Senior Framer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior Framer

Company: Michaels Stores

Location: Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada

Job Type: FULL_TIME

Category: Retail Operations / Art & Design / Sales

Date Posted: 2026-06-08

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

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

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

• Lead framing operations in the absence of the Framing Manager, ensuring seamless execution of daily tasks and team support.

• Maintain high standards of quality and efficiency in framing order completion and department readiness.

• Contribute to overall store performance through excellent customer service, efficient inventory management, and adherence to operational procedures.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a "Senior Framer," indicating a need for experienced individuals who can not only perform framing duties but also take on leadership responsibilities. The focus on "Elevated ABC Deliver" suggests a structured sales approach centered on customer engagement and solution-selling within the framing department.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Engage customers to understand their framing needs, offering personalized design solutions and product recommendations to drive sales.

• Execute custom framing orders with precision and speed, ensuring high-quality craftsmanship and timely delivery.

• Operate and maintain framing equipment, including specialized tools like glass cutters and heat presses, adhering to safety protocols.

• Act as a key support and trainer for other team members, sharing expertise in framing techniques, customer service, and operational procedures.

• Assist the Framing Manager in achieving Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), particularly those related to sales, production, and customer satisfaction.

• Manage the ready-made frame department, including merchandising, stock replenishment (SISO - Single Item, Single Order), and maintaining a visually appealing display.

• Provide a welcoming and efficient shopping experience, assisting customers in locating products and offering solutions beyond framing.

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

• Support loss prevention and safety initiatives, contributing to a secure and hazard-free work environment.

• Participate actively in truck unloads and stocking processes, ensuring adherence to company standards and efficient inventory management.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of technical framing skills, sales acumen, customer service excellence, and operational leadership. The emphasis on "Elevated ABC Deliver" implies a consultative sales process where building rapport and understanding customer needs are paramount to closing sales and ensuring customer satisfaction.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While no specific degree is mandated, a strong understanding of design principles and visual aesthetics is highly beneficial.

Experience: 2-5 years of experience in a retail environment, with a significant portion dedicated to custom framing or a similar craft-based sales and production role.

Required Skills:

• Proficiency in custom framing techniques and design consultation.

• Exceptional customer service and interpersonal skills for building rapport and managing client expectations.

• Proven sales ability, with experience in consultative selling and upselling products/services.

• Competence in operating framing equipment, including glass cutters and measuring tools.

• Basic computer skills for order processing, inventory management, and potentially design software.

• Accurate cash handling and point-of-sale (POS) operation experience.

• Strong understanding of merchandising principles to maintain an attractive and organized department.

• Ability to interpret and adhere to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). Preferred Skills:

• Experience in retail sales leadership or team training roles.

• Familiarity with visual merchandising techniques specific to art and decor.

• Knowledge of various framing materials, matting options, and preservation techniques.

• Experience with inventory management systems and processes (e.g., SISO).

📝 Enhancement Note: The experience level suggests that candidates should have a solid foundation in core framing duties and customer interaction, with some exposure to leadership or advanced sales responsibilities. The basic computer and measuring skills are functional requirements, while retail sales and custom framing expertise are critical for success.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Examples of diverse custom framing projects, showcasing a range of styles, materials, and techniques.

• Case studies detailing the customer consultation process, from initial needs assessment to final design solution and project completion.

• Demonstrations of quality craftsmanship, including examples of precise cuts, secure assembly, and professional finishing.

• Evidence of sales performance, if possible, illustrating contributions to revenue targets within previous roles. Process Documentation:

• Ability to articulate and demonstrate the custom framing order process from customer engagement to final product delivery.

• Understanding of inventory management processes, including stock replenishment and department organization (SISO).

• Familiarity with point-of-sale (POS) and basic computer systems for transaction processing and data entry.

📝 Enhancement Note: While a formal portfolio might not be explicitly requested for this on-site retail role, candidates are strongly advised to prepare visual examples of their framing work and be ready to discuss their process for customer engagement, design, and production. This will demonstrate their practical skills and consultative sales approach.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on industry benchmarks for a Senior Framer role in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada, with 2-5 years of experience, the estimated annual salary range is CAD $35,000 - $50,000. This estimate considers the retail sector, the specific craft involved, and the leadership responsibilities implied by the "Senior" title.

Benefits:

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

• Paid Time Off: Generous accrual for vacation, personal days, and holidays.

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

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

• Retirement Savings Plan: Potential for employer-matched contributions (details may vary).

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Confidential support services for personal and professional well-being.

Working Hours: 40 hours per week, typically full-time. Work hours will include nights, weekends, and early mornings as dictated by retail business needs and store operating hours. Flexibility is expected to cover operational demands.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimation based on publicly available data for similar roles in the specified region and industry. Actual compensation will be determined by the company based on experience, qualifications, and internal pay scales. The comprehensive benefits package is a strong draw for retail positions, especially with tuition assistance and employee discounts.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Arts and Crafts Retail. Michaels is a leading North American retailer for arts, crafts, and home decor, operating over 1,300 stores.

Company Size: Large (over 10,000 employees globally). This size indicates established operational structures, corporate support, and potential for internal career advancement.

Founded: 1973. With decades of experience, Michaels has a well-defined brand identity and operational framework.

Team Structure:

• The framing department likely operates as a specialized unit within the larger retail store, reporting to a Framing Manager.

• Team members include framers, sales associates, and potentially other support roles.

• Collaboration is essential between framing specialists, sales staff, and store management to ensure a cohesive customer experience. Methodology:

• Emphasis on data-driven decision-making through KPIs and sales performance metrics.

• Structured sales processes guided by programs like "Elevated ABC Deliver" to ensure consistent customer engagement.

• Focus on operational efficiency through SOP adherence, inventory management, and process optimization.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: As a large, established retailer, Michaels likely has robust training programs and standardized operational procedures. The culture is expected to be customer-centric, with a strong emphasis on sales performance and team collaboration within a retail environment.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Mid-Level. This "Senior Framer" role signifies a step beyond entry-level, requiring demonstrated expertise in framing, sales, and customer service, with an expectation of taking on some leadership responsibilities.

Reporting Structure: The Senior Framer reports to the Framing Manager and may act as a lead in their absence, overseeing daily operations and guiding junior team members.

Operations Impact: The role directly impacts revenue through custom framing sales and customer loyalty through excellent service. Efficient operations in the framing department contribute to overall store profitability and customer satisfaction.

Growth Opportunities:

• Advancement to Framing Manager or Assistant Manager positions within the framing department.

• Potential to move into broader retail management roles within Michaels stores.

• Development of specialized skills in advanced framing techniques, art consultation, and sales leadership.

• Opportunities to become a subject matter expert and trainer for new team members.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Senior" title implies a clear growth path, either deepening expertise within framing or transitioning into management. The emphasis on training others also positions this role as a potential stepping stone for leadership development.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: On-site, within a public retail store environment. This involves direct customer interaction and a fast-paced atmosphere.

Office Location(s): Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada (1723 Preston Ave N Ste 201). This is a specific retail location.

Workspace Context:

• The work environment includes both customer-facing areas (sales floor, framing counter) and potentially less climate-controlled stock rooms.

• The framing shop is a specialized area equipped with tools such as a glass cutter and heat press, requiring adherence to specific safety protocols.

• Opportunities for collaboration exist with other store team members, particularly during stocking and customer service interactions.

Work Schedule: Full-time, 40 hours per week, including nights, weekends, and early mornings. Flexibility is crucial to meet the demands of a retail operation.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is typical of a retail setting, requiring adaptability to various customer interactions and operational demands. Safety in the framing shop is a key consideration due to specialized equipment.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of application and resume to assess relevant experience in retail, sales, and framing.

• In-Person Interview: Typically conducted by the Framing Manager. This will likely involve behavioral questions, scenario-based questions related to customer service and sales, and assessing technical framing knowledge.

• Practical Assessment: Potential for a hands-on demonstration of framing skills, including using a glass cutter or assembling a simple frame, to evaluate dexterity and quality.

• Final Interview (if applicable): May involve meeting with a District Manager or higher-level store leadership to assess cultural fit and leadership potential.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Prepare Visuals: Bring a curated selection of your best framing projects (photos or physical examples if feasible). Highlight variety in materials, styles, and complexity.

• Tell Your Story: Be ready to discuss your process for each project: how you consulted with the client, overcame design challenges, selected materials, and ensured quality execution.

• Quantify Achievements: If possible, speak to sales performance, customer satisfaction feedback, or efficiency improvements you contributed to in previous roles.

• Demonstrate Problem-Solving: Share examples of how you handled difficult customer requests, resolved production issues, or improved workflow.

Challenge Preparation:

• Anticipate scenario-based questions: "A customer wants to frame a valuable heirloom; how do you approach this?" or "How would you handle a customer who is unhappy with their framing choice?"

• Be ready to discuss your understanding of design principles, color theory, and material selection relevant to custom framing.

• Practice articulating your sales process and how you build customer relationships.

📝 Enhancement Note: While a formal portfolio submission might not be standard for this on-site role, a strong candidate will be prepared to present their work and discuss their framing and sales process confidently. The interview will likely focus on practical skills, customer interaction, and sales aptitude.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Framing Equipment: Glass cutters, mat cutters, framing presses (e.g., heat press), saws, staple guns, and various hand tools.

• Measuring Tools: Tape measures, rulers, calipers.

• POS System: For processing sales transactions, managing customer orders, and potentially basic inventory lookups.

Analytics & Reporting:

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

• Inventory Management Systems: For tracking stock levels of mats, mouldings, hardware, and supplies.

CRM & Automation:

• Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Features within POS: For tracking customer purchase history and preferences to facilitate repeat business and personalized service.

• Basic Computer Skills: For email communication, internal ordering systems, and potentially design software if used.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency with specialized framing equipment and standard retail POS systems is essential. While advanced CRM or automation tools are unlikely to be central to this role, an understanding of how these systems support sales and customer service in a retail context is beneficial.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Creativity & Passion: Encouraging a love for art, craft, and design, which is central to the framing service.

• Customer Focus: Prioritizing customer satisfaction through exceptional service and tailored solutions.

• Quality & Craftsmanship: Upholding high standards in all framing work to ensure durable and aesthetically pleasing results.

• Teamwork & Support: Fostering a collaborative environment where team members help each other achieve store and department goals.

• Integrity & Accountability: Adhering to company policies, ethical practices, and taking responsibility for one's work.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Working closely with sales associates to identify potential framing customers and with store management to align on sales targets and operational priorities.

• Process Review: Openness to feedback on framing techniques and customer interactions to continuously improve service quality and efficiency.

• Knowledge Sharing: Willingness to train and mentor junior team members, sharing expertise in design, production, and customer engagement.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture at Michaels is designed to be inclusive and supportive, encouraging both individual contribution and collective success. The values are geared towards fostering a positive customer experience and a productive work environment.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Sales and Production: Effectively managing customer consultations and sales targets while ensuring timely and high-quality framing production.

• Customer Expectations: Meeting diverse customer needs and expectations for framing valuable or sentimental items, requiring creative problem-solving and expert advice.

• Inventory Management: Keeping track of a wide variety of moulding, matting, and hardware options to meet customer demands efficiently.

• Physical Demands: The role requires standing for long periods, lifting heavy items, and performing repetitive tasks.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Framing Techniques: Opportunities to learn new methods, materials, and design trends from experienced colleagues or through company training.

• Sales & Customer Service Skills: Developing consultative selling techniques and enhancing customer interaction strategies.

• Leadership Skills: Gaining experience in team guidance, problem-solving, and deputizing for the Framing Manager.

• Product Knowledge: Deepening understanding of art, photography, and decor to better advise customers on framing solutions.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers significant opportunities to hone both technical craft skills and customer-facing abilities within a supportive retail structure. The challenges are typical of hands-on, customer-centric retail roles, with clear avenues for professional growth.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your approach to consulting with a customer on a complex framing project." (Focus on needs assessment, material selection, design options, and budget considerations.)

• "How do you balance the demands of custom framing production with providing excellent customer service on the sales floor?" (Highlight time management, prioritization, and communication skills.)

• "Imagine a customer brings in a very delicate or valuable item to frame. What steps would you take to ensure its safety and provide them with confidence?" (Emphasize careful handling, knowledge of preservation techniques, and clear communication.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Michaels and our commitment to creativity?" (Research the company's mission, values, and recent initiatives.)

• "How do you contribute to a positive team environment in a retail setting?" (Discuss collaboration, support for colleagues, and a positive attitude.)

• "How do you ensure customer satisfaction, especially when dealing with custom orders?" (Focus on active listening, managing expectations, and delivering quality results.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Highlight Variety: Showcase projects demonstrating different framing styles, materials, and types of artwork or objects framed.

• Explain the "Why": For each project, articulate the customer's needs, the design choices made, and the successful outcome.

• Quantify Impact (if possible): Mention any sales contributions, positive customer feedback, or efficiency improvements related to your framing work.

• Showcase Problem-Solving: Be ready to discuss a challenging framing project and how you overcame obstacles.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should prepare to discuss their technical framing skills, sales approach, and ability to work within a team and under pressure. Demonstrating a passion for design and customer service will be key.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Senior Framer position:

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

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight custom framing experience, sales achievements, customer service skills, and any leadership or training responsibilities. Use keywords from the job description.

• Portfolio Preparation: Curate a selection of your best framing projects (photos or digital examples) and be ready to discuss them in detail during an interview. Prepare to articulate your design process and customer consultation methods.

• Interview Practice: Rehearse answers to common retail interview questions, focusing on behavioral and situational scenarios related to sales, customer service, and problem-solving in a framing context.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Michaels' brand, values, and commitment to creativity. Understand their approach to customer service and sales within the retail environment.

⚠️ 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.

---