Retail Part-time Framer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Retail Part-time Framer

Company: Michaels Stores

Location: Roanoke, Virginia, United States

Job Type: PART_TIME

Category: Retail Operations / Custom Framing

Date Posted: 2026-06-12

Experience Level: Entry Level (0-2 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is focused on providing exceptional customer service and driving sales within the custom framing department of a retail environment.

• Key responsibilities include building strong customer relationships, understanding their needs, and translating those into high-quality, custom framing solutions.

• The position involves hands-on production of framing orders, ensuring they are completed accurately and on time, adhering to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).

• A significant aspect of the role includes maintaining the visual appeal and stock levels of the ready-made frame department, as well as supporting broader store operations like stocking and merchandising.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Retail Part-time Framer," the responsibilities extend beyond just framing production to include direct customer engagement, sales, and general retail operations. This suggests a blend of skilled craft and customer-facing retail duties, typical for specialized departments within larger retail chains. The emphasis on "Elevated ABC Deliver" points to a specific sales and customer engagement methodology.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Build and nurture customer relationships by actively engaging them, understanding their creative projects, and offering tailored custom framing solutions.

• Execute the "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodology to drive sales and production targets within the custom framing department.

• Accurately measure, design, and produce custom framing orders, ensuring high quality of craftsmanship and timely delivery to meet customer expectations.

• Maintain the visual merchandising standards and stock integrity of the ready-made frame department, including executing SISO (Sales in Store, Order) and Directed Replenishment plans.

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

• Support overall store operations by participating in truck unloads, stocking shelves, and executing Directed Replenishment processes to maintain optimal inventory levels.

• Operate the cash register and manage cash handling transactions accurately and in accordance with company standards.

• Assist with and fulfill Omni-channel customer orders, such as Buy Online, Pickup In-Store (BOPIS) and ship-from-store.

• Uphold company policies, Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), and safety/shrink programs to ensure a compliant and secure work environment.

• Maintain a clean, safe, and clutter-free workspace, particularly within the framing area and customer-facing retail spaces.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a dual focus: skilled custom framing production and proactive customer engagement/sales. The mention of specific programs like "Elevated ABC Deliver," "SISO," and "Directed Replenishment" indicates a structured approach to sales and inventory management within Michaels. The role also requires participation in logistical tasks like truck unloading.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: No specific educational degree is explicitly required, indicating a focus on vocational skills and on-the-job training.

Experience: Basic computer and measuring skills are essential. Prior retail experience and experience selling products or services are preferred.

Required Skills:

• Basic Computer Skills: Proficiency in using point-of-sale (POS) systems, basic software applications, and potentially online order management tools.

• Basic Measuring Skills: Ability to take accurate measurements for custom framing projects, crucial for precision and quality.

• Framing Equipment Operation: Competency in safely and effectively operating specialized framing equipment.

• Glass Cutting: Skill in cutting glass or acrylic to specific dimensions for framing.

• Customer Service Excellence: Ability to engage customers positively, understand their needs, and provide solutions.

• Sales Acumen: Capability to present framing options, upsell, and drive sales through consultative selling.

• Cash Handling: Accuracy and reliability in processing financial transactions.

• Adherence to SOPs: Ability to follow established Standard Operating Procedures for production, sales, and store operations. Preferred Skills:

• Retail Experience: Previous experience working in a retail environment, understanding store operations and customer flow.

• Sales Experience: Proven track record of successfully selling products or services, particularly in a consultative or custom-solution context.

• Merchandising Skills: Ability to maintain visual standards and present products attractively.

• Omni-channel Support: Familiarity with handling online orders for in-store pickup or ship-from-store processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirements emphasize practical, hands-on skills and customer interaction over formal education. The distinction between "required" and "preferred" experience highlights the company's willingness to train individuals with basic aptitude and a strong customer service orientation. The emphasis on "basic" skills suggests this role is accessible to individuals new to specialized retail functions but with a foundational understanding of retail environments.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• While a formal portfolio is not explicitly requested, candidates are expected to demonstrate their skills through practical application and potentially by discussing past projects or experiences.

• For custom framing roles, a strong portfolio would ideally showcase examples of completed framing projects, highlighting complexity, material choices, and the final aesthetic outcome.

• Examples should illustrate the ability to translate a customer's vision into a tangible, high-quality framed piece.

• Showcase of problem-solving skills, such as framing unusual or delicate items, would be advantageous. Process Documentation:

• Candidates should be prepared to discuss their understanding of and adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for custom framing production.

• This includes demonstrating knowledge of the framing order process, from initial customer consultation and design to final production and quality checks.

• Ability to articulate how they would ensure quality and timeliness in production, referencing specific steps or checks they would implement.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the nature of a part-time retail framing role, a formal, extensive portfolio may not be a strict requirement. However, candidates are strongly encouraged to prepare examples or be ready to discuss their framing experience and process knowledge. The emphasis is on demonstrating practical skills and understanding of production workflows rather than formal documentation.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: As a part-time retail position, the salary is likely to be at or slightly above minimum wage for the Roanoke, Virginia area, with potential for hourly increases based on performance and tenure. Based on current market data for similar part-time retail roles in Roanoke, VA, the estimated hourly range is $11 - $15 per hour.

Benefits:

• Health Insurance: Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance coverage options.

• Paid Time Off: Accrued paid time off for eligible part-time employees.

• Tuition Assistance: Support for continuing education through tuition reimbursement programs.

• Employee Discounts: Generous discounts on Michaels products and services.

• Other Benefits: Potential for additional benefits as outlined by The Michaels Companies Inc.

Working Hours: This is a part-time position. Working hours will include nights, weekends, and early mornings, aligning with typical retail operating schedules. The total number of hours per week is not specified but is expected to be less than 30-35 hours.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary estimates are based on publicly available data for similar part-time retail positions in Roanoke, VA, considering the entry-level nature of the role and the specific skills required. The provided benefits are substantial for a part-time role, indicating Michaels' commitment to employee well-being.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Arts and Crafts Retail. Michaels is a leading retailer in North America, specializing in arts, crafts, home decor, and custom framing. This industry context means a focus on creativity, customer inspiration, and hands-on projects.

Company Size: Over 1,300 stores in 49 states and Canada, plus online presence. This indicates a large, established retail organization with structured processes and a significant customer base.

Founded: 1973, headquartered in Irving, Texas. The company has a long history and a strong brand presence in the creative arts sector.

Team Structure:

• The role is part of a store-level team, reporting to store leadership (Store Manager, Assistant Store Manager, or Department Specialist).

• The immediate team will consist of fellow retail associates, potentially including specialists in other departments.

• Collaboration with the framing department lead or manager is expected for production and quality standards.

• Cross-functional interaction with other store departments for general retail tasks and customer assistance. Methodology:

• Emphasis on customer-centric sales approaches, particularly the "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodology for building relationships and closing sales.

• Structured production processes governed by Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to ensure quality and efficiency in custom framing.

• Data-driven inventory management through "SISO" and "Directed Replenishment" to optimize stock levels and sales opportunities.

• Commitment to operational efficiency through participation in truck unloads and stocking processes.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Michaels operates within a niche yet broad retail sector that thrives on creativity and DIY culture. The company's size suggests a well-defined operational framework, while its specialization in arts and crafts implies a culture that values creativity, skill development, and customer engagement around projects.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is an entry-level, part-time retail position focused on specialized skills (custom framing) within a larger retail operation. It's a foundational role for individuals interested in retail execution, customer service, and craft-related sales.

Reporting Structure: Reports directly to store management (e.g., Store Manager, Assistant Manager, or a designated Department Lead). The direct supervisor will oversee daily tasks, performance, and provide feedback.

Operations Impact: The role's impact is primarily on the store's sales performance, customer satisfaction, and operational efficiency within the custom framing department. High-quality framing services and excellent customer interactions contribute directly to revenue and customer loyalty. Efficient stock management and operational support also bolster overall store performance.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Opportunity to become a highly skilled Custom Framing Specialist, mastering advanced techniques and design consultation.

• Retail Advancement: Potential to move into roles with increased responsibility within the store, such as Key Holder, Department Lead, or Assistant Manager, by demonstrating strong performance and leadership potential.

• Cross-Training: Possibility of cross-training in other store departments to broaden retail experience and skill sets.

• Company-Wide Opportunities: With proven success, potential for opportunities at other Michaels locations or within corporate functions, though this is less common for part-time roles.

📝 Enhancement Note: Growth in this role is likely to be multidimensional, focusing on deepening expertise in custom framing, improving retail sales and operational skills, and potentially moving into leadership within a store setting. The part-time nature may present more opportunities for skill development and exposure rather than rapid vertical advancement without a transition to full-time.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is a customer-facing retail store environment. The workspace includes both the main retail floor and a dedicated frame shop area.

Office Location(s): The specific store is located at 1920 Valley View Blvd NW, Ste 1, Roanoke, VA. This is a typical retail strip mall or shopping center location.

Workspace Context:

• Retail Floor: Climate-controlled environment for customer interaction, product display, and sales. Requires constant movement and standing.

• Frame Shop: A specialized area containing framing equipment, tools, and materials. This area may have specific environmental considerations related to the machinery and materials used. It requires precision and a safe working practice.

• Stock Room/Back Areas: May be less climate-controlled and involves physical tasks like lifting and organizing inventory.

• Collaboration: Frequent interaction with customers and team members, fostering a dynamic and collaborative atmosphere.

Work Schedule: Flexible scheduling, common for part-time retail roles, including nights, weekends, and early mornings. The role requires adaptability to meet store operating hours and customer demand.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is typical of a specialty retail store, combining customer engagement with hands-on production. The frame shop itself is a unique workspace requiring specific safety protocols and skill. The schedule is designed to cover extended retail hours.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Likely conducted by a hiring manager or HR representative to assess basic qualifications, availability, and cultural fit.

• In-Person Interview: This will involve meeting with the store manager or department lead. Expect questions about customer service experience, problem-solving abilities, and your interest in custom framing.

• Skills Assessment/Demonstration: You may be asked to demonstrate basic measuring skills or discuss how you would approach a framing consultation. A practical test on operating framing equipment might be part of the process if you have prior experience.

• Walk-through: A tour of the store and frame shop, potentially with an explanation of daily tasks and expectations.

• Final Decision: Based on overall fit, skills, and enthusiasm.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Prepare Examples: Even without a formal portfolio, bring photos of framing projects you've completed (for personal use, friends, or previous work).

• Highlight Quality: Be ready to discuss the materials used, the design choices, and the precision involved in your framing work.

• Customer Focus: Emphasize how you approached customer needs and translated them into the final framed product.

• Process Understanding: Be prepared to discuss your understanding of the framing process from consultation to completion.

• Problem-Solving: Have an example ready of a challenging framing project you tackled and how you resolved it.

Challenge Preparation:

• Customer Scenario: Be ready to role-play a customer consultation for a custom framing project. Think about asking clarifying questions about the artwork, desired style, budget, and placement.

• Problem-Solving Scenario: Prepare for questions like, "What would you do if a customer brought in a very delicate or unusually shaped item to frame?" or "How would you handle a situation where a customer is unhappy with a framing quote?"

• Retail Operations: Expect questions about your experience with cash handling, merchandising, and maintaining a clean store environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for this role will likely be hands-on and practical, focusing on assessing core skills, customer service aptitude, and the ability to learn specialized framing techniques. Preparing concrete examples and being ready to demonstrate practical knowledge will be key.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Custom Framing Equipment: Specialized machinery for cutting mats, joining frames, and assembling custom pieces (e.g., mat cutters, jointers, staple guns, possibly heat presses for specific mounting techniques).

• Glass Cutter: For precision cutting of glass or acrylic to fit frames.

• Measuring Tools: Tape measures, rulers, calipers for accurate project dimensions.

• Computer/POS System: For order entry, customer management, cash handling, and potentially design software.

• Basic Hand Tools: Hammers, screwdrivers, pliers for assembly and repairs.

Analytics & Reporting:

• POS Reporting: Basic sales data and transaction reports generated by the point-of-sale system.

• Inventory Management Systems: Potentially used for tracking frame stock, mat boards, and other supplies (e.g., SISO, Directed Replenishment).

CRM & Automation:

• Customer Relationship Management (CRM) within POS: The system likely tracks customer purchase history and contact information to facilitate repeat business and personalized service.

• Order Management System: Integrated with POS for custom framing order tracking from creation to completion.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is a mix of specialized craft equipment and standard retail operational systems. Proficiency in basic computer use and an aptitude for learning specialized tools are crucial. The "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodology may also imply a specific software or process for managing customer interactions and sales.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Creativity & Inspiration: Fostering an environment where creativity is encouraged, both for employees and customers.

• Customer Focus: Prioritizing customer needs, satisfaction, and building lasting relationships through excellent service and tailored solutions.

• Quality & Craftsmanship: Commitment to producing high-quality custom framing that meets or exceeds customer expectations.

• Teamwork & Collaboration: Working together effectively within the store team to achieve operational goals and provide a seamless customer experience.

• Efficiency & Process Adherence: Following established procedures (SOPs) for production, sales, and store operations to ensure consistency and productivity.

• Positive Attitude: Maintaining a positive and respectful demeanor, even in challenging situations, to contribute to a positive work environment.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Support: Team members are expected to assist each other across different store functions, from sales floor to stockroom to framing department.

• Open Communication: Encouraging clear communication regarding customer needs, production timelines, and operational issues.

• Learning & Development: A culture that supports learning new skills, sharing knowledge, and continuous improvement, particularly in framing techniques and customer service.

📝 Enhancement Note: Michaels likely promotes a culture that blends creativity and a passion for arts and crafts with the discipline of retail operations and customer service. The values emphasize both individual contribution and collective success within the store environment.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Production and Sales: Effectively managing time to complete custom framing orders accurately while also engaging customers on the sales floor and driving new sales.

• Complex Framing Projects: Handling unique or challenging artwork that requires specialized techniques or problem-solving.

• Customer Expectations: Meeting diverse customer expectations regarding design, quality, and turnaround time.

• Physical Demands: The role requires standing for long periods, lifting heavy items, and working with tools and machinery, which can be physically demanding.

• Learning Curve: Mastering the technical aspects of custom framing, including equipment operation and design principles, requires dedicated learning.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Custom Framing Expertise: Deepen knowledge and skill in various framing techniques, matting styles, and artwork preservation.

• Sales & Customer Engagement: Develop advanced consultative selling skills and customer relationship management through the "Elevated ABC Deliver" program.

• Retail Operations Management: Gain experience in inventory management, visual merchandising, and store operational procedures, potentially leading to supervisory roles.

• Product Knowledge: Expand understanding of art supplies, framing materials, and current design trends.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary challenges revolve around the dual nature of the role—balancing skilled production with customer-facing sales and service. Growth opportunities are geared towards mastering the craft, enhancing sales capabilities, and progressing within the retail operational structure.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Tell me about a time you helped a customer find the perfect solution for their needs." (Focus on your customer service approach, active listening, and problem-solving skills.)

• "How would you approach consulting with a customer about custom framing for a valuable piece of art?" (Highlight your understanding of client consultation, material options, and design considerations. Mention asking about the artwork's value, size, and the customer's aesthetic preferences.)

• "Describe your experience with measuring and production tasks. How do you ensure accuracy?" (Emphasize attention to detail, use of measuring tools, and adherence to specifications. If you have framing experience, detail your process.)

• "What does 'customer service' mean to you in a retail environment?" (Focus on proactive engagement, problem-solving, creating a positive experience, and building loyalty.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "Why are you interested in working at Michaels, specifically in custom framing?" (Connect your interest to creativity, craftsmanship, customer interaction, or a passion for art/decor.)

• "How do you handle working under pressure, especially during busy retail periods?" (Discuss time management, prioritization, and maintaining a positive attitude.)

• "What do you know about Michaels' commitment to creativity and its customers?" (Show you've researched the company's mission and values.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Verbal Portfolio: Be prepared to walk through examples of framing projects you've done. Describe the project, the materials used, the challenges, and the final outcome.

• Visual Aids (if applicable): If you bring photos, ensure they are clear and showcase the quality of your work.

• Process Explanation: Clearly articulate your step-by-step process for taking a framing order from consultation to completion, emphasizing quality control and customer satisfaction.

• Connect to Role: Frame your experience and examples in the context of the "Retail Part-time Framer" role, showing how your skills align with the job requirements.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a blend of practical skills, customer service aptitude, and a genuine interest in the creative aspects of the role. Being ready to discuss specific examples and processes will be crucial for success.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Michaels Careers website.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight any relevant experience in retail, customer service, sales, or craft-related work. Quantify achievements where possible (e.g., "Increased custom framing sales by X%").

• Portfolio Preparation: Gather photos or descriptions of any framing projects you've completed, or be ready to discuss your approach to custom framing design and production verbally during the interview.

• Interview Practice: Prepare answers to common retail and customer service interview questions, focusing on scenarios related to sales, problem-solving, and teamwork. Practice explaining your understanding of the framing process.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Michaels' mission, values, and its position in the arts and crafts retail market. Understand the "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodology if possible.

⚠️ 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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