Senior Framer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior Framer

Company: Michaels Stores

Location: Paramus, New Jersey, United States

Job Type: Full time

Category: Retail Operations / Sales Operations

Date Posted: 2026-09-12

Experience Level: 0-2 Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

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

• Lead by example in customer engagement, ensuring a positive and memorable shopping experience that fosters loyalty and repeat business.

• Maintain operational excellence in the framing department and store-wide, adhering to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company programs for compliance and efficiency.

• Act as a key support to the Framing Manager, assisting with team training, KPI achievement, and operational leadership in their absence.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title "Senior Framer" suggests potential leadership, the experience level (0-2 years) and core responsibilities lean towards an experienced individual contributor with strong customer-facing skills and a desire to mentor. The role emphasizes driving sales and operational standards within the framing department.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Customer Relationship Management: Employs Elevated ABC Deliver methodology to build rapport with customers, understand their needs, and create personalized custom framing solutions that exceed expectations.

• Sales & Production Excellence: Achieves and drives individual and team sales and production goals for custom framing, ensuring high-quality output and on-time order completion.

• Operational Adherence: Strictly follows Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company programs for all aspects of the job, including sales, production, safety, and inventory management.

• Team Support & Leadership: Serves as a resource and trainer for other team members, particularly in framing techniques and customer service. Takes lead responsibilities in the Framing Manager's absence.

• Store Standards & Merchandising: Maintains the ready-made frame department, SISO (Ship-from-Store) and Directed Replenishment areas, ensuring a well-merchandised, in-stock, clean, and clutter-free environment for customers.

• Customer Service & Engagement: Provides friendly and efficient customer service, assisting shoppers in locating products, offering solutions, and promoting the benefits of the Michaels Rewards program.

• Operational Support: Participates actively in truck unloads and stocking processes, adhering to truck standards and budget. Operates the cash register and follows cash handling procedures.

• Omni Channel Support: Assists with and supports various omni-channel processes as required by the business needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of sales, customer service, operational execution, and basic team leadership. The emphasis on "Elevated ABC Deliver" and "Voice of Customer (VOC) survey" indicates a strong focus on customer experience and feedback loops, common in retail operations aiming for continuous improvement.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: No specific degree is mandated; however, a foundational understanding of retail mathematics and measurement is implied.

Experience:

• Minimum 0-2 years of experience in a customer-facing role, preferably within a retail environment.

• Demonstrated experience in operating framing equipment and using glass cutters is essential.

• Basic computer skills for POS (Point of Sale) and potential inventory management systems are required. Required Skills:

• Custom Framing Expertise: Proficient in designing and executing custom framing orders with a focus on quality and aesthetic appeal.

• Customer Service Excellence: Ability to build customer relationships, understand needs, and provide solutions in a friendly and engaging manner.

• Sales Acumen: Proven ability to drive sales, promote products/services, and achieve sales targets.

• Operational Compliance: Strong adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), safety protocols, and cash handling standards.

• Measurement & Precision: Accurate basic measuring skills for framing and other retail tasks.

• Equipment Operation: Competency in operating framing equipment and glass cutters safely and effectively.

Preferred Skills:

• Retail Sales Experience: Prior experience in retail sales, particularly in a specialty or service-oriented environment.

• Product/Service Sales: Proven track record of selling products or services directly to customers.

• Merchandising Skills: Ability to maintain visually appealing and well-stocked retail displays.

• Team Mentorship: Experience in training or guiding less experienced team members.

• Inventory Management: Familiarity with inventory processes such as stocking, replenishment, and shrink prevention.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Senior" title combined with the 0-2 year experience requirement suggests that candidates with strong foundational framing skills and excellent customer service aptitude, even with limited formal experience, will be considered. The emphasis is on demonstrable skills rather than years of tenure.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Framing Design Showcase: Examples of custom framing projects completed, highlighting design creativity, material selection, and attention to detail. Visuals are key.

• Customer Service Case Studies: Brief narratives or examples demonstrating successful customer interactions, problem-solving, and relationship-building within a retail context.

• Sales Achievement Examples: Quantifiable results or anecdotes illustrating contributions to sales targets, particularly in custom orders or upselling.

• Process Adherence Examples: Demonstrations of understanding and following operational procedures, such as SOPs for framing, safety, or cash handling.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Ability to describe or illustrate the custom framing process from initial customer consultation to final product delivery, identifying potential efficiency improvements.

• Quality Control: Understanding of quality assurance steps in the framing process to ensure consistent, high-quality output.

• Customer Interaction Flows: Examples of how customer interactions are managed, from greeting to closing the sale and post-sale follow-up.

📝 Enhancement Note: While a formal portfolio might not be explicitly requested for an on-site retail role of this level, candidates are strongly advised to prepare examples of their framing work, customer service success stories, and any quantifiable sales achievements. This can be presented verbally or through a simple visual aid during the interview.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $16.25 - $19.10 per hour.

This range reflects the market rate for a Senior Framer position in the Paramus, New Jersey area, considering the experience level (0-2 years) and the specific responsibilities. This is a full-time role, potentially eligible for overtime compensation.

Benefits:

• Retirement Savings: 401(k) plan with employer match.

• Well-being Support: Employee Assistance Program (EAP) providing confidential counseling and resources.

• Health Coverage: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance plans.

• Healthcare Flexibility: Telemedicine services and flexible spending accounts (FSAs) for healthcare expenses.

• Commuter Assistance: Benefits to help with transportation costs.

• Education Support: Tuition assistance and adoption assistance programs.

• Additional Coverage: Various voluntary insurance options for enhanced protection.

• Employee Perks: Significant employee discounts on Michaels products and access to partner discount programs.

Working Hours: Typically 40 hours per week, with flexibility required to cover nights, weekends, and early mornings, as the retail environment demands.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range has been determined based on current industry benchmarks for retail associate roles with specialized responsibilities like custom framing in the Paramus, NJ area. This range is also informed by the provided minimum and maximum base pay ($16.25 - $19.10). The benefits listed are directly from the provided text and are standard for a large retail organization.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Arts and Crafts Retail. Michaels is the leading destination for creating and celebrating in North America, operating a vast network of stores and online platforms.

Company Size: Over 1,300 stores across North America. This indicates a large, established retail organization with structured processes and significant market presence.

Founded: 1973, headquartered in Irving, Texas. This long history signifies stability and deep expertise in the creative retail sector.

Team Structure:

• Departmental Focus: The Senior Framer operates within a store environment, likely reporting to a Framing Manager or Store Manager.

• Cross-functional Collaboration: Will collaborate with other store team members for general store operations, customer service, and truck unloads.

• Leadership Support: Works closely with the Framing Manager to drive department performance and support team development.

Methodology:

• Customer-Centric Approach: Emphasizes building relationships and providing memorable experiences ("Elevated ABC Deliver").

• Process-Driven Operations: Adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) is critical for consistency, compliance, and efficiency across all store functions.

• Performance Metrics: Focus on Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for sales, production, and customer satisfaction.

Company Website: www.michaels.com

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture is rooted in creativity, celebration, and customer engagement. The retail environment demands adaptability, strong interpersonal skills, and a commitment to operational standards. The "Senior" designation implies a culture that values growth from within and recognizes team members who excel in their roles.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents an entry-level to early-career position within retail operations, specifically focused on a specialized department (Custom Framing). It's a step above a general sales associate, requiring specific technical and sales skills.

Reporting Structure: The Senior Framer likely reports to a Framing Manager or directly to the Store Manager, depending on the store's organizational structure. This provides direct oversight and mentorship.

Operations Impact: Directly impacts store revenue through custom framing sales and contributes to overall customer satisfaction and store presentation. By acting as a trainer and lead, the role also influences the operational efficiency and skill level of the broader store team.

Growth Opportunities:

• Framing Specialization: Potential to become a Framing Manager, overseeing the department's operations, sales, and team.

• Retail Management Path: Opportunity to move into broader store management roles (e.g., Assistant Store Manager, Store Manager) by demonstrating leadership, sales, and operational proficiency.

• Cross-Departmental Expertise: Develop skills in other store areas, potentially leading to roles in visual merchandising, inventory management, or operations management within Michaels.

• Skill Development: Continuous learning in custom framing techniques, sales strategies, and customer service best practices.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth path within Michaels for a Senior Framer is clear, moving from a specialized, high-impact role to management. The emphasis on training and leadership in the absence of a manager provides a tangible opportunity to develop leadership skills early on.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Public retail store setting. The primary workspace is the sales floor and the dedicated framing shop within the store.

Office Location(s): Paramus, New Jersey (240 N State Rt 17, Ste 1). This is a specific, physical retail location.

Workspace Context:

• Customer Interaction Focus: The environment is dynamic, with constant interaction with customers.

• Operational Tools: Access to framing equipment (e.g., mat cutters, saws, heat press), POS systems, and potentially inventory management tools.

• Team Collaboration: Opportunities for regular interaction and collaboration with other store team members and management.

• Climate Control: Public areas are climate-controlled; stock rooms may not be. Some outdoor work is possible during truck unloads.

Work Schedule: Flexible schedule required, including nights, weekends, and early mornings. This is typical for a retail environment to ensure adequate store coverage and customer service throughout operating hours.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is hands-on and customer-centric. Candidates should be comfortable with physical tasks, standing for extended periods, and working in a busy retail setting. The framing shop environment requires meticulousness and adherence to safety protocols due to specialized equipment.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of application and resume for basic qualifications and relevant experience.

• In-Person Interview: Typically involves a conversation with the Hiring Manager (Framing Manager or Store Manager) to assess customer service skills, framing knowledge, sales aptitude, and cultural fit.

• Practical Assessment: May include a demonstration of framing skills or a role-playing exercise simulating a customer interaction and sales consultation.

• Team Interaction: Potential for interaction with other team members to gauge collaboration style.

• Final Decision: Based on overall assessment of skills, experience, and alignment with Michaels' values.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Framing Samples: Bring high-quality photos or actual examples of custom framing projects. Highlight diverse styles, materials, and problem-solving approaches.

• Customer Service Stories: Prepare 2-3 concise examples of exceptional customer service, problem resolution, or successful relationship building. Focus on the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result).

• Sales Achievements: Be ready to discuss specific instances where you successfully sold custom framing or other products/services, quantifying results if possible (e.g., "increased custom framing sales by X%").

• Process Understanding: Be prepared to discuss your understanding of the custom framing process and how you ensure quality and customer satisfaction at each step.

Challenge Preparation:

• Framing Scenario: Expect a scenario where you need to consult with a "customer" (interviewer) to design a frame for a specific piece of art or memorabilia. Focus on asking clarifying questions, suggesting options, and explaining benefits.

• Sales Pitch: Be ready to "sell" the value of custom framing and the Michaels Rewards program.

• Problem-Solving: Prepare for questions about how you would handle difficult customers, production delays, or quality issues.

📝 Enhancement Note: For this role, a portfolio is less about formal documentation and more about showcasing practical skills and experience. Candidates should be ready to visually demonstrate their framing work and verbally articulate their customer service and sales capabilities.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Custom Framing Equipment: Mat cutters, saws, mounting tools, heat presses, and various framing machinery. Proficiency is essential.

• Glass Cutter: Specific tool for cutting glass to size for frames.

• POS (Point of Sale) System: For processing sales transactions, customer lookups, and potentially managing custom order details.

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

Analytics & Reporting:

• Sales Reporting: Basic understanding of sales performance metrics, potentially accessed through the POS system or store reports.

• Inventory Systems: Familiarity with systems for managing ready-made frames and materials (e.g., SISO, Directed Replenishment).

CRM & Automation:

• Michaels Rewards Program: Understanding of how to enroll customers and explain benefits, acting as a basic CRM touchpoint.

• Omni Channel Support: Familiarity with processes that integrate online orders with in-store fulfillment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is primarily focused on the tools of the trade for custom framing and standard retail operations. While advanced analytics or CRM software might not be directly used by the Senior Framer, an understanding of how their work contributes to these systems (like sales data or customer loyalty programs) is beneficial.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Creativity & Passion: Encouraging a love for crafting, art, and celebration.

• Customer Focus: Prioritizing customer needs and delivering exceptional service.

• Teamwork & Collaboration: Working together to achieve store goals and support one another.

• Integrity & Respect: Upholding ethical standards and treating everyone with respect.

• Efficiency & Quality: Striving for operational excellence in all tasks, from framing to customer checkout.

Collaboration Style:

• Supportive Environment: Encourages team members to assist each other and share knowledge, especially in training and problem-solving.

• Cross-Functional Interaction: Regular collaboration with other departments within the store to ensure seamless operations and customer experience.

• Feedback Culture: Openness to feedback from customers (VOC surveys) and management to drive continuous improvement.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture emphasizes a positive, creative, and customer-centric environment. Team members are expected to be collaborative, adaptable, and committed to upholding company standards while fostering a fun and inspiring atmosphere for customers.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• High Customer Volume: Managing multiple customer requests simultaneously, especially during peak seasons.

• Production Demands: Balancing custom framing production with immediate customer service needs and other store duties.

• Maintaining Quality Standards: Consistently delivering high-quality framing work under time pressure.

• Adapting to New Products/Techniques: Staying updated on new framing materials, design trends, and equipment.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

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

• Sales & Customer Service Training: Continuous development in consultative selling, upselling, and customer relationship management.

• Leadership Skills: Gaining experience in training, mentoring, and leading a team in the absence of management.

• Retail Operations Knowledge: Broadening understanding of store operations, inventory management, and visual merchandising.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges in this role are typical of a hands-on, customer-facing retail position with a specialized department. The growth opportunities are substantial for individuals who demonstrate initiative and a strong work ethic, with clear pathways into management within Michaels.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Framing Consultation: "A customer brings in a valuable, sentimental piece of artwork. How would you approach designing a custom frame for it, considering their preferences and the artwork's value?" (Focus on needs assessment, material options, and value proposition).

• Sales Approach: "How do you typically engage a customer who seems unsure about custom framing? What steps do you take to build their confidence and close the sale?" (Focus on consultative selling and overcoming objections).

• Problem Solving: "Imagine a customer is unhappy with a framing order they just picked up. What is your process for addressing their concerns and resolving the issue?" (Focus on empathy, listening, and finding solutions within company policy).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "Why are you interested in working for Michaels, and specifically in the Senior Framer role?" (Connect your passion for creativity/crafts with the role's responsibilities).

• "How do you contribute to a positive team environment?" (Highlight collaboration, support, and respect).

• "How do you ensure you are providing excellent customer service, even during busy periods?" (Focus on prioritization, efficiency, and maintaining a positive attitude). Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Visual Showcase: Be prepared to show photos of your best framing work. Briefly explain the challenges and solutions for each piece.

• Customer Success Story: Share a compelling example of how you exceeded a customer's expectations, detailing the situation, your actions, and the positive outcome.

• Quantify Impact: If possible, share examples of how your efforts contributed to sales growth or improved customer satisfaction.

• Enthusiasm for Craft: Convey your passion for art, framing, and helping customers bring their creative visions to life.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating practical skills, a customer-centric mindset, and a proactive approach to sales and operational tasks. Highlighting any experience with custom framing, sales, and customer service will be crucial.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided Workday link: https://michaels.wd5.myworkdayjobs.com/External/job/Paramus-240-N-State-Rt-17-Ste-1/Senior-Framer_R00324225

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight specific framing skills, customer service achievements, any sales experience, and operational tasks (e.g., SOP adherence, equipment operation). Use keywords from the job description.

• Portfolio Preparation: Gather visual examples (photos) of your custom framing work and prepare to discuss specific customer service success stories and sales achievements.

• Interview Practice: Rehearse answers to common interview questions, focusing on behavioral examples and demonstrating your understanding of the role's responsibilities and Michaels' values. Practice explaining your framing process and customer interaction strategies.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Michaels' mission, values, product offerings, and the specific needs of a retail framing department. Understand their commitment to creativity and customer experience.

⚠️ 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.