Retail Picture Framer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Retail Picture Framer

Company: Michaels Stores

Location: Columbia, Missouri, United States

Job Type: Full time

Category: Retail Operations / Sales

Date Posted: 2026-08-16

Experience Level: Entry Level (0-2 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role focuses on driving sales and customer engagement within the custom framing department of a retail environment.

• It requires a blend of salesmanship, customer service, and operational execution to deliver high-quality framing solutions.

• The position involves building strong customer relationships through personalized design consultations and ensuring a positive shopping experience.

• Key responsibilities include operating framing equipment, managing inventory, and supporting overall store operations to meet sales and production targets.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the job title is "Retail Picture Framer," the responsibilities and company context suggest a strong emphasis on sales, customer relationship management, and operational efficiency within a retail setting, rather than purely a craft-focused production role. This aligns with a GTM (Go-To-Market) or Sales Operations support function at the store level.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Build and maintain strong customer relationships by providing personalized design consultations for custom framing solutions, utilizing Elevated ABC Deliver methodology.

• Drive sales performance and achieve production targets for the custom framing department, acting as a key contributor to store revenue.

• Adhere to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company programs to ensure compliance, quality standards, and efficient workflow execution.

• Operate framing equipment, including specialized tools like a glass cutter and heat press, with a high degree of quality and efficiency to complete framing orders on time.

• Maintain the readiness and visual appeal of the ready-made frame department, alongside other assigned areas, ensuring effective merchandising and stock levels.

• Provide exceptional customer service by assisting shoppers, locating products, and ensuring a well-merchandised and in-stock store environment.

• Process customer transactions accurately and efficiently through the cash register, adhering to all cash handling and checkout standards.

• Support and train other team members, acting as a resource and potentially leading in the absence of the Framing Manager.

• Participate actively in truck un-loading and stocking processes, ensuring adherence to company standards and efficient inventory replenishment.

• Promote and enroll customers in the company's Rewards program and educate them on the Voice of Customer (VOC) survey to gather feedback.

• Assist with Omni-channel processes, supporting both in-store and online customer fulfillment needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities emphasize a dual focus on sales/customer engagement and operational execution, typical of a retail associate with specialized duties. The mention of "Elevated ABC Deliver" and "KPI achievement" suggests a structured approach to sales and performance management, common in sales operations.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• High school diploma or equivalent is generally expected for retail associate roles.

• While not explicitly stated, a background in art, design, or a related field could be beneficial for understanding customer aesthetic preferences. Experience:

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

• Demonstrated experience in sales or actively selling products and/or services is preferred.

• Previous experience in custom framing or a related craft is a plus but not strictly required. Required Skills:

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

• Measuring Skills: Accurate and precise measurement abilities are critical for custom framing orders.

• Framing Equipment Operation: Ability to safely and effectively operate framing machinery and tools.

• Customer Service Excellence: Proven ability to engage customers, understand their needs, and provide solutions with a friendly and helpful demeanor.

• Sales Acumen: Capability to identify sales opportunities, promote products and services, and drive sales conversions.

• Cash Handling Proficiency: Accuracy and responsibility in managing financial transactions and adhering to cash handling procedures.

• Merchandising Skills: Ability to maintain an attractive and organized retail display, particularly within the framing department.

• Safety Awareness: Understanding and adherence to safety protocols in a retail and workshop environment.

Preferred Skills:

• Retail Experience: Prior experience working in a retail store environment.

• Sales Experience: Proven track record of successfully selling products or services to customers.

• Framing Knowledge: Familiarity with different framing materials, techniques, and design principles.

• Team Training/Mentorship: Experience in guiding or training colleagues.

• Inventory Management: Basic understanding of stock rotation and inventory control.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "0-2 years" experience level suggests this role is suitable for individuals starting their careers or transitioning into retail, with a strong emphasis on trainable skills like customer service, sales, and equipment operation. The "Preferred Skills" highlight areas where prior experience can give a candidate an edge.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Customer Interaction Case Studies: Examples showcasing how you've built customer relationships, understood needs, and provided tailored solutions (e.g., custom framing consultations).

• Sales Performance Documentation: Quantifiable achievements in sales targets, upselling, or customer acquisition (e.g., Rewards program enrollment rates, sales figures).

• Operational Efficiency Examples: Documentation of how you've contributed to maintaining store standards, managing inventory, or improving workflow within a retail setting.

• Problem-Solving Scenarios: Brief descriptions of how you've handled challenging customer situations or operational issues, demonstrating critical thinking and resolution skills.

Process Documentation:

• Customer Journey Mapping: Ability to articulate the customer's experience from initial inquiry to order fulfillment, highlighting key touchpoints and service standards.

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Examples of how you've followed or suggested improvements to standard operating procedures for framing orders, inventory management, or customer service.

• Quality Assurance: Demonstration of commitment to quality in product creation (framing) and service delivery, including adherence to established standards.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an entry-level retail role like this, a formal "portfolio" might not be expected in the traditional sense. However, candidates should be prepared to discuss specific examples from past experiences (even non-professional ones) that demonstrate the required skills. The "Portfolio Essentials" and "Process Documentation" sections are framed to guide candidates on how to articulate their capabilities using concrete examples relevant to the role's responsibilities.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on industry standards for a full-time Retail Picture Framer position in Columbia, Missouri, with 0-2 years of experience, the estimated salary range is approximately $12.00 - $16.00 per hour.

• This estimate considers the cost of living in Columbia, MO, and typical entry-level retail pay rates. Actual compensation will depend on specific experience, qualifications, and store performance. Benefits:

• Health & Wellness: Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage, Telemedicine services, Employee Assistance Program (EAP).

• Financial Security: 401(k) with employer match, Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs), Voluntary Insurance Options.

• Professional Development: Tuition Assistance, Adoption Assistance.

• Work-Life Perks: Commuter Benefits, Employee Discounts on Michaels products.

• Additional: Access to partner discount programs.

Working Hours:

• This is a full-time position, typically requiring approximately 40 hours per week.

• Work hours may include nights, weekends, and early mornings, reflecting the operational needs of a retail environment. Flexibility in scheduling is often expected.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate based on general market data for similar retail roles in the specified location and experience level. Benefits information is directly extracted from the provided text.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Arts and Crafts Retail / Specialty Retail. Michaels is a leading retailer in North America for arts, crafts, and custom framing, serving a broad customer base interested in creative pursuits and home décor.

Company Size: Michaels operates over 1,300 stores across North America, employing a significant number of team members. This large scale indicates established corporate structures and operational processes.

Founded: Founded in 1973 and headquartered in Irving, Texas, Michaels has a long-standing history and strong brand recognition in the retail sector.

Team Structure:

• The role operates within a store-level team, reporting to a Framing Manager.

• The team likely includes other retail associates, department specialists, and potentially a store manager.

• Collaboration is expected with various team members to ensure smooth store operations, customer service, and sales performance. Methodology:

• The company emphasizes adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company programs for consistency and compliance.

• A data-driven approach is evident through the focus on Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and the Voice of Customer (VOC) survey.

• Customer relationship building through sales consultations and personalized service is a core methodology.

Company Website: www.michaels.com

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture is described as inclusive and focused on creativity, customer service, and team collaboration. The emphasis on SOPs and KPIs suggests a structured operational environment within each store.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is an entry-level, hands-on position within the retail operations framework. It serves as a foundational role for individuals looking to gain experience in customer service, sales, and operational execution within a large retail organization.

Reporting Structure: The Retail Picture Framer reports directly to the Framing Manager. This structure provides clear guidance and supervision for daily tasks, sales targets, and operational procedures.

Operations Impact: The role directly impacts store revenue through custom framing sales and drives customer loyalty through exceptional service and product quality. Efficient store operations, including merchandising and inventory management, contribute to a positive shopping environment, indirectly supporting overall sales performance.

Growth Opportunities:

• Framing Specialist/Manager: With demonstrated success, team members can advance to become a Framing Manager, taking on more responsibility for team leadership, sales targets, and operational oversight of the framing department.

• Cross-Functional Retail Roles: Experience gained in this role can lead to opportunities in other store departments, such as visual merchandising, inventory management, or customer engagement specialist roles.

• Corporate Opportunities: Long-term career growth within Michaels could potentially lead to roles at the corporate level in areas like merchandising, training, or operations support, leveraging the foundational retail experience.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth path is primarily within the retail store environment, with potential to move into leadership or specialized roles. Demonstrating strong sales, customer service, and operational skills are key to career progression.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is a public retail store setting, characterized by a customer-facing sales floor and a dedicated framing workshop area.

Office Location(s): The specific store is located at 2101 W Broadway in Columbia, Missouri. This is a typical retail store environment with a mix of climate-controlled customer areas and potentially less controlled stock rooms.

Workspace Context:

• Customer Interaction: The primary workspace involves direct interaction with customers on the sales floor and within the framing consultation area.

• Workshop Environment: The framing shop is equipped with specialized tools (glass cutter, heat press, framing equipment) requiring careful operation and adherence to safety protocols.

• Team Collaboration: The environment fosters regular interaction with other team members and management to coordinate tasks, customer service, and operational duties.

Work Schedule: The schedule involves working nights, weekends, and early mornings as dictated by store hours and operational needs. This requires flexibility to accommodate a full-time commitment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is dynamic, combining customer service with hands-on production. Safety and adherence to procedures are paramount, especially in the framing workshop.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

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

• In-Person Interview: This will involve meeting with the Framing Manager or Store Manager. Expect questions about customer service experience, sales approach, problem-solving skills, and your understanding of custom framing.

• Skills Assessment: You may be asked to demonstrate basic measuring skills or discuss how you would approach a customer consultation for framing.

• Cultural Fit: The interview will also assess your alignment with Michaels' values, such as creativity, teamwork, and customer focus.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Prepare Concrete Examples: Since this is an entry-level role, focus on specific instances from past jobs, school projects, or volunteer work that demonstrate your skills in customer service, sales, problem-solving, and organization.

• Quantify Achievements: Whenever possible, use numbers to illustrate your impact (e.g., "increased customer satisfaction by X%," "consistently met sales targets," "handled an average of Y transactions per shift").

• Highlight Relevant Skills: Emphasize your ability to learn quickly, operate equipment safely, communicate effectively, and work as part of a team.

• Showcase Enthusiasm: Express your interest in arts, crafts, and helping customers bring their creative visions to life.

Challenge Preparation:

• Scenario-Based Questions: Be ready for questions like, "A customer wants to frame a valuable piece of art but has a limited budget. How would you help them?" or "How would you handle a customer who is unhappy with the framing on their order?"

• Sales Approach: Prepare to discuss your approach to selling and upselling, focusing on understanding customer needs rather than high-pressure tactics.

• Operational Awareness: Think about how you would ensure a clean and organized workspace, manage inventory effectively, and adhere to safety protocols.

📝 Enhancement Note: The application process for this role is likely standard for retail positions, focusing on practical skills, customer interaction abilities, and cultural fit. Candidates should prepare to speak about their experiences with specific examples.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

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

• Framing Equipment: Industrial-grade equipment for cutting mats, assembling frames, and finishing orders. This includes specialized tools like glass cutters and heat presses.

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

• Computer/Tablet: For accessing training materials, company communications, order management systems, and potentially design software.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Sales Reporting Software: Integrated within the POS system to track individual and store sales performance.

• Inventory Management Systems: For tracking stock levels of frames, mats, glass, and hardware.

• Customer Relationship Management (CRM) / Rewards Program Software: To manage customer accounts, track purchases, and facilitate loyalty program enrollment.

CRM & Automation:

• Rewards Program Platform: Used for customer enrollment and engagement.

• Order Management System: To track custom framing orders from placement to completion.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency with POS systems and basic computer skills are essential. The ability to learn and operate specialized framing equipment safely and effectively is a core technical requirement. Familiarity with customer loyalty programs is also beneficial.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Creativity: Encouraging artistic expression and helping customers realize their creative visions through custom framing.

• Customer Focus: Prioritizing customer satisfaction through personalized service, product quality, and a positive shopping experience.

• Teamwork: Collaborating effectively with colleagues to achieve store goals, support each other, and ensure smooth operations.

• Integrity: Upholding ethical standards in all interactions, including cash handling, customer dealings, and adherence to company policies.

• Efficiency: Striving for operational excellence through adherence to SOPs, effective time management, and quality production.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Working seamlessly with other store associates and management to support all aspects of the retail operation, from sales floor to back-of-house.

• Process Review: Actively participating in team discussions regarding SOPs and operational improvements, providing feedback based on practical experience.

• Knowledge Sharing: Willingness to share expertise and assist colleagues, particularly in training new team members on framing processes and customer service techniques.

📝 Enhancement Note: Michaels promotes a culture that values creativity, customer engagement, and collaborative teamwork. The operational aspect emphasizes efficiency and adherence to established processes.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Sales and Production: Effectively managing time to provide detailed customer consultations for custom framing while also meeting production deadlines and maintaining store standards.

• Handling Diverse Customer Needs: Catering to a wide range of artistic tastes, budgets, and project complexities in custom framing.

• Learning Technical Skills: Mastering the operation of specialized framing equipment and techniques to ensure high-quality output.

• Adapting to Retail Fluctuations: Navigating busy periods, seasonal demands, and evolving customer preferences common in the retail industry.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Framing Certification/Training: Opportunities to deepen expertise in custom framing techniques, materials, and design through internal or external training programs.

• Sales & Customer Service Skills: Development through ongoing training on sales methodologies, customer engagement strategies, and product knowledge.

• Leadership Development: Potential to grow into supervisory or management roles within the store, focusing on team leadership and operational management.

• Cross-Training: Exposure to various aspects of retail operations, broadening skill sets beyond the framing department.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role offers a solid foundation in retail operations, sales, and customer service, with clear pathways for advancement within the company's store-level structure.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Customer Service Approach: "Describe a time you went above and beyond to help a customer. How would you ensure every customer has a positive framing consultation experience?" (Focus on empathy, active listening, and solution-oriented communication).

• Sales & Persuasion: "How would you approach a customer who is hesitant about the cost of custom framing? What techniques would you use to highlight the value?" (Prepare to discuss value-based selling and understanding customer priorities).

• Problem-Solving: "Imagine a customer receives their custom framing order, and it's not quite what they expected. What steps would you take to resolve the situation?" (Focus on de-escalation, understanding the issue, and finding a satisfactory resolution).

Company & Culture Questions:

• Motivation: "Why are you interested in working for Michaels, specifically in the framing department?" (Connect your interest to creativity, art, customer service, or your own craft hobbies).

• Teamwork: "Describe your ideal team environment. How do you contribute to a positive team dynamic?" (Highlight collaboration, support for colleagues, and a shared commitment to goals).

• Learning Agility: "This role involves learning to operate specific equipment and follow detailed procedures. How do you approach learning new, technical skills?" (Emphasize your ability to learn, follow instructions, and practice diligently).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Showcase Relevant Experiences: Even without a formal portfolio, be ready to verbally present 2-3 specific examples from your past that demonstrate your customer service skills, sales ability, or organizational capabilities.

• Quantify Impact: For each example, explain the situation, your action, and the positive result, using numbers where possible (e.g., "I helped X customers per shift," "my upselling efforts increased average ticket size by Y%").

• Connect to the Role: Clearly articulate how your past experiences and skills make you a strong candidate for the Retail Picture Framer position.

• Enthusiasm for Framing: Express genuine interest in the craft of framing and the opportunity to help customers preserve and display their cherished items.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating practical skills, a customer-centric mindset, and a willingness to learn and contribute to the team. Concrete examples are key.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

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

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight customer service, sales experience, any technical/manual dexterity skills, and your ability to follow procedures. Use keywords from the job description such as "customer service," "sales," "custom framing," and "operational efficiency."

• Prepare Specific Examples: Gather specific anecdotes from previous roles or experiences that demonstrate your ability to build customer relationships, handle transactions, operate equipment, and solve problems.

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

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