Retail- Framer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Retail Framer

Company: Michaels Stores

Location: Rio Grande, NJ

Job Type: Part Time

Category: Retail Operations / Custom Framing Specialist

Date Posted: 2026-08-12

Experience Level: 0-2 Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is centered around engaging customers to provide tailored custom framing solutions, directly impacting sales and customer satisfaction within a retail environment.

• Responsibilities include maintaining visual merchandising standards for the ready-made frame department and other assigned areas, ensuring a positive shopping experience.

• The position requires proficient operation of framing equipment, including a glass cutter and heat press, adhering strictly to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).

• Key duties involve accurate cash handling, supporting inventory management through stocking and truck unloading, and assisting with omni-channel fulfillment processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the job title is "Retail Framer," the core responsibilities emphasize sales, customer relationship building, and specialized framing services, indicating a hybrid role blending direct customer engagement with skilled craft execution. The company's positioning as "the leading destination for creating and celebrating" suggests a focus on customer experience and creative solutions.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Customer Engagement & Sales: Build strong customer relationships by understanding their needs and recommending appropriate custom framing solutions, driving sales through personalized design consultations and product knowledge.

• Custom Framing Production: Accurately complete custom framing orders with a high degree of quality and within established timelines, utilizing specialized equipment and materials.

• Visual Merchandising & Inventory: Maintain the readiness and visual appeal of the ready-made frame department, along with other assigned retail areas, ensuring products are well-merchandised, in-stock, and organized.

• Operational Compliance: Adhere to all Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), company programs, and policies related to sales, production, safety, and shrink prevention.

• Point of Sale & Transaction Management: Operate the cash register accurately, execute all cash handling procedures to company standards, and assist with omni-channel processes to ensure seamless customer transactions.

• Store Operations Support: Participate actively in truck unloading and stocking processes, maintain a safe, clean, and clutter-free store environment, and assist customers in locating products.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a dual focus on sales-driven customer interaction and hands-on production. The emphasis on "Elevated ABC Deliver to build relationships" suggests a specific sales methodology that candidates should be prepared to discuss.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: High school diploma or equivalent is typically expected for retail positions, though not explicitly stated.

Experience: 0-2 years of experience in a retail or customer-facing role is targeted.

Required Skills:

• Basic computer skills for POS and operational tasks.

• Basic measuring skills for custom framing projects.

• Ability to operate framing equipment, including a glass cutter and heat press.

• Strong customer service and interpersonal skills for relationship building.

• Proficiency in cash handling and point-of-sale (POS) operations.

• Understanding of merchandising principles and maintaining store appearance.

• Ability to adhere to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and safety guidelines. Preferred Skills:

• Previous retail sales experience, particularly in a commission or performance-based environment.

• Experience in selling products or services directly to customers, with a focus on consultative selling.

• Familiarity with custom framing processes and materials is a plus.

• Experience with inventory management and stocking procedures.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Minimum Type of experience" and "Preferred Type of experience" sections clearly define the desired skill set. For candidates with less than 2 years of experience, highlighting transferable skills from other customer-facing roles and a willingness to learn specialized framing techniques will be crucial.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Custom Framing Project Examples: Showcase a portfolio with visual examples of custom framing projects, demonstrating design aesthetic, material choices, and problem-solving for various artwork types.

• Sales Process Documentation: Include examples of how you have identified customer needs, presented solutions, and closed sales, highlighting your approach to consultative selling and relationship building.

• Merchandising & Store Presentation: Provide visual documentation or detailed descriptions of how you have contributed to maintaining or improving store visual standards and product displays.

• Process Adherence Evidence: Briefly describe instances where you successfully followed SOPs or implemented company programs to ensure compliance and efficiency in previous roles.

Process Documentation:

• Customer Consultation Workflow: Outline a typical workflow for consulting with a customer on a custom framing project, from initial inquiry to final order placement.

• Production Quality Control: Detail steps taken to ensure the quality and accuracy of framing orders during the production process.

• Inventory Management & Stocking: Describe your approach to receiving, stocking, and organizing merchandise, including participation in truck unloading and maintaining stockroom organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: While a formal portfolio might not be explicitly required for this entry-level role, candidates are strongly encouraged to prepare visual examples of their work (even personal projects if professional ones are limited) and be ready to discuss their sales process and approach to customer service during the interview.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $16.00 - $18.80 per hour. This range is competitive for entry-level retail positions involving specialized skills and customer interaction in the current market, particularly in retail hubs like New Jersey.

Benefits:

• Financial Security: 401(k) with employer match, offering long-term savings potential.

• Health & Wellness: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, alongside telemedicine services for convenient healthcare access.

• Employee Support: Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for confidential counseling and support, flexible spending accounts (FSAs) for pre-tax health and dependent care expenses.

• Professional Development: Tuition assistance and adoption assistance programs to support personal and family growth.

• Additional Perks: Commuter benefits, various voluntary insurance options, and significant employee discounts on Michaels products, enhancing overall compensation value.

Working Hours: This is a part-time position. While the specific number of hours per week can vary, candidates should anticipate working a schedule that includes nights, weekends, and early mornings to meet store operational needs. The role requires standing for long periods and involves physical demands.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range provided is above the federal minimum wage and reflects the specialized nature of the framing aspect of the role. The benefits package is robust for a part-time retail position, indicating Michaels' commitment to team member well-being and development.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Arts and Crafts Retail. Michaels operates as a leading retailer in the arts, crafts, and custom framing market in North America, serving a broad customer base interested in creative pursuits and home décor.

Company Size: Over 1,300 stores across North America, with a significant online presence. This indicates a large, established retail organization with standardized operational processes and a wide reach.

Founded: 1973, headquartered in Irving, Texas. Michaels has a long-standing history in the retail sector, building a brand recognized for creativity and celebration.

Team Structure:

• Store-Level Operations: The Framer will be part of a store team, reporting to store management (e.g., Store Manager, Assistant Manager, Framing Department Manager if applicable).

• Cross-functional Collaboration: Works closely with other store associates to ensure overall store operational efficiency, customer satisfaction, and adherence to company standards across all departments.

• Customer-Centric Approach: The culture emphasizes building customer relationships and providing solutions, with a focus on creativity, celebration, and making customers' creative visions a reality.

Methodology:

• Customer Experience Focus: Prioritizes creating memorable customer experiences through personalized service and expert advice.

• Operational Excellence: Adherence to SOPs, safety protocols, and merchandising standards is key to consistent store performance.

• Teamwork & Support: Encourages collaboration among team members to achieve store goals and support each other in daily tasks.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Michaels' culture is deeply rooted in fostering creativity and celebrating personal expression. For a Retail Framer, this translates to a role where creativity is not just a product offered but a core aspect of customer interaction and problem-solving.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Entry-Level Retail Specialist. This role is designed for individuals starting their careers or seeking to develop foundational skills in retail operations, sales, and specialized craft services.

Reporting Structure: Reports to store management, likely a Department Manager or Assistant Store Manager overseeing custom framing and sales floor operations.

Operations Impact: Directly influences store revenue through custom framing sales and contributes to overall customer satisfaction and store operational efficiency through merchandising and sales floor support.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Develop expertise in custom framing techniques, design principles, and customer consultation, becoming a go-to specialist within the store.

• Retail Advancement: Potential to move into roles such as Framing Department Manager, Sales Lead, or Assistant Store Manager, with demonstrated performance and leadership potential.

• Cross-Functional Training: Opportunities to learn about other areas of store operations, merchandising, and inventory management, broadening skill sets.

• Company-Wide Opportunities: Michaels is a large organization, offering potential for transfers or advancement to corporate roles in merchandising, operations, or training for high-performing individuals.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an entry-level position, the growth path is primarily within store operations. Demonstrating strong sales acumen, exceptional customer service, and a commitment to mastering the framing craft will be key to advancing within Michaels.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Public retail store setting. The work environment is customer-facing, dynamic, and involves direct interaction with the public.

Office Location(s): Rio Grande, NJ (3201 Route 9 S). This is a specific retail location within a commercial area.

Workspace Context:

• Customer-Facing Areas: Primarily climate-controlled retail floor and a dedicated frame shop area.

• Stockroom Environment: Some stock rooms may not be climate-controlled, requiring adaptability.

• Tools & Equipment: The frame shop is equipped with specialized tools such as a glass cutter and heat press, requiring careful and skilled operation.

• Team Interaction: Frequent collaboration with fellow store associates and direct interaction with customers.

Work Schedule: The role requires flexibility, with working hours that include nights, weekends, and early mornings. The part-time nature means hours will vary based on business needs. Physical demands include standing for long periods, bending, lifting, and reaching.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is typical of a retail setting but includes the added complexity and safety considerations of a specialized craft area (the frame shop). Candidates should be comfortable with a physically active role and varied work hours.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

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

• In-Person Interview: A more in-depth interview at the store location, potentially with the Store Manager or Framing Department Manager. This will focus on customer service skills, sales aptitude, and understanding of the framing role.

• Skills Assessment: May include a practical demonstration or discussion about operating framing equipment, measuring, and problem-solving for framing challenges.

• Situational Questions: Expect questions about how you would handle specific customer interactions, sales scenarios, and operational challenges.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Visual Examples: If you have prior framing or design work, bring photos or a digital presentation. Even well-executed personal projects can demonstrate skill and passion.

• Sales Approach: Be prepared to articulate your sales process for custom products, emphasizing how you build rapport and meet customer needs.

• Problem-Solving: Discuss how you approach challenges, such as framing unusual items or dealing with difficult customer requests.

• Company Alignment: Show an understanding of Michaels' brand and its focus on creativity and customer experience.

Challenge Preparation:

• Framing Scenarios: Be ready to discuss how you would frame different types of items (e.g., a diploma, a painting, a sports jersey) and the considerations involved.

• Customer Service Scenarios: Prepare examples of how you have provided excellent customer service or resolved customer issues effectively.

• Sales Pitch: Practice a brief pitch for a custom framing service, highlighting its value proposition.

📝 Enhancement Note: For this role, a formal "portfolio" might be less about polished case studies and more about demonstrating practical skills and a customer-centric sales approach. Be ready to talk through your experience and thought processes.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Custom Framing Equipment: Glass cutter, mat cutter, framing tools (e.g., staple gun, v-nailer), heat press for specific applications.

• Point of Sale (POS) System: For processing transactions, managing sales, and potentially customer order entry.

• Measuring Tools: Tape measures, rulers, possibly specialized measuring devices for framing.

• Basic Computer Skills: For internal systems, email, and potentially online training modules.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Sales Data (Internal): Access to sales performance metrics for custom framing and overall store sales to understand performance drivers.

• Inventory Management Systems: For tracking stock levels, receiving new merchandise, and managing stockroom organization.

CRM & Automation:

• Customer Relationship Management (CRM): While not explicitly detailed, the "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodology suggests a system for tracking customer interactions and preferences to foster loyalty.

• Omni-Channel Systems: Tools to support buy-online-pickup-in-store (BOPIS) and other integrated online/in-store customer fulfillment processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency with specialized framing equipment is paramount. Familiarity with retail POS systems and basic computer operations are expected. The "Elevated ABC Deliver" suggests a structured approach to customer interaction that likely involves some form of CRM or sales tracking.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Customer Focus: A strong emphasis on building relationships and providing solutions that delight customers.

• Creativity & Passion: Encouraging a love for arts, crafts, and personal expression in both products and customer interactions.

• Quality & Craftsmanship: Commitment to delivering high-quality custom framing solutions that meet customer expectations.

• Teamwork & Collaboration: Working together to achieve store goals, support colleagues, and create a positive work environment.

• Integrity & Accountability: Adhering to company policies, SOPs, and ethical standards in all aspects of the job.

Collaboration Style:

• Customer-Centric Teamwork: Associates work together to ensure customers receive excellent service, whether it's finding products on the sales floor or assisting with custom framing needs.

• Process-Oriented: Adherence to established procedures for sales, production, and store operations is crucial for team efficiency.

• Knowledge Sharing: Encouragement to share product knowledge, sales techniques, and framing tips to support continuous improvement across the team.

📝 Enhancement Note: Michaels values a culture that is both creative and operational. The ideal candidate will be someone who can balance artistic sensibility with a disciplined approach to sales and store operations.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

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

• Customer Expectations Management: Meeting diverse customer needs and expectations for custom framing, which can range from simple to highly complex projects.

• Physical Demands: The role requires standing for extended periods, lifting heavy items, and working with specialized equipment, which can be physically demanding.

• Adapting to New Trends: Staying updated on framing trends, materials, and design aesthetics to provide contemporary solutions to customers.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Framing Craft Mastery: Intensive training on custom framing techniques, materials, and design principles.

• Sales & Customer Service Skills: Development in consultative selling, relationship building, and conflict resolution.

• Retail Operations Knowledge: Gaining experience in merchandising, inventory management, and POS systems.

• Career Progression: Clear pathways for advancement within store management or specialized roles within Michaels.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary challenge will be mastering the craft of custom framing while simultaneously excelling in customer service and sales. Continuous learning in both areas is key to success and growth.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you helped a customer find the perfect solution for a unique product or service need." (Focus on problem-solving and customer-centricity)

• "How would you approach selling a custom framing service to a customer who initially only wanted a ready-made option?" (Focus on sales technique and value proposition)

• "Walk me through your process for ensuring the quality and accuracy of a custom-made product." (Focus on attention to detail and process adherence) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Michaels and why are you interested in working here?" (Research the company's mission and values)

• "How do you contribute to a positive team environment?" (Highlight collaboration and support)

• "How do you stay motivated in a retail environment, especially during slower periods?" (Focus on proactivity and customer engagement) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Visual Storytelling: If presenting framing examples, explain the customer's need, your design solution, and the final outcome.

• Sales Process Walkthrough: Be ready to detail how you engage customers, identify needs, present options, and close sales, using specific examples.

• Quantify Achievements: If possible, mention sales targets met or exceeded, or positive customer feedback received.

📝 Enhancement Note: Be prepared to discuss specific examples of your customer service, sales, and any relevant crafting or design experience. For framing, emphasize precision, creativity, and understanding customer aesthetics.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

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

• Resume Customization: Tailor your resume to highlight customer service, sales experience, any crafting or artistic skills, and comfort with tools or technical processes. Use keywords from the job description like "custom framing," "customer service," "sales," and "merchandising."

• Portfolio Preparation: Gather any visual examples of your work (framing, art, design) or be ready to discuss your approach to customer consultations and sales processes in detail.

• Interview Practice: Rehearse answers to common retail interview questions, focusing on behavioral examples of your skills and how you align with Michaels' values of creativity and customer focus. Practice explaining your sales approach for custom products.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Michaels' mission, values, and product offerings. Understand their position in the market and their commitment to creativity and customer experience.

⚠️ 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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