retail framer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Retail Framer

Company: Michaels Stores

Location: Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States

Job Type: Part time

Category: Retail Operations / Sales / Art & Design

Date Posted: 2026-09-23

Experience Level: Entry Level (0-2 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Drive customer engagement and build lasting relationships by providing expert custom framing solutions.

• Achieve sales targets and production goals through effective selling techniques and efficient order fulfillment.

• Ensure a seamless and positive shopping experience by maintaining store standards, including merchandising and stock availability.

• Operate specialized framing equipment and adhere to all safety and operational procedures to ensure quality and compliance.

• Contribute to overall store success by supporting omnichannel processes, inventory management, and cash handling.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role bridges customer service, sales, and production within a specialized retail environment. Success hinges on both strong interpersonal skills for client consultation and practical execution of framing services. The "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodology suggests a focus on proactive customer engagement and consultative selling, aiming to maximize order value and customer satisfaction.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Customer Consultation & Sales:

  • Engage customers proactively using the "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodology to build rapport and understand their framing needs.
  • Consult with customers on design choices, material selection, and framing techniques to create personalized and high-quality solutions.
  • Drive custom framing sales by effectively communicating product value, design options, and pricing.
  • Achieve individual and store sales and production targets for custom framing orders.

• Production & Quality Control:

  • Accurately measure artwork and select appropriate materials for custom framing projects.
  • Operate specialized framing equipment, including mat cutters, assemblers, and heat presses, with precision and safety.
  • Complete framing orders to established quality standards and within promised timelines.
  • Ensure the final product meets customer expectations and company quality benchmarks.

• Store Operations & Merchandising:

  • Maintain the visual presentation and stock levels of the ready-made frame department and other assigned retail areas.
  • Execute directed replenishment and SISO (Shop In, Ship Out) processes to ensure product availability.
  • Assist customers in locating products, provide solutions, and ensure a clean, organized, and clutter-free store environment.
  • Participate actively in truck un-loading and stocking processes, adhering to established standards and timelines.

• Operational Compliance & Efficiency:

  • Adhere strictly to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company programs for all operational activities.

  • Support and implement shrink prevention and safety initiatives to maintain a secure and accident-free workplace.

  • Operate the cash register and execute cash handling procedures accurately and efficiently according to company standards.

  • Assist with and support the execution of omnichannel processes, such as buy online, pick up in-store (BOPIS).

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a dual focus on direct customer interaction for sales and consultation, and hands-on production work. The emphasis on "Elevated ABC Deliver" indicates a structured approach to customer engagement that likely involves active listening, needs assessment, and solution presentation. The mention of specific operational tasks like truck unloading and stocking suggests the role may involve general store duties beyond the framing department.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: High School Diploma or equivalent is typically expected for entry-level retail positions, though not explicitly stated, it is a common prerequisite.

Experience:

• 0-2 years of experience in a customer-facing role, preferably in retail.

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

• Customer Service Excellence: Ability to build rapport, actively listen to customer needs, and provide solutions in a friendly and professional manner.

• Basic Measuring Skills: Proficiency in taking accurate measurements for custom projects.

• Basic Computer Skills: Familiarity with point-of-sale (POS) systems and basic computer operations for order entry and lookup.

• Framing Equipment Operation: Aptitude to learn and safely operate framing machinery (e.g., mat cutters, assemblers).

• Glass Cutting Proficiency: Ability to safely and accurately cut glass to specified dimensions.

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

• Merchandising & Stocking: Understanding of visual presentation standards and ability to maintain organized product displays and stock levels.

• Adherence to SOPs: Commitment to following established Standard Operating Procedures and company policies.

• Safety Awareness: Understanding and implementation of safety protocols in a retail and workshop environment.

Preferred Skills:

• Retail Experience: Prior experience working in a retail store environment.

• Sales Experience: Proven ability to sell products or services, with a consultative approach.

• Custom Framing Knowledge: Familiarity with different framing materials, techniques, and design principles is a plus.

• Omnichannel Process Familiarity: Experience with processes like BOPIS (Buy Online, Pick Up In-Store).

📝 Enhancement Note: The "0-2 years" experience level suggests this role is designed for individuals early in their careers. The required skills are foundational for retail and specific to the framing aspect. Preferred skills indicate that candidates with prior direct sales or framing experience will have a stronger profile. The emphasis on learning to operate equipment is a key indicator of the role's practical, hands-on nature.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• While a formal portfolio is not explicitly required for this entry-level role, candidates are encouraged to highlight relevant past projects or experiences that demonstrate their skills.

• Examples: If you have personal projects involving custom framing, art creation, or retail displays, be prepared to discuss them. For sales-focused experience, be ready to articulate how you identified customer needs and presented solutions.

• Process Documentation: Candidates should be prepared to discuss how they would follow established processes for order taking, production, and customer service.

Process Documentation:

• Understanding and adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for all aspects of the job, from customer interaction to production and cash handling.

• Ability to follow detailed workflows for custom framing order creation, production, and completion.

• Familiarity with process steps for inventory management, including stocking and replenishment.

• Competency in executing omnichannel fulfillment processes as per company guidelines.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an entry-level retail framing position, a formal portfolio is unlikely to be a strict requirement. However, candidates who can articulate their understanding of processes, demonstrate practical skills through examples (even personal ones), and show an ability to learn and follow procedures will be highly competitive. The emphasis is on process adherence and practical application rather than a curated showcase of past work.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $17.00 - $20.00 per hour. This range is competitive for entry-level retail positions with specialized responsibilities in the Minneapolis area.

Benefits:

Michaels offers a comprehensive benefits package, with eligibility depending on position and tenure:

• Retirement Savings: 401(k) with employer match.

• Health & Wellness:

  • Medical, Dental, and Vision Coverage
  • Telemedicine Services
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) for healthcare and dependent care.

• Financial Support:

  • Commuter Benefits
  • Tuition Assistance
  • Adoption Assistance
  • Voluntary Insurance Options (e.g., life, disability).

• Perks & Discounts:

  • Generous Employee Discounts on Michaels products.

  • Access to Partner Discount Programs. Working Hours: This is a part-time position. The job description notes that work hours include nights, weekends, and early mornings, reflecting typical retail scheduling demands. The core job description mentions "working_hours": 40, which typically refers to a full-time equivalent, but the "employment_type" is clearly "Part time." Therefore, actual hours will be less than 40 per week.

📝 Enhancement Note: The stated salary range is above the typical minimum wage for retail, reflecting the specialized skills required for custom framing. The benefits package is robust for a part-time role, offering significant value beyond base pay, particularly the 401(k) match and tuition assistance which support long-term financial and educational goals. The "working_hours": 40 in the input data seems to be a placeholder for a standard work week, but the explicit "Part time" employment type overrides this for the actual role.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Arts and Crafts Retail. Michaels operates as a leading destination for creative supplies, craft materials, and custom framing services across North America. This industry requires a focus on customer inspiration, product knowledge, and a passion for DIY and creative expression.

Company Size: Michaels operates over 1,300 stores in 49 states and Canada, employing a large workforce. This scale means established operational procedures, training programs, and opportunities for advancement, but also requires adherence to company-wide standards and processes.

Founded: Founded in 1973 and headquartered in Irving, Texas. With decades of experience, Michaels has a well-established brand presence and a deep understanding of the retail landscape for arts and crafts.

Team Structure:

• Store-Level Operations: This role is part of a store team that typically includes a Store Manager, Assistant Store Manager(s), Team Leads, and various Associates (including this Retail Framer position).

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: The Retail Framer will collaborate closely with other store associates for customer service, general store upkeep, and potentially assisting with other departments. They will also interact with customers directly and potentially with regional or corporate support for operational or technical issues.

• Reporting: The Retail Framer likely reports to a designated Team Lead or Assistant Store Manager responsible for the framing department or overall store operations.

Methodology:

• Customer-Centric Approach: A strong emphasis is placed on building customer relationships and providing memorable experiences, as indicated by the "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodology.

• Process-Driven Operations: Adherence to SOPs and company programs is a key requirement, ensuring consistency and compliance across all stores.

• Data-Informed Decisions: While not explicitly detailed for this role, larger retail operations utilize sales data, inventory metrics, and customer feedback to inform merchandising, staffing, and operational strategies.

Company Website: www.michaels.com

📝 Enhancement Note: Michaels' culture is centered around creativity, community, and customer inspiration. For a Retail Framer, this translates to a role where artistic sensibility, customer engagement, and a willingness to support broader store functions are highly valued. The company's size suggests a structured environment with clear guidelines for operations and customer service.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Entry-Level Retail Associate with Specialized Function. This position is designed for individuals beginning their careers in retail or seeking to specialize in a craft-related service. It provides foundational experience in customer service, sales, and hands-on production.

Reporting Structure: Typically reports to a Framing Lead, Department Specialist, or Assistant Store Manager, who oversees daily operations and provides guidance. This structure offers direct supervision and mentorship opportunities.

Operations Impact: The Retail Framer directly impacts store revenue through custom framing sales and indirectly through positive customer experiences that encourage repeat business and loyalty. Efficient production and quality service contribute to customer satisfaction and the store's reputation. By maintaining store standards and supporting sales initiatives, they contribute to the overall profitability and operational efficiency of the store.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Develop deep expertise in custom framing techniques, materials, and design, potentially becoming a go-to expert within the store.

• Skill Development: Gain proficiency in sales, customer relationship management, specialized equipment operation, and retail operations.

• Advancement within Michaels: Potential pathways include:

  • Framing Lead/Specialist: Taking on more responsibility for training, inventory, and customer consultations within the framing department.
  • Other Retail Roles: Transitioning into other departments or leadership roles within the store (e.g., Visual Merchandising, Sales Lead, Assistant Manager) based on performance and interest.
  • Corporate Opportunities: For exceptional performers, opportunities may exist at the corporate level in areas like merchandising, product development, or operations support, though this is less common directly from an entry-level store role.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a clear entry point into the retail and creative services sector. Growth is primarily structured within the retail store environment, with opportunities to deepen expertise in framing or broaden experience across other store functions. The company's emphasis on training and development suggests a supportive environment for career progression.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Public Retail Store Setting. The primary work environment is the retail floor and a dedicated custom framing shop within a Michaels store.

Office Location(s): Minneapolis, MN (1620 New Brighton Blvd). This specific location serves the local community.

Workspace Context:

• Customer Interaction Zone: The framing counter and surrounding retail areas are designed for customer engagement, consultation, and product display.

• Production Area: The frame shop is a workshop environment equipped with specialized tools and machinery for cutting, assembling, and finishing framing orders. This area may involve working with sharp tools, adhesives, and potentially heat presses.

• Stock Rooms: While main public areas are climate-controlled, some stock rooms may not be, requiring adaptability.

• Collaboration: Frequent interaction with customers and fellow store team members is expected.

• Tools & Technology: Access to POS systems, basic computer terminals, and specialized framing equipment.

Work Schedule: Part-time, including nights, weekends, and early mornings. This flexible schedule is typical for retail environments to ensure adequate store coverage during operating hours.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is dynamic, combining customer-facing sales and service with hands-on production. The frame shop environment requires attention to detail and adherence to safety protocols due to the nature of the tools and materials used. The flexible scheduling is a hallmark of retail, requiring adaptability from employees.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

The interview process for a retail position at Michaels typically involves several stages:

1. Application Submission: Submit your resume and complete the online application.

2. Initial Screening: A recruiter or hiring manager may conduct a brief phone screen to assess basic qualifications, availability, and interest.

3. In-Person Interview: This will likely be with the Store Manager or Assistant Store Manager. It will focus on:

• Behavioral Questions: Assessing customer service skills, problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and how you handle challenging situations (e.g., "Tell me about a time you dealt with a difficult customer").
• Situational Questions: Gauging your approach to specific scenarios (e.g., "How would you help a customer who is unsure about framing options?").
• Skills Assessment: Discussing your experience with measuring, basic computer use, and willingness to learn framing equipment.
• Cultural Fit: Evaluating your alignment with Michaels' values (creativity, community, customer focus).

1. Practical Assessment (Potential): While not explicitly stated, there might be a brief, informal demonstration of measuring skills or a discussion about how you'd approach a framing consultation.

2. Offer: If successful, a job offer will be extended, contingent on background checks.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• No Formal Portfolio Required: For this entry-level position, a formal portfolio is not expected.

• Highlight Relevant Experience: Be prepared to discuss any past projects or experiences that demonstrate:

  • Customer Service: Examples of going above and beyond for customers.
  • Sales Acumen: Instances where you successfully sold a product or service by understanding needs.
  • Hands-on Skills: Any experience with crafts, DIY projects, or using tools that shows dexterity and attention to detail.
  • Problem-Solving: How you addressed challenges in previous roles.

• Showcase Enthusiasm: Express genuine interest in art, creativity, and helping customers bring their visions to life through framing.

Challenge Preparation:

• Customer Service Scenarios: Prepare responses for how you would handle common customer interactions, including inquiries, complaints, and design consultations.

• Sales Approach: Be ready to articulate how you would approach selling custom framing, focusing on understanding customer needs and presenting solutions.

• Learning Agility: Demonstrate your willingness and ability to learn new skills, particularly operating framing equipment and mastering company procedures.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is standard for retail roles, focusing heavily on customer service, sales aptitude, and cultural fit. Candidates should emphasize their interpersonal skills and eagerness to learn the technical aspects of framing. The lack of a formal portfolio requirement means the focus will be on verbal communication and demonstrated potential.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Custom Framing Equipment:

  • Mat Cutters (e.g., Logan, Fletcher)
  • Framing Assemblers/Gunn/Nailers
  • Heat Presses (for mounting or specialty finishes)
  • Glass Cutters
  • Various hand tools (e.g., knives, pliers, measuring tapes, rulers)

• Point-of-Sale (POS) System: For processing transactions, managing customer orders, and accessing product information.

• Basic Computer: For order entry, inventory lookup, and potentially accessing training modules or internal communications.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While this role is not directly responsible for complex analytics, understanding basic sales metrics and inventory levels is beneficial. The store's POS system likely provides reports on sales performance for the framing department. CRM & Automation:

• Customer Relationship Management (CRM): The POS system may have basic CRM functionalities to track customer purchase history and preferences for framing.

• Order Management System: Integrated within the POS or a separate system to manage custom framing orders from placement to completion.

• Inventory Management Software: Used for tracking stock levels of frame mouldings, mats, glass, and hardware.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in operating specialized framing machinery is a key technical requirement. While advanced software skills are not expected, familiarity with POS systems and basic computer operations is necessary for daily tasks. The company likely uses proprietary or industry-standard software for its operations.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Creativity & Inspiration: Fostering an environment where creativity is celebrated, and team members are inspired to help customers express themselves.

• Customer Focus: Prioritizing customer satisfaction through exceptional service, personalized solutions, and a welcoming atmosphere.

• Teamwork & Collaboration: Working together to achieve store goals, support colleagues, and ensure a positive shopping experience for everyone.

• Integrity & Respect: Upholding ethical standards, treating everyone with respect, and promoting an inclusive environment for all.

• Passion for Craft: A genuine interest in arts, crafts, and the joy of creation, which translates into better customer interactions and product knowledge.

Collaboration Style:

• Customer-Centric Collaboration: Team members are encouraged to assist each other in serving customers, whether it's finding products, answering questions, or supporting framing consultations.

• Process Adherence: A collaborative understanding and commitment to following company SOPs and best practices to ensure operational efficiency and consistency.

• Knowledge Sharing: Willingness to share tips, techniques, and best practices within the team, especially regarding framing and customer service.

📝 Enhancement Note: Michaels emphasizes a culture that blends creativity with a strong service orientation. For a Retail Framer, this means being both artistically inclined and customer-focused. The values promote a supportive and collaborative team environment where individual contributions are recognized within the context of overall store success.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Sales & Production: Effectively managing time to engage customers for sales consultations while also fulfilling existing framing orders accurately and on schedule.

• Customer Expectations: Meeting diverse customer needs and artistic visions, which can range from simple to highly complex framing projects.

• Learning Curve: Mastering the operation of specialized framing equipment and understanding the vast array of framing materials and techniques.

• Physical Demands: The role involves standing for long periods, lifting heavy items, and performing repetitive tasks, which can be physically demanding.

• Busy Periods: Handling high customer traffic and order volumes, especially during peak seasons or promotional events.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Framing Expertise: Deepen knowledge of framing design, materials (mouldings, mats, glass types), conservation techniques, and specialized finishing methods.

• Sales & Consultation Skills: Enhance consultative selling abilities, visual design principles, and effective communication for customer proposals.

• Operational Proficiency: Gain comprehensive understanding of retail operations, inventory management, POS systems, and omnichannel fulfillment processes.

• Cross-Training: Opportunity to learn about other departments within Michaels, broadening retail skill sets.

• Company Training: Access to Michaels' internal training programs for product knowledge, sales techniques, and operational procedures.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are typical for a specialized retail role that combines direct sales with skilled production. The growth opportunities are focused on building deep expertise in the framing craft and enhancing customer-facing sales skills, with potential for broader retail operational knowledge.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Customer Service & Sales:

  • "How would you approach a customer who is unsure about what framing options they need for their artwork?" (Focus on needs assessment, offering choices, explaining value)
  • "Describe a time you successfully sold a product or service by understanding a customer's needs." (Use STAR method: Situation, Task, Action, Result)
  • "How do you handle a situation where a customer is unhappy with a product or service?" (Focus on empathy, problem-solving, escalation if necessary)

• Technical & Operational:

  • "What is your experience with measuring, and how would you ensure accuracy for a custom framing order?" (Highlight precision, double-checking)
  • "Are you comfortable learning to operate new equipment? Describe your learning process." (Show eagerness to learn, methodical approach)
  • "How would you manage your time if you had multiple framing orders to complete and customers waiting for assistance?" (Focus on prioritization, efficiency, communication)

• Company & Culture:

  • "What do you know about Michaels and why are you interested in this Retail Framer position?" (Show research, passion for creativity/crafts, customer service focus)

  • "What does 'creativity' mean to you in a retail context?" (Connect creativity to customer solutions, store presentation) Company & Culture Questions:

• Be prepared to discuss your understanding of Michaels' commitment to creativity, customer service, and community.

• Express enthusiasm for art, crafts, and helping customers realize their creative visions.

• Show an understanding of the importance of teamwork in a retail environment. Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Verbal Examples: Since a formal portfolio isn't required, use specific examples from past jobs, volunteer work, or personal projects to illustrate your skills in customer service, sales, problem-solving, and any hands-on creative or technical work.

• "Show, Don't Just Tell": Instead of saying "I have good customer service skills," describe a situation where you demonstrated them. For example, "In my previous role at [X], a customer was looking for a specific item we didn't have. I took the time to understand their project needs, suggested an alternative, and helped them find a solution that exceeded their expectations."

• Framing Focus: If you have any personal framing projects or experience with art, be ready to discuss the materials, process, and your creative decisions. This demonstrates initiative and passion.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating core retail competencies (customer service, sales, teamwork) and a genuine interest in the creative aspect of the role. Candidates should be ready to provide concrete examples of their skills and willingness to learn the technical aspects of framing.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

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

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight relevant customer service, sales, and any hands-on or creative experience. Use keywords from the job description such as "customer service," "sales," "measuring," and "attention to detail." Quantify achievements where possible (e.g., "Assisted an average of X customers per hour").

• Interview Preparation: Review common retail interview questions, particularly those related to customer interaction, problem-solving, and handling challenging situations. Prepare specific examples using the STAR method.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Michaels' mission, values, and product offerings. Understand their commitment to creativity and customer experience. Be ready to articulate why you are a good fit for their culture.

• Articulate Enthusiasm: During the interview, convey genuine interest in the custom framing aspect of the role and a passion for helping customers bring their artistic visions to life.

⚠️ 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.