Retail Custom Picture Framer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Retail Custom Picture Framer

Company: Michaels Stores

Location: Biddeford, Maine, United States

Job Type: PART_TIME

Category: Retail Operations / Customer Service & Sales

Date Posted: 2026-06-07

Experience Level: 0-2 Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is centered on providing exceptional customer service within a retail environment, with a specialized focus on custom picture framing solutions.

• It involves building strong customer relationships, understanding their needs, and translating them into high-quality, custom-designed framing products.

• Key responsibilities include operating specialized framing equipment, managing inventory, and contributing to the overall store's visual presentation and operational efficiency.

• The position requires a blend of sales acumen, artistic sensibility, and operational diligence to ensure customer satisfaction and sales targets are met.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the job title is "Retail Custom Picture Framer," the core responsibilities and listed skills indicate a role that is heavily customer-facing and sales-driven, with a specialized technical component. This is not a pure operations role but rather a customer-facing sales and service position with operational duties related to framing production and store maintenance. The "operations" aspect is focused on the execution of framing services and in-store operations rather than strategic revenue or sales operations.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Customer Engagement & Sales:

  • Build and nurture customer relationships by providing personalized design consultations for custom framing solutions, utilizing elevated sales techniques.
  • Actively engage customers to understand their framing needs and preferences, guiding them through design options, materials, and pricing.
  • Drive sales by effectively presenting and selling custom framing services, aiming to meet or exceed individual sales and production targets.
  • Assist customers in locating products throughout the store and provide solutions to their creative needs.

• Custom Framing Production & Quality Control:

  • Accurately measure artwork and customer specifications to ensure precise framing order completion.
  • Operate specialized framing equipment, including mat cutters and potentially heat presses, with proficiency and adherence to safety standards.
  • Produce high-quality custom framing orders on time, meeting Michaels' standards for craftsmanship and durability.
  • Maintain the ready-made frame department, including managing inventory for Single Item, Single Order (SISO) and Directed Replenishment programs.

• Store Operations & Merchandising:

  • Maintain a safe, clean, and clutter-free store environment, adhering to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
  • Execute merchandising standards for the ready-made frame department and other assigned areas.
  • Participate actively in truck un-loading and stocking processes to ensure timely replenishment and adherence to truck standards.
  • Operate the cash register and execute cash handling procedures according to company standards.
  • Support shrink and safety programs through diligent adherence to operational protocols.

• Omni-channel Support:

  • Assist with and support various omni-channel processes, ensuring a seamless customer experience across all sales channels.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a hands-on role focused on direct customer interaction, sales, and the physical execution of framing services. The "operations" component is primarily tactical, involving adherence to SOPs, inventory management for specific departments, and production execution.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• No specific degree is mandated, but a strong aptitude for learning and following instructions is essential, particularly for technical equipment operation and sales processes. Experience:

• Experience in a customer-facing role, particularly in sales or service-oriented environments, is highly beneficial.

• Prior experience in retail operations, merchandising, or inventory management is a plus. Required Skills:

• Basic Computer Skills: Ability to navigate point-of-sale (POS) systems, basic order entry, and potentially internal communication tools.

• Measuring Skills: Precision in taking measurements for artwork and framing components is critical for accurate order fulfillment.

• Equipment Operation: Proficiency in safely operating framing equipment and a glass cutter.

• Customer Service Excellence: Demonstrated ability to engage customers, understand their needs, and provide satisfactory solutions.

• Sales Acumen: Capacity to present products and services effectively, influence purchasing decisions, and meet sales targets.

• Cash Handling: Accurate and secure management of financial transactions at the point of sale.

Preferred Skills:

• Retail Experience: Previous work experience in a retail setting, understanding store operations and customer flow.

• Sales Experience: Proven track record of selling products or services, with an emphasis on consultative selling.

• Artistic/Design Sense: An eye for aesthetics and design principles that can assist in guiding custom framing choices.

• Inventory Management: Familiarity with stock replenishment, visual merchandising, and maintaining product availability.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications emphasize practical skills and direct experience over formal education. The ability to operate specific equipment and engage customers effectively are paramount. The "0-2 years" experience level suggests a role that is open to individuals with foundational retail or customer service skills, with on-the-job training for specialized framing tasks.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• While a formal "operations portfolio" in the strategic sense is not expected for this entry-level retail role, candidates are expected to demonstrate practical capabilities.

• Case Studies (Informal): Be prepared to discuss specific examples from past roles where you successfully resolved a customer issue, exceeded a sales target, or improved a process within your scope of responsibility.

• Process Adherence Examples: Highlight instances where you meticulously followed Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to ensure consistent quality and compliance.

• System Use Examples: Be ready to describe your experience using POS systems, inventory management tools, or any other retail technology.

• Impact Demonstration: For past sales roles, be prepared to quantify achievements, such as percentage increases in sales or customer satisfaction scores.

Process Documentation:

• Candidates are not expected to create process documentation but should demonstrate an understanding of its importance.

• Workflow Understanding: Ability to quickly learn and follow established workflows for custom framing orders, from consultation to completion.

• Implementation Familiarity: Experience working within defined operational processes for tasks like stocking, merchandising, and customer service.

• Performance Awareness: Understanding that processes are in place to measure performance, customer satisfaction, and operational efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section is adapted to reflect the retail and customer-facing nature of the role. Instead of a formal operations portfolio, candidates should be prepared to discuss practical examples of their skills, adherence to processes, and customer service achievements. The focus is on demonstrating capability and understanding of operational workflows rather than strategic process design.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• For a Part-Time Retail Custom Picture Framer in Biddeford, Maine, with 0-2 years of experience, the estimated hourly wage typically ranges from $14.00 to $18.00 USD per hour.

• This estimate is based on current market data for similar entry-level retail positions in the Biddeford, Maine area, considering the cost of living and typical retail compensation structures. Factors such as specific prior experience and demonstrated skills may influence the final offer. Benefits:

• Health Insurance: Access to medical, dental, and vision insurance plans, reflecting Michaels' commitment to employee well-being.

• Paid Time Off (PTO): Accrued paid time off for rest, relaxation, and personal needs.

• Tuition Assistance: Support for continued education and professional development.

• Employee Discounts: Generous discounts on Michaels products, fostering a connection with the company's offerings.

• 401(k) Plan: Retirement savings plan options (details may vary based on employment status and tenure).

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Resources for personal and work-life challenges.

Working Hours:

• This is a PART_TIME position.

• Working hours will vary and may include nights, weekends, and early mornings, aligning with typical retail operational needs. The specific schedule will be determined by store management based on business demand and employee availability.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary range has been estimated based on location (Biddeford, Maine), experience level (0-2 years), and job type (Part-Time Retail). Benefits are listed as provided by the company in the input data.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Retail (Arts & Crafts, Home Decor, Custom Framing)

Company Size: Large (Over 10,000 employees globally, with a significant retail footprint in North America). Michaels operates over 1,300 stores.

Founded: 1973

Team Structure:

• Store Level: The Retail Custom Picture Framer will work as part of a store team, likely reporting to a Store Manager, Assistant Store Manager, or a designated department lead (e.g., Framing Specialist or Custom Frame Lead).

• Cross-functional Collaboration: Collaboration will be primarily with fellow store associates across different departments (e.g., general merchandise, craft supplies, floral) and potentially with other custom framers within the store. Interactions with customers are a core component.

• Specialization: While part of a broader retail team, this role has a specific specialization in custom picture framing, requiring dedicated focus on that department's operations and sales.

Methodology:

• Customer-Centric Approach: The company emphasizes "fueling the joy of creativity and celebration," indicating a culture that values customer experience and creative expression.

• Process Adherence: There's a strong emphasis on following Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company programs to ensure consistency, compliance, and quality across all stores.

• Sales & Production Focus: The role is designed to drive both sales through customer engagement and production through efficient, high-quality framing services.

• Teamwork: Collaboration and mutual support among team members are encouraged to maintain store standards and customer satisfaction.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Company information has been synthesized from the provided description and general knowledge of Michaels Stores to contextualize the role within the larger organization and retail environment.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level:

• This role is an entry-level to early-career position within a retail operations and sales context. It focuses on the execution of specific tasks and customer interactions rather than strategic operational planning or management.

• The "operations" aspect is tied to the hands-on production and in-store processes required to deliver a custom framing service. Reporting Structure:

• Typically reports to a Store Manager or Assistant Store Manager. May also receive direct guidance from a lead framer or department supervisor within the store. Operations Impact:

• The impact of this role is primarily on the direct customer experience and the successful fulfillment of custom framing orders.

• It contributes to store revenue through direct sales and customer retention, and to operational efficiency through adherence to production schedules and store maintenance standards.

• The role directly influences customer perception of Michaels' custom framing services and overall brand experience. Growth Opportunities:

• Within the Framing Department: Potential to advance to a Lead Custom Frame Designer or Framing Specialist role, taking on more complex projects, training new associates, and potentially managing department performance.

• Broader Retail Management: Opportunity to move into Assistant Store Manager or Store Manager roles, managing all aspects of store operations, sales, and team leadership.

• Specialized Retail Roles: Potential to transition into other specialized retail roles within Michaels, such as visual merchandising, inventory management, or customer experience lead.

• Skill Development: Continuous learning in custom framing techniques, sales strategies, and customer relationship management.

📝 Enhancement Note: This analysis focuses on career progression within a retail environment, highlighting how this specific role can serve as a stepping stone to more specialized or managerial positions within Michaels.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Public retail store setting with a dedicated Custom Frame Shop area.

Office Location(s): Located in Biddeford, Maine, within a retail shopping center (106 Shops Way).

Workspace Context:

• Customer Interaction: The primary workspace involves direct interaction with customers in a retail sales floor and a dedicated custom framing counter/area.

• Production Area: A dedicated frame shop equipped with tools and machinery for custom framing, which requires attention to safety and organization.

• Store Environment: Exposure to a dynamic retail atmosphere, including customer traffic, music, and other store activities.

• Stock Room: Occasional work in stock rooms, which may not be climate-controlled, for receiving and stocking merchandise.

• Outdoor Work: Potential for some outdoor tasks, such as retrieving shopping carts or during truck unloading.

Work Schedule:

• The work schedule is flexible and part-time, typically involving nights, weekends, and early mornings to cover store operating hours. This provides flexibility for individuals seeking part-time employment but requires adaptability to varying shifts.

📝 Enhancement Note: The description emphasizes the blend of customer-facing retail space and a specialized production area, along with the typical demands of a retail work environment.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Likely a brief phone or online screening to assess basic qualifications, availability, and interest.

• In-Person Interview: A more in-depth interview at the store, involving a conversation with the hiring manager (Store Manager or Assistant Manager).

• Skills Assessment: May involve a practical demonstration or discussion of measuring skills, basic computer/POS operation, and customer interaction scenarios.

• Situational Questions: Expect questions about how you would handle specific customer situations, sales challenges, or production tasks.

• Cultural Fit Assessment: Evaluation of your alignment with Michaels' values, such as creativity, customer focus, and teamwork.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Focus on Practical Examples: Since this is not a strategic operations role, your "portfolio" will be your ability to articulate past experiences. Prepare to discuss:

  • Customer Service Successes: Specific instances where you went above and beyond for a customer.
  • Sales Achievements: Quantifiable results from previous sales roles (e.g., "increased sales by X%," "met or exceeded quota for Y months").
  • Problem-Solving Scenarios: How you resolved customer complaints or operational issues.
  • Process Adherence: Examples of following company procedures diligently.

• Demonstrate Technical Aptitude: Be ready to talk about your comfort level with tools, equipment, and technology (like POS systems).

• Showcase Design Sensibility: If you have a strong eye for design, be prepared to discuss how you've applied it in previous roles or personal projects.

Challenge Preparation:

• Customer Interaction Role-Play: Be ready for a scenario where you must engage a "customer" (interviewer) and guide them through the framing selection process. Focus on active listening, product knowledge, and problem-solving.

• Measurement Accuracy: While not a formal test, be prepared to discuss the importance of accuracy in measurements and how you ensure it.

• Handling Difficult Customers: Prepare responses for scenarios involving customer dissatisfaction or complaints.

• Time Management: Discuss how you prioritize tasks in a busy retail environment, especially balancing customer service with production duties.

📝 Enhancement Note: The application and interview process is tailored to a retail, customer-facing role, emphasizing practical skills, customer interaction, and sales ability over formal operations portfolio presentation.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Custom Framing Equipment:

  • Mat Cutter: Essential tool for cutting mats to precise dimensions.
  • Frame Moulding Cutters/Saws: For cutting frame material to size.
  • Nail/V-Nailer: For assembling frame corners.
  • Heat Press: Potentially used for specific mounting or finishing processes.
  • Glass Cutter: For custom-sized glass or acrylic.

• Point-of-Sale (POS) System: To process transactions, manage sales orders, and handle customer accounts.

• Basic Computer Skills: For accessing company systems, email, and potentially design software.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Sales Reporting: Access to reports detailing individual sales performance, department sales, and customer transaction data, typically through the POS system or internal retail management software.

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

CRM & Automation:

• Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Features: Within the POS or a separate system, to track customer preferences, past orders, and contact information to foster repeat business and personalized service.

• Order Management Systems: To track the status of custom framing orders from placement through production to completion.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section details the specific tools and technologies relevant to a retail custom framing role, focusing on both the production equipment and the retail systems used for sales and inventory.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Creativity & Inspiration: Michaels encourages a culture where creativity is valued, and team members are inspired to help customers bring their creative visions to life.

• Customer Focus: A strong emphasis on providing excellent customer service, building relationships, and ensuring customer satisfaction with both products and experiences.

• Teamwork & Collaboration: Working together to achieve store goals, support each other, and maintain a positive work environment.

• Integrity & Accountability: Adhering to company policies, SOPs, and ethical standards in all interactions and tasks.

• Efficiency & Quality: Striving for efficient execution of tasks while maintaining high standards of quality in products and services.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional within Store: Associates are expected to collaborate with colleagues across different departments to assist customers and ensure smooth store operations.

• Customer-Centric Problem Solving: When issues arise, the team works together to find solutions that satisfy the customer while adhering to company guidelines.

• Knowledge Sharing: Encouraging the sharing of best practices, particularly within specialized areas like custom framing, to elevate team performance.

• Positive & Respectful Interactions: Maintaining a positive attitude and respectful communication, even in challenging situations.

📝 Enhancement Note: These values are derived from the company's stated purpose and typical retail environments, focusing on how they apply to a customer-facing, product-focused role within Michaels.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Sales, Production, and Service: Juggling the demands of engaging with customers on the sales floor, accurately producing custom framing orders, and maintaining store standards can be demanding.

• Managing Customer Expectations: Effectively communicating timelines, material limitations, and pricing to ensure customer satisfaction with custom orders.

• Technical Skill Acquisition: Learning to operate framing equipment safely and efficiently, and developing proficiency in design consultation requires training and practice.

• Pace of Retail: Adapting to fluctuating customer traffic, seasonal demands, and the fast-paced nature of a retail environment.

• Inventory Management: Ensuring adequate stock of framing materials while minimizing waste and managing order fulfillment.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• On-the-Job Training: Comprehensive training on custom framing techniques, equipment operation, sales processes, and POS system usage.

• Product Knowledge Expansion: Deepening understanding of various framing materials, matting options, glass types, and design principles.

• Sales & Customer Service Skills: Opportunities to refine consultative selling techniques and enhance customer engagement strategies.

• Potential for Advancement: As noted in the Career & Growth Analysis, there are clear paths for career progression within Michaels, either specializing in framing or moving into broader retail management.

• Industry Trends: Staying informed about emerging trends in custom framing and art display.

📝 Enhancement Note: Challenges are framed around the specific demands of the role, while growth opportunities highlight the structured learning and advancement potential within Michaels.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Customer Service Scenarios: "Describe a time you dealt with a difficult customer. How did you resolve the situation?" "How would you approach a customer who seems unsure about their framing choices?"

• Sales Approach: "How do you identify customer needs and tailor your sales recommendations?" "What strategies would you use to upsell or cross-sell framing services or related products?"

• Problem-Solving: "Imagine a customer's order is delayed. What steps would you take?" "If you made a mistake on a measurement, how would you handle it?"

• Process & Procedure: "How do you ensure accuracy when taking measurements or fulfilling orders?" "Why is it important to follow Standard Operating Procedures?"

Company & Culture Questions:

• Motivation: "Why are you interested in working for Michaels?" "What do you know about our custom framing services?"

• Teamwork: "Describe your ideal team environment." "How do you contribute to a positive team atmosphere?"

• Creativity: "How do you stay creative or find inspiration?" (Relates to Michaels' core mission)

• Values Alignment: "How do your personal values align with Michaels' values of creativity, customer focus, and teamwork?"

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Focus on Anecdotes: Instead of a formal portfolio, prepare compelling stories that illustrate your skills. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for behavioral questions.

• Quantify Achievements: Whenever possible, use numbers to demonstrate your impact (e.g., "increased sales in my department by 15%," "handled an average of 20 customer consultations per day").

• Showcase Technical Aptitude: Be ready to describe your experience with tools, equipment, and POS systems. If you have no direct framing experience, emphasize your ability to learn quickly and your comfort with hands-on tasks.

• Highlight Customer Focus: Emphasize your passion for helping customers and creating solutions for them.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation focuses on common retail and customer service interview tactics, adapted for the specific demands of a framing role.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Retail Custom Picture Framer position:

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

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight customer service, sales, retail experience, and any experience with tools or detailed work. Use keywords from the job description such as "customer service," "sales," "measuring skills," "equipment operation," and "retail."

• Prepare for Behavioral Questions: Think of specific examples from your past experiences that demonstrate your problem-solving abilities, customer service skills, teamwork, and ability to follow procedures.

• Research Michaels: Familiarize yourself with Michaels' brand, its custom framing services, and its commitment to creativity. Understand the company's mission and values to articulate your fit.

• Practice Your Pitch: Be ready to briefly explain why you are a good fit for the role and for Michaels during the interview. Highlight your enthusiasm for customer interaction and creative solutions.

⚠️ 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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