customer who is unhappy with their custom framing order?"

• Sales Approach: "How do you approach selling a custom product like framing?" "What questions would you ask a customer to understand their framing needs?"

• Process & Quality: "How do you ensure accuracy when measuring or cutting materials?" "What steps do you take to ensure the quality of your work?"

Company & Culture Questions:

• "Why are you interested in working at Michaels?"

• "What do you know about our custom framing services?"

• "How do you handle working in a fast-paced retail environment?"

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Verbal Examples: Prepare specific examples from past work or volunteer experiences that showcase your customer service, sales, attention to detail, and ability to follow instructions.

• Enthusiasm for Creativity: Articulate your personal interest in arts, crafts, or design.

• Problem-Solving Scenarios: Be ready to walk through how you would approach a common customer request or challenge related to framing.

📝 Enhancement Note: Focus on articulating your customer service philosophy, sales aptitude, and willingness to learn practical skills. Be prepared to provide concrete examples of your abilities.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Retail Custom Framer position:

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

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight any customer service, sales, crafting, measuring, or equipment operation experience. Use keywords from the job description.

• Prepare for Interview Scenarios: Practice answering behavioral questions related to customer service, sales, problem-solving, and teamwork.

• Research Michaels: Familiarize yourself with Michaels' product offerings, especially custom framing services, and their company values.

• Gather Examples: Think of specific instances where you've demonstrated precision, customer engagement, or sales success, as these will be valuable during discussions.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and industry-standard assumptions. All details, particularly regarding salary, benefits, and working hours for a part-time role, should be verified directly with the hiring organization during the interview process.