Retail - Framer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Retail - Framer

Company: Michaels Stores

Location: Aurora, Colorado, United States (7405 Market Place Dr)

Job Type: Part time

Category: Retail Operations / Customer Service / Sales

Date Posted: 2026-08-07

Experience Level: Entry Level (0-2 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Execute custom framing solutions by building strong customer relationships and understanding their creative needs.

• Drive sales and production targets through consultative selling and delivering high-quality framing services.

• Manage retail operations by maintaining merchandising standards, ensuring product availability, and adhering to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).

• Provide exceptional customer service by assisting shoppers, locating products, and ensuring a positive store experience.

• Contribute to efficient store operations through accurate cash handling, inventory management, and participation in stocking processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role focuses on a blend of customer-facing sales, skilled craftsmanship in framing, and general retail operational duties. The emphasis is on building relationships and delivering personalized solutions within a retail environment.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Build and nurture customer relationships by understanding their artistic vision and translating it into memorable custom framing solutions using the Elevated ABC Deliver methodology.

• Achieve and exceed personal sales and production goals for custom framing orders, ensuring timely and high-quality completion.

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

• Deliver friendly, proactive customer service by acknowledging customers, assisting with product location, and offering solutions to meet their creative needs.

• Ensure a safe, clean, and well-organized store environment by adhering to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company programs, including shrink and safety initiatives.

• Operate the cash register accurately and efficiently, adhering to all cash handling standards and procedures.

• Support omni-channel processes, such as buy online, pick up in-store (BOPIS), to enhance the overall customer shopping experience.

• Participate actively in truck un-load and stocking processes, ensuring adherence to truck standards and budget compliance.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a hands-on role involving direct customer interaction, sales, and skilled production work. The emphasis on SOPs and specific methodologies like "Elevated ABC Deliver" suggests a structured approach to customer engagement and operational execution.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: High school diploma or equivalent is generally expected for entry-level retail positions, though not explicitly stated as a minimum requirement.

Experience:

• 0-2 years of experience in a retail or customer-facing role is ideal.

• Experience in sales or product/service consultation is preferred. Required Skills:

• Basic computer skills for order entry, POS systems, and potential inventory lookups.

• Basic measuring skills to accurately assess artwork and frame dimensions.

• Ability to operate framing equipment and a glass cutter safely and effectively.

• Strong customer service orientation with excellent interpersonal and communication skills.

• Ability to work effectively in a team environment and follow instructions.

• Basic cash handling and transaction processing skills. Preferred Skills:

• Previous retail experience, particularly in a custom framing or arts and crafts environment.

• Proven sales ability with experience in consultative selling or solution-based selling.

• Familiarity with art materials and framing techniques.

• Experience with inventory management and merchandising principles.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirements are geared towards an entry-level candidate, emphasizing foundational skills in customer interaction, basic technical abilities for framing, and a willingness to learn. The preference for retail and sales experience indicates a desire for candidates who can hit the ground running in driving revenue.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• While a formal portfolio isn't explicitly required for this entry-level role, candidates are encouraged to highlight relevant experiences in their application or resume that demonstrate:
  • Customer Engagement Success: Examples of building rapport and providing solutions that led to customer satisfaction or sales.
  • Quality of Work: Any instances of creating or contributing to high-quality finished products (even if not framing-specific, e.g., craft projects, detailed work).
  • Process Adherence: Demonstrating an understanding of following procedures and standards to achieve consistent results.
  • Problem-Solving: Instances where basic technical or customer-related issues were resolved effectively.

Process Documentation:

• Candidates should be prepared to discuss their understanding of and experience with:
  • Workflow Design: How they approach a task from start to finish, ensuring all steps are completed correctly.
  • Implementation: Experience in executing tasks according to established guidelines and procedures.
  • Measurement & Analysis: While not a primary focus for this role, an understanding of how their work contributes to store goals (e.g., sales, customer satisfaction) is beneficial.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an entry-level retail position, the "portfolio" is more about showcasing relevant experiences and a proactive attitude during the application and interview process rather than a formal collection of work. The focus is on demonstrating potential and a foundational understanding of customer service and operational tasks.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $11.75 - $13.80 per hour.

This range reflects the entry-level nature of the position and the typical compensation for similar roles in retail, adjusted for the Aurora, Colorado location. The hourly rate is based on the provided data and aligns with current market trends for part-time retail associates in similar positions.

Benefits:

• Health & Wellness:

  • Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage (eligibility may vary based on hours worked and employment status).
  • Telemedicine services for convenient access to healthcare.
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for confidential support.

• Financial & Retirement:

  • 401(k) with employer match to help save for retirement.
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) for healthcare and dependent care expenses.
  • Commuter benefits to assist with transportation costs.

• Professional Development:

  • Tuition assistance to support ongoing education.
  • Adoption assistance to help with the costs of expanding a family.

• Additional Perks:

  • Voluntary insurance options for enhanced coverage.

  • Significant employee discounts on Michaels products.

  • Access to partner discount programs. Working Hours: Part-time hours, with flexibility required to work nights, weekends, and early mornings. The role is expected to align with typical retail operating hours, potentially up to 40 hours per week, though specific schedules will vary.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is provided based on the explicit data in the job description. The benefits listed are comprehensive and typical for a retail organization of Michaels' size, offering a good mix of health, financial, and developmental support. The "part-time" designation implies flexibility in scheduling is a key component.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Arts, Crafts, and Custom Framing Retail. Michaels operates as a leading specialty retailer in North America, catering to DIY enthusiasts, crafters, and individuals seeking personalized art display solutions. The industry demands creativity, customer engagement, and efficient operational execution.

Company Size: Michaels operates over 1,300 stores across North America, indicating a large, established retail presence with significant operational scale. This size offers opportunities for structured training, standardized processes, and a wide network of colleagues.

Founded: Michaels was founded in 1973 and is headquartered in Irving, Texas. This long history suggests a stable company with established operational practices and a deep understanding of its market.

Team Structure:

• Store-Level Operations: Framers typically work as part of a store team, reporting to a Store Manager, Assistant Store Manager, or a designated department lead (e.g., Framing Manager, if applicable).

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Collaboration is essential with other store associates for customer service, inventory management, and operational tasks. There's also interaction with corporate support for training, merchandising, and policy updates.

• Departmental Focus: While part of the broader store team, framers will have a primary focus on the Custom Framing department, working closely with colleagues in that area to manage workflow and customer needs.

Methodology:

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

• Process Standardization: Adherence to SOPs is critical, ensuring consistent service and operational execution across all locations.

• Data-Informed Merchandising: While not deeply analytical for this role, understanding stock levels and merchandising standards is key to driving sales and customer satisfaction.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture at Michaels is likely a blend of creative energy, customer focus, and structured retail operations. The large store footprint means processes are well-defined, and teamwork is crucial for success.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This "Retail - Framer" role is positioned at an Entry-Level or Associate level within the retail operations framework. It requires basic skills and provides foundational experience in customer service, sales, and a specialized craft (framing). The responsibilities are task-oriented but contribute directly to store revenue and customer satisfaction.

Reporting Structure: The Framer typically reports to a Store Manager or a designated department supervisor within the retail store hierarchy. This structure provides direct oversight and guidance for daily tasks and performance.

Operations Impact: The Framer's impact is primarily felt at the store level, directly influencing:

• Customer Satisfaction: Through quality framing and positive interactions.

• Sales Revenue: By driving custom framing orders and assisting with general store sales.

• Store Presentation: By maintaining the visual appeal and organization of the framing department and other assigned areas.

• Operational Efficiency: Through accurate transaction processing and participation in inventory tasks.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Potential to become a highly skilled Custom Framing Specialist, taking on more complex projects and advising customers on advanced design options.

• Retail Leadership: Progression to roles like Assistant Store Manager, Store Manager, or department-specific leadership roles (e.g., Framing Department Manager) by demonstrating strong sales, operational, and leadership capabilities.

• Cross-Departmental Experience: Opportunities to gain experience in other store departments, broadening retail skill sets.

• Company-Wide Opportunities: Potential for advancement into corporate roles in merchandising, training, or operations management with demonstrated performance and further development.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role serves as a solid entry point into retail operations, offering a direct path to developing core customer service and sales skills, alongside a specific craft. Growth potential exists within store management or specialized operational roles.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is a public retail store setting. The primary workspace is the retail floor and the dedicated framing shop area within the store.

Office Location(s): The specific store is located at 7405 Market Place Dr, Aurora, Colorado. This is a typical retail environment situated in a commercial area, likely a shopping center or mall.

Workspace Context:

• Customer Interaction Zone: The framing counter and sales floor areas are customer-facing, requiring a professional and welcoming demeanor.

• Production Area: The framing shop is a specialized workspace equipped with tools like a glass cutter and heat press, where detailed work is performed. This area requires adherence to safety protocols.

• Stock Rooms: Some stock rooms may not be climate-controlled, requiring adaptability to varying temperatures during stocking and inventory tasks.

• Collaborative Environment: Team members work closely together, supporting each other with customer needs, stocking, and maintaining store standards.

• Tools & Technology: Access to point-of-sale (POS) systems, framing equipment, and potentially basic computer systems for order management and inventory.

Work Schedule: The role requires flexibility to work nights, weekends, and early mornings to cover store operating hours. This part-time position will have a schedule that varies based on business needs and team coverage.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is dynamic and fast-paced, typical of a retail setting. It involves direct customer interaction, hands-on production work, and collaborative teamwork, with a need for flexibility in working hours and adaptability to different workspace conditions.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Likely a phone or online application review to assess basic qualifications and interest.

• In-Person Interview(s): This will involve meeting with the hiring manager (e.g., Store Manager) to discuss experience, skills, and fit for the role. Expect questions about customer service scenarios, sales approaches, and handling operational tasks.

• Skills Demonstration: You may be asked to demonstrate basic measuring skills or discuss how you would approach a framing consultation.

• Team Interaction: You might interact with other team members to assess cultural fit and collaboration style.

• Offer: If successful, a job offer will be extended.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Resume Focus: For this role, your resume is your primary "portfolio." Ensure it clearly highlights:

  • Customer Service Experience: Quantify achievements where possible (e.g., "Increased customer satisfaction scores by X%").
  • Sales Aptitude: Mention any experience in sales roles or situations where you successfully persuaded or assisted customers.
  • Technical Aptitude: Detail any experience with tools, equipment, or precise tasks.
  • Operational Duties: List responsibilities like cash handling, inventory, and merchandising.

• Scenario-Based Answers: Be prepared to answer behavioral questions with the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result), using examples from past experiences that demonstrate the required skills.

• Framing Discussion: If you have any personal experience with framing or art projects, be ready to discuss it enthusiastically.

Challenge Preparation:

• Customer Service Scenarios: Practice how you would handle common retail situations like an unhappy customer, a customer asking for product recommendations, or a complex order inquiry.

• Sales Approach: Be ready to articulate your sales process – how you would engage a customer, understand their needs, present solutions, and close a sale.

• Operational Understanding: Demonstrate an awareness of the importance of store standards, safety, and accurate cash handling.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for this role will likely be direct and focused on practical skills and customer interaction abilities. While no formal portfolio is expected, showcasing relevant experience on your resume and articulating your approach to customer service and sales will be key.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Point of Sale (POS) System: For processing transactions, managing customer orders, and potentially looking up inventory. Proficiency with retail POS systems is expected.

• Framing Equipment: Including specialized tools such as a glass cutter, mat cutter, framing assembly tools, and potentially a heat press for specific applications. Safe and effective operation is mandatory.

• Measuring Tools: Standard measuring tapes and rulers for accurate assessment of artwork and frame dimensions.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not a primary function for this role, understanding basic reporting might be beneficial.

• Inventory Management Systems: Used for tracking stock levels, receiving shipments, and managing product replenishment.

• Sales Reporting (basic): Awareness of how individual sales contribute to store targets.

CRM & Automation:

• Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Lite: The "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodology suggests a system for tracking customer interactions, preferences, and past orders to foster repeat business and personalized service.

• Order Management System: Likely integrated with the POS, this system tracks custom framing orders from creation to completion.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack for this role is heavily focused on operational tools necessary for retail transactions and specialized framing production. While advanced analytics tools are not expected, familiarity with POS systems and a structured approach to customer interaction are crucial.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Customer Focus: A commitment to providing exceptional service and building lasting relationships with customers.

• Creativity & Craftsmanship: Valuing the artistic aspect of framing and striving for high-quality, aesthetically pleasing results.

• Teamwork & Collaboration: Working effectively with colleagues to ensure smooth store operations and a positive work environment.

• Integrity & Accountability: Honesty in cash handling, accuracy in order fulfillment, and taking ownership of responsibilities.

• Efficiency & Productivity: Adhering to processes and timelines to meet sales and production goals.

Collaboration Style:

• Supportive & Helpful: Team members are expected to assist each other, share knowledge, and contribute to a positive atmosphere.

• Process-Oriented: Adherence to company SOPs and best practices is encouraged for consistent results and smooth operations.

• Communication: Open communication is vital for coordinating tasks, resolving customer issues, and ensuring smooth workflow, especially within the framing department.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture emphasizes a balance between creative expression in framing and the disciplined execution of retail operations. Teamwork, customer dedication, and a commitment to quality are likely core tenets.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Sales and Production: Effectively managing customer consultations and sales while also ensuring timely and high-quality framing production.

• Customer Expectations: Meeting diverse customer needs and artistic preferences, sometimes requiring creative problem-solving.

• Technical Skill Development: Mastering the operation of framing equipment and achieving proficiency in various framing techniques.

• Pace of Retail: Adapting to the fast-paced environment, handling multiple tasks simultaneously, and managing busy periods.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Framing Expertise: Deepen skills in custom framing, learning about different materials, design principles, and advanced techniques.

• Sales & Customer Service Skills: Enhance consultative selling abilities and customer relationship management through training and practical experience.

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

• Career Progression: Opportunities to advance into leadership roles within the store or specialize further in framing.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents opportunities to develop specialized craft skills alongside essential retail competencies. The challenges are typical of a hands-on, customer-facing role, with clear pathways for professional growth within Michaels.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

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

  • Preparation: Prepare STAR method examples focusing on empathy, problem-solving, and customer satisfaction.

• Sales Approach: "How do you approach selling a product or service?" or "What steps would you take to help a customer choose a framing solution for their artwork?"

  • Preparation: Outline your consultative sales process, emphasizing understanding needs, presenting options, and closing.

• Operational Understanding: "Why is it important to follow Standard Operating Procedures?" or "How do you ensure accuracy when handling cash or processing orders?"

  • Preparation: Demonstrate an understanding of process importance for consistency, safety, and accuracy. Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Michaels, and why are you interested in working here?"

  • Preparation: Research Michaels' mission, values, and product offerings. Connect your interests to creativity, customer service, or art.

• "How do you handle working as part of a team?" or "Describe your ideal work environment."

  • Preparation: Emphasize collaboration, communication, and a positive, supportive atmosphere.

• "How do you ensure quality in your work?"

  • Preparation: Discuss attention to detail, following instructions, and pride in craftsmanship. Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Resume Walkthrough: Be prepared to walk the interviewer through your resume, highlighting experiences most relevant to customer service, sales, and any technical or hands-on skills.

• Scenario Role-Play: You might be asked to role-play a customer interaction, such as a consultation for custom framing. Practice engaging, asking questions, and offering solutions.

• Enthusiasm for Craft: Express genuine interest in custom framing and the creative process. If you have personal projects or relevant hobbies, mention them.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating strong customer service skills, a consultative sales approach, an understanding of retail operations, and genuine enthusiasm for Michaels and the framing craft.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

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

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight customer service achievements, any sales experience, and any technical skills or experience with tools or precise tasks. Use keywords from the job description like "customer service," "sales," "custom framing," and "measuring skills."

• Prepare for Scenarios: Anticipate questions about customer interactions, sales approaches, and handling operational tasks. Practice using the STAR method to structure your answers with concrete examples.

• Research Michaels: Understand the company's mission, values, and product offerings. Be ready to articulate why you are a good fit for their creative and customer-centric culture.

• Highlight Relevant Experience: If you have any personal experience with arts, crafts, or DIY projects that showcase attention to detail or creativity, be prepared to discuss them.

⚠️ 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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