Retail Senior Custom Framer Full Time

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Retail Senior Custom Framer Full Time

Company: Michaels Stores

Location: Austin, Texas, United States

Job Type: Full time

Category: Retail Operations / Custom Framing

Date Posted: 2026-08-14

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

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Drive custom framing sales and production targets by building strong customer relationships and providing expert design consultations.

• Lead by example in customer engagement, product knowledge, and operational adherence within the custom framing department.

• Support the Framing Manager in achieving key performance indicators (KPIs) through effective team member training and operational efficiency.

• Ensure a high standard of quality and timely completion for all custom framing orders, adhering to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).

• Contribute to overall store success through exceptional customer service, efficient merchandising, and adherence to safety and shrink programs.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a "Senior" Custom Framer, suggesting a level of expertise beyond basic tasks, even with an entry-level experience expectation. The emphasis on sales, customer relationships, and potentially leading in the manager's absence indicates a blend of technical skill and operational responsibility. The inclusion of "Elevated ABC Deliver" suggests a specific customer engagement methodology the company utilizes.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Customer Engagement & Sales:

  • Proactively engage customers to understand their framing needs and preferences, utilizing the "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodology to build rapport and trust.
  • Provide expert design consultation, recommending appropriate framing materials, matting, and presentation techniques to enhance artwork value and aesthetic appeal.
  • Drive custom framing sales by effectively communicating product benefits, promotions, and value-added services.
  • Achieve and exceed individual sales and production targets for the custom framing department.

• Operational Excellence:

  • Accurately measure artwork and guide customers through the design and selection process, ensuring precise order specifications.
  • Operate framing equipment, including mat cutters, saws, and pressing equipment, with a high degree of skill and adherence to safety protocols.
  • Complete custom framing orders with exceptional quality, ensuring meticulous craftsmanship and timely delivery.
  • Maintain the ready-made frame department, including display standards, stock levels, and visual merchandising.
  • Assist with SISO (Ship-from-Store) and Directed Replenishment processes to ensure inventory accuracy and efficient stock management.

• Team Support & Leadership:

  • Act as a lead team member in the absence of the Framing Manager, overseeing daily operations and addressing immediate customer or operational needs.
  • Train and mentor new and existing team members on custom framing techniques, sales processes, and customer service standards.
  • Support the Framing Manager in driving key performance indicators (KPIs) through effective task delegation and performance monitoring.
  • Collaborate with other store team members to ensure seamless customer experiences across all departments.

• Store Operations & Compliance:

  • Adhere strictly to all Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and Company programs to ensure compliance with legal requirements and company policies.

  • Maintain a safe, clean, and clutter-free store environment, particularly within the framing department and stock areas.

  • Support and actively participate in shrink prevention and safety programs.

  • Assist with truck un-load and stocking processes, ensuring adherence to established standards and timelines.

  • Provide efficient and friendly checkout experiences, adhering to all cash handling and transaction accuracy standards.

  • Engage customers with the Michaels Rewards program, explaining benefits and facilitating enrollments.

  • Educate customers on the Voice of Customer (VOC) survey and encourage feedback.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a dual focus on sales/customer interaction and operational execution within the framing department. The "Senior" title implies a potential for some leadership or mentoring responsibilities, even with an entry-level experience requirement. The specific mention of "Elevated ABC Deliver" indicates a unique sales methodology that candidates should research.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• High school diploma or equivalent required. Experience:

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

• Demonstrated experience in a role requiring precision and attention to detail. Required Skills:

• Basic Computer Proficiency: Ability to navigate and use point-of-sale (POS) systems, basic order entry software, and general computer applications.

• Measuring Skills: Accurate and precise measurement abilities for artwork and framing components.

• Framing Equipment Operation: Competency in safely operating essential framing equipment, including mat cutters, saws, and potentially heat presses.

• Glass Cutting: Proficiency in safely and accurately cutting glass or acrylic for framing projects.

• Customer Service Excellence: Proven ability to engage customers, understand their needs, and provide solutions in a friendly and professional manner.

• Sales Acumen: Ability to effectively present products, explain benefits, and close sales, contributing to revenue targets.

• Attention to Detail: Meticulous approach to order taking, production, and quality control to ensure customer satisfaction.

• Adherence to Procedures: Ability to follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company guidelines for operations, safety, and customer interaction.

Preferred Skills:

• Retail Experience: Prior experience working in a retail store setting, ideally within a specialized department like custom framing or art services.

• Sales Experience: Proven track record of selling products or services, with an ability to upsell and cross-sell.

• Art & Design Fundamentals: Basic understanding of design principles, color theory, and aesthetic presentation relevant to custom framing.

• Inventory Management: Familiarity with stock management, merchandising, and maintaining organized displays.

• Team Leadership/Training: Experience in guiding or training colleagues, or a willingness to develop these skills.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the experience level is listed as 0-2 years, the "Senior" title suggests that candidates with even a year or two of relevant experience in custom framing, art, or a highly detailed retail sales role would be highly competitive. The emphasis on basic computer and measuring skills, alongside operational equipment proficiency, forms the core technical requirement.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Custom Framing Design Examples: Showcase a range of custom framing projects, highlighting diverse styles, materials, and artwork types (e.g., photos, prints, textiles, memorabilia). Include "before and after" visuals where possible.

• Sales Consultation Process Visualization: Illustrate the typical customer journey from initial inquiry to completed sale, detailing how you assess needs, offer solutions, and close deals. This can be a flowchart or a narrative.

• Quality Assurance & Production Workflow: Demonstrate an understanding of the steps involved in producing a high-quality framed piece, from order verification and material selection to assembly, finishing, and final inspection.

• Problem-Solving Scenarios: Include examples of how you have handled challenging customer requests, design dilemmas, or production issues, showcasing your ability to find creative and effective solutions.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Candidates should be prepared to discuss how they would approach designing or optimizing the workflow for custom framing orders, from initial customer consultation to final product delivery. This includes efficiency improvements and error reduction strategies.

• Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Interaction: While not explicitly stated as a tool, demonstrate how you've built and maintained customer relationships, perhaps through personalized service, follow-ups, or understanding repeat customer needs.

• System Adherence & Compliance: Examples of how you have strictly followed established SOPs and company programs in previous roles, particularly concerning order accuracy, safety, and operational standards.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an entry-level to junior role, a formal portfolio might not be strictly required, but candidates should be prepared to discuss their experience and understanding of these processes. Highlighting specific projects or scenarios during the interview will be crucial. The emphasis here is on demonstrating a structured approach to custom framing, sales, and quality control.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on industry standards for a "Senior Custom Framer" with 0-2 years of experience in Austin, Texas, the estimated salary range is $15.00 - $19.00 per hour.

• This estimate considers the cost of living in Austin, TX, the retail industry's typical compensation for specialized roles, and the "Senior" designation which implies a level of responsibility beyond entry-level.

• Actual compensation will be determined by the candidate's specific experience, skills, and the company's internal pay bands. Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health & Wellness:

  • Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage options.
  • Telemedicine services for convenient healthcare access.
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for confidential support.

• Financial Security:

  • 401(k) retirement plan with employer match.
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) for healthcare and dependent care.

• Professional Development:

  • Tuition assistance programs to support continuing education.
  • Adoption assistance.

• Employee Perks:

  • Significant employee discounts on Michaels products.

  • Access to partner discount programs.

  • Commuter benefits.

  • Voluntary insurance options. Working Hours:

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

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided benefits are extensive for a retail role, particularly the 401(k) match and tuition assistance. The salary range is an estimate based on common market data for similar positions in the specified location and experience level; candidates should verify the exact compensation during the interview process.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Arts and Crafts Retail / Home Decor. Michaels is a leading North American retailer specializing in arts, crafts, custom framing, and home decor products.

Company Size: Large (Over 10,000 employees globally). Michaels operates over 1,300 stores across the US and Canada, indicating a large, established corporate structure with significant operational scale.

Founded: 1973. With a long history, Michaels has established brand recognition and a deep understanding of its market. Headquartered in Irving, Texas.

Team Structure:

• Departmental Focus: The role is situated within a specific store's "Custom Framing" department, managed by a Framing Manager.

• Reporting Structure: The Senior Custom Framer reports directly to the Framing Manager. In the manager's absence, the Senior Framer may assume lead responsibilities.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: This role requires collaboration with other store team members, including cashiers, floor associates, and potentially store management, to ensure a cohesive customer experience and efficient store operations. Support for Omni-channel processes also implies interaction with online order fulfillment teams or systems.

Methodology:

• Customer-Centric Design: Emphasis on "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodology for building customer relationships and creating memorable framing solutions.

• Process Standardization: Strong adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for consistency in sales, production, and operations.

• Data-Driven Improvement: Support for driving Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) suggests an environment where performance metrics are tracked and used for improvement.

• Team Development: Focus on training and mentoring team members to enhance skills and operational capabilities.

Company Website: www.michaels.com

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture is likely a blend of creative energy, customer service focus, and structured retail operations. The "Senior" title suggests a team that values experienced individuals who can contribute to skill development and operational efficiency, even within a large retail framework.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as an entry to junior-level position within the retail operations framework, specifically within the custom framing department. It offers a foundational role for individuals looking to build skills in sales, customer service, and specialized craft/production. The "Senior" designation implies a step above a basic framer, with potential for greater responsibility and skill development.

Reporting Structure: The Senior Custom Framer reports directly to the Framing Manager. This provides a clear line of mentorship and operational guidance. The potential to act as a lead in the manager's absence offers early exposure to leadership responsibilities.

Operations Impact: The Senior Custom Framer directly impacts revenue through custom framing sales and indirectly by contributing to overall store sales, customer satisfaction, and operational efficiency. High-quality framing and excellent customer service can lead to repeat business and positive word-of-mouth, reinforcing Michaels' brand as a destination for creative solutions. Efficient operations within the framing department also contribute to profitability by minimizing waste and maximizing throughput.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Deepen expertise in custom framing techniques, materials, design principles, and advanced production methods.

• Leadership Development: Progress to a Framing Manager role by demonstrating strong sales performance, operational management, team leadership, and customer service skills.

• Cross-Departmental Mobility: Develop a broad understanding of retail operations, potentially leading to roles in other store departments (e.g., visual merchandising, inventory management) or corporate functions.

• Training & Mentorship: Gain experience in training and mentoring new team members, developing coaching and leadership capabilities.

• Omni-Channel Expertise: Contribute to and learn about integrated online and in-store retail operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth path is clearly defined within the retail operations structure of Michaels. The "Senior" title and potential leadership responsibilities indicate that this role is designed as a stepping stone for individuals aiming for management or specialized craft roles within the company.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Public retail store setting. The primary work environment is a customer-facing retail store, with a dedicated custom framing department.

Office Location(s): Austin, Texas, specifically at 5400 Brodie Ln Ste 350. This is a physical retail location.

Workspace Context:

• Climate Controlled: Most public areas of the store are climate-controlled.

• Potential for Non-Climate Controlled Areas: Some stock rooms may not be climate-controlled, requiring adaptability.

• Physical Demands: The role involves significant physical activity, including regular bending, lifting (heavy boxes and frames), carrying, reaching, stretching, and remaining standing for long periods. Accessing high shelves may require ladder use.

• Tools & Equipment: Work involves using framing equipment, glass cutters, and potentially heat presses, requiring careful handling and adherence to safety protocols.

• Collaboration: Opportunities exist for interaction with customers and fellow team members in a dynamic retail setting.

Work Schedule:

• Full-time, approximately 40 hours per week.

• The schedule includes nights, weekends, and early mornings. Flexibility is essential to meet customer demand and store operational needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: This is a hands-on, physically demanding role within a bustling retail environment. Candidates should be prepared for a fast-paced setting with significant customer interaction and the need for physical stamina.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

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

• In-Person Interview: This will be the primary stage, likely involving the Framing Manager and potentially a Store Manager. It will focus on:

  • Customer Service & Sales Skills: Behavioral questions about handling customer interactions, upselling, and resolving issues.
  • Technical Proficiency: Demonstrating or discussing knowledge of custom framing processes, equipment operation, and design principles.
  • Operational Understanding: Questions about SOP adherence, safety, inventory, and teamwork.
  • Cultural Fit: Assessing alignment with Michaels' values and the store's team dynamic.

• Skills Assessment: Potentially a practical demonstration of measuring, glass cutting, or operating framing equipment, or a design challenge.

• Final Interview: May involve a higher-level manager for final approval.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Showcase Versatility: Present a range of framing projects that demonstrate your ability to work with different types of artwork (photos, prints, paintings, diplomas, memorabilia) and styles.

• Highlight Customer Impact: If possible, include examples where your framing solution significantly enhanced the customer's artwork or met a unique need.

• Detail Your Process: For each project, briefly explain your design approach, material choices, and any specific challenges you overcame.

• Quantify Achievements: If you have sales data or customer feedback related to your framing work, be prepared to share it.

• Keep it Concise: Focus on quality over quantity. Select your strongest pieces that align with Michaels' offerings.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Scenario: Be ready to walk through how you would approach framing a specific piece of art or object presented by the interviewer, discussing materials, design, and cost.

• Sales Pitch: Practice explaining the value of custom framing and how you would sell a premium framing package to a customer.

• Problem-Solving: Prepare for questions about how you would handle a difficult customer, a production error, or a complex design request.

• Operational Questions: Be ready to discuss your understanding of safety protocols, inventory management, and adherence to company policies.

📝 Enhancement Note: While a formal "portfolio" might not be submitted upfront, candidates should be prepared to discuss their experience as if presenting a portfolio. This means having specific examples ready to illustrate their skills and approach to custom framing, sales, and operations.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Custom Framing Equipment: Mat cutters (e.g., Fletcher, Logan), saws (e.g., Logan, Morso), mounting presses, framing machines (e.g., staple guns, point drivers), glass cutters, rulers, measuring tapes.

• POS System: Michaels likely uses a proprietary or industry-standard Point of Sale system for transactions, order entry, and customer management.

• Basic Computer Applications: For email, internal communication, and potentially basic order tracking software.

Analytics & Reporting:

• KPI Tracking: Familiarity with understanding and working towards sales targets, production metrics, customer satisfaction scores (VOC), and potentially shrink rates.

• Inventory Management Systems: Potentially integrated with the POS or a separate system for tracking frame stock, mat boards, and supplies.

CRM & Automation:

• Customer Relationship Management (CRM): The "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodology implies a CRM-like approach to customer interaction, focusing on building relationships and understanding customer history. This might be managed through the POS system or a dedicated CRM tool.

• Order Management System: For tracking custom framing orders from placement to completion.

• Omni-Channel Support: Systems to manage online orders, BOPIS, and other integrated retail functions.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency with specialized framing tools is critical. While advanced software skills aren't explicitly required, comfort with POS systems and basic computer use is necessary. The emphasis is on operational tools that support the sales and production processes.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Customer Focus: Prioritizing customer satisfaction and creating memorable experiences through expert service and product solutions.

• Creativity & Passion: Encouraging a love for arts, crafts, and creative expression, both in product offerings and team member engagement.

• Quality & Craftsmanship: Commitment to delivering high-quality custom framing solutions with attention to detail and precision.

• Teamwork & Collaboration: Fostering a supportive environment where team members work together to achieve store goals and assist customers.

• Integrity & Accountability: Upholding company policies, ethical standards, and taking ownership of responsibilities.

• Efficiency & Productivity: Driving operational excellence to meet sales targets, manage inventory, and optimize workflows.

Collaboration Style:

• Customer-Centric Approach: All interactions, whether with customers or colleagues, are geared towards providing solutions and positive experiences.

• Cross-Functional Support: Team members are expected to assist each other across departments to ensure smooth store operations and customer satisfaction.

• Mentorship & Development: A culture that supports learning and growth, with senior team members willing to train and guide others.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture at Michaels likely emphasizes creativity, customer service, and a team-oriented approach to retail operations. The "Senior" role is expected to embody these values and contribute to a positive and productive store environment.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Sales & Production: Effectively managing customer consultations and sales while simultaneously ensuring timely and high-quality production of custom framing orders.

• Customer Expectations Management: Handling diverse customer needs, price sensitivities, and design preferences, often requiring creative problem-solving.

• Physical Demands: The role requires significant standing, lifting, and manual dexterity, which can be physically demanding over long shifts.

• Pace of Retail: Working in a fast-paced retail environment with fluctuating customer traffic and operational demands.

• Technical Skill Development: Continuously learning about new framing materials, techniques, and equipment to stay current and provide expert advice.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Framing Techniques: Opportunities to master specialized framing methods, conservation framing, and complex design solutions.

• Sales & Customer Service Enhancement: Developing advanced sales strategies, consultative selling skills, and customer relationship management techniques.

• Leadership Skills: Potential to develop leadership capabilities through training, mentoring, and taking on lead responsibilities.

• Product Knowledge Expansion: Gaining in-depth knowledge of Michaels' extensive product lines beyond custom framing.

• Retail Operations Management: Understanding broader retail operations, including inventory control, merchandising, and loss prevention.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are typical for a specialized retail role that combines sales, technical skill, and physical work. The growth opportunities are well-defined within the retail management and specialized craft career paths.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Tell me about a time you helped a customer find the perfect solution for their artwork. What was your process?" (Focus on customer engagement, design consultation, and sales closing.)

• "How do you ensure the quality and accuracy of custom framing orders, especially when working under pressure?" (Highlight attention to detail, adherence to SOPs, and quality control measures.)

• "Describe your experience with operating framing equipment like mat cutters or saws. What safety precautions do you take?" (Demonstrate technical competence and safety awareness.)

• "How would you handle a customer who is unhappy with their custom framing order?" (Showcase problem-solving, customer service recovery, and de-escalation skills.)

• "What does 'Elevated ABC Deliver' mean to you, and how would you apply it in this role?" (Research this specific methodology and prepare to discuss its principles.)

• "How do you prioritize tasks when you have multiple custom framing orders to complete and customers waiting?" (Assess time management, organizational skills, and ability to work efficiently.)

• "What do you know about Michaels and our custom framing services?" (Demonstrate research and genuine interest in the company.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "Why are you interested in working for Michaels?" (Connect your passion for creativity, customer service, or retail to the company's mission.)

• "How do you contribute to a positive team environment?" (Provide examples of collaboration, support, and a proactive attitude.)

• "How do you handle feedback or constructive criticism?" (Show willingness to learn and improve.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Verbal Walkthrough: Be prepared to verbally describe 2-3 of your most impressive custom framing projects. For each, explain:

  • The customer's initial request and your understanding of their needs.
  • Your design choices (materials, matting, style) and why they were appropriate.
  • Any challenges encountered and how you overcame them.
  • The final outcome and customer satisfaction.

• Show, Don't Just Tell: If you have photos of your work on your phone or a small physical portfolio, be ready to share them.

• Focus on Impact: Emphasize how your framing solutions added value or met specific customer requirements.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparation should focus on behavioral questions, demonstrating practical skills, and showcasing an understanding of customer service and sales within a specialized retail context. Researching Michaels' brand and the "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodology will be key.

📌 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 experience in custom framing, art, design, customer service, or retail sales. Use keywords from the job description such as "custom framing," "customer service," "sales," "measuring skills," and "framing equipment."

• Prepare your "portfolio" examples: Think about specific custom framing projects you've worked on, customer interactions, or instances where you demonstrated problem-solving, sales, or leadership. Be ready to discuss these in detail during an interview.

• Research Michaels: Understand the company's mission, values, and its position in the arts and crafts market. Familiarize yourself with their custom framing offerings and the "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodology if possible.

• Practice interview questions: Rehearse answers to common retail and behavioral interview questions, focusing on demonstrating your skills, enthusiasm, and fit for the role.

⚠️ 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.