Retail - Picture Framer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Retail - Picture Framer

Company: Michaels Stores

Location: Hawthorne, California, United States

Job Type: PART_TIME

Category: Retail Operations / Custom Framing

Date Posted: May 18, 2026

Experience Level: Entry Level (0-2 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Drive customer engagement and build lasting relationships through personalized custom framing solutions.

• Achieve sales and production targets by effectively utilizing the Elevated ABC Deliver methodology.

• Ensure high-quality and timely completion of all custom framing orders.

• Maintain visual standards and stock levels within the ready-made frame department and other assigned retail areas.

• Provide exceptional customer service, assisting with shopping, product location, and problem resolution.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role, while titled "Picture Framer," integrates significant retail operations responsibilities. The emphasis on customer relationships, sales targets, and general store upkeep indicates a hybrid role requiring both specialized framing skills and broad retail operational acumen. The "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodology suggests a structured approach to customer interaction and sales, which is a key performance indicator.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Adhere to all Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company programs to ensure legal compliance and operational standards.

• Execute personal designer strategies using Elevated ABC Deliver to foster customer relationships and drive custom framing sales and production.

• Complete custom framing orders with a focus on exceptional quality and adherence to deadlines.

• Manage and maintain the ready-made frame department, including SISO (Single Item, Single Order) and Directed Replenishment processes.

• Deliver friendly and efficient customer service, assisting with product location, sales, and ensuring a well-merchandised and stocked store.

• Support company-wide shrink reduction and safety initiatives.

• Foster a positive and respectful work environment, acting as a role model aligned with organizational vision and values.

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

• Operate the cash register accurately and execute cash handling procedures according to established standards.

• Proactively acknowledge customers, assist with product discovery, and offer solutions to meet their needs.

• Support and execute Omni channel processes to enhance the customer shopping experience.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a dual focus: specialized custom framing execution and broader retail operations management. The inclusion of "SISO" and "Directed Replenishment" suggests a need for understanding inventory management principles within a retail context. "Elevated ABC Deliver" implies a specific sales training program that candidates should be aware of.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: High school diploma or equivalent is typically expected for entry-level retail positions. Specific certifications in framing or art are not explicitly mentioned but could be advantageous.

Experience: 0-2 years of experience is targeted, with a preference for prior retail or customer-facing sales roles. Experience operating specialized equipment is a plus.

Required Skills:

• Basic computer proficiency for point-of-sale (POS) systems and potential inventory management software.

• Basic measuring skills for accurate custom framing.

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

• Strong customer service orientation with excellent interpersonal communication skills.

• Cash handling and transaction processing experience.

Preferred Skills:

• Previous retail experience, particularly in a custom services or arts and crafts environment.

• Proven experience in selling products or services, with a consultative approach.

• Familiarity with custom framing design principles and materials.

• Experience with Omni channel retail operations (e.g., buy online, pick up in-store).

📝 Enhancement Note: While formal education isn't a stated requirement, the emphasis on "basic computer skills" and "basic measuring skills" suggests that candidates should be comfortable with fundamental technical and manual competencies. The preference for "selling products and/or services" points towards a sales-driven aspect of the role, beyond just operational execution.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• While a formal portfolio is not explicitly requested, candidates with prior framing experience are encouraged to highlight projects demonstrating quality, creativity, and attention to detail in their resume or during the interview.

• Showcase examples of successful customer interactions or sales achievements in a retail context.

Process Documentation:

• Understanding and adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) is critical. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their ability to follow established workflows for framing, sales, and customer service.

• Demonstrate an ability to learn and implement new operational processes, such as the "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodology, with a focus on successful adoption and execution.

• Ability to contribute to maintaining a clean, safe, and well-organized work environment through consistent application of operational standards.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an entry-level role like this, a formal portfolio is unlikely. However, candidates should be ready to discuss their practical experience and ability to learn and adhere to established processes. Highlighting past successes in retail or customer service roles, even without formal documentation, will be beneficial.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $17.50 - $20.60 per hour. This range reflects entry-level to moderately experienced retail positions within the Hawthorne, California area, considering the cost of living and industry benchmarks for specialized retail roles.

Benefits:

• Health Insurance (Medical, Dental, and Vision)

• Paid Time Off (PTO)

• Tuition Assistance

• Generous Employee Discounts on Michaels products and services

• Potential for other benefits as outlined by The Michaels Companies Inc.

Working Hours: This is a PART_TIME position. Specific hours will vary based on store needs, including nights, weekends, and early mornings. The role requires flexibility to cover operational demands.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range provided falls within the typical mid-point for retail associates with some specialized skills in a high-cost-of-living area like Hawthorne, California. The inclusion of comprehensive benefits, even for part-time employees, is a significant draw and indicates the company's commitment to employee well-being.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Arts and Crafts Retail. Michaels operates as a leading destination for creative supplies and custom framing, serving a broad customer base interested in DIY projects, art, and home décor.

Company Size: Large (over 1,000 employees). Michaels operates over 1,300 stores across North America, indicating a robust corporate structure and extensive operational network.

Founded: 1973. With a long history, Michaels has established itself as a staple in the retail landscape, focusing on creativity and community engagement.

Team Structure:

• The operations team within a Michaels store typically includes a Store Manager, Assistant Store Manager, Team Leads (specializing in areas like framing or visual merchandising), and Retail Associates.

• This role will likely report to a Framing Team Lead or an Assistant Store Manager, with direct interaction with other store associates.

Methodology:

• Emphasis on customer-centric operations, prioritizing relationship building and personalized service ("Elevated ABC Deliver").

• Structured approach to sales and production, with adherence to SOPs and company programs.

• Focus on visual merchandising and inventory management to create an appealing and well-stocked shopping environment.

• Commitment to continuous improvement through employee training and development initiatives.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's long history and large scale suggest a well-defined operational framework. The emphasis on "fueling the joy of creativity and celebration" indicates a culture that values passion, community, and a positive customer experience. The mention of Artistree, a custom framing manufacturer, suggests an integrated approach to framing services.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This position is an entry-level to early-career role within retail operations, specifically focused on custom framing and general store duties. It offers a foundational understanding of retail processes, customer service, and specialized craft operations.

Reporting Structure: The Picture Framer will report to store leadership, likely a Framing Team Lead or Assistant Store Manager, and will work collaboratively with fellow store associates to achieve daily operational and sales goals.

Operations Impact: The Picture Framer directly impacts customer satisfaction through the quality of their framing work and the helpfulness of their customer service. They also contribute to store revenue through sales of custom framing and other merchandise, and influence the store's visual appeal and stock availability by maintaining departments.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Advancement: Develop advanced custom framing techniques, master new equipment, and become proficient in design consultation.

• Retail Leadership: Progress into roles such as Framing Team Lead, Visual Merchandising Specialist, or Assistant Store Manager through demonstrated performance and leadership potential.

• Cross-Functional Training: Gain experience in other store departments, such as sales, inventory management, or Omni channel fulfillment, broadening operational expertise.

• Continuous Learning: Utilize tuition assistance for further education or professional development in related fields.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role serves as a solid entry point into the retail operations and specialized services sector. Growth pathways are clearly defined within the retail store structure, emphasizing progression through demonstrated skill, customer service excellence, and leadership qualities.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Public retail store setting. The primary work environment is customer-facing within a climate-controlled retail space, with some time potentially spent in stock rooms that may not be climate-controlled.

Office Location(s): Hawthorne, California (14370 Ocean Gate Ave). This specific store location serves the local community.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace includes the main retail floor for customer interaction and merchandising, and a dedicated frame shop area equipped with specialized tools like a glass cutter and heat press.

• Collaboration is constant with other store associates, creating a dynamic team environment focused on shared goals.

• Access to various operational tools and technology, including a cash register/POS system and potentially inventory management devices.

Work Schedule: Flexible part-time schedule, including nights, weekends, and early mornings, to meet operational demands. This requires adaptability in managing personal time alongside work responsibilities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is typical for a retail setting, emphasizing customer interaction and team collaboration. The "frame shop" component introduces a specialized, hands-on workspace with specific equipment, requiring safety awareness and skill. The mention of potential outdoor work for truck unloading highlights the varied nature of tasks.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Application review to assess basic qualifications and experience.

• Phone/Video Interview: Discussion of retail experience, customer service approach, and basic understanding of framing. May include situational questions.

• In-Store Interview: This will likely involve meeting with store management, a practical assessment of measuring and basic framing equipment knowledge, and a discussion about your approach to customer service and sales. You may be asked to demonstrate skills.

• Final Interview (if applicable): May involve a more in-depth discussion about your career aspirations and fit with Michaels' culture.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Since a formal portfolio isn't required, be prepared to discuss specific examples from past roles:
  • Describe a time you went above and beyond for a customer.
  • Detail a challenging framing project you handled (even if personal or informal) and how you approached it.
  • Explain how you ensure accuracy and quality in your work.

Challenge Preparation:

• Practical Skill Demonstration: Be prepared to demonstrate basic measuring skills or discuss how you would approach a simple framing task.

• Customer Service Scenarios: Practice responding to common retail customer service situations (e.g., a customer looking for a specific item, a customer with a complaint, an upsell opportunity).

• Operations Understanding: Be ready to discuss your understanding of store operations, such as maintaining a clean workspace, handling cash, and stocking merchandise.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for this role is likely to be hands-on and practical, focusing on demonstrated abilities and customer interaction skills rather than theoretical knowledge or extensive documentation. Emphasize your ability to learn and adapt.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Custom Framing Equipment: Glass cutter, mat cutters, framing points, staple guns, heat press (for specific types of framing).

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

• Basic Measuring Tools: Tape measures, rulers, calipers for precise measurements.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not directly managing analytics, understanding basic sales reports or inventory levels may be part of the role.

CRM & Automation:

• Elevated ABC Deliver: A sales methodology that functions as a customer relationship management tool, guiding customer interactions.

• Omni Channel Systems: Tools supporting online order fulfillment, such as Buy Online, Pick Up In-Store (BOPIS).

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in operating specialized framing equipment is a key technical requirement. Basic computer skills are also essential for POS and potentially other store management software. Understanding the "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodology is crucial for sales performance.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Creativity & Inspiration: Michaels fosters an environment where creativity is celebrated, and employees are encouraged to share their passion for arts and crafts.

• Customer Focus: A strong emphasis on building relationships and providing exceptional service to every customer, ensuring a positive and memorable experience.

• Teamwork & Collaboration: Working together to achieve store goals, support colleagues, and create a welcoming atmosphere for both customers and employees.

• Integrity & Respect: Upholding ethical standards, treating everyone with respect, and contributing to a positive and inclusive workplace.

• Efficiency & Quality: Commitment to executing tasks accurately, efficiently, and to high standards, particularly in custom framing production.

Collaboration Style:

• Open communication and mutual support among team members are encouraged.

• Collaborative problem-solving to address customer needs and operational challenges.

• Shared responsibility for maintaining store standards and achieving sales targets.

• Active participation in team meetings and training sessions to share best practices and learn new skills.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture is deeply rooted in creativity and customer satisfaction. The values emphasize a positive, collaborative, and respectful environment where individual contributions are valued, and team success is paramount.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Customization with Efficiency: Effectively managing the demanding workflow of custom framing orders while maintaining speed and quality.

• Customer Expectations: Meeting diverse customer needs and preferences, sometimes with complex or unique framing requests.

• Physical Demands: The role requires standing for long periods, lifting heavy items, and performing repetitive tasks, which can be physically demanding.

• Adapting to New Processes: Learning and consistently applying new sales methodologies (like Elevated ABC Deliver) and operational procedures.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Framing Specialization: Deepen expertise in various framing techniques, materials, and design principles.

• Sales & Customer Service Training: Enhance consultative selling skills and advanced customer engagement strategies.

• Retail Management Fundamentals: Opportunities to learn about inventory management, visual merchandising, and team leadership.

• Tuition Assistance: Pursue further education relevant to retail, design, or business management.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges primarily revolve around the hands-on nature of the work, customer interaction, and the need for continuous learning in a dynamic retail environment. The growth opportunities are tied to skill development within framing, customer service excellence, and potential leadership within the store structure.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your approach to helping a customer who is unsure about their framing choices. How would you guide them to a solution?" (Assesses consultative selling and customer service skills.)

• "Walk me through how you would ensure the accuracy and quality of a custom framing order from start to finish." (Evaluates process adherence and attention to detail.)

• "How do you prioritize tasks when you have multiple framing orders due and customer requests coming in simultaneously?" (Tests time management and prioritization skills.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about working at Michaels, specifically in a custom framing role?" (Assesses motivation and alignment with the brand.)

• "How do you handle constructive feedback or criticism regarding your work or customer interactions?" (Evaluates coachability and professional development.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Since a formal portfolio isn't standard, prepare to discuss:
  • Specific Framing Projects: Be ready to describe 1-2 framing projects you've completed (even if personal or informal), detailing the materials used, the customer's needs, and the final outcome.
  • Customer Service Successes: Have 1-2 examples of positive customer interactions or instances where you resolved a customer issue effectively.
  • Measuring & Quality: Briefly explain your understanding of precise measuring and quality control in a production setting.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on practical application, customer service scenarios, and demonstrating a willingness to learn and adhere to company processes. Be ready to provide concrete examples from previous experiences, even if not directly related to professional framing.

📌 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 any relevant retail, customer service, or hands-on experience. Quantify achievements where possible (e.g., "Assisted an average of X customers per shift," "Completed Y framing orders per week").

• Portfolio Preparation (Verbal): Prepare to discuss specific projects or experiences that demonstrate your measuring skills, attention to detail, customer service aptitude, and ability to learn new processes.

• Interview Practice: Rehearse answers to common retail interview questions, focusing on customer engagement, problem-solving, and teamwork. Practice articulating your understanding of the role's responsibilities.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Michaels' mission, values, and product offerings, particularly their custom framing services. Understand the "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodology if possible through online research.

⚠️ 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.

---