Senior Framer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior Framer

Company: Michaels Stores

Location: Danville, VA, United States

Job Type: FULL_TIME

Category: Retail Operations / Custom Framing Specialist

Date Posted: May 15, 2026

Experience Level: Mid-Level (2-5 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Serve as a key contributor in the custom framing department, driving sales and ensuring high-quality production of framing solutions.

• Build and maintain strong customer relationships by providing expert design consultations and product recommendations.

• Demonstrate leadership potential by acting as a lead in the absence of the Framing Manager and assisting in team member training.

• Manage inventory and merchandising within the ready-made frame department and other assigned retail areas.

• Uphold operational standards through strict adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company programs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Senior Framer" title, coupled with responsibilities like acting as a lead, training others, and supporting the manager in driving KPIs, indicates a role that blends skilled craftsmanship with operational oversight and team development, typical of a mid-level retail operations position with growth potential.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Customer Engagement & Sales:

  • Execute the Elevated ABC Deliver methodology to build rapport and create memorable custom framing solutions for clients.
  • Actively engage customers to understand their needs, locate products, and offer tailored framing solutions that drive sales.
  • Provide a fast, friendly, and efficient checkout experience, adhering to all cash handling and transaction standards.
  • Drive sales and production targets for the custom framing department.

• Operational Excellence:

  • Ensure all framing orders are completed with exceptional quality and delivered on time.
  • Maintain the visual standards and stock levels of the ready-made frame department, including SISO (Single Item, Single Order) and Directed Replenishment processes.
  • Adhere to all Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company programs to ensure compliance and operational efficiency.
  • Participate actively in truck un-load and stocking processes, ensuring adherence to truck standards and budget.

• Team Leadership & Development:

  • Act as a lead associate in the absence of the Framing Manager, overseeing daily operations and team performance.
  • Serve as a resource for other team members, providing guidance and training on framing techniques, customer service, and operational procedures.
  • Support the Framing Manager in achieving Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) through proactive management and team motivation.

• Store Maintenance & Merchandising:

  • Maintain a safe, clean, and clutter-free store environment, with a particular focus on the framing area.

  • Ensure the ready-made frame department and other assigned areas are well-merchandised and in-stock for optimal customer shopping.

  • Assist with Omni-channel processes to ensure a seamless customer experience across all touchpoints.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a dual focus on skilled custom framing work and broader retail operations, including sales leadership, inventory management, and team support, aligning with a "Senior" designation in a retail operations context.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• High School Diploma or equivalent required.

Experience:

• 2-5 years of experience in a retail environment, with a strong emphasis on custom framing or a related craft.

• Proven experience in sales and customer service, with a track record of building customer relationships.

Required Skills:

• Custom Framing Expertise: Proficient in various framing techniques, materials, and design principles. Ability to operate framing equipment and glass cutters safely and effectively.

• Customer Service Excellence: Demonstrated ability to engage customers, understand their needs, and provide solutions that exceed expectations. Experience with Elevated ABC Deliver or similar customer engagement models.

• Sales Acumen: Proven ability to drive sales, meet targets, and upsell/cross-sell framing services and related products.

• Operational Proficiency: Strong understanding of retail SOPs, inventory management (including SISO and Directed Replenishment), and visual merchandising standards.

• Basic Computer Skills: Familiarity with basic computer operations for POS systems, order entry, and potentially basic design software.

• Measuring Skills: Accurate and precise measuring skills are critical for custom framing.

• Cash Handling: Proficiency in operating a cash register and adhering to strict cash handling procedures.

Preferred Skills:

• Retail Management Experience: Prior experience in a supervisory or lead role within a retail setting.

• Team Training & Development: Ability to train and mentor junior team members.

• KPI Tracking & Reporting: Understanding of key retail metrics and the ability to contribute to KPI achievement.

• Merchandising & Display: Experience in creating appealing product displays and maintaining department visual standards.

• Omni-channel Operations: Familiarity with supporting online order fulfillment and in-store pickup processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirements emphasize a blend of technical framing skills, customer-facing sales abilities, and foundational operational knowledge. The "Senior" title implies a need for leadership and training capabilities beyond basic execution.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Custom Framing Case Studies: Showcase 2-3 detailed examples of complex custom framing projects, highlighting the customer's needs, your design process, materials used, and the final, high-quality outcome. Include high-resolution images.

• Sales Performance Data: Quantifiable achievements in sales, such as exceeding personal sales targets or contributing to departmental sales growth within previous roles.

• Process Improvement Examples: Document any instances where you identified an operational inefficiency (e.g., in workflow, inventory management, or customer service) and proposed or implemented a solution that improved efficiency or quality.

• Customer Relationship Examples: Anecdotes or testimonials demonstrating your ability to build strong customer relationships and provide exceptional service that led to repeat business or positive feedback.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design: Ability to document the end-to-end custom framing process, from initial customer consultation to final order fulfillment, identifying key steps and potential bottlenecks.

• Quality Control Standards: Evidence of understanding and implementing quality control measures in production to ensure consistent, high-quality framing.

• Inventory Management Procedures: Familiarity with best practices for managing framing materials, ready-made frames, and related supplies to minimize waste and ensure availability.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a "Senior" role in custom framing with operational responsibilities, a portfolio demonstrating not just craftsmanship but also sales success, process thinking, and customer relationship management is essential.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Benefits:

• Health Insurance: Comprehensive coverage including medical, dental, and vision plans.

• Paid Time Off (PTO): Generous PTO accrual for vacation, personal time, and sick leave.

• Tuition Assistance: Support for continuing education and professional development.

• Employee Discounts: Significant discounts on Michaels products and services, including custom framing.

• Retirement Savings Plan: Options for 401(k) or similar plans.

• Life Insurance and Disability Coverage: Available to eligible team members.

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Confidential support services for personal and work-related challenges.

Working Hours:

• Full-time position, typically 40 hours per week.

• Work schedule will include nights, weekends, and early mornings, reflecting the operational needs of a retail environment. Flexibility is expected.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary is estimated based on average retail lead/specialist roles in the specified location and experience level. Benefits are detailed based on the provided information and common offerings for full-time retail positions.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Arts and Crafts Retail. Michaels is the largest specialty arts and crafts retail chain in North America, catering to a wide range of creative hobbies and celebratory needs.

Company Size: Large Enterprise. Michaels operates over 1,300 stores across North America, employing tens of thousands of team members. This scale offers significant opportunities for career development and exposure to robust operational frameworks.

Founded: 1973. With a long history, Michaels has established itself as a leading brand in the arts and crafts sector, known for its extensive product selection and commitment to creativity.

Team Structure:

• Framing Department: Works closely with the Framing Manager, potentially a dedicated Framing Specialist, and other retail associates.

• Reporting: Reports directly to the Framing Manager, with potential oversight from a Store Manager or Assistant Store Manager.

• Collaboration: Frequently collaborates with other store departments for cross-functional support, customer assistance, and Omni-channel fulfillment.

Methodology:

• Customer-Centric Approach: Focus on building customer relationships and providing solutions (Elevated ABC Deliver).

• Process Adherence: Strict adherence to SOPs for consistent quality and operational efficiency.

• Data-Driven Improvement: Use of KPIs to track performance and identify areas for growth and optimization.

• Team Development: Emphasis on training and supporting team members to foster a collaborative and skilled workforce.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The company information provides context for the operational environment, emphasizing scale, customer focus, and process-driven execution, which are key for operations professionals.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Mid-Level Specialist with Leadership Potential. This role is positioned as a senior individual contributor with responsibilities that extend into team leadership and operational support. It's a step beyond an entry-level associate, requiring specialized skills and a capacity to take on more responsibility.

Reporting Structure: The Senior Framer reports to the Framing Manager, indicating a clear line of authority and mentorship. This structure allows for direct guidance on operational strategies and performance expectations.

Operations Impact: The Senior Framer directly impacts store revenue through custom framing sales and overall customer satisfaction by providing expert advice and quality products. Their operational contributions ensure efficiency in the framing department and positively influence the store's overall performance metrics.

Growth Opportunities:

• Framing Manager: Advancement to manage the entire framing department, including staff, P&L, and strategic initiatives.

• Specialized Roles: Potential to move into roles focused on visual merchandising, inventory management, or training across the store.

• Cross-Functional Moves: Opportunities to transition into other retail operations roles within Michaels, leveraging transferable skills in customer service, sales, and process management.

• Skill Development: Continuous learning in advanced framing techniques, sales strategies, and operational best practices through company-provided training and potential certifications.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Senior" title and described responsibilities point towards a role that serves as a development ground for future retail leaders, offering clear pathways for advancement within Michaels' extensive operational structure.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Public Retail Store Environment. The primary workspace is the retail floor and the dedicated framing shop within a Michaels store. This includes customer-facing areas and a specialized production space.

Office Location(s): The specific store location is 145 Holt Garrison Pkwy, Danville, VA. This is a single-location role.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: Daily interaction with customers and fellow team members, fostering a dynamic and team-oriented atmosphere.

• Tools & Technology: Access to framing equipment (e.g., mat cutters, jointers, heat presses), POS systems, and potentially basic computer systems for order management.

• Team Interaction: Frequent collaboration with other associates for customer assistance, stock replenishment, and operational support, enhancing problem-solving and knowledge sharing.

Work Schedule:

• Full-time, typically 40 hours per week.

• Schedules will vary and will include nights, weekends, and early mornings to meet customer demand and operational needs. Flexibility is a key aspect of this role.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is typical for a retail operations role, emphasizing customer interaction, hands-on work with specialized tools, and the need for schedule flexibility to meet operational demands.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of the application and resume, potentially followed by a brief phone screen to assess basic qualifications and interest.

• In-Store Interview: Likely to include an interview with the Framing Manager and potentially the Store Manager. This will focus on:

  • Skills Assessment: Demonstrating framing knowledge, measuring accuracy, and understanding of custom framing processes.
  • Customer Service Scenarios: Responding to hypothetical customer situations, including handling difficult customers or design challenges.
  • Operational Understanding: Discussing adherence to SOPs, inventory management, and sales driven approaches.
  • Leadership/Training Potential: Questions about past experiences in leading or training others.

• Portfolio Review: Candidates may be asked to present their portfolio, showcasing custom framing examples, sales achievements, and process improvement contributions. Be prepared to walk through specific examples and explain your role and impact.

• Skills Demonstration: A practical test might be incorporated, such as accurately measuring and describing how to frame a specific item, or demonstrating proficiency with a piece of framing equipment.

• Final Interview: May involve meeting with higher-level management or HR to discuss cultural fit and overall suitability for the role.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Your Best Work: Select 2-3 of your most impressive and diverse custom framing projects. Ensure high-quality photos are available.

• Quantify Achievements: For sales or operational improvements, use numbers and percentages to demonstrate impact (e.g., "Increased custom framing sales by 15% in Q3").

• Tell a Story: For each project or achievement, explain the context, your actions, and the resulting outcome. Focus on problem-solving and skill application.

• Highlight Process Thinking: If you have examples of improving a workflow or implementing a new process, clearly articulate the steps and benefits.

• Be Prepared to Discuss: Know the details of each item in your portfolio and be ready to answer in-depth questions.

Challenge Preparation:

• Framing Technique Knowledge: Review common framing styles, materials, and best practices for different types of artwork or objects.

• Customer Service Scenarios: Practice responses to common retail customer service challenges, focusing on empathy, problem-solving, and solution-oriented approaches.

• Sales Pitch Practice: Prepare to articulate the value proposition of custom framing and how it benefits the customer.

• Operational Awareness: Refresh your understanding of retail SOPs, inventory management principles, and safety protocols.

📝 Enhancement Note: The application process for a "Senior" retail role typically involves a more in-depth assessment of both technical skills and operational/leadership capabilities, often including a practical demonstration or portfolio review.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Custom Framing Equipment: Mat cutters (e.g., Fletcher, Logan), framing jointers, saws, vacuums, heat presses, mounting tools, and specialized machinery for various framing techniques.

• Point of Sale (POS) System: For processing transactions, customer orders, and potentially managing basic inventory.

• Measuring Tools: Tape measures, rulers, calipers, and other precision measuring devices.

• Basic Computer Systems: For order entry, email communication, and accessing company portals for training or information.

Analytics & Reporting:

• POS Reports: Generating basic sales reports, transaction histories, and customer data from the POS system.

• Inventory Management Systems: Potentially using internal systems for tracking stock levels of framing materials and ready-made frames.

• KPI Dashboards: Familiarity with reviewing and understanding performance against key metrics like sales targets, production efficiency, and customer satisfaction scores.

CRM & Automation:

• Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Features: Utilizing POS or dedicated CRM functionalities to track customer preferences, order history, and engagement (e.g., through the Rewards program).

• Order Management Systems: Software used to input, track, and manage custom framing orders from placement to completion.

• Inventory & Replenishment Tools: Systems that support SISO (Single Item, Single Order) and Directed Replenishment to ensure product availability.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role requires hands-on proficiency with specialized framing equipment, alongside standard retail technology like POS systems and order management tools.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Customer Focus: Prioritizing customer satisfaction through exceptional service, expert advice, and high-quality custom framing solutions.

• Creativity & Passion: Embracing the joy of creativity and celebrating customer projects through innovative design and craftsmanship.

• Accountability & Ownership: Taking responsibility for individual performance, production quality, and the overall success of the framing department and store.

• Teamwork & Collaboration: Working effectively with colleagues to support customer needs, achieve operational goals, and maintain a positive store environment.

• Efficiency & Quality: Balancing speed of service with meticulous attention to detail to ensure both timely delivery and superior product quality.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Actively collaborating with other store associates to assist customers, process orders, and support overall store operations.

• Process Improvement Culture: Openness to feedback and suggestions for improving framing workflows, customer service delivery, and operational efficiency.

• Knowledge Sharing: Willingness to share expertise in framing techniques, sales strategies, and operational best practices with team members.

📝 Enhancement Note: Michaels emphasizes a culture that blends creativity with operational rigor, focusing on customer-centricity, teamwork, and continuous improvement, which is crucial for success in operations roles.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Craftsmanship and Speed: Meeting production deadlines while maintaining the high-quality standards expected for custom framing.

• Managing Diverse Customer Needs: Catering to a wide range of artistic styles, budgets, and framing requirements.

• Driving Sales in a Competitive Market: Effectively demonstrating the value of custom framing compared to less expensive alternatives.

• Operational Complexity: Adhering to SOPs while also adapting to unique customer requests and store-specific situations.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Framing Techniques: Opportunities to learn new framing methods, work with specialized materials, and master advanced equipment.

• Sales & Design Training: Access to training programs focused on consultative selling, design principles, and customer engagement strategies.

• Operational Leadership Skills: Development through acting as a lead, training new hires, and supporting management in achieving KPIs.

• Retail Management Pathways: Potential to grow into store management roles through demonstrated performance and leadership capabilities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role presents opportunities to deepen technical framing skills and sales expertise, while also developing essential operational and leadership competencies for career advancement in retail.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to balance a demanding production schedule with the need for high-quality craftsmanship. How did you manage it?" (Focus on time management, prioritization, and quality control.)

• "Walk me through your process for consulting with a customer on a custom framing project, from initial inquiry to final design selection." (Highlight customer engagement, needs assessment, and design expertise.)

• "How would you handle a situation where a customer is unhappy with a framing design or the final product?" (Demonstrate problem-solving, empathy, and conflict resolution skills.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Michaels and our commitment to creativity?" (Research company mission, values, and product offerings.)

• "How do you embody the 'Elevated ABC Deliver' customer service model, or a similar approach?" (Connect your customer service philosophy to the company's stated methods.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each portfolio piece, clearly outline the customer's request, your design rationale, the materials chosen, any challenges encountered, and the successful outcome.

• Quantify Impact: If possible, include metrics like sales value, customer satisfaction, or efficiency improvements related to your work.

• Showcase Versatility: Present a range of projects that demonstrate your adaptability to different styles, artwork types, and customer needs.

• Be Prepared for Technical Questions: Anticipate questions about specific framing techniques, materials, or equipment.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a blend of technical framing skill, strong sales and customer service capabilities, and an understanding of retail operational processes.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Senior Framer position at Michaels Stores:

• Submit Your Application: Visit the provided Workday careers portal link and complete the online application.

• Tailor Your Resume: Highlight your experience in custom framing, sales, customer service, and any lead or training responsibilities. Use keywords from the job description such as "Custom Framing," "Sales," "Customer Service," "SOPs," and "KPIs."

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Assemble high-quality examples of your best custom framing work. Include case studies demonstrating your design process, sales achievements, and any process improvements you've implemented.

• Practice Interview Responses: Rehearse answers to common interview questions related to framing techniques, sales scenarios, customer service challenges, and operational procedures. Be ready to discuss your portfolio in detail.

• Research Michaels: Familiarize yourself with Michaels' mission, values, product offerings, and customer service approach to demonstrate your alignment with the company culture.

⚠️ 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.