Retail Framer - Part Time - Will Train

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Retail Framer - Part Time - Will Train

Company: Michaels Stores

Location: Leominster, Massachusetts, United States

Job Type: Part time

Category: Retail Operations / Customer Service & Sales

Date Posted: August 11, 2026

Experience Level: Entry Level (0-2 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Focus on building strong customer relationships through personalized framing solutions and exceptional in-store experiences.

• Drive sales and production targets by effectively merchandising departments and assisting customers with their needs.

• Maintain operational excellence through adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company programs.

• Contribute to a positive and productive retail environment by ensuring a safe, clean, and well-stocked store.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as an entry-level opportunity within a retail environment, with a specific focus on custom framing services. The "Will Train" aspect indicates a strong emphasis on developing internal talent and providing comprehensive onboarding for individuals new to framing or specific retail operations. The core of the role revolves around customer interaction, sales, and maintaining store standards.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Engage customers using Elevated ABC Deliver methodology to build rapport and identify custom framing needs, directly contributing to sales and production goals.

• Execute custom framing orders with a high degree of quality and meet established production timelines, ensuring customer satisfaction.

• Maintain the visual presentation and stock levels of the ready-made frame department, as well as other assigned areas, including SISO (Store-Initiated, Store-Out) and Directed Replenishment processes.

• Provide friendly and proactive customer service, assisting shoppers in locating products, offering solutions, and ensuring a positive shopping experience.

• Operate the cash register and adhere to all cash handling procedures and standards.

• Participate actively in truck unloading and stocking processes, ensuring compliance with truck standards and budget adherence.

• Uphold company shrink and safety programs, contributing to a secure and accident-free workplace.

• Interact with colleagues and customers in an accepting and respectful manner, fostering a positive and inclusive team environment.

• Assist with the execution of Omni-channel processes, ensuring seamless integration between online and in-store customer experiences.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities emphasize a blend of direct customer sales, custom product creation (framing), and general retail operations. The mention of "Elevated ABC Deliver" and "SISO" suggests specific internal methodologies and inventory management practices that candidates should be aware of. The role requires hands-on operation of specialized equipment.

🎓 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 for operations roles.

Experience:

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

• Previous experience in sales or selling products/services is a plus. Required Skills:

• Basic computer skills for system navigation and order processing.

• Proficiency in basic measuring skills for accurate framing and material estimation.

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

• Demonstrated customer service skills, including active listening and problem-solving.

• Cash handling proficiency and accuracy. Preferred Skills:

• Previous retail experience, particularly in a specialty or custom service environment.

• Experience in consultative selling or guiding customers through product/service selection.

• Familiarity with inventory management principles and merchandising standards.

• Ability to operate a heat press for framing applications.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Will Train" aspect implies that formal experience with framing equipment is not mandatory, but a willingness to learn and basic aptitude for hands-on tasks are crucial. The emphasis on "basic measuring skills" and "basic computer skills" highlights the foundational requirements for this role.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• While a formal portfolio is not explicitly required for this entry-level role, candidates should be prepared to discuss past experiences demonstrating their ability to follow processes, manage tasks efficiently, and contribute to team goals.

• Examples of successful customer interactions, problem resolution, or contributions to a positive team environment can serve as informal portfolio pieces.

• Demonstrate an understanding of how following Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) contributes to consistent quality and customer satisfaction.

• Be prepared to articulate how attention to detail in tasks like measuring and order fulfillment leads to positive business outcomes (e.g., reduced errors, repeat customers). Process Documentation:

• Candidates should show an understanding of the importance of adhering to documented workflows for framing orders, from customer consultation to final product delivery.

• Be prepared to discuss how they would learn and apply new processes related to equipment operation, safety protocols, and customer service standards.

• Demonstrate an ability to learn and follow best practices for visual merchandising and inventory management.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an entry-level, "will train" position, a formal portfolio of complex operational processes is unlikely. The expectation is more about demonstrating a capacity to learn, follow instructions, and understand the importance of process adherence in a retail and custom service context.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $15.25 - $17.90 per hour. This range reflects an entry-level to slightly experienced position in a retail environment, adjusted for the specific skills required for custom framing.

Benefits:

• 401(k) with employer match: A retirement savings plan with company contributions.

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Confidential support services for personal and work-related issues.

• Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage: Comprehensive health insurance options.

• Telemedicine services: Convenient access to healthcare professionals remotely.

• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs): Pre-tax accounts for healthcare and dependent care expenses.

• Commuter benefits: Assistance with transportation costs.

• Tuition assistance: Support for continuing education and skill development.

• Adoption assistance: Financial support for team members adopting a child.

• Voluntary insurance options: Additional insurance coverage choices.

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

Working Hours: Part-time employment. While the total weekly hours are not specified, part-time roles typically range from 15-30 hours per week. Work hours include nights, weekends, and early mornings, as required by retail operational needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided salary range aligns with current market rates for part-time retail roles requiring specialized skills in areas like custom framing, especially considering the "will train" aspect. The comprehensive benefits package is a significant draw for part-time roles, indicating Michaels' commitment to team member well-being.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Arts and Crafts Retail. Michaels is a leading specialty retailer of arts, crafts, and home decor products, serving a broad customer base looking for creative supplies and custom framing solutions.

Company Size: Large (over 1,000 employees globally). Michaels operates a vast network of stores across North America, indicating a structured corporate environment with established operational standards.

Founded: 1973. With decades of operation, Michaels has a long-standing reputation and deep understanding of the retail and creative markets.

Team Structure:

• The Retail Framer typically reports to a Store Manager or Assistant Store Manager, with direct supervision from a designated department lead or framing specialist if one exists.

• They will collaborate closely with other store associates, including sales floor staff, cashiers, and potentially other framers.

• Cross-functional collaboration is essential, working with team members on inventory stocking, customer service initiatives, and Omni-channel fulfillment. Methodology:

• Data-driven decision-making is likely employed in inventory management, sales performance tracking, and customer engagement strategies.

• Workflow planning and optimization are critical, particularly in the custom framing department, to ensure efficient order processing and timely delivery.

• Automation may be leveraged for inventory tracking and sales reporting, though the core framing process is hands-on.

Company Website: www.michaels.com

📝 Enhancement Note: Michaels' culture emphasizes creativity, community, and customer focus. For operations roles, this translates to a need for attention to detail, a passion for helping customers realize their creative projects, and a commitment to maintaining a welcoming and inspiring store environment.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Entry Level / Retail Associate. This role serves as a foundational position within the retail operations framework, focusing on direct customer interaction, product knowledge, and operational tasks.

Reporting Structure: Typically reports to Store Management, with day-to-day guidance from department leads or senior associates. This structure allows for direct mentorship and skill development.

Operations Impact: The Retail Framer directly impacts revenue through custom framing sales and general store sales. Their ability to build customer relationships and provide quality service influences repeat business and customer loyalty. Efficient operations, including accurate framing and well-maintained departments, contribute to overall store profitability and customer satisfaction.

Growth Opportunities:

• Framing Specialist/Lead: With experience and demonstrated skill, opportunities exist to become a lead framer, taking on more complex projects, training new associates, and managing framing department operations.

• Sales & Merchandising Roles: Advancement into roles focused on visual merchandising, sales leadership, or category management within the store environment.

• Store Management Track: Potential to move into Assistant Store Manager or Store Manager positions, overseeing all aspects of store operations and team leadership.

• Cross-functional Development: Opportunities to learn about other areas of retail operations, such as inventory management, Omni-channel fulfillment, or loss prevention.

📝 Enhancement Note: Michaels provides clear pathways for growth from entry-level positions. For a Retail Framer, the most direct path involves specializing further in custom framing or transitioning into broader retail management roles, leveraging the foundational customer service and operational skills gained.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Public retail store setting. The primary work environment is customer-facing, within a climate-controlled retail space.

Office Location(s): Leominster, MA - specifically at 18 Water Tower Plaza. This location is a physical retail store accessible to the public.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace includes customer-facing sales floors, a custom framing shop area (which contains specialized equipment like glass cutters and heat presses), and stock rooms.

• Team members will have access to necessary tools and technology for sales, order processing, and inventory management.

• Opportunities for collaboration exist through daily team huddles, customer assistance, and shared operational tasks.

Work Schedule: Part-time, with hours including nights, weekends, and early mornings. Flexibility is key to accommodate customer traffic patterns and operational needs, particularly during peak seasons.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is dynamic and customer-centric. The framing shop itself presents a unique workspace with specific safety considerations and the need for meticulous craftsmanship alongside customer interaction.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Application Review: Screening of resumes and applications for alignment with basic requirements.

• Phone Screen/Initial Interview: A brief conversation, often with an HR representative or hiring manager, to assess basic qualifications, interest in the role, and cultural fit. Candidates should be ready to discuss their customer service experience and interest in framing.

• In-Person Interview: This may involve a store walk-through, meeting the team, and a more in-depth discussion about skills and experience. Candidates may be asked to demonstrate basic measuring skills or discuss how they would handle specific customer scenarios. For this role, a practical demonstration of operating a glass cutter or a similar tool might be incorporated if deemed necessary and safe.

• Final Interview: Potentially with a Store Manager or District Manager for final approval.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Since a formal portfolio isn't typical for this role, focus on preparing specific examples from past experiences that demonstrate the required skills.

• For customer service, prepare a STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) story about a time you went above and beyond for a customer.

• For attention to detail, discuss a time you caught an error or ensured accuracy in a task.

• For teamwork, provide an example of collaborating with colleagues to achieve a store goal.

• Be ready to articulate your understanding of the framing process and your enthusiasm for learning it. Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared for behavioral questions asking how you would handle common retail scenarios (e.g., dealing with an unhappy customer, managing multiple customer requests simultaneously, working during a busy period).

• Practice articulating your understanding of Michaels' brand and its commitment to creativity.

• Think about how you would approach learning the custom framing process and the specific equipment involved.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is designed to assess not only skills but also cultural fit and a genuine interest in the creative aspects of Michaels. For an entry-level role with training, demonstrating trainability and a positive attitude is paramount.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Custom Framing Equipment: Standard framing tools, including mat cutters, framing guns, and potentially specialized saws.

• Glass Cutter: Essential tool for custom glass sizing.

• Heat Press: Used for specific framing applications, such as mounting or sealing.

• Cash Register/POS System: For processing sales transactions, gift cards, and returns.

Analytics & Reporting:

• POS System Reporting: Basic sales reports and transaction data.

• Inventory Management Software: For tracking stock levels, processing incoming shipments, and managing replenishment.

CRM & Automation:

• Customer Relationship Management (CRM) elements: Potentially integrated into the POS system or a separate platform for tracking custom order history and customer preferences.

• Basic Computer Skills: Proficiency with standard office software for training modules, internal communications, and potentially basic data entry.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is primarily focused on point-of-sale operations, inventory management, and the specialized tools required for custom framing. Familiarity with retail POS systems is a plus, but the primary focus will be on learning the specific equipment and processes within Michaels.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Creativity: Fostering an environment where creative expression is encouraged, both for customers and team members.

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

• Teamwork: Collaborating effectively with colleagues to achieve store goals and support a positive work environment.

• Integrity: Upholding company standards, ethical practices, and a commitment to accuracy in all tasks.

• Efficiency: Striving for operational excellence in framing production, merchandising, and daily tasks to optimize performance.

Collaboration Style:

• Emphasis on supportive and respectful interactions between team members.

• Cross-functional collaboration is expected to ensure smooth store operations, from stocking to customer service.

• A culture of learning and sharing best practices, particularly within the framing department, to continuously improve quality and efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: Michaels values a culture that celebrates creativity and fosters strong customer relationships. For operations, this means a dedication to quality, a proactive approach to customer needs, and a collaborative spirit to ensure the store runs smoothly and efficiently.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Mastering Custom Framing Techniques: Learning the intricacies of matting, framing, and specialized mounting requires practice and attention to detail.

• Balancing Multiple Responsibilities: Effectively managing customer interactions, framing production, merchandising, and stocking tasks simultaneously.

• High Volume Periods: Adapting to busy retail seasons and peak customer demand while maintaining service quality.

• Working with Varied Customer Needs: Catering to a diverse range of artistic styles and project requirements from customers.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• On-the-job training: Comprehensive instruction on custom framing techniques, equipment operation, and store procedures.

• Product Knowledge Expansion: Deepening understanding of art supplies, framing materials, and design principles.

• Customer Service Excellence: Developing advanced skills in consultative selling and customer problem-solving.

• Potential for Specialization: Opportunities to become a recognized expert in custom framing within the store.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a unique opportunity to develop specialized craft skills within a retail setting. The challenges are balanced by robust training and clear pathways for skill development and career advancement within Michaels.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to learn a new skill quickly. How did you approach it?" (Assesses trainability and learning agility.)

• "How would you handle a situation where a customer is unhappy with a custom framing order they received?" (Tests problem-solving and customer service skills.)

• "Imagine a customer comes in with a very unique or challenging framing project. How would you approach helping them find a solution?" (Evaluates creativity, problem-solving, and consultative sales approach.)

• "What does 'attention to detail' mean to you in a retail environment, especially in custom framing?" (Probes for understanding of accuracy and quality.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "Why are you interested in working for Michaels, specifically in custom framing?" (Gauges genuine interest and alignment with the brand.)

• "What do you know about Michaels' commitment to creativity and its customers?" (Tests research and understanding of company values.)

• "How do you contribute to a positive team environment?" (Assesses collaboration and interpersonal skills.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Since a formal portfolio isn't required, prepare to verbally showcase your relevant experiences.

• Use the STAR method to describe situations where you demonstrated customer service excellence, problem-solving, attention to detail, or teamwork.

• Be ready to discuss your understanding of the importance of quality craftsmanship in custom framing and your eagerness to learn the process.

• If you have any personal projects or hobbies related to art, crafts, or design, be prepared to briefly mention them to highlight your passion for the industry.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating enthusiasm for the creative aspect of the role, a strong customer service orientation, and a capacity for learning hands-on skills. Behavioral questions will be key to assessing these attributes.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

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

• Tailor your resume: Highlight any customer service, sales, or hands-on experience. Quantify achievements where possible (e.g., "Assisted X customers daily," "Maintained department stock levels").

• Prepare specific examples: For behavioral questions, have STAR method examples ready that showcase your customer service skills, attention to detail, ability to learn, and teamwork.

• Research Michaels: Understand their brand, commitment to creativity, and the role of custom framing in their business. Be ready to articulate why you're a good fit for their culture.

• Practice your pitch: Be ready to confidently discuss your interest in the role and your enthusiasm for learning the custom framing craft during any initial screening calls or interviews.

⚠️ 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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