Senior Framer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior Framer

Company: Michaels Stores

Location: San Clemente, California, United States

Job Type: Full time

Category: Retail Operations / Custom Framing Specialist

Date Posted: 2026-08-27

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

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Custom Framing Expertise: Spearhead the creation of custom framing solutions, acting as a primary point of contact for customers seeking to preserve and display their artwork and cherished items. This involves detailed design consultation, material selection, and precise execution of framing orders.

• Customer Relationship Management: Cultivate strong customer relationships through personalized service, actively engaging patrons to understand their needs and recommending tailored framing solutions that enhance the value and presentation of their pieces.

• Sales & Production Drive: Consistently achieve and exceed sales and production targets for the custom framing department, contributing directly to the store's revenue goals through effective sales techniques and efficient order fulfillment.

• Team Support & Leadership: Provide essential support to the Framing Manager, including acting in a lead capacity in their absence, assisting with training and onboarding new team members, and contributing to the achievement of key performance indicators (KPIs).

📝 Enhancement Note: While the job title is "Senior Framer," the provided experience level (0-2 years) suggests this role is more accurately positioned as a skilled individual contributor with potential for growth, rather than a traditional senior management role. The emphasis is on hands-on framing expertise and customer engagement, with leadership responsibilities primarily focused on supporting the Framing Manager and training peers.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Customer Consultation & Design:

  • Conduct in-depth consultations with customers to understand their framing needs, aesthetic preferences, and budget constraints.
  • Utilize Elevated ABC Deliver methodology to build rapport and provide expert recommendations on matting, framing materials, glass types, and design aesthetics.
  • Create compelling framing proposals and visualizations that meet customer expectations.

• Production & Quality Control:

  • Execute custom framing orders with a high degree of precision, quality, and adherence to established Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
  • Operate and maintain framing equipment, including mat cutters, framing tools, and potentially heat presses, ensuring safety and functionality.
  • Ensure all framing orders are completed on time and meet Michaels' quality standards.

• Sales & Business Development:

  • Drive sales by actively engaging customers, identifying upselling opportunities (e.g., premium materials, special finishes), and promoting the benefits of custom framing.
  • Achieve individual sales and production targets, contributing to the overall success of the framing department and store.
  • Educate customers on the Michaels Rewards program and encourage enrollment to foster loyalty.

• Team Collaboration & Support:

  • Assist the Framing Manager in tracking and driving Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for the department.
  • Act as a resource for other team members, providing guidance and training on framing techniques, customer service, and operational procedures.
  • Step into a lead role in the absence of the Framing Manager, overseeing daily operations and team activities.

• Store Operations & Merchandising:

  • Maintain the visual presentation and stock levels of the ready-made frame department, including ensuring accurate inventory (SISO - Single Item, Single Out) and executing directed replenishment.

  • Contribute to general store operations, including customer assistance, checkout processes, and maintaining a clean, safe, and organized store environment.

  • Participate actively in truck un-load and stocking processes, adhering to established standards and timelines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities clearly indicate a dual focus on specialized custom framing skills and broader retail operations. The role requires not only technical proficiency in framing but also strong customer engagement, sales acumen, and a willingness to support overall store functions, including inventory management and customer assistance.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• High school diploma or equivalent is typically required.

• Further education or certifications in art, design, or a related field may be advantageous but not explicitly required. Experience:

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

• Experience in custom framing, art handling, or a related craft is highly desirable.

• Experience in sales, particularly consultative selling of products or services, is preferred. Required Skills:

• Framing Equipment Operation: Proficiency in operating framing equipment, including mat cutters and relevant tools.

• Glass Cutting Proficiency: Ability to safely and accurately cut glass for framing applications.

• Basic Measuring Skills: Accurate measurement capabilities for precise framing.

• Customer Service Excellence: Proven ability to engage customers, understand needs, and provide solutions.

• Sales Acumen: Aptitude for identifying sales opportunities and closing sales, particularly in a consultative manner.

• Basic Computer Skills: Familiarity with point-of-sale (POS) systems and basic computer operations.

• Adherence to SOPs: Commitment to following Standard Operating Procedures and company programs.

Preferred Skills:

• Custom Framing Design: Aesthetic understanding and design principles for creating visually appealing frames.

• Retail Sales Experience: Demonstrated success in achieving sales targets in a retail environment.

• Inventory Management: Familiarity with stock management, including SISO and replenishment processes.

• Team Leadership Potential: Ability to act in a lead capacity and assist with training peers.

• Visual Merchandising: Skills in presenting products attractively and maintaining department standards.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Senior" title, combined with the 0-2 year experience requirement, suggests that "Senior" here refers to a level of specialized technical skill within framing, rather than extensive management experience. Applicants should highlight any hands-on framing experience, even if informal, and demonstrate strong customer service and sales aptitude.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• While a formal portfolio is not explicitly requested, candidates should be prepared to discuss their framing projects and design choices. If applicable, a visual representation of past framing work (e.g., photos of custom frames created) can be highly beneficial.

• Be ready to articulate how you have applied design principles and material knowledge to create effective framing solutions for various types of artwork or items.

• Demonstrate an understanding of how to manage the framing order process from initial customer consultation through production and final delivery.

• Prepare to discuss your approach to ensuring the quality and longevity of framed items, considering factors like archival materials and proper mounting techniques. Process Documentation:

• Candidates should be familiar with and able to discuss adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for custom framing and general retail operations.

• Be prepared to describe your approach to workflow management within the framing department, ensuring efficient order processing and timely completion.

• Discuss how you would contribute to maintaining accurate inventory records and managing stock levels for framing materials and ready-made frames.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the retail environment and the specific craft involved, a formal portfolio might be less critical than the ability to articulate process knowledge and demonstrate practical skills. The emphasis should be on understanding and executing established procedures and contributing to efficient workflow.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• $17.25 - $20.30 per hour

• This range is competitive for a specialized retail role with significant customer interaction and technical skill requirements in the San Clemente, California area. Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health & Wellness:

  • Medical, Dental, and Vision Coverage
  • Telemedicine Services
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

• Financial Security:

  • 401(k) with Employer Match
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)
  • Commuter Benefits

• Professional Development:

  • Tuition Assistance
  • Adoption Assistance

• Employee Perks:

  • Generous Employee Discounts on Michaels products
  • Access to partner discount programs

• Work Schedule:

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

  • Work hours may include nights, weekends, and early mornings, reflecting the demands of a retail environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided salary range is specific and competitive for the location and role. The benefits package is robust, covering health, financial, and professional development aspects, which are attractive to retail professionals. The mention of overtime compensation indicates potential for higher earnings based on operational needs.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Arts and Crafts Retail

Company Size: Large (Over 1,000 employees, with Michaels operating over 1,300 stores across North America). This indicates a well-established company with structured processes and significant market presence.

Founded: 1973, headquartered in Irving, Texas. This long history suggests stability and deep market understanding.

Team Structure:

• Framing Department: Works closely with the Framing Manager and other team members within the store. The Senior Framer may act as a lead in the manager's absence and is responsible for training and supporting peers.

• Cross-functional Collaboration: Engages with various store departments and team members to support overall store operations, customer service initiatives, and omni-channel processes. Collaboration with front-end staff for checkouts and customer assistance is expected.

• Reporting: Reports directly to the Framing Manager, with potential indirect oversight from store leadership.

Methodology:

• Customer-Centric Approach: Emphasizes building customer relationships and providing memorable experiences through personalized service and tailored solutions.

• Process Adherence: Strong reliance on Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to ensure consistency, quality, and compliance across all operations.

• Data-Driven Performance: Focus on achieving Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) related to sales, production, and customer satisfaction (e.g., Voice of Customer surveys).

• Teamwork & Support: Fosters a collaborative environment where team members support each other to achieve store goals.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Michaels positions itself as a leader in the creative space, valuing creativity, customer connection, and teamwork. The company culture appears to be one that balances structured retail operations with an appreciation for artistic expression and customer engagement.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level:

• This role represents a specialized, skilled position within the retail operations framework. It's an individual contributor role with a focus on technical craft (framing) and customer interaction. The "Senior" designation implies a level of mastery in framing techniques and a capacity to mentor or lead peers in specific tasks. Reporting Structure:

• The Senior Framer reports to the Framing Manager. This structure provides direct oversight and mentorship from someone with expertise in framing and store operations.

• Collaboration is expected with other store associates and potentially store management for broader operational needs. Operations Impact:

• The Senior Framer directly impacts revenue through custom framing sales and indirectly through customer satisfaction and loyalty, which can drive repeat business for all store offerings.

• Their work contributes to the store's reputation for quality custom framing services, enhancing the overall customer experience.

• By maintaining store standards and supporting team members, they contribute to operational efficiency and a positive work environment. Growth Opportunities:

• Framing Specialization: Potential to become a recognized expert in custom framing, handling more complex projects or managing the framing department.

• Leadership Development: Progression to Framing Manager or Assistant Framing Manager roles, involving greater responsibility for sales, team management, and operations.

• Cross-Functional Retail Roles: Opportunity to move into other retail management or specialized roles within Michaels, leveraging customer service and operational experience.

• Skill Enhancement: Continuous learning in framing techniques, materials, and design trends, potentially through company-provided training or external certifications.

📝 Enhancement Note: The career path within Michaels for a Senior Framer is clearly defined within the retail operational structure. Growth typically involves advancing within the framing specialization or moving into broader store management roles, leveraging the foundational skills developed in this position.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type:

• Public retail store setting with a dedicated Custom Framing department.

• The environment is customer-facing, requiring constant interaction with patrons. Office Location(s):

• San Clemente, CA (937 Avenida Pico). This is a specific, physical retail location. Workspace Context:

• Customer Interaction: High level of direct customer engagement in a retail environment.

• Tools & Technology: Access to framing equipment (mat cutters, specialized tools), glass cutters, heat presses, POS systems, and potentially basic computer workstations for order management.

• Team Interaction: Frequent collaboration with the Framing Manager and other store associates. The framing area can be a hub for peer learning and support.

• Physical Demands: Requires standing for extended periods, regular bending, lifting, carrying, reaching, and stretching. Ability to lift heavy boxes and frames and use ladders for high shelves is necessary.

• Atmosphere: While primary customer areas are climate-controlled, some stock rooms might not be. Occasional outdoor work may be required (e.g., truck unloads, cart retrieval). The framing shop involves specific tools like glass cutters and heat presses.

Work Schedule:

• Full-time, approximately 40 hours per week.

• Flexible scheduling is common in retail, with work hours potentially including nights, weekends, and early mornings to meet business needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is typical for a skilled retail associate role with a specialized department. It demands physical stamina, adaptability to customer needs, and proficiency with specific tools within a dynamic retail setting.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Likely involves an application review and potentially a brief phone screen to assess basic qualifications and interest.

• In-Person Interview: Expect a face-to-face interview with the Hiring Manager (Framing Manager) and possibly other store leadership. This will likely include:

  • Behavioral Questions: Assessing customer service skills, problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and adaptability.
  • Technical/Skills Assessment: Discussion or demonstration of framing knowledge, equipment operation, and design sense. You may be asked to describe how you would handle specific framing scenarios.
  • Sales Scenarios: Role-playing or discussing how you would approach selling custom framing solutions.
  • Fit Assessment: Evaluating alignment with Michaels' company values and team culture.

• Potential Second Interview: Depending on the store's structure, there might be a follow-up interview with a higher-level manager.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Visual Examples: If you have photos of custom framing projects you've completed, bring them or have them easily accessible on a tablet or phone. Highlight the complexity, materials used, and the final aesthetic.

• Process Explanation: Be prepared to walk through your framing process for a hypothetical or actual project. Detail the steps from consultation to completion, emphasizing quality control and customer satisfaction.

• Problem-Solving Case Studies: Think of a time you encountered a challenging framing request or a difficult customer. Explain how you addressed it, the outcome, and what you learned.

• Material & Design Knowledge: Be ready to discuss different types of framing materials (wood, metal), matting options (single, double, V-grooves), glass types (standard, UV-protective, anti-reflective), and how design choices impact the final piece.

Challenge Preparation:

• Framing Scenario: You might be presented with a specific artwork or item and asked to propose framing solutions, considering budget, aesthetics, and preservation.

• Customer Interaction: Be prepared for scenarios testing your ability to handle customer inquiries, complaints, or sales objections professionally and effectively.

• Operational Tasks: Questions may cover your understanding of inventory management, store maintenance, and adherence to SOPs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will likely blend assessments of technical craft, sales ability, and customer service skills. Demonstrating practical knowledge and a customer-centric approach will be key.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Custom Framing Equipment:

  • Mat Cutters: Essential for precise cutting of mat boards.
  • Framing Tools: Various hand tools for assembly, joining, and finishing frames.
  • Glass Cutters & Related Tools: For cutting and fitting glass or acrylic glazing.
  • Heat Press: Potentially used for specific mounting or finishing techniques.

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

• Basic Computer Workstations: For accessing order management systems, company portals, and potentially design software.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Sales Data: Understanding of sales reports generated by the POS system to track individual and department performance.

• Inventory Management Systems: Potentially integrated with the POS or a separate system for tracking stock levels of framing materials and ready-made frames.

• Voice of Customer (VOC) Surveys: Awareness of customer feedback mechanisms and their importance.

CRM & Automation:

• Michaels Rewards Program: Understanding how to enroll customers and leverage the program for sales and loyalty.

• Order Management System: Software or process for tracking custom framing orders from creation to completion.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency with specialized framing tools is paramount. Familiarity with retail POS systems and basic computer operations is also necessary. The company relies on established systems for sales tracking, inventory, and customer engagement programs.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Creativity & Passion: Michaels champions creativity and encourages team members to embrace their artistic side. This translates to a passion for helping customers bring their creative visions to life through framing.

• Customer Focus: A core value is to "fuel the joy of creativity and celebration" by providing exceptional customer experiences. This means prioritizing customer needs and satisfaction in all interactions.

• Teamwork & Collaboration: The company emphasizes working together to achieve common goals. Team members are expected to support each other, share knowledge, and contribute to a positive work environment.

• Integrity & Respect: Upholding ethical standards, treating everyone with respect, and maintaining a positive and inclusive atmosphere are fundamental.

• Efficiency & Quality: While fostering creativity, there's an equal emphasis on operational efficiency, adhering to SOPs, and delivering high-quality products and services.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: The Senior Framer collaborates closely with the Framing Manager and other store associates to ensure seamless customer service across all touchpoints, from initial inquiry to checkout.

• Knowledge Sharing: Expected to share best practices, tips, and techniques with peers, especially regarding framing and customer engagement.

• Supportive Environment: The culture aims to be supportive, where team members can rely on each other, particularly in fulfilling customer requests and managing operational tasks.

📝 Enhancement Note: Michaels values a blend of creativity, customer-centricity, and operational discipline. Team members are encouraged to be passionate about their work, collaborate effectively, and maintain a high standard of service and quality.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Creativity with Efficiency: Juggling the artistic demands of custom framing with the need for speed and volume dictated by retail operations and sales targets.

• Managing Diverse Customer Needs: Handling a wide range of customer expectations, budgets, and artistic visions, requiring adaptability and strong problem-solving skills.

• Physical Demands: The role requires significant physical stamina, which can be challenging over time.

• Staying Current: Keeping up with evolving framing trends, materials, and techniques in the art and design world.

• Team Support Role: Effectively stepping into a lead capacity in the absence of the manager, requiring confidence and broad operational knowledge.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Framing Techniques: Opportunities to learn and master more complex framing methods, materials, and preservation techniques.

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

• Leadership Skills: Potential to develop leadership capabilities through training and hands-on experience in guiding peers and acting in a lead capacity.

• Product Knowledge: Deepening understanding of art, design principles, and the diverse range of Michaels' products.

• Cross-Training: Potential to gain experience in other areas of store operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role presents opportunities for both craft mastery and professional development in customer service and leadership, within the structured environment of a large retail organization.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Operations Strategy: "How would you prioritize custom framing orders when multiple customers have urgent deadlines?" or "Describe your process for ensuring the quality and accuracy of a framing order from start to finish." Focus on workflow, quality checks, and communication.

• Collaboration & Stakeholder Management: "How would you handle a situation where a customer is unhappy with a framing recommendation?" or "How do you collaborate with your Framing Manager and other team members to achieve sales goals?" Emphasize communication, problem-solving, and teamwork.

• Problem-Solving: "Imagine a customer brings in a valuable artwork that requires special handling. What steps would you take to ensure its safety and propose appropriate framing?" or "You notice a discrepancy in framing material inventory. How would you address this?" Focus on logical thinking, resourcefulness, and adherence to procedures.

Company & Culture Questions:

• "Why are you interested in working for Michaels, specifically in the Custom Framing department?" Research Michaels' mission and values, and connect your passion for creativity and customer service to their purpose.

• "How do you embody Michaels' values of creativity, customer focus, and teamwork in your work?" Prepare specific examples.

• "What is your understanding of the 'Elevated ABC Deliver' approach to customer service?" Show you've researched or can infer its customer-centric nature. Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Show, Don't Just Tell: If you have visual examples of your framing work, be prepared to present them clearly. Discuss the design choices, materials, and challenges overcome.

• Quantify Impact: Where possible, mention the impact of your work. For example, "My consultative approach led to an average order value increase of X% for my framing clients," or "I consistently met or exceeded my framing sales targets by Y%."

• Process Walkthrough: Be ready to articulate your framing process step-by-step, highlighting your attention to detail, quality control measures, and customer communication.

• Tailor to Michaels: Frame your experience in the context of Michaels' business. How can your skills contribute to their goals of customer satisfaction and sales growth in custom framing?

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a blend of technical framing expertise, strong customer service and sales skills, and an understanding of retail operations and company values. Practical examples and a proactive approach are key.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided application link on the Michaels careers portal.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight relevant experience in custom framing, customer service, sales, and any retail operations. Use keywords from the job description such as "custom framing," "customer service," "sales," "merchandising," and "inventory management." Quantify achievements where possible (e.g., sales targets met, customer satisfaction improvements).

• Portfolio Preparation: Gather any visual examples of custom framing work you have completed. Be ready to discuss your process, design choices, and problem-solving approaches during the interview. If you don't have a formal portfolio, prepare to articulate your skills and experience clearly.

• Interview Practice: Rehearse answers to common behavioral, situational, and technical interview questions, focusing on providing specific examples that showcase your skills and alignment with Michaels' values. Practice explaining your framing process and sales approach.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Michaels' mission, values, products, and recent initiatives. Understand their commitment to creativity, customer experience, and community.

⚠️ 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.