Retail framer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Retail Framer

Company: Michaels Stores

Location: Kansas City, Missouri, United States

Job Type: Part time

Category: Retail Operations / Visual Merchandising

Date Posted: 2026-07-28T00:00:00

Experience Level: Entry-level to Junior (0-2 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role focuses on providing exceptional customer service within a retail environment, specifically in custom framing services.

• Key responsibilities include building customer relationships, creating custom framing solutions, and ensuring a positive shopping experience.

• The position involves maintaining store standards, managing visual merchandising for the framing department, and supporting overall store operations.

• Success in this role requires a blend of customer interaction, sales aptitude, and basic technical skills related to framing and display.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is clearly focused on a hybrid customer-facing and operational position within a specialized retail department (custom framing). The "Retail Framer" title, combined with responsibilities like "Elevated ABC Deliver" and "Custom Framing solutions," indicates a need for sales skills alongside production and customer service. The "Part time" employment type suggests flexibility but also a need for efficiency and strong task management during shifts.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Build and maintain strong customer relationships through personalized service, focusing on understanding their needs for custom framing solutions.

• Execute the "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodology to engage customers, provide design consultations, and drive sales of custom framing projects.

• Complete custom framing orders with a high degree of quality and adherence to production timelines, ensuring customer satisfaction.

• Maintain the visual presentation and stock levels of the ready-made frame department, as well as other assigned areas, including SISO (Special In Store Orders) and Directed Replenishment.

• Provide friendly and proactive customer service, assisting shoppers in locating products, offering solutions, and ensuring a well-merchandised and in-stock store.

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

• Support and actively participate in shrink reduction and safety programs to maintain a secure and secure work environment.

• Interact with colleagues and customers in an accepting and respectful manner, maintaining a positive and respectful attitude, especially in challenging situations.

• Act as a role model by embodying the organization's vision and values, projecting a positive image, and demonstrating commitment to the company's mission.

• Participate in the truck un-loading and stocking processes, ensuring adherence to truck standards and completion within budget.

• Operate the cash register and execute cash handling procedures according to established standards.

• Acknowledge customers promptly, assist them in locating products, and provide effective solutions to their needs.

• Support and execute omni-channel processes as required, ensuring a seamless customer experience across all channels.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a strong emphasis on customer engagement and sales within the custom framing context, moving beyond basic retail tasks. The inclusion of "Elevated ABC Deliver" points to a specific sales methodology that candidates should be prepared to discuss. The blend of sales, production, and general store operations requires a candidate who can multitask effectively.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• High school diploma or equivalent is typically expected for entry-level retail positions.

• While no specific degree is mandated, a foundational understanding of art or design principles can be beneficial for custom framing consultations. Experience:

• 0-2 years of experience in a retail or customer-facing role is generally sufficient for this position.

• Demonstrated ability to build customer relationships and provide solutions is key. Required Skills:

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

• Basic Measuring Skills: Precision in taking measurements for framing projects is critical.

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

• Sales Aptitude: Comfort and ability to suggest products and services, driving sales, especially within the custom framing context.

• Adherence to SOPs: Ability to follow established procedures for operations, safety, and customer engagement.

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

Preferred Skills:

• Retail Experience: Prior experience in a retail setting, particularly in a specialty or art-related store.

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

• Framing Equipment Operation: Familiarity with operating framing equipment, glass cutters, or heat presses is a significant advantage.

• Visual Merchandising: Understanding of how to present products attractively in a retail environment.

• Art/Design Knowledge: Basic understanding of art, display techniques, or design principles.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Minimum Type of experience" and "Preferred Type of experience" sections clearly indicate that this role is entry-level but values prior retail and sales exposure. The emphasis on "basic computer skills" and "basic measuring skills" suggests that while formal technical training isn't a prerequisite, a certain level of practical aptitude is necessary.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• While a formal portfolio may not be required for this entry-level role, candidates are encouraged to highlight any past projects or experiences that demonstrate their ability to:
  • Design and Execute Solutions: Showcase examples of creating solutions for customer needs, particularly if related to art, display, or custom projects.
  • Demonstrate Quality and Precision: Provide evidence of work that meets high standards of quality and attention to detail.
  • Drive Sales and Customer Satisfaction: Quantify achievements in sales growth or positive customer feedback related to service or product recommendations.
  • Manage and Organize Tasks: Illustrate experience in managing multiple tasks, orders, or responsibilities effectively.

Process Documentation:

• Candidates should be prepared to discuss their understanding of and ability to follow:
  • Workflow Design and Optimization: How they would approach learning and executing the custom framing workflow from consultation to completion.
  • Implementation and Quality Control: Their commitment to adhering to quality standards and production processes.
  • Measurement and Performance: How they track their own performance in sales, customer service, and order completion.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given this is a "Retail Framer" role and likely entry-level, a formal portfolio is less likely to be a strict requirement. However, the enhancement focuses on how a candidate can showcase relevant skills through examples, aligning with the operational and sales aspects of the job. The emphasis is on practical demonstration of skills rather than a formal document.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on industry standards for part-time, entry-level retail positions with specialized skills (like framing) in the Kansas City, Missouri area, the estimated hourly wage is likely between $12.00 to $16.00 per hour.

• This range accounts for the specific skillset required for custom framing, customer service demands, and the part-time nature of the role. Actual compensation will depend on experience, qualifications, and local market conditions. Benefits:

• 401(k) with employer match: Retirement savings plan with company contributions.

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

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

• Telemedicine Services: Convenient remote healthcare consultations.

• 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.

Working Hours:

• This is a part-time position, with hours likely varying based on store needs and scheduling.

• Expect to work nights, weekends, and potentially early mornings as indicated in the work environment section.

• Total weekly hours will depend on scheduling and operational requirements, typically ranging from 15-30 hours per week.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on publicly available data for similar retail roles in the specified region and considers the specialized nature of framing. The benefits listed are directly from the provided company description, highlighting a comprehensive package typical for a large retail employer.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Arts and Crafts Retail. Michaels is a leading North American retailer specializing in arts, crafts, custom framing, and seasonal décor. This industry demands creativity, customer engagement, and a passion for DIY projects and celebrations.

Company Size: The Michaels Companies, Inc. operates over 1,300 stores across the US and Canada, employing a significant number of individuals. This large retail footprint suggests a structured corporate environment with established operational processes and a focus on customer experience at scale.

Founded: 1973, with headquarters in Irving, Texas. This long history indicates a stable company with established brand recognition and a deep understanding of its market.

Team Structure:

• Store-Level Operations: The Retail Framer will be part of a store team, likely reporting directly to a Framing Department Manager or Store Manager.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: This role requires collaboration with other store associates, including those in sales, customer service, and stock management, to ensure smooth store operations and a positive customer journey.

• Specialized Department: The framing department often operates as a distinct unit within the store, requiring specialized knowledge and customer interaction distinct from general merchandise sales.

Methodology:

• Customer-Centric Approach: Michaels emphasizes building customer relationships and providing solutions, as highlighted by the "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodology.

• Process Adherence: A strong focus on Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and compliance ensures consistency and safety across all locations.

• Data-Driven Merchandising: While not explicitly stated for this role, retail operations generally rely on data for inventory management, sales tracking, and visual merchandising effectiveness.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The company information provides context for the role's environment. A large, established retailer like Michaels means standardized processes, a focus on customer service metrics, and opportunities for part-time roles within a structured hierarchy. The emphasis on "creativity" and "celebration" suggests a company culture that values artistic expression and customer engagement.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This "Retail Framer" position is positioned as an entry-level to junior-level role within the retail operations and customer service spectrum. It serves as a foundational position for individuals looking to gain experience in specialized retail services and customer engagement.

Reporting Structure: Typically, a Retail Framer reports to a Department Manager (e.g., Framing Department Manager) or a Store Manager. This structure provides direct supervision and guidance on daily tasks, sales targets, and operational procedures.

Operations Impact: The Retail Framer directly impacts store revenue through custom framing sales and contributing to overall store sales through excellent customer service and product availability. Their ability to create positive customer experiences and high-quality framing solutions is crucial for customer retention and brand loyalty.

Growth Opportunities:

• Framing Specialist/Designer: Advancement to a senior framer or design consultant role, taking on more complex projects and potentially leading the framing department.

• Retail Leadership: Progression into supervisory or management roles within the store (e.g., Assistant Store Manager, Store Manager) by demonstrating strong operational skills, sales performance, and leadership potential.

• Cross-Functional Roles: Opportunities to move into other specialized areas within Michaels, such as visual merchandising, inventory management, or corporate roles, depending on skill development and interest.

• Skill Development: Continuous learning in custom framing techniques, sales strategies, and customer relationship management, potentially leading to certifications or advanced training.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth analysis is tailored to a retail environment, identifying potential career paths from an entry-level specialized role to leadership or further specialization. The emphasis is on how this role can be a stepping stone within the Michaels organization.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is a public retail store setting. The primary workspace will be on the sales floor and within the custom framing shop.

Office Location(s): Kansas City, Missouri (specific store location: 8531 N Evanston Rd). This implies a typical suburban retail environment.

Workspace Context:

• Customer Interaction Focused: The environment is centered around interacting with customers, providing consultations, and completing transactions.

• Specialized Framing Area: The frame shop is equipped with tools like glass cutters, heat presses, and framing equipment, requiring a focus on safety and proper usage.

• Climate Controlled: Most public areas of the store are climate-controlled, ensuring a comfortable working environment.

• Stock Rooms: Some stock rooms may not be climate-controlled, requiring adaptability.

• Physical Demands: The role involves standing for long periods, regular bending, lifting (heavy boxes and frames), carrying, reaching, and stretching. Accessing high shelves may require the use of ladders.

• Outdoor Exposure: Occasional outdoor work may be assigned, such as retrieving shopping carts or during truck unloading.

Work Schedule:

• Work hours include nights, weekends, and early mornings, reflecting the operational needs of a retail store.

• As a part-time position, the schedule will be variable and determined by store needs and employee availability.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment description draws directly from the provided text, emphasizing the practical, hands-on nature of the role and the physical demands associated with retail and framing. The mention of specific tools like "glass cutter and heat press" is important for candidates to understand the technical aspects.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Likely an online application and initial review of qualifications.

• In-Person Interview: Candidates will likely participate in one or more in-person interviews at the store.

  • Part 1: Customer Service & Sales Focus: Expect questions assessing customer interaction skills, problem-solving abilities, and your approach to sales ("Elevated ABC Deliver"). Be prepared to discuss how you build rapport and offer solutions.
  • Part 2: Operational & Technical Aptitude: Questions may cover your ability to learn new equipment, follow procedures, and handle basic tasks like measuring or POS operation. Demonstrate your willingness to learn and adhere to SOPs.
  • Part 3: Team Fit & Motivation: Assess your compatibility with the store team and your enthusiasm for Michaels' mission. Discuss why you are interested in this specific role and company.

• Practical Assessment (Potential): You might be asked to demonstrate basic measuring skills or discuss how you would approach a framing consultation scenario.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• For this role, a formal portfolio is unlikely. Instead, be prepared to discuss past experiences that showcase your relevant skills.

• Customer Service Examples: Be ready to share specific instances where you went above and beyond for a customer or successfully resolved a customer issue.

• Sales Achievements: If you have sales experience, highlight your ability to meet targets, upsell, or introduce new products/services.

• Problem-Solving Scenarios: Describe situations where you had to think on your feet to solve a problem for a customer or within a retail setting.

• Technical Aptitude: Mention any experience with tools, equipment, or learning new technical processes.

Challenge Preparation:

• Scenario-Based Questions: Prepare for questions like: "A customer wants to frame a valuable piece of art but has a limited budget. How would you advise them?" or "How would you handle a situation where a customer is unhappy with their framing order?"

• Demonstrate Learning Agility: Emphasize your ability to quickly learn and master new skills, equipment, and company procedures.

• Enthusiasm for the Brand: Show genuine interest in Michaels, its products, and its mission to inspire creativity.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is inferred based on typical retail hiring practices for customer-facing roles with specialized departments. The advice focuses on preparing for common retail interview types and how to highlight relevant, even if informal, experiences.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Custom Framing Equipment: Experience or ability to learn to operate:

  • Framing Machines: For cutting frames to size and assembling them.
  • Glass Cutters: For precisely cutting glass or acrylic to fit the frame.
  • Heat Press: For applying adhesives or laminates in the framing process.
  • Mat Cutters: For creating custom mats for artwork.

• Point-of-Sale (POS) System: For processing transactions, managing sales, and potentially handling order entry. Proficiency with modern retail POS systems is expected.

• Basic Measurement Tools: Tape measures, rulers, and potentially specialized framing rulers.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Sales Performance Tracking: Understanding of how to monitor personal sales goals and contribute to store-wide objectives.

• Inventory Management Systems: Familiarity with systems for tracking stock levels, managing ready-made frames, and processing Special In Store Orders (SISO).

CRM & Automation:

• Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Principles: While likely not a dedicated CRM system for this role, understanding the principles of building customer relationships and providing personalized service is key.

• Omni-channel Support Tools: Ability to assist with online orders, in-store pickups, and other integrated customer service processes managed through store systems.

📝 Enhancement Note: The tools listed are specific to the framing department and general retail operations. The emphasis is on the practical, hands-on equipment used in framing and standard retail technology like POS systems.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Creativity & Inspiration: Michaels fosters an environment that celebrates creativity and encourages artistic expression, both in products and in how associates approach their work.

• Customer Focus: A core value is building strong customer relationships and providing exceptional service that goes beyond transactions to inspire and assist.

• Teamwork & Respect: Associates are expected to work collaboratively, treating each other and customers with respect, acceptance, and positivity.

• Efficiency & Quality: The company values adherence to procedures (SOPs) and delivering high-quality products and services on time.

• Safety & Compliance: Maintaining a safe work environment and adhering to all company policies and legal requirements is paramount.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Support: Associates are expected to support each other across different departments and tasks to ensure the smooth functioning of the store.

• Direct Communication: Open and respectful communication is encouraged, especially when discussing customer needs or operational challenges.

• Process-Oriented: Collaboration often involves following established workflows and procedures to ensure consistency and efficiency in tasks like framing and stocking.

• Customer-Led Interactions: The primary collaborative focus is often on how the team can best serve the customer, whether through sales, service, or product availability.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture and values are derived from the company's stated purpose and industry. The emphasis is on how these values translate into daily operations for a retail associate, particularly one in a specialized department like framing.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Sales and Production: Effectively managing customer consultations and sales while simultaneously producing high-quality framing orders within deadlines.

• Handling Diverse Customer Needs: Meeting the varied aesthetic preferences, budget constraints, and project requirements of a wide range of customers.

• Physical Demands of the Role: Sustaining physical stamina for long periods of standing, lifting, and intricate work with tools.

• Learning Technical Skills: Mastering the operation of specialized framing equipment and techniques to produce professional-quality work.

• Seasonal Fluctuations: Adapting to busy periods (e.g., holidays, back-to-school) and managing workload effectively.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Framing Expertise: Deepen knowledge and skills in custom framing design, materials, and techniques, potentially becoming a certified framer.

• Sales and Customer Service Skills: Enhance consultative selling abilities, customer relationship management, and problem-solving through ongoing training and practical experience.

• Retail Operations Knowledge: Gain a comprehensive understanding of retail store operations, including inventory management, visual merchandising, and omni-channel processes.

• Leadership Potential: Develop leadership qualities through teamwork, responsibility, and mentorship, paving the way for advancement into supervisory or management roles.

• Product Knowledge: Expand understanding of art, décor, and craft trends to better advise customers.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are specific to the dual nature of the role (sales/service and production) and the demands of a retail environment. Growth opportunities focus on skill specialization within framing and general retail career progression.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Customer Service & Sales:

  • "Describe a time you successfully helped a customer find the perfect solution for their needs."
  • "How would you approach a customer who is unsure about what framing style they want for their artwork?"
  • "Tell me about a time you had to upsell a product or service. What was the outcome?"
  • "How do you ensure customer satisfaction, especially when dealing with custom orders?"

• Operational & Technical:

  • "What is your experience with basic measuring or using tools? How comfortable are you learning new equipment?"
  • "Describe your understanding of following Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). Why are they important?"
  • "How would you prioritize tasks if you had a framing order to complete, a customer waiting for assistance, and a truck needing to be unloaded?"
  • "What steps would you take to ensure the framing department is visually appealing and well-stocked?"

• Company & Culture:

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

  • "What does 'fueling the joy of creativity' mean to you?"

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

  • "Describe your ideal team environment." Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Since a formal portfolio isn't expected, prepare to discuss specific examples from your past experiences that demonstrate:

  • Problem-Solving: A situation where you identified a customer's need and provided a creative or effective solution.
  • Sales Success: Instances where you met or exceeded sales goals, or successfully introduced a new product/service.
  • Quality of Work: If you have personal projects or past work that showcases attention to detail, precision, or craftsmanship, be ready to describe them.
  • Team Contribution: Examples of how you collaborated with colleagues to achieve a common goal.

Challenge Preparation:

• Scenario: "A customer brings in a valuable, signed sports jersey they want framed. They are on a tight budget and have a specific deadline for an event. How would you handle this?"

  • Preparation: Focus on understanding their needs, discussing budget-friendly options, explaining the value of professional framing, managing expectations regarding the deadline, and potentially offering different levels of service.

• Scenario: "You notice the ready-made frame display is disorganized and has some empty spots. What do you do?"

  • Preparation: Emphasize your proactive approach, ability to maintain visual standards, and understanding of merchandising principles.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview questions and preparation tips are designed to align with the specific responsibilities and skills required for a Retail Framer role, focusing on customer service, sales, operational tasks, and adaptability.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

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

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight any customer service, sales, retail, or hands-on/craftsmanship experience. Use keywords like "customer engagement," "sales," "merchandising," "custom solutions," "POS systems," and "detail-oriented." Quantify achievements whenever possible (e.g., "Increased framing sales by X%," "Consistently met customer service targets").

• Prepare for Scenarios: Think of specific examples from your past work or personal life that demonstrate your problem-solving skills, customer service approach, and ability to learn new processes.

• Research Michaels: Familiarize yourself with Michaels' mission, values, and product offerings. Understand their focus on creativity and customer experience. Be ready to articulate why you want to work there and how you align with their culture.

• Practice Your Pitch: Be ready to confidently discuss your skills and experiences during the interview, emphasizing your enthusiasm for customer interaction and your ability to learn the framing craft.

⚠️ 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.