senior framer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior Framer

Company: Michaels Stores

Location: Danville, VA, United States

Job Type: FULL_TIME

Category: Retail Operations / Sales & Customer Service

Date Posted: 2026-05-25

Experience Level: 2-5 Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Drive customer engagement and build strong relationships through personalized custom framing solutions, aligning with revenue generation goals.

• Execute retail operations and sales strategies to achieve key performance indicators (KPIs) and production targets within the framing department.

• Serve as a key resource for training and mentoring other team members, contributing to overall team development and operational efficiency.

• Support the Framing Manager in daily operations, process adherence, and the achievement of store-wide business objectives.

• Ensure a high standard of product quality and timely order fulfillment for all custom framing projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a "Senior Framer," indicating a level of expertise beyond a standard framer. The responsibilities suggest a blend of skilled craftsmanship, customer-facing sales, and team leadership. The emphasis on "Elevated ABC Deliver" and "KPI achievement" points towards a structured sales and operations environment focused on driving revenue and customer satisfaction within the custom framing sector.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Foster and cultivate customer relationships by delivering personalized framing solutions and exceptional customer experiences, utilizing the "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodology.

• Achieve and exceed individual sales targets and production quotas for custom framing orders, contributing directly to departmental revenue goals.

• Provide hands-on training and guidance to new and existing team members on framing techniques, customer interaction, and operational procedures.

• Assist the Framing Manager in daily operational tasks, including workflow management, inventory control, and performance monitoring to ensure smooth operations.

• Complete all custom framing orders with meticulous attention to quality, detail, and adherence to established production timelines.

• Maintain the visual presentation and stock levels of the ready-made frame department, including SISO (Shop In, Ship Out) and Directed Replenishment processes.

• Deliver friendly and efficient customer service, assisting shoppers in locating products and providing solutions that meet their creative needs.

• Process customer transactions accurately and efficiently at the cash register, adhering strictly to cash handling standards and security protocols.

• Uphold and execute Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and Company programs to ensure compliance, safety, and operational consistency.

• Support store-wide initiatives for shrink reduction and safety, contributing to a secure and positive work environment.

• Actively participate in truck un-loading and stocking processes, ensuring adherence to established standards and timelines.

• Engage customers about the benefits of the loyalty program (Rewards) and facilitate new enrollments.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a dual focus on sales excellence and operational execution. The inclusion of "Elevated ABC Deliver" suggests a specific sales training program that candidates should be prepared to discuss. The expectation to "act in lead capacity in the absence of the Framing Manager" clearly defines a senior-level responsibility for operational continuity and basic team oversight.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: High school diploma or equivalent required. Further education or certifications in art, design, or related fields are a plus.

Experience: 2-5 years of relevant experience in custom framing, retail sales, or a customer-facing role with a focus on consultative selling.

Required Skills:

• Proficient in custom framing techniques, including matting, mounting, and assembly.

• Demonstrated ability to operate framing equipment, including a glass cutter and potentially a heat press.

• Strong measuring skills with high attention to detail for accurate order fulfillment.

• Excellent customer service and interpersonal skills, with a proven ability to build rapport and consult with clients.

• Basic computer proficiency for order entry, inventory systems, and POS operations.

• Effective cash handling and transaction processing capabilities.

• Ability to work independently and as part of a team, demonstrating initiative and problem-solving skills.

• Physical stamina to stand for extended periods, lift heavy items (up to 50 lbs), and perform repetitive tasks. Preferred Skills:

• Previous retail sales experience, particularly in a consultative or design-oriented environment.

• Experience in visual merchandising and maintaining department presentation standards.

• Familiarity with inventory management principles and stock replenishment processes (e.g., SISO, Directed Replenishment).

• Ability to train and mentor junior team members on technical skills and customer engagement strategies.

• Knowledge of art history, framing styles, and conservation techniques.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Minimum Type of experience" and "Preferred Type of experience" sections are crucial. Candidates should specifically highlight their experience with framing equipment, measuring skills, and any consultative sales training or experience. The physical requirements are significant and should be clearly noted by applicants.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Documentation of successful custom framing projects, showcasing a range of styles, materials, and complexities.

• Examples of customer consultation processes, demonstrating how client needs were identified and translated into framing solutions.

• Visual evidence of finished framing work, highlighting quality of craftsmanship, precision, and aesthetic appeal.

• Any quantifiable results related to sales performance, customer satisfaction scores, or efficiency improvements in framing processes. Process Documentation:

• Ability to articulate and demonstrate understanding of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for custom framing, sales, and store operations.

• Experience in managing workflow for framing orders, from initial consultation and design to production and final delivery.

• Familiarity with inventory management processes, including stock ordering, receiving, and visual merchandising for the framing department.

• Understanding of point-of-sale (POS) systems and cash handling procedures for accurate transaction processing.

📝 Enhancement Note: While a formal portfolio may not be strictly required for this retail-level position, candidates are strongly encouraged to prepare examples of their framing work and be ready to discuss their process for consulting with customers, designing solutions, and ensuring quality execution. Highlighting experience with specific framing equipment and any efficiency improvements they've implemented will be beneficial.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on industry benchmarks for Senior Framer roles in Danville, VA, with 2-5 years of experience, the estimated salary range is approximately $15.00 - $18.00 per hour. This estimate considers the retail environment, specialized skills required, and the cost of living in the region.

Benefits:

• Health Insurance: Including medical, dental, and vision coverage.

• Paid Time Off: For vacation, personal time, and sick leave.

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

• Employee Discounts: Generous discounts on Michaels products and services.

• 401(k) Retirement Plan: With potential company match.

• Potential for performance-based bonuses or incentives tied to sales and KPI achievement.

Working Hours: This is a full-time position, typically requiring approximately 40 hours per week. Work hours will include nights, weekends, and early mornings, reflecting the demands of a retail environment. Flexibility is expected to meet operational needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate based on publicly available data for similar roles in the specified location and experience level. Actual compensation may vary based on the candidate's qualifications, experience, and the company's compensation structure. The benefits listed are explicitly mentioned in the job description, emphasizing a comprehensive package for full-time employees.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Retail (Arts and Crafts, Home Decor, Custom Framing). Michaels Stores operates as a leading retailer in the arts and crafts sector, providing a wide array of supplies and services for creative endeavors.

Company Size: Over 1,300 stores across North America, indicating a large and established retail footprint. This size suggests structured operational processes and career development pathways.

Founded: 1973. With a long history, Michaels has built a strong brand identity and established operational expertise in its market.

Team Structure:

• The role is part of a store-level team, reporting to the Framing Manager.

• Responsibilities involve direct collaboration with fellow Team Members in the framing department and across the store.

• Cross-functional collaboration is expected with other departments to support store-wide initiatives and customer needs. Methodology:

• Emphasis on structured operational processes, including adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and Company programs.

• Data-driven decision-making is implied through the focus on achieving Key Performance Indicators (KPIs).

• Customer-centric approach, prioritizing relationship building and delivering solutions.

• Continuous improvement through training, mentoring, and feedback mechanisms.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture at Michaels emphasizes creativity, customer service, and operational efficiency. As a large retail organization, adherence to established procedures and performance metrics is key. The "Senior Framer" role is crucial in embodying these values at the store level, particularly in customer interaction and team support.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is considered an intermediate to senior-level position within the store's operations structure, specifically within the custom framing department. It requires a blend of technical skill, sales acumen, and a capacity for leadership and mentorship.

Reporting Structure: The Senior Framer reports directly to the Framing Manager. They are expected to assist the Manager and may take on lead responsibilities in the Manager's absence, indicating a clear line of progression and operational oversight.

Operations Impact: The Senior Framer directly impacts store revenue through custom framing sales and contributes to customer loyalty by providing high-quality solutions and memorable experiences. Their ability to train and support other team members also enhances overall departmental efficiency and service delivery, indirectly boosting operational performance.

Growth Opportunities:

• Framing Manager: The most direct growth path, involving increased responsibility for department management, sales strategy, inventory, and team leadership.

• Specialized Craft/Design Roles: Potential to move into more specialized art or design-related roles within Michaels or its affiliates (e.g., Artistree).

• Store Leadership: Opportunities to move into broader retail management roles, such as Assistant Store Manager or Store Manager, by demonstrating strong operational and leadership skills across departments.

• Training and Development: Becoming a designated trainer or subject matter expert within the framing department.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Senior" title and the responsibility to act in a lead capacity are strong indicators of potential advancement. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their leadership aspirations and how they have mentored or trained others in previous roles.

🌐 Work Environment

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

Office Location(s): Store - 145 Holt Garrison Pkwy, Danville, VA. This specific store location is the primary work environment.

Workspace Context:

• The framing shop is a specialized area containing equipment like glass cutters and heat presses, requiring adherence to safety protocols.

• The retail floor environment requires constant interaction with customers and maintaining visual merchandising standards.

• Stock rooms may not be climate-controlled, and outdoor work may be required for tasks like retrieving shopping carts or unloading trucks.

• Opportunities for collaboration exist with other store team members and management.

Work Schedule: The role requires flexibility to work nights, weekends, and early mornings. This schedule is typical for retail operations and is designed to cover all operating hours and customer service needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should be prepared for a dynamic, customer-facing environment that requires both technical work in the frame shop and active engagement on the sales floor. The mention of non-climate-controlled stock rooms and outdoor tasks highlights the varied nature of the retail workspace.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

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

• In-Person Interview: This will likely involve an interview with the Framing Manager and potentially another store leader. Expect questions about customer service experience, sales approach, framing skills, and ability to handle leadership responsibilities.

• Skills Demonstration/Practical Test: Candidates may be asked to demonstrate basic measuring skills, explain a framing process, or discuss how they would handle specific customer scenarios.

• Store Walkthrough/Shadowing: Potential for a brief walkthrough of the store and framing area, or a short shadowing period to observe operations.

• Final Interview: May involve a higher-level store manager or HR representative for final assessment.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Showcase Craftsmanship: Prepare clear, high-quality photos of diverse framing projects you've completed. Highlight unique challenges you overcame or complex designs you executed.

• Customer Consultation Scenarios: Be ready to describe your process for engaging customers, understanding their needs, recommending materials, and presenting solutions. Use STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for behavioral questions.

• Process Explanation: Be prepared to walk through the steps of a typical framing order, from customer interaction to final product. Emphasize quality control and efficiency.

• Quantifiable Achievements: If possible, provide examples of sales targets met or exceeded, or any process improvements you suggested or implemented that led to increased efficiency or customer satisfaction.

Challenge Preparation:

• Scenario-Based Questions: Prepare for hypothetical customer service situations (e.g., handling a difficult customer, resolving a complaint about a framing order, upselling a premium product).

• Operational Questions: Be ready to discuss how you would manage inventory, ensure store safety, or train a new team member on framing basics.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on "Senior" and the mention of "lead capacity" suggest that interviewers will be looking for candidates who can not only perform the framing tasks but also demonstrate leadership potential and a strong understanding of sales and operational processes. A portfolio of work, even if informal (photos on a phone), can be highly impactful.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Custom Framing Equipment: Mat cutters (manual and potentially automated), mounting presses, specialized saws, framing tools (e.g., staples, v-nails, clamps).

• Glass Cutting Tools: Essential for custom glass and acrylic sizing.

• Heat Press: Used for certain mounting and finishing techniques.

• Point of Sale (POS) System: For customer transactions, order entry, and payment processing.

• Basic Computer Skills: For order management, inventory lookups, and potentially internal communication or training modules.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Sales Reports: Generated from the POS system to track individual and departmental sales performance.

• Inventory Management Systems: Used for tracking stock levels, ordering supplies, and managing replenishment.

CRM & Automation:

• Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Elements: While not a dedicated CRM role, the focus on "building customer relationships" and "Elevated ABC Deliver" implies a customer-centric approach that may be supported by store-level CRM functionalities within the POS or loyalty program systems.

• Loyalty Program System: For enrolling customers in rewards programs and tracking their engagement.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency with standard framing equipment is a core requirement. Familiarity with retail POS systems and basic inventory management tools is also essential. The role doesn't appear to require advanced CRM or automation software experience, but an understanding of customer engagement strategies is key.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Creativity & Craftsmanship: A core value at Michaels, emphasizing high-quality work and attention to detail in custom framing.

• Customer Focus: Prioritizing customer satisfaction through personalized service, consultation, and problem-solving.

• Teamwork & Collaboration: Working effectively with fellow team members to achieve store goals and support a positive work environment.

• Efficiency & Productivity: Adhering to SOPs and leveraging skills to meet sales and production targets in a timely manner.

• Integrity & Accountability: Upholding company policies, accurate cash handling, and taking ownership of responsibilities.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Support: Assisting colleagues in other departments and contributing to overall store operations.

• Mentorship and Training: Sharing knowledge and skills with junior team members to foster development and improve team performance.

• Communication: Open communication with the Framing Manager and team members regarding orders, customer needs, and operational challenges.

• Problem-Solving: Working collaboratively to address customer issues or operational hurdles.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture encourages a balance between creative expression in framing and the structured demands of retail operations. A candidate who can demonstrate both artistic skill and a professional, team-oriented approach will be a strong fit.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

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

• Managing Diverse Customer Needs: Effectively consulting with a wide range of customers, each with unique artistic visions and budget constraints.

• Physical Demands: The role requires significant physical activity, including standing for long periods and lifting heavy items, which can be challenging over time.

• Staying Updated: Keeping pace with new framing materials, techniques, and design trends.

• Leading in Manager's Absence: Taking on leadership responsibilities effectively when the Framing Manager is unavailable.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Framing Techniques: Opportunities to refine skills in specialized framing methods, materials, and conservation practices.

• Sales & Customer Consultation Training: Enhancing consultative selling skills, product knowledge, and customer relationship management.

• Leadership & Mentorship Skills: Developing abilities to train, guide, and motivate team members.

• Retail Operations Management: Gaining broader experience in store operations, inventory control, and visual merchandising.

• Product Knowledge: Deepening understanding of art supplies, display techniques, and creative trends.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are inherent to the role and offer clear opportunities for skill development. Highlighting how one has successfully navigated similar challenges in the past will be a key differentiator.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your approach to consulting with a customer who is unsure about how to frame a valuable piece of art." (Focus on active listening, asking probing questions, presenting options, and explaining value.)

• "How do you ensure the quality and accuracy of a custom framing order from start to finish?" (Detail your process, checks, and balances.)

• "You're in charge of the framing department, and the Framing Manager is out sick. What are your priorities for the day?" (Focus on customer service, order fulfillment, team support, and communication.)

• "How do you handle a situation where a customer is unhappy with their finished framing order?" (Emphasize empathy, problem-solving, and adherence to company policy.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about working for Michaels and specifically in custom framing?" (Connect your passion for creativity and art with the company's mission and the role's responsibilities.)

• "How do you contribute to a positive and collaborative team environment?" (Provide examples of teamwork and support you've offered colleagues.)

• "How do you stay motivated to meet sales goals and production targets?" (Discuss your drive, understanding of KPIs, and commitment to customer satisfaction.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Visual Storytelling: If you have photos, present them clearly and tell the story behind each piece – the customer's need, your design solution, and the final outcome.

• Process Walkthrough: Be ready to explain your framing process step-by-step, highlighting where you ensure quality and efficiency.

• Quantify Success: If you have metrics (e.g., sales performance, customer feedback), present them concisely to demonstrate your impact.

• Enthusiasm for Craft: Convey your passion for framing and your commitment to the art and craft.

📝 Enhancement Note: Be prepared to discuss specific examples using the STAR method. For this role, demonstrating a blend of technical framing skill, consultative sales ability, and basic leadership potential will be crucial.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Senior Framer position:

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

• Curate Your Experience: Prepare to speak about your specific experience with custom framing, including types of projects, materials used, and equipment operated. Highlight any sales achievements or customer consultation successes.

• Tailor Your Resume: Ensure your resume clearly outlines your experience with framing equipment, measuring skills, customer service, and any supervisory or training responsibilities. Use keywords from the job description.

• Practice Your Interview Responses: Rehearse answers to common interview questions related to customer service, sales, problem-solving, and operational procedures, especially those specific to a retail environment.

• Research Michaels: Familiarize yourself with Michaels' mission, values, and product offerings, particularly their custom framing services. 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.