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 / Custom Framing

Date Posted: 2026-07-31

Experience Level: Entry Level (0-2 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Drive sales and customer engagement by providing expert custom framing solutions and personalized design consultations.

• Maintain exceptional store standards, including visual merchandising, stock replenishment, and a clean, safe selling environment.

• Execute operational procedures with precision, from cash handling and point-of-sale transactions to inventory management and truck un-loading.

• Foster strong customer relationships through attentive service, problem-solving, and a positive, helpful attitude.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the job title is "Retail Custom Picture Framer," the core responsibilities extend beyond just framing to encompass broad retail operational duties, including sales, customer service, merchandising, and inventory. This suggests a role where framing expertise is a key component, but a strong foundation in general retail operations is equally important for success. The "Elevated ABC Deliver" mentioned in the description likely refers to a specific customer engagement and sales methodology employed by Michaels, emphasizing personalized service and solution-selling.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Custom Framing Design & Sales:

  • Consult with customers to understand their framing needs and preferences for artwork, photos, and memorabilia.
  • Utilize design principles and product knowledge to recommend suitable matting, framing materials, and display options.
  • Accurately measure artwork and prepare custom framing orders, ensuring precision and adherence to specifications.
  • Drive custom framing sales through effective consultation, upselling, and cross-selling of related products and services.

• Customer Engagement & Service:

  • Greet customers warmly, acknowledge their presence, and proactively offer assistance to locate products and provide solutions.
  • Build and maintain strong customer relationships by delivering friendly, attentive, and personalized service.
  • Act as a brand ambassador, embodying Michaels' commitment to creativity and customer satisfaction.

• Store Operations & Merchandising:

  • Maintain the visual presentation of the ready-made frame department and other assigned areas, ensuring products are attractively displayed and well-stocked.
  • Execute SISO (Save in Store Only) and Directed Replenishment processes to optimize inventory levels and product availability.
  • Participate actively in truck un-loading and stocking activities, adhering to established standards and timelines.
  • Ensure a safe, clean, and clutter-free store environment for both customers and team members.

• Point of Sale & Transaction Management:

  • Operate the cash register accurately and efficiently, adhering to all cash handling and transaction processing standards.
  • Process customer transactions, including sales, returns, and exchanges, with attention to detail.
  • Assist with Omni channel processes, such as buy online, pick up in store (BOPIS) or ship-from-store.

• Operational Compliance & Teamwork:

  • Adhere to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and Company programs to ensure compliance with all applicable laws and requirements.

  • Support shrink and safety programs by following established protocols and reporting any concerns.

  • Interact positively and respectfully with colleagues, promoting a collaborative and supportive team environment.

  • Demonstrate commitment to the organization's vision and values, serving as a role model for others.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a dual focus: specialized custom framing skills and broad retail operational execution. The emphasis on "Elevated ABC Deliver" suggests a customer-centric sales approach that requires more than just transactional skills, but also consultative selling and relationship building. The mention of "SISO and Directed Replenishment" points to specific inventory management practices within Michaels.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While no specific degree is mandated, a background in art, design, or a related creative field could be beneficial for understanding framing aesthetics and customer needs.

Experience:

• 0-2 years of experience in a customer-facing retail environment.

• Demonstrated ability to learn and apply new skills, particularly in technical operations and sales. Required Skills:

• Custom Framing Proficiency: Ability to operate framing equipment (e.g., mat cutters, framing tools) and glass cutters accurately and safely.

• Basic Measuring Skills: Precision in taking measurements for custom framing orders.

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

• Sales Acumen: Capacity to sell products and services, including upselling and cross-selling.

• Cash Handling: Proficiency in operating a cash register and managing financial transactions accurately.

• Computer Skills: Basic proficiency with computer systems for POS, inventory, and potentially design software.

• Merchandising: Understanding of visual presentation principles for retail environments.

• Stocking & Inventory Management: Ability to assist with receiving, stocking, and maintaining inventory levels.

• Communication Skills: Clear and effective verbal communication for customer and team interactions.

• Problem-Solving: Ability to address customer issues and operational challenges effectively.

Preferred Skills:

• Prior retail experience, specifically within a custom framing or art supply setting.

• Experience in consultative sales or design consultation.

• Familiarity with retail inventory management systems.

• Knowledge of art conservation and framing best practices.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "0-2" experience level suggests that this role is designed for individuals early in their retail careers or those transitioning into a specialized retail function. The emphasis on "basic" skills for required qualifications indicates that extensive prior experience in framing is not a prerequisite, but a willingness to learn and develop these skills is crucial.

📊 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 relevant projects or experiences that demonstrate their creative aptitude, attention to detail, and customer interaction skills. This could include:

  • Examples of personal projects involving framing or design.
  • Descriptions of customer service scenarios where problem-solving or personalized solutions were provided.
  • Any documented instances of exceeding sales targets or improving store presentation.

• For candidates with prior framing experience, a visual representation of their framing work, showcasing different styles and complexities, would be advantageous. Process Documentation:

• Candidates are expected to demonstrate an understanding of and willingness to adhere to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for all aspects of the role, including:

  • Framing Order Process: Documenting customer orders accurately, managing production timelines, and ensuring quality control for finished pieces.
  • Customer Service Workflow: Greeting customers, identifying needs, offering solutions, and processing transactions efficiently.
  • Inventory Management: Procedures for receiving, stocking, merchandising, and conducting cycle counts.
  • Cash Handling Protocols: Adherence to cash register operation, transaction accuracy, and security measures.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an entry-level retail role focused on custom framing, a traditional "process and systems portfolio" as seen in corporate operations roles is unlikely. Instead, the emphasis will be on demonstrating practical skills, understanding of processes through examples, and a willingness to learn and follow established company procedures. The "portfolio" here would likely manifest in the interview through behavioral questions and practical demonstrations of skills.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

The provided salary range is $15.25 - $17.90 per hour. This range is based on the information provided by Michaels Stores for this specific position in Biddeford, ME.

Explanation of Estimate:

This range reflects entry-level to slightly experienced retail positions in the specified geographic area. Factors influencing placement within the range would include prior retail experience, customer service track record, and any demonstrated aptitude for custom framing or sales.

Benefits:

Michaels offers a comprehensive benefits package, which may vary based on eligibility and employment status (full-time vs. part-time). Potential benefits for this position include:

• 401(k) with employer match: Financial planning for retirement.

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

• Medical Coverage: Health insurance options.

• Dental Coverage: Dental insurance options.

• Vision Coverage: Vision insurance options.

• Telemedicine Services: Convenient access to healthcare professionals remotely.

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

• Commuter Benefits: Assistance with transportation costs.

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

• Adoption Assistance: Financial support for employees growing their families through adoption.

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

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

• Partner Discount Programs: Access to discounts with other companies.

Working Hours:

This is a Part-time position. Actual working hours will vary and may include nights, weekends, and early mornings, aligning with retail operational needs and customer traffic patterns. The description mentions the potential for up to 40 hours per week, but as a part-time role, the exact hours will be scheduled by the employer.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is explicitly provided in the job description. The benefits listed are typical for a company of Michaels' size and scope, with the caveat that specific eligibility may apply to part-time employees. The inclusion of tuition assistance and adoption assistance suggests a commitment to employee well-being and long-term development.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Michaels operates in the Arts and Crafts Retail industry. As a leading specialty retailer, it caters to a wide demographic seeking supplies and inspiration for creative projects, celebrations, and home décor. The industry is characterized by seasonal peaks, a focus on product variety, and a strong emphasis on customer experience and creative engagement.

Company Size: Michaels is a large retail organization, operating over 1,300 stores in North America. This size implies established operational processes, a structured corporate hierarchy, and significant resources for training and development. For a retail associate, this means opportunities for advancement within a large network and adherence to consistent company-wide standards.

Founded: Founded in 1973 and headquartered in Irving, Texas, Michaels has a long-standing history and deep roots in the creative community. This longevity suggests a stable business model and a well-understood brand identity.

Team Structure:

• Store-Level Operations: The immediate team will consist of fellow retail associates, a store manager, and potentially assistant managers and department specialists (like the Custom Picture Framer). Collaboration is key for managing daily store operations, customer flow, and task completion.

• Reporting Structure: The Retail Custom Picture Framer will typically report to the Store Manager or a designated department supervisor.

• Cross-functional Collaboration: While primarily focused on the store floor, the role will interact with various company functions indirectly, such as inventory management teams, marketing for promotions, and corporate support for HR and operational guidelines. The role also supports Omni channel processes, requiring coordination with online order fulfillment.

Methodology:

• Customer-Centric Approach: The core methodology revolves around understanding and fulfilling customer needs, both for creative supplies and personalized services like custom framing.

• Sales & Service Excellence: Emphasis on driving sales through proactive customer engagement, product knowledge, and solution-oriented service, as exemplified by "Elevated ABC Deliver."

• Operational Efficiency: Adherence to SOPs, efficient task management, and participation in stocking and inventory processes to ensure smooth store operations.

• Safety & Compliance: Strict adherence to safety protocols and company policies to ensure a secure environment for employees and customers.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's large footprint and long history are significant factors. For an operations-focused role like framing, this means a structured environment with established processes. The emphasis on "customer-centricity" and "sales & service excellence" is paramount in retail, and the mention of "Elevated ABC Deliver" suggests a specific, trained methodology for achieving these goals.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is classified as Entry Level within the retail operations and specialized services sector. It is an individual contributor role focused on execution and direct customer interaction. The responsibilities require a combination of technical framing skills and general retail operational competencies.

Reporting Structure: The Retail Custom Picture Framer typically reports to the Store Manager or a designated department lead within the retail store. This structure ensures direct supervision and guidance on daily tasks, performance, and adherence to company standards.

Operations Impact: The Retail Custom Picture Framer directly impacts revenue through custom framing sales and by contributing to overall store sales through excellent customer service and merchandising. Their ability to create high-quality, desirable framing solutions and provide a positive shopping experience influences customer loyalty, repeat business, and the store's profitability. Efficient execution of operational tasks also contributes to overall store efficiency and inventory accuracy.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialized Skill Development: Opportunity to become highly proficient in custom framing techniques, materials, and design, potentially leading to a senior framer or design consultant role.

• Retail Management Path: With demonstrated success in sales, customer service, and operational execution, there are opportunities to move into supervisory roles (e.g., Assistant Manager) and eventually Store Management within the Michaels retail network.

• Cross-Departmental Expertise: Potential to gain experience in other store departments, broadening retail operational knowledge and skill sets.

• Corporate Opportunities: For exceptional performers demonstrating strong analytical or process improvement skills, potential pathways may exist into corporate roles within merchandising, operations, or training, though this is less direct from an entry-level store position.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth potential here is primarily within the retail store structure. The "operations" aspect is localized to the store's operational efficiency and sales performance, rather than large-scale enterprise operations. The framing specialization offers a niche within retail that can be leveraged for career advancement.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is a Public Retail Store Setting. The primary workspace is the retail floor and a dedicated custom framing shop within the store. The environment is customer-facing and dynamic.

Office Location(s): The position is located at the Michaels store at 106 Shops Way in Biddeford, Maine. This is a typical retail plaza location, likely accessible by car.

Workspace Context:

• Customer Interaction Space: The framing counter and sales floor are the primary areas for customer engagement, requiring a friendly and approachable demeanor.

• Production Area: The frame shop will contain specialized equipment (glass cutter, heat press, mat cutter) and materials, requiring a focus on safety and organization.

• Stock Room: May include some stock rooms that are not climate-controlled, requiring adaptability to varying environmental conditions during stocking activities.

• Tools & Technology: Access to point-of-sale (POS) systems, basic computer terminals, and specialized framing equipment.

Work Schedule:

Work hours include nights, weekends, and early mornings, as dictated by retail operational needs and customer traffic. The role is part-time, with specific hours to be scheduled by the employer. Flexibility in availability is a key requirement for success in a retail environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is characteristic of a busy retail store with a specialized service department. The combination of customer-facing duties, production work, and stock room tasks requires a versatile individual. The mention of climate-controlled vs. non-climate-controlled areas is a practical detail for candidates to consider.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

The interview process for this role will likely involve several stages designed to assess both technical framing skills and retail operational capabilities:

1. Application Review: Initial screening of resumes and applications to identify candidates with basic qualifications and relevant experience.

2. Phone/Virtual Screening: A brief initial conversation to assess general suitability, availability, and interest in the role.

3. In-Person Interview: This will be the primary assessment phase, likely involving:

• Behavioral Questions: To gauge customer service skills, problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and adherence to company values (e.g., "Tell me about a time you handled a difficult customer," "How do you prioritize tasks when busy?").
• Situational Questions: To understand how candidates would handle specific scenarios related to framing, sales, or operational challenges (e.g., "A customer wants to frame a very valuable piece of art; what steps would you take?").
• Skills Assessment (Potential): A practical demonstration or discussion of basic measuring skills, familiarity with tools, or a simple design consultation exercise.
• Company Culture Fit: Assessing alignment with Michaels' values of creativity, customer service, and teamwork.

1. Potential Second Interview/Manager Review: For strong candidates, a follow-up interview with a higher-level manager or a final review might occur.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• For this role, a traditional portfolio is less critical than demonstrating practical skills and a customer-focused mindset.

• Highlight Customer Service Examples: Be prepared to discuss specific instances where you provided excellent customer service, resolved issues, or went above and beyond.

• Showcase Problem-Solving: Detail how you approach challenges, especially those involving customer needs or operational hurdles.

• Demonstrate Technical Aptitude: If you have prior framing experience, be ready to discuss your process, the types of materials you've worked with, and your comfort level with equipment. Even without direct experience, emphasize your ability to learn technical skills quickly.

• Articulate Design Sensibility: While not a designer role, showing an appreciation for aesthetics, color, and composition will be beneficial when discussing framing options with customers.

Challenge Preparation:

• Operational Scenarios: Be prepared for questions about how you would manage a busy framing counter, handle stock discrepancies, or ensure store presentation standards during peak times.

• Sales Scenarios: Practice how you would approach a customer to offer framing services, upsell matting options, or explain the value of custom framing.

• Safety Procedures: Understand the importance of safety in a retail environment, especially when handling tools like glass cutters and operating machinery.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is standard for retail roles, with a specific emphasis on assessing both customer-facing skills and the technical aptitude required for custom framing. The "portfolio" aspect is de-emphasized in favor of practical demonstrations and behavioral examples.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Custom Framing Equipment:

  • Mat Cutter: For precise cutting of mat board.
  • Glass Cutter: For sizing and shaping glass or acrylic.
  • Heat Press: For applying heat-activated adhesives or laminates.
  • Framing Tools: Such as jointers, saws, and staple guns for assembling frames.

• Point of Sale (POS) System: For processing transactions, managing customer accounts, and potentially inventory lookups.

• Basic Computer Skills: For accessing internal systems, training modules, and communication.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not directly responsible for complex analytics, the role will interact with sales reports and inventory data through the POS system to understand performance and stock levels.

• Customer Relationship Management (CRM) System (likely integrated into POS): To track customer orders, purchase history, and preferences for personalized service.

CRM & Automation:

• The POS system likely has CRM functionalities to manage customer interactions and order history.

• Automation within the role primarily refers to efficient execution of standard operating procedures and potentially using system features for tasks like directed replenishment or order tracking.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is primarily focused on operational tools within a retail store environment. The "automation" aspect refers to efficient process execution rather than sophisticated software automation. Proficiency with these tools is essential for the day-to-day functioning of the role.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Creativity: Encouraging and supporting customers' creative endeavors and personal expression through framing.

• Customer Focus: Prioritizing customer satisfaction by providing exceptional service, personalized solutions, and a positive shopping experience.

• Quality: Commitment to delivering high-quality custom framing work that meets customer expectations and adheres to company standards.

• Teamwork: Collaborating effectively with colleagues to achieve store goals, support each other, and maintain a positive work environment.

• Integrity: Upholding ethical standards in all transactions, customer interactions, and operational processes.

• Efficiency: Performing tasks accurately and in a timely manner to ensure smooth store operations and customer service.

Collaboration Style:

• Service-Oriented: Team members are expected to assist each other in serving customers, whether it's directing a customer to the right department, helping with a transaction, or supporting framing production.

• Process-Driven: Collaboration involves following established SOPs and team workflows to ensure consistency and efficiency across all store functions.

• Open Communication: Encouraging clear communication regarding customer needs, operational issues, and task delegation to ensure smooth operations and customer satisfaction.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture and values are centered around customer experience, creativity, and operational efficiency, typical for a customer-facing retail environment. The emphasis on teamwork and integrity is crucial for maintaining a positive and productive store atmosphere.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Multiple Roles: Effectively managing the demands of custom framing production, direct sales consultations, general customer service, and store operational tasks simultaneously.

• Customer Expectations: Meeting diverse customer expectations for design, quality, and turnaround time, especially for unique or complex framing projects.

• Technical Skill Development: Quickly mastering the operation of framing equipment and developing accurate measuring and cutting skills.

• Sales Quotas/Targets: Meeting individual and store-level sales goals for custom framing, which can be influenced by external factors.

• Physical Demands: The role requires standing for long periods, lifting heavy items, and performing repetitive motions.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

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

• Sales & Consultation Skills: Enhance consultative selling abilities, customer engagement strategies, and design recommendation skills.

• Retail Operations Knowledge: Gain a comprehensive understanding of retail management, inventory control, merchandising, and POS systems.

• Customer Service Excellence: Develop advanced skills in conflict resolution, customer retention, and building lasting relationships.

• Potential for Leadership: With consistent performance and demonstrated leadership potential, opportunities to advance into supervisory or management roles within Michaels stores.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are typical for a specialized retail role that combines technical skills with customer service and sales. The growth opportunities are primarily focused on advancing within the retail store structure and deepening expertise in custom framing.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your understanding of custom picture framing and why it's important to customers."

  • Preparation: Research common framing materials, styles, and the value proposition of custom framing (preservation, aesthetics, personalization). Think about how framing enhances artwork and memories.

• "How would you approach a customer who is unsure about their framing design?"

  • Preparation: Focus on active listening, asking probing questions about the artwork and intended display location, and offering guided suggestions based on design principles. Emphasize your ability to translate customer ideas into tangible framing solutions.

• "Imagine a customer needs a complex framing job completed by a tight deadline. How would you manage their expectations and ensure quality?"

  • Preparation: Discuss your ability to assess feasibility, communicate clearly about timelines and potential limitations, and explore expedited options if available, while never compromising on quality. Highlight your organizational skills and commitment to follow-through.

• "Tell me about a time you had to handle a difficult customer or resolve a service issue."

  • Preparation: Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to describe a real experience. Focus on remaining calm, empathetic, and finding a satisfactory resolution.

• "What are your basic computer and measuring skills? Can you demonstrate them?"

  • Preparation: Be ready to discuss your familiarity with basic computer functions (e.g., using a mouse, keyboard, navigating software) and your comfort level with using measuring tapes and rulers accurately.

• "How do you ensure safety in a workshop environment with tools like glass cutters?"

  • Preparation: Discuss your understanding of safety protocols, the importance of proper tool handling, maintaining a clean workspace, and adhering to company safety guidelines.

Company & Culture Questions:

• "Why are you interested in working for Michaels, specifically as a Custom Picture Framer?"

  • Preparation: Research Michaels' mission, values, and commitment to creativity. Connect your personal interests in art, design, or customer service to the company's brand.

• "How do you contribute to a positive team environment?"

  • Preparation: Discuss your collaborative nature, willingness to help colleagues, and ability to communicate effectively and respectfully.

• "Michaels emphasizes creativity and celebration. How do you see yourself embodying these values in this role?"

  • Preparation: Think about how you can inspire customers' creativity through your framing suggestions and contribute to a positive, celebratory atmosphere in the store.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• For this role, focus on verbal examples and practical demonstrations rather than a formal visual portfolio.

• Prepare specific anecdotes: Have 2-3 concise stories ready that showcase your customer service, problem-solving, or any relevant technical/creative skills.

• Demonstrate enthusiasm: Show genuine interest in art, design, and helping customers bring their visions to life.

• Articulate your learning approach: Since it's an entry-level role, express your eagerness to learn the framing craft and company processes thoroughly.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation for this role emphasizes behavioral and situational questions, alongside demonstrating practical skills and cultural fit. The "portfolio" aspect is less about a physical collection of work and more about the ability to articulate relevant experiences and potential.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Retail Custom Picture Framer position:

• Submit your application: Complete and submit your application through the provided link on the Michaels careers portal.

• Tailor your resume: Ensure your resume highlights any customer service experience, sales achievements, technical aptitude (even basic computer or manual skills), and any creative interests or projects that align with Michaels' brand. Use keywords from the job description like "customer service," "sales," "merchandising," and "custom framing."

• Prepare for behavioral and situational questions: Think about specific examples from past experiences that demonstrate your problem-solving skills, ability to work with customers, and capacity to learn new technical skills.

• Research Michaels: Familiarize yourself with Michaels' products, services, brand values (creativity, celebration), and recent initiatives. This will help you articulate your interest and cultural fit during the interview.

• Practice your "framing pitch": Be ready to explain why you are interested in custom framing and how you would approach a customer consultation, even if you have limited direct framing experience. Showcase your enthusiasm for learning.

⚠️ 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.