Custom Framer - Albany, NY

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Custom Framer

Company: Michaels Stores

Location: Albany, NY (161 Washington Ave Ext Ste 8)

Job Type: Part-Time

Category: Retail Operations / Customer Service / Art & Design

Date Posted: April 10, 2026

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

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role focuses on enhancing the customer experience within a retail environment, specifically through providing expert custom framing solutions and excellent customer service.

• Key responsibilities include driving sales through personalized design consultations and ensuring high-quality, timely production of framing orders.

• The position involves active participation in store operations, including merchandising, inventory management, and maintaining a safe, clean retail space.

• Requires proficiency in basic operational tasks such as cash handling and utilizing store systems for sales and inventory.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the input data suggests a retail role, the emphasis on "Custom Framing" and "personal designer" indicates a specialized function within retail that requires a blend of customer service, sales, and potentially creative/artistic aptitude, aligning with operations roles that focus on specialized service delivery and client management.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Engage customers in personalized design consultations to create custom framing solutions, utilizing Elevated ABC Deliver methodologies to build strong customer relationships and drive sales.

• Execute custom framing orders with a high degree of quality and adherence to production timelines, ensuring customer satisfaction with the final product.

• Maintain the ready-made frame department and other assigned areas, including managing SISO (Single Item, Single Order) and Directed Replenishment processes to ensure optimal stock levels and presentation.

• Deliver exceptional customer service by assisting customers in locating products, providing solutions, and ensuring a well-merchandised and fully stocked store environment.

• Operate the cash register and execute cash handling procedures according to established standards, ensuring accuracy and compliance.

• Support shrink prevention and safety programs by adhering to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and Company policies, contributing to a secure and efficient store environment.

• Participate actively in the truck un-load and stocking processes, ensuring compliance with truck standards and budgetary guidelines.

• Assist with and understand Omni-channel processes, supporting customer orders and fulfillment that span online and in-store experiences.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight direct customer interaction, sales generation, and operational execution within a specific department (Custom Framing). This implies a need for individuals who can manage both client relationships and the behind-the-scenes processes required to fulfill custom orders, a common characteristic of specialized operations roles.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: High school diploma or equivalent is typically expected for entry-level retail positions; specific certifications in art, design, or framing are not explicitly required but could be beneficial.

Experience:

• Requires 0-2 years of experience, with a focus on entry-level capabilities.

• Experience in customer-facing roles is essential, with a preference for retail environments.

Required Skills:

• Basic computer skills for operating POS systems and potentially design software.

• Proficiency in basic measuring skills to accurately capture dimensions for framing projects.

• Ability to operate specialized framing equipment and a glass cutter safely and effectively.

• Strong customer service orientation with a proven ability to build rapport and provide solutions.

• Effective communication skills for interacting with customers and team members.

Preferred Skills:

• Previous retail experience, particularly in a sales or design-focused capacity.

• Experience in selling products and/or services, demonstrating a consultative sales approach.

• Familiarity with custom framing processes or art installation.

• Basic understanding of merchandising principles.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirements suggest an individual who can learn specialized skills, emphasizing the "ability to operate" rather than extensive prior experience. This points towards a role with a strong training component, typical for operational roles that require specific technical proficiencies.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• While a formal portfolio is not explicitly requested, candidates are encouraged to highlight any experience in custom design, fabrication, or client project management that demonstrates their ability to handle custom orders.

• Examples of successful customer interactions that led to sales or positive outcomes can serve as a proxy for a portfolio.

• Demonstrated ability to follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for production and customer service will be assessed.

Process Documentation:

• Understanding and adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for all aspects of the role, from customer interaction to production and sales.

• Ability to follow established workflows for custom framing orders, including consultation, design, production, and final delivery.

• Willingness to learn and implement new processes related to merchandising, inventory management, and Omni-channel fulfillment.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the entry-level nature and the specific focus on custom framing within a retail setting, a formal portfolio showcasing complex operations projects is unlikely. The emphasis will be on demonstrating an understanding of and willingness to follow established processes and SOPs, which are critical for consistency and quality in operations.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $16.25 - $19.10 per hour.

Benefits:

• Health insurance (medical, dental, and vision)

• Paid time off (PTO)

• Tuition assistance program

• Generous employee discounts on merchandise

• Potential for other benefits as outlined by The Michaels Companies Inc.

Working Hours: This is a part-time position. While the exact hours are not specified, typical retail working hours include nights, weekends, and early mornings, with a standard workweek potentially up to 40 hours for full-time roles, though this is a part-time position.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range provided is specific and falls within typical entry-level retail pay scales. The benefits listed are comprehensive for a part-time role, indicating a commitment to employee well-being. The mention of "Total Base Pay Range" suggests this is the primary compensation structure.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Retail (Arts, Crafts, and Home Decor)

Company Size: Large (Over 1,000 employees)

Founded: 1973

Team Structure:

• The Custom Framer will typically be part of a store-level team, reporting to a Store Manager or Assistant Store Manager, and potentially working closely with a dedicated Framing Department lead or specialist.

• The team structure is hierarchical within the store, with clear lines of reporting and responsibility.

Methodology:

• Operations are guided by Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and Company programs, emphasizing consistency and compliance.

• Customer engagement is driven by a focus on building relationships and providing solutions, often through structured sales and service methodologies.

• Efficiency and organization are key, with requirements for maintaining stock levels, merchandising standards, and clean work environments.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Michaels operates as a large, established retail entity. The company culture likely emphasizes customer-centricity, creativity, and adherence to established operational processes to ensure a consistent brand experience across its numerous locations.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is an entry-level position within the retail operations and customer service spectrum. It serves as a foundational role for individuals looking to gain experience in direct customer interaction, sales, and specialized product service delivery.

Reporting Structure: The Custom Framer reports to store management, likely a Store Manager or Assistant Store Manager, and may receive direct guidance from a more senior framing specialist if available.

Operations Impact: The Custom Framer directly impacts store revenue through custom framing sales and contributes to overall customer satisfaction and retention. Their ability to provide quality craftsmanship and excellent service influences repeat business and positive word-of-mouth referrals.

Growth Opportunities:

• Advancement to Senior Custom Framer or Framing Specialist positions, taking on more complex projects and potentially training new team members.

• Transition into broader retail management roles, such as Key Holder, Assistant Store Manager, or Store Manager, by demonstrating leadership, operational proficiency, and sales acumen.

• Development of specialized skills in art, design, and craftsmanship, which can be transferable to other creative industries.

• Potential for cross-training in other store operations areas, broadening skill sets within the retail environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: For operations-minded individuals, this role offers a clear path from entry-level execution to specialized expertise and potential management. The growth opportunities are rooted in mastering operational processes, sales techniques, and customer relationship management within a structured retail framework.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Public retail store setting.

Office Location(s): Albany, NY (161 Washington Ave Ext Ste 8). The role is performed within a climate-controlled retail environment, although some stock rooms may not be climate-controlled. Occasional outdoor work may be required for tasks like truck unloading.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace includes the main retail floor, customer service areas, and a dedicated frame shop.

• The frame shop is equipped with specialized tools such as a glass cutter and heat press, requiring careful operation.

• Collaboration with other store associates is frequent, fostering a team-oriented atmosphere.

• Access to necessary operational tools and technology, including POS systems and potentially design software.

Work Schedule: Part-time. Work hours include nights, weekends, and early mornings, as dictated by retail operational needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is dynamic and customer-facing. It requires adaptability to varying customer traffic, task demands, and the use of specialized equipment, typical of many hands-on operations roles.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Application Screening: Review of resume and application to assess basic qualifications, experience, and alignment with required skills.

• Phone/Video Interview: A preliminary conversation to discuss experience, customer service philosophy, interest in custom framing, and basic operational understanding.

• In-Person Interview: This stage will likely involve a practical assessment or discussion focused on:

  • Customer interaction scenarios and problem-solving.
  • Demonstration of basic measuring and computer skills.
  • Discussion of interest and aptitude for custom framing and design.
  • Understanding of retail operations, including sales, merchandising, and SOP adherence.
  • Potential for a hands-on task related to measuring or basic setup.

• Final Interview/Offer: Discussion of compensation, benefits, and onboarding process.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• For this role, a formal portfolio is less critical than demonstrating relevant aptitudes.

• Be prepared to discuss any personal projects involving design, crafting, or custom work that showcase attention to detail and problem-solving.

• Highlight customer service achievements from previous roles – examples of going above and beyond for a customer.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be ready to answer situational questions related to customer service, handling difficult customers, and managing competing priorities (e.g., serving a customer while an order needs to be completed).

• Familiarize yourself with Michaels' products and services, particularly their custom framing options, to show genuine interest.

• Understand the importance of SOPs in a retail environment for consistency, safety, and quality.

• Prepare to discuss your understanding of sales targets and how you would contribute to achieving them.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for this role is likely to be more focused on behavioral and situational assessments, along with a demonstration of basic aptitude, rather than a deep dive into complex operational strategy or a formal portfolio review typical of senior operations roles.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• POS System: For processing sales, returns, and managing customer transactions.

• Custom Framing Equipment: Including specialized saws, mat cutters, glass cutters, and potentially heat presses for various framing techniques.

• Measuring Tools: Tape measures, rulers, and potentially digital measuring devices for accurate project specifications.

• Computer/Tablet: For accessing store systems, potentially design software, and training modules.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not directly managing complex analytics, understanding sales reports and inventory data is beneficial.

CRM & Automation:

• Elevated ABC Deliver: A system or methodology for customer relationship management and personalized service delivery.

• POS System: May have basic CRM functionalities for tracking customer purchase history.

• Inventory Management Systems: For tracking stock levels and managing replenishment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is typical for a specialized retail role, focusing on Point of Sale (POS) systems, specialized production equipment, and potentially basic CRM/sales enablement tools. Proficiency in these, or the ability to quickly learn them, is key.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Customer Focus: Prioritizing customer needs and satisfaction through excellent service and quality products.

• Creativity & Passion: Encouraging a love for arts and crafts, and applying this to creative solutions for customers.

• Teamwork & Respect: Collaborating effectively with colleagues, fostering a positive and inclusive work environment.

• Integrity & Accountability: Adhering to company policies, ethical standards, and taking ownership of responsibilities.

• Efficiency & Quality: Striving for operational excellence, producing high-quality work, and maintaining organized work processes.

Collaboration Style:

• Emphasis on cross-functional support within the store, assisting colleagues with customer needs and operational tasks.

• Open communication and feedback exchange are encouraged to improve processes and customer experiences.

• Knowledge sharing, especially regarding framing techniques and customer service best practices.

📝 Enhancement Note: Michaels' values likely reflect a blend of customer-centricity, creative expression, and operational discipline, common in retail environments that offer specialized services.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Multiple Priorities: Effectively managing customer consultations, order production, and general store duties simultaneously.

• Meeting Sales Targets: Consistently achieving custom framing sales goals in a competitive retail landscape.

• Handling Difficult Customizations: Addressing unique or complex customer requests that may push creative or technical boundaries.

• Maintaining Quality Standards: Ensuring consistent, high-quality output for all custom framing orders under time pressure.

• Adapting to New Products/Techniques: Staying current with new framing materials, styles, and operational procedures.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Framing Craftsmanship: Deepening skills in custom framing techniques, material selection, and design principles.

• Sales & Customer Engagement: Enhancing consultative selling abilities and customer relationship management.

• Retail Operations: Gaining experience in inventory management, merchandising, and store operations.

• Leadership Potential: Opportunities to take on more responsibility, assist with training, and potentially move into supervisory roles.

• Product Knowledge: Expanding knowledge of art, decor, and crafting supplies offered by Michaels.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents opportunities to develop tangible skills in a creative trade alongside foundational retail operations experience, offering a solid platform for career growth.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Customer Service Scenarios: "Describe a time you dealt with a difficult customer. How did you resolve the situation?" Be ready to discuss how you would apply Michaels' customer service values.

• Sales Approach: "How would you approach a customer who is unsure about custom framing options?" Focus on consultative selling, understanding their needs, and offering solutions.

• Problem-Solving: "Imagine a customer wants a frame for an unusual item. What steps would you take?" Discuss your process for assessing feasibility, materials, and potential challenges.

• Operational Understanding: "What is the importance of following Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) in a retail environment?" Emphasize consistency, safety, and quality.

Company & Culture Questions:

• "Why are you interested in working for Michaels, and specifically in custom framing?" Research Michaels' mission and values, and articulate your passion for creativity or craftsmanship.

• "How do you handle working as part of a team?" Provide examples of collaboration and support.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Since a formal portfolio isn't required, prepare to speak confidently about any relevant personal projects or past experiences that demonstrate your skills in design, craftsmanship, attention to detail, or customer interaction.

• Be ready to explain your understanding of the custom framing process from consultation to completion.

• If you've sold products or services before, be prepared to walk through your sales process and highlight successful outcomes.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a customer-first mindset, a willingness to learn specialized skills, and an understanding of retail operational basics, rather than complex strategic thinking.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

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

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight any customer service, sales, crafting, or detail-oriented experience. Use keywords from the job description such as "custom framing," "customer service," "sales," "measuring skills," and "retail."

• Portfolio Preparation: While not a formal portfolio, be ready to discuss any personal projects, DIY endeavors, or past roles that showcase your creative aptitude, attention to detail, and ability to execute custom work.

• Interview Practice: Practice answering behavioral and situational questions related to customer service, sales, problem-solving, and teamwork. Research Michaels' custom framing services to demonstrate genuine interest.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Michaels' mission, values, and product offerings, particularly their custom framing capabilities, to articulate your alignment with the company culture and role.

⚠️ 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.

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