Senior Framer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior Framer

Company: Michaels Stores

Location: Brentwood, California, United States

Job Type: Full time

Category: Retail Operations / Custom Framing

Date Posted: 2026-08-15

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

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is centered on providing exceptional customer service within a retail environment, specifically focusing on the creation and sale of custom framing solutions.

• Key responsibilities include building strong customer relationships, executing sales targets, and ensuring high-quality production of framing orders.

• The Senior Framer will act as a lead in the absence of the Framing Manager, demonstrating leadership potential and a thorough understanding of framing operations.

• This position requires proficiency in retail operations, including merchandising, inventory management, and cash handling, alongside specialized framing skills.

📝 Enhancement Note: While listed as "Senior Framer," the AI-generated experience level of "0-2 years" suggests this role may be more accurately described as an experienced Framer or a lead associate role that doesn't strictly require extensive prior "senior" level experience, but rather a strong aptitude and some foundational experience. The "Senior" title likely implies a lead capacity and responsibility beyond a standard associate.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Customer Engagement & Sales:

  • Proactively engage customers to understand their framing needs and provide expert design consultations using elevated sales techniques.
  • Build lasting customer relationships by delivering memorable framing solutions and exceptional service, driving repeat business.
  • Actively promote and enroll customers in the store's Rewards program to enhance customer loyalty and gather valuable data.
  • Educate customers on the Voice of Customer (VOC) survey to gather feedback and drive continuous improvement.

• Framing Operations & Production:

  • Execute custom framing orders with a high degree of quality and adherence to production timelines.
  • Operate framing equipment, including glass cutters and heat presses, safely and efficiently.
  • Maintain the ready-made frame department, ensuring it is well-merchandised and stocked according to planograms.
  • Support inventory management through effective SISO (Ship-from-Store) and Directed Replenishment processes.
  • Adhere strictly to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for all framing and retail processes.

• Team Support & Leadership:

  • Act in a lead capacity and provide guidance to team members in the absence of the Framing Manager, demonstrating leadership potential.
  • Assist the Framing Manager in achieving Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and driving overall store performance.
  • Serve as a resource for training and assisting other team members on framing techniques and customer service standards.

• Store Operations & Merchandising:

  • Ensure a safe, clean, and clutter-free store environment, adhering to all safety programs.

  • Deliver a fast and friendly checkout experience, accurately executing cash handling procedures and standards.

  • Assist with Omni-channel processes, ensuring a seamless customer experience across all touchpoints.

  • Participate actively in truck un-loading and stocking processes to maintain store inventory and visual standards.

  • Maintain assigned areas, including Ready-Made Frames, SISO, and Directed Replenishment, ensuring optimal product presentation.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of direct customer interaction, technical framing skills, and operational support. The "Senior" aspect is emphasized through the lead capacity in the manager's absence and the responsibility for training and supporting KPIs.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: High school diploma or equivalent is typically expected for retail roles of this nature. Specific degrees are not usually required, but a background in art, design, or a related field could be beneficial.

Experience:

• 0-2 years of experience in a retail environment, with a preference for experience in sales or customer-facing roles.

• Demonstrated ability to learn and apply new skills, particularly in technical areas like operating specialized equipment. Required Skills:

• Basic Computer Skills: Ability to navigate point-of-sale (POS) systems, basic software applications, and potentially online ordering platforms.

• Measuring Skills: Accurate measurement capabilities are crucial for custom framing orders.

• Framing Equipment Operation: Proficiency or ability to quickly learn to operate framing equipment, including glass cutters and potentially heat presses.

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

• Sales Acumen: Aptitude for selling products and services, understanding customer needs, and closing sales.

• Cash Handling: Accuracy and adherence to cash handling procedures and standards.

• Physical Stamina: Ability to remain standing for extended periods, bend, lift, carry, and reach as required by the role.

Preferred Skills:

• Retail Experience: Previous experience in a retail setting, particularly in a specialized department like custom framing or art supplies.

• Sales Experience: Proven track record of selling products or services, with an understanding of consultative selling techniques.

• Merchandising Skills: Ability to maintain visually appealing displays and ensure product availability.

• Basic Leadership Skills: Experience or aptitude for guiding or assisting colleagues.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "0-2 years" experience level suggests a focus on foundational skills and a strong willingness to learn. The emphasis on "basic" computer and measuring skills indicates that extensive prior technical expertise isn't a prerequisite, but rather a foundational capability.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• While a formal portfolio is not explicitly stated as required, candidates are encouraged to highlight any past projects or experiences that demonstrate their ability to:
  • Design & Visualization: Showcase examples of creative problem-solving in design or customer solutions.
  • Process Execution: Detail instances where they followed specific procedures to achieve a quality outcome.
  • Customer Interaction: Provide examples of successful customer engagements and problem resolutions.
  • Efficiency & Quality: Demonstrate how they contributed to operational efficiency or maintained high standards in previous roles.

Process Documentation:

• Candidates should be prepared to discuss their understanding of and experience with:
  • Workflow Adherence: How they follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to ensure consistency and compliance.
  • Quality Control: Their approach to ensuring the quality of their work, particularly in custom production.
  • System Usage: Experience with POS systems, inventory management tools, and basic computer applications.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the retail and hands-on nature of this role, a traditional "operations portfolio" like one might see for a Business Analyst or Ops Manager is unlikely. The focus will be on practical experience and the ability to articulate processes and customer interactions effectively during an interview.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• For a Senior Framer role with 0-2 years of experience in Brentwood, California, the estimated salary range is approximately $15.00 - $18.00 per hour.

• Methodology: This estimate is based on research of similar entry-level to junior retail associate positions with specialized duties in the Brentwood, California area, considering the cost of living and general retail wage benchmarks. Factors such as specific store performance, individual candidate experience, and the company's internal pay scales can influence the final offer.

Benefits:

• Health & Wellness:

  • Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage
  • Telemedicine services
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for confidential support

• Financial Security:

  • 401(k) with employer match
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) for healthcare and dependent care
  • Commuter benefits

• Professional Development:

  • Tuition assistance for continuing education
  • Adoption assistance

• General Perks:

  • Employee discounts on Michaels products

  • Access to partner discount programs

  • Voluntary insurance options Working Hours:

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

• Work hours may include nights, weekends, and early mornings, as is common in retail environments. Flexibility is often required to meet business needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimation for the specified location and experience level. The provided benefits are comprehensive and typical for a large retail organization. The "Senior" title suggests the higher end of the estimated hourly range might be achievable with relevant, albeit entry-level, experience.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Arts and Crafts Retail. Michaels is the largest specialty retailer of arts and crafts supplies in North America, serving a broad customer base ranging from hobbyists to professional artists.

Company Size: The Michaels Companies, Inc. operates over 1,300 stores across North America, indicating a large, established retail organization with a significant workforce.

Founded: Founded in 1973 and headquartered in Irving, Texas, Michaels has a long history in the retail sector, known for its focus on creativity and celebration.

Team Structure:

• Store Level: The team typically includes a Store Manager, Assistant Store Manager(s), Framing Manager, Framing Associates, and Sales Associates. The Senior Framer would be part of the framing department and collaborate closely with the broader store team.

• Reporting: The Senior Framer likely reports directly to the Framing Manager, with an indirect reporting line to the Store Manager or Assistant Store Manager.

• Collaboration: Strong cross-functional collaboration is essential, involving teamwork between framing specialists and sales associates to ensure seamless customer experiences, from initial design consultation to final purchase and store maintenance.

Methodology:

• Customer-Centric Approach: The company emphasizes building customer relationships and providing memorable experiences, as reflected in the "Elevated ABC Deliver" and "Voice of Customer" initiatives.

• Process Standardization: Adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) is a core element to ensure consistency, quality, and compliance across all stores.

• Data-Driven Improvement: The use of KPIs and VOC surveys indicates a commitment to measuring performance and using feedback for continuous improvement.

Company Website: www.michaels.com

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture is geared towards creativity, customer engagement, and operational efficiency within a large retail framework. The "Senior Framer" role is integral to the in-store experience, particularly in the custom framing department.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned at an entry to junior level within the retail operations framework, specifically within the custom framing department. It serves as a foundational role for individuals looking to build skills in customer service, sales, and specialized craft/retail operations. The "Senior" designation implies a step above an entry-level associate, offering opportunities for leadership and specialized skill development.

Reporting Structure: The Senior Framer typically reports to the Framing Manager. This structure provides direct mentorship and oversight from a specialist in custom framing, with broader store management providing overall retail operational guidance.

Operations Impact: The Senior Framer directly impacts store revenue through custom framing sales and contributes to overall store operational efficiency by maintaining departments, assisting customers, and supporting team members. Their ability to create high-quality framing solutions and build customer loyalty is key to the profitability of the framing department and the store's overall success.

Growth Opportunities:

• Within Framing: Progression to Framing Manager, overseeing the department's operations, sales, and team.

• Into Management: Opportunity to move into Assistant Store Manager or Store Manager roles, requiring broader retail management skills.

• Specialization: Potential to become a subject matter expert in specific framing techniques, materials, or design styles.

• Cross-Departmental: Development into roles within Visual Merchandising, Inventory Management, or other specialized store functions.

• Company-Wide: With demonstrated performance and leadership, potential for roles at the district or corporate level in areas like training, operations, or merchandising.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Senior" title suggests this role is a stepping stone to management or deeper specialization within Michaels, offering a clear, albeit potentially tiered, career path within the company's retail operations.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is a retail store environment. The primary workspace will be on the sales floor and within the dedicated custom framing shop area.

Office Location(s): The specific location is Brentwood, California. Michaels operates numerous retail locations across the United States and Canada.

Workspace Context:

• Customer-Facing: A significant portion of the role involves direct interaction with customers on the sales floor and in the framing department.

• Workshop Environment: The framing shop is a specialized area equipped with tools and machinery for cutting, assembling, and finishing custom frames. This includes potentially hazardous equipment like glass cutters and heat presses, requiring strict adherence to safety protocols.

• Dynamic & Collaborative: The environment is fast-paced, requiring adaptability to customer needs, sales targets, and operational tasks. Collaboration with fellow team members is crucial for efficient store operation.

• Tools & Technology: Access to POS systems, basic computer terminals, and specialized framing equipment.

Work Schedule:

• Full-time position, generally around 40 hours per week.

• The schedule will likely include a mix of shifts, including evenings, weekends, and potentially early mornings, depending on store operating hours and business needs. Flexibility is a key requirement for success in a retail setting.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is typical of a large retail chain, with a specific emphasis on the hands-on, potentially higher-risk environment of the framing shop.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: May involve a brief phone or online screening to assess basic qualifications and interest.

• In-Person Interview: Typically with the Framing Manager and/or Store Manager. This will likely cover:

  • Customer Service Philosophy: How you approach customer interactions and problem-solving.
  • Sales Experience: Your ability to sell products and services, and your approach to consultative selling.
  • Framing Aptitude: Your understanding of or interest in custom framing, and your ability to learn the technical aspects.
  • Teamwork & Leadership: Your ability to collaborate with others and potentially lead in the manager's absence.
  • Situational Questions: Scenarios related to customer service, sales challenges, and operational tasks.

• Skills Assessment (Potential): May involve a practical demonstration of basic measuring skills, or a discussion about how you would approach a framing consultation.

• Final Interview (Possible): With a higher-level manager or HR representative, depending on the company's internal process.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Highlight Relevant Experience: Even without a formal portfolio, be prepared to verbally discuss specific examples of:

  • Successful customer interactions and problem resolutions.
  • Instances where you exceeded sales targets or contributed to revenue growth.
  • Projects where you demonstrated attention to detail and quality craftsmanship.
  • Situations where you took initiative or leadership.

• Quantify Achievements: Whenever possible, use numbers to illustrate your impact (e.g., "increased customer satisfaction scores by X%," "contributed to Y% of department sales").

• Demonstrate Learning Agility: For technical skills like framing, emphasize your ability and eagerness to learn quickly and master new equipment and techniques.

Challenge Preparation:

• Customer Scenario: Be ready to role-play a customer consultation for a custom framing project. Focus on active listening, asking clarifying questions, and proposing solutions.

• Sales Pitch: Prepare to "sell" the benefits of custom framing or a specific Michaels product/service (like the Rewards program).

• Operational Problem-Solving: Consider how you would handle common retail challenges, such as a stock-out, a customer complaint, or ensuring a clean and organized workspace.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will likely focus on assessing soft skills (customer service, sales, teamwork) and the candidate's potential to learn the technical aspects of framing, rather than requiring a pre-built portfolio.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• POS System: Essential for sales transactions, customer lookups, and potentially inventory inquiries. Specific system name not provided, but proficiency with any modern retail POS is transferable.

• Framing Equipment:

  • Glass Cutter: For precise cutting of glass or acrylic for frames.
  • Framing Machinery: This can include mat cutters, computerized mat cutters (CMCs), jointers, presses, and saws used for cutting moulding and assembling frames.
  • Heat Press: For applying adhesives or finishing touches.

• Basic Computer & Internet: For accessing internal systems, training modules, and potentially online order management.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Point of Sale (POS) Reports: Basic sales data generated from transactions.

• Inventory Management Systems: For tracking stock levels of moulding, mats, and ready-made frames.

• Customer Relationship Management (CRM) / Rewards Program: For managing customer data and loyalty program engagement.

CRM & Automation:

• Rewards Program Software: To manage customer enrollments and benefits.

• Internal Communication Tools: For team updates and operational directives.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is a blend of standard retail systems and specialized framing equipment. The ability to learn and operate these tools efficiently is critical.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Customer Focus: Prioritizing customer needs and striving to create memorable experiences through excellent service and quality products.

• Creativity & Passion: Fostering an environment that celebrates creativity and encourages personal expression through arts and crafts.

• Teamwork & Collaboration: Working together effectively to achieve store goals, support colleagues, and provide a seamless customer journey.

• Quality & Craftsmanship: A commitment to producing high-quality custom framing solutions that meet customer expectations.

• Integrity & Respect: Maintaining ethical standards, treating everyone with respect, and upholding company values.

• Efficiency & Productivity: Striving for operational excellence, meeting sales targets, and managing time effectively.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional: Close collaboration between framing specialists and sales associates is key. Sales associates direct customers to the framing department, and framers may assist with floor sales or customer inquiries.

• Supportive: Team members are expected to support each other, whether it's assisting with tasks, sharing knowledge, or stepping in during busy periods.

• Feedback-Oriented: Encouragement of feedback through VOC surveys and internal communication to drive continuous improvement in processes and customer service.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture emphasizes a blend of creative passion, customer-centricity, and operational discipline, with a strong emphasis on teamwork and continuous improvement.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Sales and Production: Effectively managing customer consultations and sales while also meeting production deadlines for custom framing orders.

• Technical Skill Acquisition: Learning to operate specialized framing equipment and mastering various framing techniques can be challenging.

• Customer Expectations: Meeting diverse and sometimes complex customer expectations for custom framing designs and quality.

• Retail Pace: Adapting to the fast-paced and often demanding nature of a retail environment, including peak seasons and busy weekends.

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

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Framing Expertise: Deepen knowledge of framing materials, techniques, design principles, and conservation framing.

• Sales & Customer Service Skills: Develop advanced consultative selling and customer relationship management abilities.

• Leadership Development: Gain experience in leading a team, managing operations, and contributing to store performance through the "Senior" responsibilities.

• Company Training: Access to Michaels' internal training programs for product knowledge, sales techniques, and operational procedures.

• Career Advancement: Opportunities to progress into management roles within Michaels stores or explore other career paths within the company.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are typical for a specialized retail role that combines customer service, sales, and technical execution. The growth opportunities are well-defined within the retail hierarchy.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Customer Service: "Describe a time you went above and beyond to help a customer. What was the situation, and what was the outcome?"

  • Preparation: Think of specific examples where you resolved a customer issue, exceeded expectations, or created a memorable experience.

• Sales: "How would you approach a customer who is unsure about their framing choices? What questions would you ask?"

  • Preparation: Prepare to discuss your consultative selling approach, emphasizing active listening and solution-oriented questioning.

• Problem-Solving: "Imagine a customer is unhappy with their custom framing order. How would you handle this situation?"

  • Preparation: Focus on de-escalation, understanding the issue, offering solutions, and adhering to company policy.

• Teamwork: "Describe a time you had to work with a difficult colleague. How did you manage the situation?"

  • Preparation: Highlight your ability to remain professional, communicate effectively, and focus on shared goals. Company & Culture Questions:

• "Why are you interested in working for Michaels, specifically in a custom framing role?"

  • Preparation: Research Michaels' mission, values, and products. Connect your skills and interests to their brand and the specific role.

• "What do you know about custom framing?"

  • Preparation: Briefly explain the process and its value to customers. If you have experience, highlight it. If not, express enthusiasm for learning.

• "How do you stay motivated in a retail environment?"

  • Preparation: Discuss your personal drivers, such as achieving sales goals, customer satisfaction, or continuous learning. Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Verbal Storytelling: Since a formal portfolio isn't required, be prepared to "tell the story" of your relevant experiences. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers about past achievements.

• Highlight Key Skills: Verbally emphasize your measuring accuracy, attention to detail, customer interaction skills, and any sales successes.

• Demonstrate Learning Aptitude: Clearly articulate your eagerness and ability to learn the technical aspects of framing and operate the equipment safely and effectively.

• Showcase Enthusiasm: Convey a genuine interest in art, design, and helping customers create meaningful framed pieces.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview preparation should focus on demonstrating strong customer service, sales potential, and a keen ability to learn and execute technical tasks within a retail framework.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Senior Framer position:

• Submit Your Application: Complete and submit your application through the provided link on the Michaels Careers website.

• Tailor Your Resume: Ensure your resume highlights relevant retail experience, customer service achievements, any sales accomplishments, and any experience with tools or technical tasks. Quantify your achievements where possible.

• Prepare for the Interview:

  • Research Michaels Stores, their mission, and their custom framing services.
  • Practice answering common retail interview questions, focusing on customer service, sales, and teamwork.
  • Be ready to discuss your interest in custom framing and your ability to learn technical skills.

• Showcase Your Skills: Be prepared to verbally articulate your experience and how it aligns with the role's requirements, using specific examples. If you have any personal projects or examples of your work (even non-professional), consider how you might briefly mention them if relevant.

• Follow Up (Optional but Recommended): If appropriate after an interview, a brief thank-you note reiterating your interest and suitability for the role can be beneficial.

⚠️ 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.