Retail Picture Framer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Retail Picture Framer

Company: Michaels Stores

Location: Latham, New York, United States

Job Type: PART_TIME

Category: Retail Operations / Creative Services

Date Posted: April 20, 2026

Experience Level: Entry-Level (0-2 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Focuses on building strong customer relationships through personalized custom framing solutions.

• Drives sales and production targets within the Custom Framing department.

• Ensures high-quality and timely completion of framing orders.

• Maintains visual merchandising standards for the ready-made frame department and other assigned areas.

• Provides exceptional customer service, assisting shoppers with product location and needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the primary focus is retail sales and custom framing, the role touches upon operational elements like inventory management, process adherence (SOPs), and maintaining a safe, clean store environment, aligning with broader retail operations principles.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Adhere to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company programs to ensure compliance and execution of company policies.

• Embrace and execute personal designer best practices using Elevated ABC Deliver to build customer relationships and create Custom Framing solutions, contributing to sales and production goals.

• Complete custom framing orders with a high degree of quality and within established timelines.

• Maintain the visual presentation and stock levels of the ready-made frame department, as well as other assigned areas including SISO (Single Item, Single Order) and Directed Replenishment.

• Deliver friendly and proactive customer service by assisting customers in locating products, offering solutions, and ensuring a well-merchandised and in-stock store.

• Support company-wide shrink and safety programs through diligent adherence to procedures.

• Interact positively and respectfully with colleagues, remaining positive and professional even in challenging situations.

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

• Operate the cash register proficiently and execute cash handling procedures to company standards.

• Acknowledge all customers entering the store, assist them in locating products, and provide solutions to their needs.

• Support and execute Omni channel processes, such as buy online, pick up in-store (BOPIS) and ship-from-store.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of direct customer interaction, sales, and operational tasks. The emphasis on SOP adherence, inventory management (SISO, Directed Replenishment), and Omni channel support are key operational components of this retail role.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: High school diploma or equivalent preferred, though not explicitly required; focus is on practical skills.

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

Required Skills:

• Basic computer skills for point-of-sale (POS) and potential system navigation.

• Basic measuring skills essential for accurate custom framing.

• Ability to safely and effectively operate framing equipment and glass cutters.

• Strong customer service orientation with excellent interpersonal skills.

• Proficiency in cash handling and operating a cash register.

• Merchandising and visual display abilities to maintain department appearance.

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

• Physical stamina for standing, lifting, bending, and reaching.

• Ability to work collaboratively within a team environment.

Preferred Skills:

• Previous retail experience, particularly in a sales or customer advisory capacity.

• Proven experience in selling products and/or services to customers.

• Familiarity with custom framing processes or art display techniques.

• Experience with Omni channel retail operations (e.g., BOPIS).

• Basic knowledge of inventory management principles.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "0-2" years of experience aligns with entry-level roles, suggesting that practical aptitude and a willingness to learn are highly valued. The operational aspects are less about complex system management and more about procedural adherence and hands-on execution.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• While a formal portfolio is not explicitly requested, candidates are encouraged to highlight instances of successful customer relationship building and problem-solving in their resume or during interviews.

• Demonstrating an understanding of quality control in previous roles or projects is beneficial.

• Examples of efficient workflow management or task prioritization in a fast-paced environment can be valuable.

Process Documentation:

• Candidates should be prepared to discuss their understanding and adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company programs.

• The ability to explain how they would ensure quality and timeliness in completing custom framing orders is important.

• Familiarity with and ability to execute multi-step processes, such as order fulfillment and customer interaction protocols.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an entry-level retail role, a formal portfolio is unlikely. However, the emphasis on SOPs and quality implies that candidates should be ready to discuss their approach to following established processes and ensuring high-quality output, which can be framed as a "process-in-action" for operations-minded individuals.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $16.25 - $19.10 per hour

Benefits:

• Health insurance (medical, dental, and vision) for eligible team members.

• Paid time off (PTO) for rest and personal needs.

• Tuition assistance programs to support continued education.

• Generous employee discounts on Michaels products and services, encouraging personal creativity and savings.

• Potential for other benefits as detailed on mikbenefits.com.

Working Hours: This is a PART_TIME position. While the exact number of hours may vary, total weekly hours are not expected to exceed 40. The role requires flexibility to work nights, weekends, and early mornings to meet store operational needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is provided for the specified location (Latham, NY) and aligns with current market rates for part-time retail positions with specialized skills like custom framing. The benefits package is comprehensive for part-time employees, reflecting Michaels' commitment to team member well-being.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

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

Company Size: Large (over 10,000 employees globally, with over 1,300 stores). This scale means established operational processes, extensive training programs, and a significant market presence.

Founded: 1973, with headquarters in Irving, Texas. This long history indicates a stable company with deep roots in the retail and creative industries, offering a strong foundation for its operational practices.

Team Structure:

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

• The immediate team will consist of fellow retail associates, cashiers, and potentially other department specialists.

Methodology:

• Data Analysis & Insights: While not a core analytical role, performance is measured through sales metrics, production output, and customer feedback. Understanding basic sales trends and customer preferences is beneficial.

• Workflow Planning & Optimization: Adherence to SOPs and efficient execution of tasks are critical. The role involves personal workflow management to meet daily operational and sales targets.

• Automation & Efficiency: While direct automation is limited in this role, efficient use of tools (POS, framing equipment) and processes (SOPs) contributes to overall store efficiency.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Michaels' culture emphasizes creativity, customer engagement, and a supportive work environment. For operations professionals, this means understanding how creative processes integrate with retail efficiency and how customer experience directly impacts business outcomes.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This position is an entry-level role within the retail operations framework. It focuses on direct customer interaction, sales execution, and adherence to established operational procedures within a specific department (Custom Framing).

Reporting Structure: The Retail Picture Framer reports to store management. Opportunities for advancement typically involve moving into senior sales associate roles, department lead positions, or potentially assistant management roles within the store.

Operations Impact: The role directly impacts store revenue through custom framing sales and contributes to overall customer satisfaction by providing quality products and services. Efficient execution of tasks and adherence to SOPs ensures smooth store operations.

Growth Opportunities:

• Operations Skill Advancement: Develop proficiency in custom framing techniques, sales strategies, and customer relationship management. Gain experience in visual merchandising and inventory upkeep.

• Leadership Potential: With demonstrated success in sales, customer service, and operational execution, opportunities may arise for roles with increased responsibility, such as a Framing Department Lead or Key Holder.

• Cross-Functional Exposure: Engage with various aspects of store operations, including POS systems, inventory management, and Omni channel fulfillment, providing a foundational understanding of retail operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: While not a traditional "Revenue Operations" role, this position offers a tangible entry point into understanding retail operational metrics like sales, customer satisfaction, and process efficiency at the store level. Growth paths lead to supervisory or management roles within the retail store environment.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Public retail store setting. The work environment is customer-facing and dynamic, with constant interaction with shoppers.

Office Location(s): Latham, NY (221 Wade Rd Ext). The specific store location offers a climate-controlled retail space for customer interactions and sales, with some stock rooms that may not be climate-controlled.

Workspace Context:

• The primary workspace includes the retail floor, the custom framing counter, and the framing shop area equipped with specialized tools.

• A clean, safe, and clutter-free environment is maintained, essential for both customer experience and operational efficiency.

• Collaboration is frequent, involving direct customer engagement and teamwork with other store associates.

Work Schedule: The role requires flexibility, including working nights, weekends, and early mornings. This schedule is typical for retail operations to ensure adequate staffing during peak shopping hours and operational needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is characterized by direct customer interaction and the hands-on nature of custom framing. Operations professionals will recognize the importance of maintaining efficient workflows and a safe workspace within a busy retail setting.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: May involve an online application review and potentially a brief phone or video screening to assess basic qualifications and interest.

• In-Person Interview: Typically involves meeting with the Store Manager or Assistant Store Manager. This interview will likely focus on customer service experience, problem-solving abilities, and understanding of the retail environment. Behavioral questions about past experiences will be common.

• Skills Assessment: Candidates may be asked to demonstrate basic measuring skills or discuss their approach to operating equipment.

• Situational Questions: Expect questions about how you would handle specific customer interactions, sales scenarios, or operational challenges (e.g., managing a busy framing counter, dealing with a difficult customer).

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Since this is an entry-level retail role, a formal portfolio is not expected. However, candidates should be prepared to discuss relevant experiences from their resume that demonstrate:
  • Customer service success stories.
  • Examples of problem-solving or initiative.
  • Any experience with sales or achieving targets.
  • How they prioritize tasks in a busy environment.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be ready to discuss how you would approach a custom framing consultation, focusing on understanding customer needs and recommending solutions.

• Prepare examples of how you have handled customer complaints or difficult situations in previous roles.

• Understand the importance of accuracy and quality in a production/service role.

📝 Enhancement Note: For this role, "portfolio review" translates to effectively communicating relevant past experiences and demonstrating a strong customer-centric and operational mindset through interview responses and behavioral examples.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Custom Framing Equipment: Includes specialized tools for cutting mats, glass, and assembling frames. Proficiency is a requirement.

• Glass Cutter: Essential for precise cutting of glass to fit frame dimensions.

• Heat Press: Used in some framing applications.

• Measuring Tools: Tape measures, rulers, and other precision instruments are critical for accurate order fulfillment.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Point-of-Sale (POS) System: Used for processing transactions, managing sales, and potentially accessing customer order history.

• Basic Computer Skills: Required for navigating internal systems, potentially email, and accessing training materials.

CRM & Automation:

• Elevated ABC Deliver: A system or methodology for personal design and customer engagement to enhance sales and relationships.

• Omni Channel Fulfillment Systems: Tools and processes to manage online orders for in-store pickup or ship-from-store initiatives.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is primarily focused on hands-on tools for custom framing and customer transaction processing, with an emphasis on the specific "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodology for sales and customer engagement.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Customer Focus: A strong emphasis on building relationships and providing exceptional service to drive customer satisfaction and loyalty.

• Creativity & Passion: Encouraging a passion for arts and crafts, and applying that to helping customers realize their creative visions.

• Quality & Accuracy: Commitment to high standards in custom framing to ensure customer delight and product integrity.

• Teamwork & Respect: Fostering a collaborative environment where associates support each other and treat everyone with respect.

• Efficiency & Accountability: Adhering to SOPs and managing personal workflow to meet operational and sales goals effectively.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Associates work together across different store functions (e.g., sales floor, stock room, framing counter) to ensure a seamless customer experience.

• Process Review Culture: While not formal, constructive feedback on workflow and customer interactions can occur to improve team performance.

• Knowledge Sharing: Experienced associates often share best practices for framing techniques, sales approaches, and customer service.

📝 Enhancement Note: The values at Michaels blend a passion for creativity with the operational realities of a retail environment, emphasizing customer-centricity and teamwork. For operations-minded individuals, understanding how these values translate into daily tasks and decision-making is crucial.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Multiple Priorities: Effectively managing customer consultations, order production, stocking, and POS transactions simultaneously in a fast-paced retail setting.

• Customer Expectations Management: Addressing diverse customer needs and budget constraints for custom framing projects, ensuring satisfaction.

• Technical Skill Development: Mastering framing equipment, glass cutting, and precision measurement to ensure high-quality output.

• Adapting to Seasonal Demands: Handling increased customer traffic and order volume during peak retail seasons.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Specialized Framing Skills: Deepen expertise in various framing techniques, materials, and design principles through on-the-job training and potential workshops.

• Sales & Customer Engagement: Develop advanced customer service and sales techniques, including consultative selling and upselling, through practical application and company training.

• Retail Operations Exposure: Gain foundational knowledge in store operations, inventory management, visual merchandising, and Omni channel processes.

• Career Advancement: Potential to progress into roles with greater responsibility within the store, such as Department Lead or Assistant Manager.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges in this role are typical of retail environments, requiring strong multitasking, problem-solving, and hands-on skill development. Growth opportunities are focused on mastering retail operations and customer engagement skills.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to create a custom solution for a customer. How did you approach it, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on process, understanding needs, and delivering a solution).

• "How would you handle a situation where a customer is unhappy with a custom framing order they received?" (Demonstrate problem-solving, empathy, and adherence to resolution processes).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about working at Michaels and specifically in the Custom Framing department?" (Connect your interest to creativity, customer service, and the company's mission).

• "How do you ensure you provide a positive and welcoming experience for every customer?" (Highlight customer-centric approach and proactive service).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Since a formal portfolio isn't required, prepare to "show, don't just tell" by using specific examples from your past experiences.

• For each example, clearly articulate the situation, the task you were responsible for, the actions you took, and the positive results achieved, particularly those related to customer satisfaction, sales, or efficient task completion.

• Be ready to discuss your understanding of custom framing design principles and customer consultation if you have relevant background, or express eagerness to learn.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a blend of customer service acumen, operational awareness (task prioritization, SOP adherence), and a genuine interest in the creative aspects of the role. Highlighting transferable skills from previous experiences is key.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

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

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight customer service achievements, any experience with sales or consultative selling, and any practical skills related to crafting, design, or precise work. Use keywords from the job description such as "customer service," "sales," "custom framing," and "merchandising."

• Prepare Specific Examples: For interview questions, have 2-3 detailed examples ready that showcase your ability to build customer relationships, solve problems, manage your time effectively in a busy environment, and deliver high-quality work.

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

• Practice Interview Responses: Rehearse answers to common interview questions, focusing on clarity, conciseness, and demonstrating enthusiasm for the role and the company.

⚠️ 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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