Retail Framer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Retail Framer

Company: Michaels Stores

Location: Temple, Pennsylvania, United States

Job Type: Part time

Category: Retail Operations / Custom Framing Specialist

Date Posted: September 03, 2026

Experience Level: Entry Level (0-2 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is centered around providing exceptional customer service and sales within a retail environment, specifically focusing on custom framing solutions.

• The Retail Framer will be responsible for building strong customer relationships, understanding their needs, and translating them into high-quality, custom-framed products.

• Key operational duties include maintaining store standards, managing inventory for the ready-made frame department, and assisting with general store upkeep and stocking processes.

• The position also involves operating a cash register, handling transactions accurately, and supporting omni-channel fulfillment processes to ensure a seamless customer experience.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the job title is "Retail Framer," the core responsibilities and required skills indicate a blend of customer-facing sales, operational support, and specialized custom framing execution. This is not a typical GTM or RevOps role but rather an operational position within a retail setting that requires attention to detail, customer interaction, and product knowledge.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Build and nurture customer relationships by actively engaging with shoppers, understanding their creative needs, and recommending tailored custom framing solutions.

• Execute sales and production targets for the custom framing department by effectively selling products and services, leveraging sales techniques, and ensuring customer satisfaction.

• Complete custom framing orders with a high degree of quality and precision, adhering to established timelines and customer specifications.

• Maintain the visual presentation and stock levels of the ready-made frame department, including SISO (Shop In Shop Out) and directed replenishment processes.

• Deliver friendly and efficient customer service, assisting shoppers in locating products, providing solutions, and ensuring a positive and well-merchandised shopping environment.

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

• Actively participate in shrink and safety programs, contributing to a secure and loss-prevention-focused retail environment.

• Interact with colleagues and customers in an accepting and respectful manner, maintaining a positive and professional demeanor even in challenging situations.

• Support the efficient execution of truck un-loading and stocking processes, ensuring adherence to truck standards and completion within budget.

• Operate the cash register accurately, executing all cash handling procedures to established standards for all transactions.

• Acknowledge and greet customers promptly, assist them in finding products, and offer creative solutions to their needs.

• Support and execute omni-channel processes, including but not limited to, buy online pickup in-store (BOPIS) and ship-from-store initiatives.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities emphasize a direct customer interaction model within a retail setting, focusing on consultative selling of custom framing services. The operational aspects include inventory management, visual merchandising, and transaction processing, all critical for retail operations.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While no specific degree is mandated, a foundational understanding of basic math and measurement is essential for custom framing.

Experience: A minimum of 0-2 years of experience is expected, with a focus on practical skills and customer interaction.

Required Skills:

• Basic computer skills: Ability to navigate point-of-sale (POS) systems, basic order entry, and potentially simple digital design tools.

• Basic measuring skills: Precision in taking measurements for custom framing projects is critical.

• Ability to operate framing equipment and glass cutter: Proficiency in using specialized tools for cutting and assembling frames.

• Customer service orientation: Proven ability to engage with customers, understand their needs, and provide solutions.

• Cash handling proficiency: Experience in operating a cash register and managing financial transactions accurately.

• Merchandising and visual standards: Ability to maintain an organized and appealing retail display for framing products.

• Adherence to SOPs: Commitment to following established procedures and company policies. Preferred Skills:

• Retail experience: Prior experience working in a retail environment, particularly in a customer-facing role.

• Sales experience: Proven track record of selling products and/or services, with an aptitude for consultative selling.

• Custom framing knowledge: Familiarity with different framing materials, techniques, and design principles.

• Omni-channel experience: Understanding of processes like BOPIS or ship-from-store.

📝 Enhancement Note: The required skills are heavily focused on practical, hands-on abilities and direct customer engagement, typical for a front-line retail operational role. The preferred skills highlight a desire for candidates with prior retail sales experience, suggesting a performance-driven aspect to the role.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• While a formal portfolio might not be strictly required for this entry-level role, candidates are encouraged to highlight examples of their work if they have prior custom framing or visual merchandising experience.

• Demonstrating an understanding of process flow for custom orders, from consultation to completion, can be beneficial.

• Examples of how they have improved customer satisfaction or sales through their previous roles.

• Any experience with retail POS systems or basic design software that can be showcased. Process Documentation:

• Candidates should be prepared to discuss their understanding of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and how they ensure adherence to them in a retail setting.

• Ability to articulate how they would document or improve a simple workflow, such as a custom order process or a stock replenishment task.

• Understanding of how to track and measure personal performance against sales and production goals.

📝 Enhancement Note: For this specific role, a "portfolio" would likely be less about formal design documents and more about demonstrating practical skills and understanding of retail processes. Candidates should be ready to discuss past achievements and process adherence.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: As this is a part-time retail position in Temple, PA, the estimated hourly wage would likely fall between $12.00 - $16.00 per hour. This range is based on industry benchmarks for entry-level retail associates with custom framing responsibilities in the Pennsylvania region, considering the cost of living and typical retail compensation structures.

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 coverage: Health insurance options for eligible employees.

• Dental coverage: Dental insurance options.

• Vision coverage: Vision insurance options.

• Telemedicine services: Access to remote medical 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 adopting a child.

• Voluntary insurance options: Additional insurance coverage choices (e.g., life, disability).

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

• Partner discount programs: Access to discounts with affiliated companies.

Working Hours: This is a part-time position. While the exact schedule will vary, typical working hours may include nights, weekends, and early mornings, as needed to cover store operating hours and customer demand. The role involves standing for extended periods and may require up to 40 hours per week during peak seasons, though it is classified as part-time.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimation is based on general US retail part-time roles and the specific location. The benefits listed are comprehensive and typical for a larger retail organization like Michaels, offering a good package for part-time employees.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Arts and Crafts Retail. Michaels is a leading retailer in North America for arts, crafts, custom framing, and decor. The company's focus is on inspiring creativity and celebrating life's moments. This industry context means the culture often values creativity, DIY spirit, and community engagement.

Company Size: Michaels operates over 1,300 stores in 49 states and Canada, employing a substantial workforce. This large retail footprint suggests a structured operational environment with established processes and a significant customer base.

Founded: Founded in 1973 and headquartered in Irving, Texas, Michaels has a long-standing history in the retail sector, indicating stability and a well-developed operational framework.

Team Structure:

• The Retail Framer will be part of a store-level team, likely reporting to a Store Manager, Assistant Store Manager, or a dedicated Framing Department Manager.

• The team structure is typically hierarchical within a retail store, with specialized roles for different departments (e.g., cashiers, framers, visual merchandisers).

• Cross-functional collaboration is essential, as the Framer will interact with all store team members to ensure smooth operations, customer service, and omni-channel support. Methodology:

• Data analysis and insights: Focus on sales data, customer feedback, and inventory levels to inform merchandising and sales strategies within the framing department.

• Workflow planning and optimization: Implementing and following SOPs for custom framing, order fulfillment, and store operations to ensure efficiency and quality.

• Automation and efficiency practices: Utilizing POS systems and potentially other retail technology to streamline transactions and inventory management.

Company Website: www.michaels.com

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture likely emphasizes creativity, customer service, and operational efficiency within a structured retail environment. The size and history of Michaels suggest well-defined processes and a focus on brand consistency across all locations.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is at an entry-level to early-career stage within retail operations. It provides foundational experience in customer service, sales, product handling, and operational processes within a specialized department.

Reporting Structure: The Retail Framer typically reports to a Store Manager or a department lead within the store. This direct reporting line offers opportunities for immediate feedback and guidance on performance and operational execution.

Operations Impact: While not directly managing revenue operations or sales operations strategy at a corporate level, the Retail Framer's impact is crucial for the store's success. They directly influence customer satisfaction, drive sales for the custom framing department, ensure operational efficiency through accurate order fulfillment, and contribute to overall store appearance and functionality.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Advancement: Opportunity to become a highly skilled custom framer, mastering various techniques and materials, potentially leading to a senior framer or lead position.

• Retail Management Path: With demonstrated success in sales, customer service, and operational adherence, there's a potential to move into supervisory roles (e.g., Assistant Manager) or management positions within a Michaels store.

• Cross-Departmental Experience: The role provides exposure to various retail operations, including merchandising, inventory, and customer service across different product categories, enabling a broader understanding of retail operations.

• Specialization: Opportunity to deepen expertise in custom framing, potentially leading to roles in design or specialized customer consultations.

📝 Enhancement Note: Growth is primarily within the retail store environment, focusing on mastering the craft of custom framing, enhancing sales skills, and progressing into leadership roles within store management.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The work environment is a public retail store setting. It's a fast-paced, customer-centric space where team members interact directly with shoppers throughout the day.

Office Location(s): The specific store is located at 4330 Alletown Pike, Temple, PA. This location is a typical retail storefront within a commercial area.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace includes the main retail floor for customer interaction and sales, the custom framing shop area equipped with specialized tools, and stock rooms for inventory.

• The framing shop itself contains tools like glass cutters and heat presses, requiring a focus on safety and precision.

• Opportunities for team interaction occur during daily operations, team meetings, stocking processes, and collaborative customer assistance.

Work Schedule: The work schedule involves nights, weekends, and early mornings, aligning with typical retail operating hours. While part-time, flexibility is often required to meet business needs, especially during peak seasons. The role demands standing for long periods, requiring physical stamina.

📝 Enhancement Note: The environment is dynamic and customer-focused, with specific operational zones for sales, custom work, and inventory. The schedule demands flexibility, common in the retail sector.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

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

• In-Person Interview: Candidates will likely have an in-person interview at the store. This will involve meeting with the hiring manager (Store Manager or Assistant Manager) to discuss experience, skills, and fit with the company culture. Expect behavioral questions focusing on customer service, problem-solving, and teamwork.

• Skills Assessment/Demonstration: For the framing aspect, there might be a practical demonstration of basic measuring skills or an aptitude test for operating equipment, or a discussion about their understanding of framing processes.

• Final Interview/Onboarding: If successful, an offer will be extended, followed by onboarding procedures, including background checks and new hire orientation.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• For this role, a formal "portfolio" isn't strictly necessary. However, candidates with prior framing or design experience should be prepared to discuss specific projects, challenges, and outcomes.

• Highlight any examples of successful customer interactions where you went above and beyond to meet their needs or solve a problem.

• Be ready to discuss how you approach learning new skills, especially technical ones like operating framing equipment.

• If you have examples of visual merchandising or store organization you've implemented, be prepared to describe them. Challenge Preparation:

• Customer Service Scenario: Be ready to describe how you would handle a difficult customer or a situation where a customer is unsure about their framing needs.

• Problem-Solving: Prepare an example of a time you encountered an operational issue (e.g., inventory discrepancy, equipment malfunction) and how you resolved it.

• Sales Pitch: Practice articulating the value of custom framing and how it benefits the customer's art or decor.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is typical for retail roles, focusing on practical skills, customer service aptitude, and cultural fit. Preparation should emphasize customer interaction, problem-solving, and a willingness to learn specialized skills.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Custom Framing Equipment: Including mat cutters, frame saws, pneumatic nailers, and potentially specialized cutting tools.

• Glass Cutter: Essential for precisely cutting glass or acrylic for frames.

• Heat Press: May be used for specific mounting or finishing techniques.

• POS System: For processing sales, managing transactions, and potentially customer order entry.

• Basic Computer Skills: For accessing company portals, training modules, and potentially digital design tools.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Sales tracking via POS system: Monitoring individual sales performance and department sales.

• Inventory management systems: For tracking stock levels of ready-made frames and framing supplies. CRM & Automation:

• Customer Relationship Management (CRM) elements may be integrated into the POS system for tracking customer purchase history and preferences, aiding in personalized service.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is primarily focused on direct operational tools for production (framing equipment) and transaction processing (POS systems), with basic computer literacy required.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Customer Focus: Prioritizing customer needs and satisfaction through excellent service and high-quality custom framing solutions.

• Creativity & Passion: Embracing the company's purpose of fueling the joy of creativity and celebrating life's moments.

• Quality & Precision: Commitment to delivering expertly crafted custom framing that meets high standards.

• Teamwork & Respect: Collaborating effectively with colleagues and fostering a positive, inclusive work environment.

• Efficiency & Compliance: Adhering to SOPs and company programs to ensure smooth operations and regulatory compliance.

Collaboration Style:

• The team operates collaboratively, with open communication channels to support customer needs and operational tasks.

• Team members are expected to assist each other, especially during busy periods or when specialized knowledge is required.

• A culture of shared responsibility for maintaining store appearance, stock levels, and customer satisfaction.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture likely balances a creative spirit with the structured demands of retail operations, emphasizing customer-centricity and teamwork.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Sales and Production: Effectively managing customer consultations and sales while simultaneously producing high-quality custom frames in a timely manner.

• Handling Diverse Customer Needs: Catering to a wide range of artistic preferences, budget constraints, and project complexities.

• Maintaining Operational Standards: Consistently adhering to SOPs, safety protocols, and visual merchandising standards in a busy retail environment.

• Physical Demands: The role requires extended periods of standing, lifting heavy items, and precise manual dexterity.

• Learning Specialized Skills: Acquiring proficiency with framing equipment and techniques can be challenging but rewarding.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Custom Framing Mastery: Deepen expertise in design, materials, and advanced framing techniques.

• Sales and Customer Engagement: Develop advanced consultative selling skills and customer relationship management.

• Retail Operations Knowledge: Gain comprehensive understanding of store operations, inventory management, and visual merchandising.

• Potential for Leadership: Opportunity to progress into supervisory or management roles within the retail store setting.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are typical for a specialized retail role, requiring a blend of technical skill, customer acumen, and physical capability. Growth opportunities focus on specialization and progression within the retail hierarchy.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Customer Service Approach: "Describe a time you dealt with a challenging customer. How did you resolve the situation and ensure their satisfaction?" (Focus on empathy, problem-solving, and positive outcomes.)

• Sales and Upselling: "How would you approach selling a custom framing solution to a customer who initially only wanted a ready-made frame?" (Emphasize understanding needs, highlighting benefits, and consultative selling.)

• Operational Efficiency: "Imagine you have multiple custom framing orders due today and a rush of new customers. How would you prioritize your tasks to ensure both customer satisfaction and timely order completion?" (Demonstrate time management, prioritization, and process adherence.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "Why are you interested in working for Michaels, and specifically in custom framing?" (Show genuine interest in creativity, art, and customer service.)

• "How do you contribute to a positive team environment?" (Highlight teamwork, respect, and willingness to help colleagues.)

• "What does 'customer-centric' mean to you in a retail context?" (Focus on understanding and exceeding customer expectations.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• If you have prior framing work, be ready to discuss:

  • The project: What was the item being framed?
  • The client's needs: What were they looking for?
  • Your solution: What materials and techniques did you use and why?
  • The outcome: Was the client satisfied? What was the impact?

• Be prepared to discuss your understanding of measuring and cutting techniques, even if you don't have physical samples.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating strong customer service skills, a proactive sales approach, an understanding of operational priorities, and a genuine enthusiasm for Michaels' mission and the craft of custom framing.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

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

• Resume Customization: Tailor your resume to highlight any relevant customer service, sales, or hands-on experience. Emphasize skills like measuring, attention to detail, and operating equipment.

• Portfolio Preparation (if applicable): If you have any examples of custom framing work, visual displays you've created, or customer success stories, prepare to discuss them briefly.

• Interview Practice: Rehearse answers to common retail interview questions, focusing on behavioral examples related to customer service, problem-solving, and teamwork. Practice articulating your understanding of custom framing processes.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Michaels' mission, values, and product offerings, particularly their custom framing services, to demonstrate your interest and cultural fit.

⚠️ 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.

---