Retail Framer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Retail Framer

Company: Michaels Stores

Location: Fairfax, Virginia, United States

Job Type: Part time

Category: Retail Operations / Customer Service

Date Posted: 2026-09-09

Experience Level: Entry Level (0-2 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

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

• Key responsibilities include building strong customer relationships through personalized design consultations and ensuring timely, high-quality production of framing orders.

• The position requires maintaining store standards, including merchandising, stock management, and operational efficiency, to enhance the overall customer shopping experience.

• It involves operating point-of-sale systems, adhering to cash handling procedures, and supporting omni-channel processes to meet diverse customer needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the job title is "Retail Framer," the core responsibilities lean heavily into customer-facing sales and service within a specialized department, requiring a blend of artistic consultation and operational execution. The role is classified as entry-level, suggesting a focus on foundational skills and on-the-job training.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Customer Engagement & Sales:

  • Build and maintain strong customer relationships by actively listening to their needs and providing personalized design consultations for custom framing solutions.
  • Utilize the "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodology to drive sales and production results by effectively guiding customers through framing options and upselling where appropriate.
  • Acknowledge customers promptly, assist them in locating products, and offer solutions to meet their creative needs.

• Custom Framing Production:

  • Execute custom framing orders with a high degree of quality, precision, and adherence to established timelines.
  • Operate framing equipment, including specialized machinery and glass cutters, safely and efficiently.
  • Ensure all framing projects meet company standards for craftsmanship and customer satisfaction.

• Store Operations & Merchandising:

  • Maintain the ready-made frame department, including the "Shop In, Ship Out" (SISO) and Directed Replenishment areas, ensuring visual appeal and product availability.
  • Contribute to maintaining a safe, clean, and clutter-free store environment, adhering to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company programs.
  • Participate actively in truck un-load and stocking processes, ensuring adherence to truck standards and efficient inventory management.

• Point of Sale & Omni-Channel Support:

  • Operate the cash register and execute cash handling procedures with accuracy and integrity according to company standards.
  • Assist with omni-channel processes, such as buy online, pick up in-store (BOPIS) or ship-from-store, to provide a seamless customer experience.

• Teamwork & Compliance:

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

  • Support company shrink and safety programs, acting as a role model for adherence to policies and values.

  • Perform other assigned duties as necessary to support store operations and team goals.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a dual focus on sales/customer interaction and hands-on production. The mention of "Elevated ABC Deliver" suggests a specific sales methodology that candidates should be prepared to discuss or learn. The role requires active participation in stocking and inventory processes, typical for retail environments.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While no specific degree is mandated, a strong foundation in basic math and measurement is essential for framing accuracy.

Experience:

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

• Demonstrated ability to learn and operate specialized equipment and tools. Required Skills:

• Basic Computer Skills: Proficiency in navigating computer systems for point-of-sale, inventory lookups, and basic communication.

• Measuring Skills: Accurate and precise measurement capabilities for custom framing projects.

• Framing Equipment Operation: Ability to operate framing machinery, mat cutters, and glass cutters safely and effectively.

• Customer Service Excellence: Proven ability to engage customers, understand their needs, and provide solutions with a friendly and helpful attitude.

• Sales Acumen: Capacity to build customer relationships, present product options, and drive sales, particularly within a consultative selling environment.

• Cash Handling Proficiency: Accuracy in processing transactions, managing cash, and adhering to financial procedures.

• Merchandising & Store Maintenance: Understanding of visual standards and ability to maintain an organized and appealing retail space.

• Adherence to SOPs: Commitment to following Standard Operating Procedures and company programs for consistency and compliance.

Preferred Skills:

• Retail Experience: Prior experience working in a retail store environment, ideally within a specialty or custom service department.

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

• Artistic Aptitude: A keen eye for design, color, and aesthetics, beneficial for custom framing consultations.

• Inventory Management: Familiarity with stocking procedures, inventory counts, and maintaining product displays.

📝 Enhancement Note: The required skills emphasize practical abilities like measuring and equipment operation, alongside essential customer-facing competencies. Preferred skills like retail and sales experience indicate that candidates with prior exposure will have an advantage, particularly those skilled in consultative selling.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Custom Framing Case Studies: Showcase 2-3 examples of custom framing projects, detailing the customer's initial request, your design recommendations, the materials used, and the final product. Highlight how you addressed specific customer needs or challenges.

• Customer Service Scenarios: Briefly describe instances where you successfully resolved a customer issue or exceeded customer expectations, focusing on your approach and the positive outcome.

• Sales Achievement Examples: Quantify any sales successes, such as exceeding sales targets or successfully upselling a customer, demonstrating your ability to drive revenue.

• Process Improvement Ideas (Optional but Recommended): If you have observed or implemented any minor process improvements in previous roles (e.g., in stocking, display maintenance, or customer flow), briefly outline them and their impact.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Understanding: Demonstrate an understanding of the custom framing workflow, from initial customer consultation through design, production, and final delivery.

• Quality Control Awareness: Show an awareness of quality control measures in production, ensuring accuracy and attention to detail in custom framing.

• System Navigation: Be prepared to discuss your experience with point-of-sale (POS) systems, basic computer applications, and any inventory management software.

📝 Enhancement Note: While a formal portfolio might not be strictly required for an entry-level role, candidates are strongly encouraged to prepare examples of their work and customer interactions. This section focuses on demonstrating practical application of skills relevant to custom framing, customer service, and retail operations, rather than formal process documentation.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $13.00 - $15.30 per hour

Explanation of Range: This range is based on the provided pay information ($13.00 - $15.30) for the Retail Framer position in Fairfax, Virginia. It reflects an entry-level to early-career hourly wage for a retail associate with specialized framing duties in this specific geographic area, considering the local cost of living and retail industry benchmarks.

Benefits:

• Retirement Savings: 401(k) with employer match, providing an opportunity to save for long-term financial goals.

• Employee Support: Employee Assistance Program (EAP) offering confidential counseling and support services.

• Health & Wellness:

  • Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage options to support overall health.
  • Telemedicine services for convenient access to healthcare consultations.

• Financial Flexibility:

  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) for healthcare or dependent care expenses.
  • Commuter benefits to assist with transportation costs.

• Professional Development:

  • Tuition assistance to support continuous learning and skill enhancement.
  • Adoption assistance to help with the costs of welcoming a new child.

• Insurance Options: Various voluntary insurance options available for additional coverage needs.

• Employee Perks:

  • Generous employee discounts on Michaels products, fostering a connection with the brand.

  • Access to partner discount programs for additional savings. Working Hours: Part-time employment. Specific hours will vary based on store needs and scheduling, but may include nights, weekends, and early mornings. The role is listed with an approximate 40 hours per week, which for a part-time role may indicate a maximum potential or a flexible full-time equivalent depending on store needs and state regulations for part-time classification.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is explicitly provided. The benefits package is comprehensive for a part-time retail role, covering health, financial planning, professional development, and employee perks. The working hours indicate flexibility is required, typical for retail environments.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Arts and Crafts Retail. Michaels operates as a leading specialty retailer in North America, focusing on providing a wide range of arts, crafts, and home decor products.

Company Size: Large. Michaels operates over 1,300 stores across North America, indicating a significant retail footprint and a substantial employee base. This size implies structured operational processes and opportunities for advancement.

Founded: 1973. With a long history, Michaels has established itself as a staple in the creative community, suggesting a culture that values tradition, creativity, and customer engagement. Headquartered in Irving, Texas.

Team Structure:

• Store-Level Operations: This role is part of a local store team, likely reporting to a Store Manager or an Assistant Manager, with direct supervision from a Framing Department Lead or a senior sales associate.

• Departmental Specialization: The Framing department operates as a specialized unit within the larger store, requiring collaboration with other store associates for general retail tasks.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Associates are expected to collaborate across various store functions, including general sales, inventory management, and omni-channel fulfillment, ensuring a cohesive customer experience.

Methodology:

• Customer-Centric Approach: Emphasizes building customer relationships and providing personalized solutions, especially within the custom framing service.

• Operational Efficiency: Adheres to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for consistency in sales, production, merchandising, and inventory management.

• Data-Driven Merchandising: Utilizes directed replenishment and shop-in-shop strategies to optimize product placement and availability.

• Team-Based Execution: Encourages teamwork for tasks like truck unloads, stocking, and maintaining store standards.

Company Website: www.michaels.com

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture is geared towards creativity, customer service, and operational consistency. The large scale of Michaels offers a structured environment with clear SOPs, while the framing specialization adds a unique customer interaction element.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Entry-Level Retail Associate with Specialization. This role serves as a foundational position within Michaels' retail operations. It offers hands-on experience in customer service, sales, and specialized production (custom framing). It's an excellent starting point for individuals looking to enter the retail sector or develop skills in a creative retail environment.

Reporting Structure: The Retail Framer typically reports to the Store Manager or Assistant Manager, with direct day-to-day guidance from a Framing Department Lead or a designated supervisor responsible for the custom framing area. This structure allows for focused training within the department while integrating into the broader store management hierarchy.

Operations Impact:

• Revenue Generation: Directly contributes to store revenue through custom framing sales and by driving general merchandise sales through excellent customer service and engagement.

• Customer Loyalty: Builds repeat business and positive word-of-mouth by providing high-quality framing solutions and exceptional customer experiences, fostering loyalty to both the framing service and the Michaels brand.

• Operational Efficiency: Supports overall store efficiency by maintaining organized departments, accurate inventory, and effective stock replenishment, contributing to a smooth shopping experience for all customers.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Opportunity to become an expert in custom framing design, sales, and production techniques, potentially leading to roles with higher responsibility within the framing department.

• Retail Management Track: Potential to advance into roles such as Assistant Manager or Store Manager by demonstrating strong performance in customer service, sales, operational management, and team leadership.

• Cross-Departmental Development: Possibility to gain experience in other store departments, broadening skill sets and understanding of overall retail operations.

• Training & Development Programs: Access to company-provided training, including the "Elevated ABC Deliver" sales methodology and operational SOPs, which can enhance career prospects within Michaels.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as an entry point with clear pathways for growth within both specialized framing and broader retail management. The emphasis is on developing core retail competencies and then potentially specializing or moving into leadership.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Public Retail Store Setting. The primary work environment is within a customer-facing retail store.

Office Location(s): Fairfax, Virginia (specific store address: 3089A Nutley St). This location is within a commercial area, likely accessible by car and potentially public transport, depending on local infrastructure.

Workspace Context:

• Customer Interaction Zone: The framing counter and sales floor are climate-controlled and designed for customer engagement, requiring a friendly and professional demeanor.

• Production Area: The frame shop area may involve specialized equipment like glass cutters and heat presses, requiring careful attention to safety protocols. Some stock rooms might not be climate-controlled, necessitating adaptability.

• Team Collaboration: Opportunities for interaction with fellow store associates for task coordination, support, and sharing best practices in customer service and operations.

Work Schedule: The position is part-time. Working hours are flexible and will encompass nights, weekends, and early mornings to meet store operational needs and customer demand. While listed as part-time, the mention of "40 hours" in the description could indicate an expectation of significant availability or a potential for full-time hours depending on business needs and local employment laws.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is dynamic and customer-focused. It requires adaptability to varying conditions (climate control in stock rooms) and a flexible schedule. Safety in the framing production area is a key consideration.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

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

• In-Person Interview: Expect one or more interviews at the store location. This will involve meeting with the Store Manager or Assistant Manager.

• Skills Assessment: You may be asked to demonstrate basic measuring skills or discuss your approach to customer service and problem-solving.

• Situational Questions: Prepare for questions about how you would handle specific customer interactions, sales scenarios, or operational challenges.

• Framing Demonstration (Potential): While not explicitly stated, a basic demonstration of handling tools or discussing design concepts might be part of the assessment.

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

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Framing Examples: If you have any personal framing projects or photos of work, be ready to share them. Focus on explaining your creative process and any challenges you overcame.

• Customer Service Stories: Prepare 2-3 concise examples of excellent customer service you've provided, highlighting your problem-solving skills and positive outcomes. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result).

• Sales Approach: Be ready to discuss how you approach sales, particularly in a consultative manner, and how you would engage a customer looking for custom framing.

• Resume Highlights: Ensure your resume clearly lists any relevant skills such as "customer service," "sales," "measuring," "basic computer skills," and any experience with tools or crafts.

Challenge Preparation:

• Customer Scenario: Be prepared to walk through how you would assist a customer who is unsure about framing options for a valuable piece of art.

• Sales Pitch: Practice articulating the benefits of custom framing at Michaels, focusing on quality, design expertise, and value.

• Operational Question: You might be asked about your approach to maintaining a clean and organized workspace or how you handle multiple customer requests simultaneously.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will likely focus on practical skills, customer interaction, and cultural fit. Candidates should be ready to showcase their ability to learn, communicate, and contribute to a positive retail environment. Preparing specific examples of customer service and sales interactions will be highly beneficial.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Custom Framing Equipment: Access to and proficiency with framing machinery, mat cutters, and glass cutters. Training will be provided for specific models.

• Point of Sale (POS) System: Usage of Michaels' proprietary POS system for sales transactions, customer lookups, and order processing.

• Basic Computer Applications: Familiarity with standard office software for internal communications, scheduling, and potentially basic data entry.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Inventory Management Systems: Potential use of internal systems for tracking stock levels, managing replenishment, and conducting cycle counts.

• Sales Reporting Tools: Access to sales data through the POS system to monitor individual and departmental performance.

CRM & Automation:

• Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Elements: While not a dedicated CRM role, the "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodology implies a focus on building customer relationships, potentially supported by basic customer data within the POS system.

• Omni-Channel Fulfillment Tools: Systems that support Buy Online, Pick Up In-Store (BOPIS) and ship-from-store processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is focused on retail operations, customer transactions, and specialized production. Proficiency with POS systems and basic computer skills are essential, with on-the-job training provided for framing equipment and specific internal software.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Creativity & Passion: A core value at Michaels, encouraging associates to embrace and inspire creativity in themselves and customers. This translates to a supportive environment for design exploration in framing.

• Customer Focus: Prioritizing customer needs and satisfaction through exceptional service, personalized recommendations, and a welcoming store environment.

• Teamwork & Collaboration: Fostering a supportive atmosphere where associates work together to achieve store goals, assist each other, and create a positive workplace.

• Integrity & Respect: Upholding ethical standards in all interactions, treating customers and colleagues with respect, and ensuring compliance with company policies.

• Efficiency & Quality: Commitment to executing tasks accurately and efficiently, particularly in custom framing production, to ensure high-quality results and customer satisfaction.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Support: Associates are expected to support various store functions, including stocking, merchandising, and customer service, collaborating with colleagues across departments.

• Process Adherence: A collaborative approach to following SOPs, ensuring consistency in service delivery and operational tasks.

• Feedback Exchange: Openness to receiving and providing constructive feedback to improve individual performance and team operations.

• Problem-Solving Together: Encouraging team members to work together to resolve customer issues or operational challenges effectively.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture emphasizes creativity, customer-centricity, and teamwork, creating an environment where associates are encouraged to engage with customers and support each other in achieving store objectives.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Roles: Effectively managing the dual responsibilities of customer-facing sales/design and production tasks within a fast-paced retail environment.

• Customer Expectations: Meeting diverse customer expectations for custom framing, from simple requests to complex artistic visions, while staying within production capabilities and timelines.

• Productivity Demands: Maintaining high levels of productivity in both sales and framing production to meet store targets, especially during peak seasons.

• Learning Curve: Acquiring proficiency with framing equipment, design software (if applicable), and specialized sales techniques ("Elevated ABC Deliver").

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Framing Expertise: Develop specialized skills in custom framing design, material selection, and production techniques through hands-on training and mentorship.

• Sales & Service Training: Enhance consultative selling abilities and customer service skills through company-provided training programs and on-the-job coaching.

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

• Career Advancement: Potential to progress into roles with greater responsibility, such as Framing Department Lead, Assistant Store Manager, or other specialized positions within Michaels.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents opportunities to develop specialized craft skills alongside core retail competencies. The challenges are typical of a hands-on retail position, with clear avenues for growth and skill development provided by the company.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Customer Service Scenarios: "Describe a time you went above and beyond to help a customer. What was the situation, your action, and the result?" Focus on empathy, problem-solving, and customer satisfaction.

• Sales Approach: "How would you approach a customer who is unsure about framing options for a sentimental item?" Prepare to discuss consultative selling, understanding needs, and offering solutions.

• Operational Task Management: "Imagine you have a customer waiting for framing consultation, a truck to unload, and a display that needs tidying. How would you prioritize your tasks?" Demonstrate organizational skills and ability to manage multiple demands.

Company & Culture Questions:

• Motivation: "Why are you interested in working at Michaels and specifically in the framing department?" Connect your interests to creativity, customer service, and the company's mission.

• Teamwork: "Describe your ideal team environment. How do you contribute to a positive team dynamic?" Highlight collaboration, respect, and a willingness to help others.

• Creativity: "How do you express your creativity in your daily life or previous work?" Show an understanding and appreciation for the creative aspect of the role.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Framing Examples: If you have visual examples (photos of projects, sketches), be ready to present them. Clearly articulate the design choices and customer benefits.

• Customer Service Stories: Practice telling your customer service stories concisely using the STAR method. Focus on impact and lessons learned.

• Sales Scenarios: Be prepared to role-play a brief sales interaction, demonstrating how you would engage a customer and present framing solutions.

• Enthusiasm: Convey genuine enthusiasm for art, craft, and helping customers bring their creative visions to life.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating customer service skills, a consultative sales approach, organizational abilities, and alignment with Michaels' creative and team-oriented culture. Practical examples and role-playing will be key.

📌 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 relevant skills such as "customer service," "sales," "measuring," "basic computer skills," and any experience with tools, crafts, or visual merchandising. Use keywords from the job description.

• Portfolio Preparation: Gather examples of any custom framing work you've done (even personal projects), photos of well-organized retail displays you've maintained, or stories of exceptional customer service you've provided. Be ready to discuss these using the STAR method.

• Interview Practice: Rehearse answers to common interview questions, focusing on scenarios related to customer interaction, sales, and handling multiple tasks. Practice articulating your understanding of the custom framing process and the importance of customer satisfaction.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Michaels' mission, values, and product offerings, particularly their framing services. Understand the company culture of creativity and customer focus.

⚠️ 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.