Retail Framer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Retail Framer

Company: Michaels Stores

Location: Apple Valley-14890 Florence Trl, Apple Valley, California, United States

Job Type: PART_TIME

Category: Retail Operations / Sales

Date Posted: 2026-06-02T00:00:00

Experience Level: Entry Level (0-2 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Drive sales and customer engagement by providing expert custom framing solutions and personalized design consultations.

• Maintain operational excellence through adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and effective inventory management.

• Ensure a positive customer experience by providing exceptional service, maintaining store appearance, and assisting with Omni-channel fulfillment.

• Operate essential retail functions including cash handling, merchandising, and stocking to support overall store performance.

• Develop and utilize basic computer and measuring skills, alongside proficiency in operating framing equipment and a glass cutter.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as an entry-level opportunity within Michaels' retail operations, with a strong emphasis on customer interaction, sales, and hands-on production. The core function revolves around custom framing, requiring a blend of sales acumen and practical skills.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Execute personal designer responsibilities using Elevated ABC Deliver to build customer relationships and create compelling custom framing solutions, directly contributing to sales and production targets.

• Complete custom framing orders with a high degree of quality and adherence to production timelines, ensuring customer satisfaction.

• Maintain the readiness and visual appeal of the ready-made frame department, including SISO (Set In Stock Out) and Directed Replenishment processes.

• Deliver friendly and proactive customer service, assisting shoppers in locating products, providing solutions, and ensuring a well-merchandised and fully stocked store environment.

• Adhere strictly to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and Company programs to ensure compliance with legal requirements and company standards.

• Actively participate in shrink and safety programs, contributing to a secure and efficient store operation.

• Interact respectfully with colleagues, maintaining a positive and professional demeanor even during challenging situations, and embodying the organization's vision and values.

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

• Operate the cash register, execute cash handling procedures, and process transactions accurately and efficiently to company standards.

• Acknowledge customers promptly, assist them in product location, and offer solutions to meet their creative needs.

• Support and execute Omni-channel processes, such as buy online, pick up in-store (BOPIS) and ship from store, to enhance customer convenience and sales channels.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a dual focus on direct customer sales and production within the framing department, alongside general retail operational duties. The emphasis on "Elevated ABC Deliver" suggests a specific sales methodology or customer service framework employed by Michaels.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: High school diploma or equivalent is typically expected for entry-level retail positions.

Experience:

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

• Experience in sales, especially consultative selling of products or services, is preferred.

• Prior experience in custom framing or a related craft/artisan field is a plus but not required due to training. Required Skills:

• Basic computer skills for system navigation and potential order entry.

• Basic measuring skills for accurate framing specifications.

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

• Strong customer service orientation with excellent interpersonal communication skills.

• Proficiency in cash handling and operating a point-of-sale (POS) system.

• Ability to understand and follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).

• Basic merchandising and stock organization skills. Preferred Skills:

• Previous retail sales experience, particularly in a consultative sales environment.

• Experience selling products and/or services directly to customers.

• Familiarity with inventory management principles.

• Knowledge of art or design principles can be advantageous.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role is framed as entry-level, with "we will train you!" indicating a strong willingness to develop candidates with foundational skills. The required skills are practical and directly related to the job's core functions, while preferred skills point towards candidates who can ramp up faster in sales and customer engagement.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• While a formal portfolio is not explicitly required due to the entry-level nature and training provided, candidates are encouraged to highlight any relevant projects or experiences that demonstrate their ability to:

  • Execute tasks with precision and attention to detail (e.g., a well-executed craft project, a detailed measurement log).
  • Solve problems creatively (e.g., a scenario where a unique framing challenge was overcome).
  • Manage multiple tasks or projects effectively.

• For candidates with prior sales experience, examples of successful customer interactions or sales achievements can be verbally shared. Process Documentation:

• Candidates should be prepared to discuss how they would follow established processes and SOPs for tasks such as:

  • Custom framing order creation and production.

  • Customer service interactions and problem resolution.

  • Inventory management and stocking procedures (e.g., truck un-loading, directed replenishment).

  • Cash handling and transaction processing.

📝 Enhancement Note: For this entry-level retail role, a traditional operations portfolio is not expected. The emphasis will be on the candidate's ability to learn, follow procedures, and demonstrate practical skills during the interview process, potentially through hands-on tasks or scenario-based questions.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $13.25 - $15.60 per hour.

Benefits:

• Health insurance (medical, dental, and vision)

• Paid time off (PTO)

• Tuition assistance

• Generous employee discounts on Michaels products

Working Hours: This is a part-time position. Specific hours will vary based on store needs and scheduling, but may include nights, weekends, and early mornings. The role implies a typical retail working schedule, potentially up to 40 hours per week if combined with other store duties, but part-time designation suggests fewer hours.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range provided is specific to the US market for this role. Benefits are comprehensive for part-time employees, which is a significant draw for retail positions. The working hours are flexible but demand availability across various shifts.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Arts and Crafts Retail. Michaels is a leading retailer of arts, crafts, and home decor products.

Company Size: Large (Over 10,000 employees, with over 1,300 stores in North America). This indicates a structured corporate environment with established processes and career paths.

Founded: 1973. The company has a long-standing history and a well-established brand presence.

Team Structure:

• This role operates within a store-level team, reporting to a Store Manager or Assistant Store Manager, with potential direct oversight from a Framing Department Lead or Manager.

• Collaboration occurs with fellow Sales Associates, Cashiers, and potentially other specialized roles within the store.

• Cross-functional collaboration involves supporting various store operations, including Omni-channel fulfillment and general sales floor support. Methodology:

• Emphasis on Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for consistent execution of tasks and customer service.

• A customer-centric approach is core, focusing on building relationships and providing solutions, particularly through the "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodology.

• Data-driven insights are likely used at a corporate level for merchandising and sales strategies, while store-level operations focus on execution and customer feedback.

• Process optimization focuses on efficiency in sales, production, and operational tasks.

Company Website: www.michaels.com

📝 Enhancement Note: Michaels fosters a culture centered around creativity, customer engagement, and operational efficiency within a large retail framework. The "Elevated ABC Deliver" suggests a structured approach to customer interaction and sales.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This position is an entry-level, individual contributor role within the retail operations segment of Michaels. It focuses on direct customer interaction, production, and in-store operational support.

Reporting Structure: The Retail Framer typically reports to a Store Manager or Assistant Store Manager, with functional guidance from a Framing Department Manager or Lead.

Operations Impact: The role directly impacts store revenue through custom framing sales and by contributing to overall store sales through excellent customer service and product availability. Efficient production and quality framing contribute to customer satisfaction and repeat business.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Development: Opportunity to become an expert in custom framing design, production techniques, and customer consultation.

• Retail Advancement: Potential to move into roles like Framing Department Lead, Key Holder, Assistant Store Manager, or Store Manager.

• Cross-Training: Possibility to gain experience in other store departments, such as visual merchandising, inventory management, or Omni-channel fulfillment.

• Specialization: Develop expertise in specific framing techniques or materials.

📝 Enhancement Note: While entry-level, Michaels provides a clear pathway for growth within its extensive retail network. The role offers hands-on experience that can lead to specialized skills and management opportunities.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Public retail store setting.

Office Location(s): Apple Valley, California, with over 1,300 locations across the US and Canada.

Workspace Context:

• The primary workspace is the retail sales floor and the custom framing shop within the store.

• The framing shop contains specialized equipment like a glass cutter and heat press, requiring careful operation.

• Work areas are generally climate-controlled, though some stock rooms might not be.

• Occasional outdoor work may be required for tasks like retrieving shopping carts or unloading trucks.

• The environment is customer-facing, requiring constant interaction and a friendly demeanor.

Work Schedule: This is a part-time role. Work hours include nights, weekends, and early mornings, reflecting typical retail operational demands. Flexibility in scheduling is often required.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is dynamic and customer-focused, typical of a retail setting. The framing shop itself presents a unique, hands-on production space within the broader retail context.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Application review, potentially followed by a brief phone or video screening by an HR representative or hiring manager.

• In-Store Interview: Typically involves meeting with the Store Manager or Assistant Store Manager. This may include:

  • Behavioral questions assessing customer service, teamwork, and problem-solving skills.
  • Situational questions related to handling customer inquiries, sales scenarios, or operational challenges.
  • A practical assessment or demonstration of basic measuring skills or ability to follow instructions.

• Framing Skills Assessment (Potential): Depending on the interviewer's assessment, there might be a brief hands-on task or discussion about operating framing equipment, or a review of any relevant craft/design background.

• Final Interview/Offer: Confirmation of fit and offer extension.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Since a formal portfolio isn't standard for this role, focus on verbally articulating relevant experiences.

• Prepare specific examples from past retail, customer service, or any craft-related roles that demonstrate:

  • Your ability to build rapport with customers.
  • Your sales aptitude or success in meeting sales goals.
  • Your attention to detail and precision in tasks.
  • Your ability to learn and follow instructions.
  • Your problem-solving approach.

• If you have any personal projects (e.g., custom framing, art projects) that showcase your skills or passion for crafting, be ready to describe them. Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared for scenario-based questions: "How would you handle a customer who is unhappy with their framing order?" or "How would you approach a customer browsing the frame section?"

• Think about how you would explain the value of custom framing to a customer who might be considering ready-made options.

• Review basic measurement concepts.

• Understand that the "challenge" is often more about assessing your attitude, problem-solving approach, and customer-centricity rather than technical prowess, given the training provided.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will likely be conversational and focused on assessing soft skills, customer service aptitude, and the ability to learn and follow procedures. Demonstrating enthusiasm for creativity and customer engagement will be key.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Custom Framing Equipment: Including mat cutters, saws, mounting presses, and specialized tools for assembly.

• Glass Cutter: For precise cutting of glass or acrylic for frames.

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

• Basic Computer Systems: For accessing training modules, company information, and potentially order management systems.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While direct use of advanced analytics tools is unlikely for this role, understanding how individual sales contribute to store targets is important.

• Experience with basic reporting from POS systems (e.g., end-of-day sales reports) could be beneficial. CRM & Automation:

• Elevated ABC Deliver: A specific system or methodology used for customer relationship building and sales delivery in the framing department.

• Omni-channel Fulfillment Systems: Tools and processes for managing online orders, pick-ups, and ship-from-store operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in specific framing tools and a POS system is essential. Familiarity with "Elevated ABC Deliver" would be an advantage, but training will likely be provided.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Creativity: Encouraging and supporting artistic expression and crafting.

• Customer Focus: Prioritizing customer needs and delivering exceptional service to build loyalty.

• Teamwork: Collaborating effectively with colleagues to achieve store goals and provide a seamless customer experience.

• Integrity: Upholding company standards, ethical practices, and honest transactions.

• Efficiency: Striving for productivity in sales, production, and operational tasks while maintaining quality.

Collaboration Style:

• A collaborative environment where team members support each other across different store functions.

• Open communication is encouraged for problem-solving and customer issue resolution.

• Team members are expected to assist each other with stocking, customer service, and operational tasks as needed.

• Emphasis on creating a positive and inclusive atmosphere for both team members and customers.

📝 Enhancement Note: Michaels emphasizes a culture that blends creative passion with operational discipline, focusing on customer satisfaction and teamwork.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Production and Sales: Effectively managing custom framing production while also engaging with customers on the sales floor and driving new sales.

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

• Time Management: Prioritizing tasks in a busy retail environment, including order fulfillment, customer assistance, stocking, and maintaining store appearance.

• Physical Demands: The role requires standing for long periods and lifting potentially heavy items, which can be a physical challenge.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Framing Expertise: Gain in-depth knowledge and hands-on skill in all aspects of custom framing, from design consultation to final production.

• Sales Skills: Develop consultative selling techniques and customer relationship management through the "Elevated ABC Deliver" program.

• Retail Operations: Learn about merchandising, inventory control, Omni-channel processes, and cash handling within a large retail chain.

• Customer Service Excellence: Refine skills in conflict resolution, active listening, and providing exceptional customer experiences.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role presents opportunities to develop specialized craft skills and sales expertise within a supportive retail structure, with clear paths for advancement.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Customer Service & Sales: "Describe a time you went above and beyond to help a customer." "How would you approach a customer who seems unsure about their framing choice?" "What makes custom framing valuable to a customer?"

• Problem-Solving: "Imagine a customer is unhappy with their framing. What steps would you take?" "How would you handle a situation where you have multiple framing orders due and a customer needs immediate assistance on the sales floor?"

• Technical/Practical: "How comfortable are you with using measuring tools?" "Have you ever operated specialized equipment? How do you approach learning new tools?"

Company & Culture Questions:

• Research Michaels' mission, values, and recent initiatives.

• Understand the importance of creativity and customer experience in their business model.

• Be prepared to discuss why you are interested in working for Michaels and specifically in a framing role.

• Think about how you embody a team-oriented and customer-centric approach. Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Since a formal portfolio isn't required, focus on preparing "stories" or examples from your past experiences.

• For each example, use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to clearly articulate:

  • The context of the situation.
  • Your specific role and the task at hand.
  • The actions you took.
  • The positive outcome or lesson learned.

• Be ready to verbally walk through how you would approach a framing consultation or production task, emphasizing your process and attention to detail.

📝 Enhancement Note: Focus on demonstrating your customer service skills, sales potential, willingness to learn, and passion for creativity. Concrete examples of past performance will be more valuable than theoretical answers.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided Workday job portal link.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight any customer service, sales, hands-on production, or problem-solving experiences. Use keywords from the job description such as "customer service," "sales," "measuring skills," and "attention to detail."

• Portfolio Preparation (Verbal): Prepare specific examples and stories that showcase your customer interaction skills, sales aptitude, ability to follow procedures, and any relevant craft or hands-on experience. Be ready to discuss these during the interview.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Michaels' products, services, and commitment to creativity. Understand their customer-centric approach and the role of custom framing within their business.

• Interview Practice: Practice answering common retail and customer service interview questions, focusing on positive outcomes and your problem-solving approach. Be ready to discuss your interest in the framing aspect of the role.

⚠️ 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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