Custom Framer & Designer **Kooser Location**

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Custom Framer & Designer (Kooser Location)

Company: Michaels Stores

Location: San Jose, California, United States

Job Type: Part-time

Category: Retail Operations / Art & Design

Date Posted: July 24, 2026

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

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Customer-Centric Design & Sales: Focus on building strong customer relationships by providing personalized custom framing solutions and assisting customers in finding desired products within the store. This role is crucial for driving sales and ensuring customer satisfaction through consultative design and sales techniques.

• Operational Excellence in Framing: Execute custom framing orders with a high degree of quality and adherence to timelines, utilizing specialized framing equipment and adhering to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for production and safety.

• Store Presentation & Merchandising: Maintain and enhance the visual appeal and organization of the ready-made frame department, including In-Stock, Out-of-Stock (SISO), and directed replenishment processes, to ensure an optimal shopping environment.

• Omni-channel Support: Assist with various omni-channel processes, ensuring a seamless customer experience across physical and digital touchpoints, which is increasingly vital in modern retail operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is firmly rooted in a retail environment with a specialized focus on custom framing and design. The emphasis on customer relationships, sales execution, and operational adherence within the framing department suggests a blend of creative design, direct sales, and hands-on production responsibilities. The "Elevated ABC Deliver" mentioned likely refers to a specific sales methodology for customer engagement and relationship building, a key performance indicator for this position.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Adhere to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company programs to ensure compliance with all applicable laws and requirements, executing company policies and standards consistently.

• Embrace and execute the "Elevated ABC Deliver" personal designer approach to build strong customer relationships while creating compelling Custom Framing solutions, thereby driving both sales and production results.

• Complete all custom framing orders with a high degree of quality and within established timelines, ensuring customer satisfaction and repeat business.

• Maintain the ready-made frame department, along with other assigned areas, including SISO (Sold In, Stocked Out) and Directed Replenishment processes, to ensure optimal product availability and visual appeal.

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

• Support company-wide shrink and safety programs by adhering to best practices and operational guidelines.

• Interact positively and respectfully with colleagues, remaining composed and constructive even in challenging situations; champion the organization’s vision and values, projecting a positive image and serving as a role model.

• Participate actively in truck un-load and stocking processes, ensuring adherence to truck standards and completion within budget, which is critical for inventory management and operational efficiency.

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

• Acknowledge customers promptly, assist them in locating products, and provide effective solutions to their needs.

• Assist with and support omni-channel processes, contributing to a unified customer experience.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a dual focus on creative design/sales and operational execution. The emphasis on "Elevated ABC Deliver" and "personal designer" suggests a consultative sales approach. The inclusion of "SISO and Directed Replenishment" points to a need for strong inventory management and merchandising skills. Participation in truck unloads and stocking indicates a hands-on approach to maintaining store operations, typical for retail roles.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: High school diploma or equivalent is typically expected for entry-level retail positions. Specific certifications in design or framing are not explicitly required but would be advantageous.

Experience:

• Required: Minimum of 0-2 years of experience. Basic computer skills and basic measuring skills are essential. The ability to operate framing equipment and a glass cutter is a core requirement.

• Preferred: Retail experience is highly preferred. Prior experience selling products and/or services directly to customers is also a significant advantage.

Required Skills:

• Customer Service Excellence: Ability to engage with customers, understand their needs, and provide friendly, helpful service.

• Basic Measuring & Calculation: Precision in measurement and basic arithmetic for framing and pricing.

• Equipment Operation: Proficiency or ability to quickly learn to operate framing equipment and glass cutters safely and effectively.

• Sales Acumen: Aptitude for consultative selling, identifying customer needs, and presenting solutions (e.g., "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodology).

• Computer Literacy: Basic proficiency for point-of-sale (POS) systems and potentially design software or internal systems.

• Adherence to Procedures: Ability to follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for production, safety, and customer service.

Preferred Skills:

• Retail Sales Experience: Proven track record in a retail sales environment.

• Custom Framing Knowledge: Familiarity with different framing materials, techniques, and design principles.

• Visual Merchandising: Understanding of how to present products attractively and maintain store appearance.

• Inventory Management: Experience with stock replenishment and maintaining product availability.

• Cash Handling: Experience operating a cash register and managing financial transactions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications emphasize practical, hands-on skills and a customer-facing aptitude. While formal education isn't a primary requirement, the blend of technical framing skills, sales ability, and operational adherence is critical. The "0-2 years" experience level suggests that the company is open to training candidates with strong foundational skills and a willingness to learn.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Design Showcase: While not explicitly stated as a formal portfolio requirement, candidates are encouraged to highlight any personal projects or examples demonstrating design sensibility, particularly in custom framing or similar creative fields, to illustrate their design aptitude.

• Customer Interaction Examples: Be prepared to discuss specific instances where you successfully built customer relationships, identified needs, and provided solutions, demonstrating the application of consultative sales principles.

• Problem-Solving Scenarios: Showcase instances where you encountered operational challenges (e.g., inventory issues, production delays) and how you applied SOPs or critical thinking to resolve them.

• Efficiency Improvements: If applicable, provide examples of how you contributed to process efficiency or improved operational workflows in previous roles.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Adherence: Demonstrate understanding and application of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for framing production, sales processes, and store operations.

• Quality Control: Ability to describe how you ensure the quality of your work, particularly in custom framing orders, and adherence to timelines.

• Customer Engagement Flow: Articulate the steps involved in engaging a customer from initial greeting through consultation, design, sale, and order completion.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the role's nature, a traditional, formal portfolio might not be necessary. However, candidates should be ready to articulate their experience through behavioral examples, focusing on customer interaction, design thinking, and operational process adherence. The emphasis is on demonstrating practical application of skills rather than a curated collection of work.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $18.50 - $21.80 per hour.

Benefits:

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

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

• Health & Wellness: Medical, dental, and vision coverage. Telemedicine services for convenient healthcare access.

• Financial Flexibility: Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) for healthcare and dependent care. Commuter benefits.

• Professional Development: Tuition assistance for continuing education.

• Family Support: Adoption assistance.

• Insurance Options: Various voluntary insurance options available.

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

Working Hours: Part-time. Required to work weekends and nights. The total number of hours per week is not specified but typically aligns with part-time retail expectations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is competitive for entry-level retail positions in the San Jose area, reflecting the specialized skills required for custom framing and design. The comprehensive benefits package, even for a part-time role, is a strong offering typical of larger retail organizations. The mandatory weekend and night availability is a key scheduling consideration.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Arts and Crafts Retail. Michaels is the leading specialty retailer of arts and crafts supplies in North America.

Company Size: Over 1,300 stores across the US and Canada. This indicates a large, established retail organization with defined processes and significant market presence.

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

Team Structure:

• Store-Level Teams: This role is part of a store team, likely including a Store Manager, Assistant Store Manager(s), and fellow Team Members specializing in different areas (e.g., framing, general sales, stock).

• Reporting: The Custom Framer & Designer will report to store leadership, such as the Framing Department Manager or Store Manager.

• Collaboration: Close collaboration with other store team members is expected to ensure smooth store operations, customer service coverage, and omni-channel support. The framing department itself requires close coordination between design consultation and production.

Methodology:

• Customer-Centric Approach: The company emphasizes building customer relationships and providing solutions ("Elevated ABC Deliver").

• Operational Standards: Strict adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for all aspects of store operations, from sales and framing to safety and inventory.

• Data-Driven Merchandising: Use of directed replenishment and SISO processes suggests an approach to inventory management based on sales data and demand.

Company Website: www.michaels.com

📝 Enhancement Note: Michaels operates within a large-scale retail framework, implying structured processes and a focus on consistent execution across all locations. The culture likely balances creative expression with efficient, standards-driven operations. The framing department serves as a specialized hub within the broader retail store.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned at an entry-level to early-career stage within retail operations, specifically focused on a specialized department. It provides foundational experience in customer service, sales, operational execution, and potentially basic design consultation.

Reporting Structure: Typically reports to a department lead or store manager, offering direct mentorship and oversight within a retail store environment.

Operations Impact: The Custom Framer & Designer directly impacts store revenue through custom framing sales and contributes to overall store performance by maintaining department standards, assisting customers, and supporting general store operations. Efficient framing production and quality service enhance customer loyalty and repeat business.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Potential to become a senior framer or lead within the framing department, taking on more complex projects or training new team members.

• Cross-Training: Opportunity to gain experience in other store departments, such as visual merchandising or inventory management.

• Leadership Track: Progression into Assistant Store Manager or Store Manager roles is possible for individuals demonstrating strong operational skills, leadership potential, and a commitment to company values.

• Skill Development: Continuous learning in framing techniques, design principles, and advanced sales strategies.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role serves as a solid entry point into retail operations, particularly for those interested in arts, crafts, and design. Growth is likely to occur within the store management track or by deepening expertise within the framing specialization. The company's size offers a structured path for advancement.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is a retail store environment. The primary workspace includes the sales floor, the ready-made frame department, and the custom framing workshop/production area.

Office Location(s): San Jose, California (specifically, the 1444 Kooser Rd location).

Workspace Context:

• Customer Interaction: A significant portion of the role involves direct interaction with customers in a public retail setting.

• Production Area: The framing shop is a workshop environment where specific tools (glass cutter, heat press) are used. While climate-controlled areas exist, some stock rooms might not be.

• Team Collaboration: Requires working closely with other store team members to ensure smooth operations, customer coverage, and efficient workflow.

Work Schedule: Part-time, with mandatory availability for nights and weekends. This schedule is typical for retail roles and requires flexibility to meet customer demand.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is dynamic, fast-paced, and customer-focused. It requires adaptability to work in different areas of the store, from sales floor to workshop, and to manage varying customer needs throughout the day, including peak times on evenings and weekends.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

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

• In-Person Interview: A face-to-face interview at the store location is probable, focusing on customer service skills, problem-solving abilities, and understanding of the role. This may include a practical assessment of measuring or basic framing tasks if deemed necessary.

• Behavioral Questions: Expect questions related to customer interactions, handling difficult situations, teamwork, and previous sales experiences.

• Situational Questions: Scenarios related to custom framing design choices, customer objections, and operational challenges will likely be presented.

• Store Walkthrough: May involve a brief tour of the store and framing department to provide context.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Design Aptitude: While a formal portfolio isn't mandatory, be prepared to discuss your aesthetic sensibilities and how you approach design challenges. If you have examples of personal projects (even non-framing related) that showcase creativity, be ready to mention them.

• Customer Service Stories: Prepare 2-3 STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) stories that highlight your customer service skills, problem-solving in a retail setting, and any sales achievements.

• Operational Awareness: Be ready to discuss your understanding of retail operations, such as maintaining store appearance, managing inventory, and following procedures.

• Framing Interest: Articulate your passion for custom framing and design, and why you are interested in this specific role at Michaels.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Consultation Simulation: You may be asked to "design" a frame for a hypothetical piece of art or photograph, discussing your rationale and material choices.

• Customer Scenario: Role-play a customer interaction where you need to upsell, handle a complaint, or find a specific product.

• Measuring Task: A simple measuring task might be included to assess basic skills.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will likely focus on assessing practical skills, customer-facing abilities, and cultural fit within a retail environment. Candidates should emphasize their customer service orientation, attention to detail, and enthusiasm for design and retail operations.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Custom Framing Equipment: Specific machinery and tools used for cutting, assembling, and finishing custom frames. This includes specialized saws, mat cutters, and potentially heat presses.

• Glass Cutter: Essential tool for precise glass cutting to fit frames.

• Measuring Tools: Rulers, tape measures, and potentially digital measuring devices for accurate order specifications.

Analytics & Reporting:

• POS System: Proficiency with the store's Point-of-Sale system for order entry, sales transactions, and cash handling.

• Inventory Management Systems: Internal systems for managing stock levels, directed replenishment, and SISO processes.

CRM & Automation:

• Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Elements: The "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodology suggests a focus on customer relationship building, which may involve informal CRM practices or specific software features within the POS or internal systems to track customer preferences or order history.

• Order Management System: Software used to track custom framing orders from creation to completion.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack for this role is heavily focused on specialized physical tools and standard retail operational software (POS, inventory). While advanced digital tools might not be central, proficiency with the specific framing equipment and POS system is critical.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Creativity & Celebration: Michaels' core purpose is to fuel the joy of creativity and celebration, which permeates the company culture.

• Customer Focus: A strong emphasis on building relationships and providing solutions that meet customer needs.

• Teamwork & Respect: Encouraging positive interactions, acceptance, and respect among team members, fostering a collaborative environment.

• Efficiency & Adherence: Commitment to following Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company programs to ensure consistent quality and compliance.

• Safety: Prioritizing a safe working environment for both team members and customers.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Support: Team members are expected to support each other across different store functions, including sales, stocking, and framing.

• Direct Communication: Open communication within the store team is encouraged to resolve issues and ensure smooth operations.

• Process-Oriented: Collaboration often involves working within established processes and procedures to achieve common goals.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture at Michaels aims to blend a passion for arts and crafts with the discipline required for efficient retail operations. Team members are expected to be both creative problem-solvers and reliable executors of company standards.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Creativity and Efficiency: Juggling the artistic demands of custom design with the need for efficient production and sales targets.

• Customer Expectations Management: Meeting diverse customer needs and aesthetic preferences while working within budget and material constraints.

• Physical Demands: The role requires standing for long periods, lifting, and using tools, which can be physically demanding.

• Learning Curve for Equipment: Mastering the operation of framing equipment and glass cutters safely and effectively.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Framing Certification: Potential for further training and certification in advanced framing techniques.

• Design Skills: Opportunities to develop and refine visual design and consultation skills.

• Retail Management: Path to leadership roles within the store through demonstrated performance and potential.

• Product Knowledge: Continuous learning about new art supplies, framing materials, and design trends.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents opportunities to grow both in specialized craft skills and in broader retail operations. Overcoming the challenges often leads to increased expertise and potential for advancement within the company.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Customer Service Philosophy: "Describe your approach to customer service, especially when dealing with a customer who is unsure about their design choices." (Focus on consultative selling, active listening, and offering solutions.)

• Problem Solving: "Imagine a customer needs a custom frame by tomorrow, but we're out of a specific material. How would you handle this?" (Emphasize communication, offering alternatives, and problem-solving within policy.)

• Teamwork: "Tell me about a time you worked with a team to achieve a common goal." (Highlight collaboration and contribution to team success.)

• Sales Experience: "Describe a time you successfully sold a product or service by understanding a customer's needs." (Use STAR method; focus on consultative sales and achieving results.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Michaels and our focus on creativity?" (Show research and alignment with company mission.)

• "Why are you interested in custom framing and design specifically?" (Express passion for the craft and customer interaction.)

• "How do you stay organized and manage multiple tasks, especially during busy periods?" (Demonstrate organizational skills and ability to prioritize.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Verbal Storytelling: Be ready to verbally walk through your experience, using specific examples to illustrate your skills in customer service, sales, and operational tasks.

• Design Sensibility: If asked about design, be prepared to describe your thought process for selecting frame materials, mats, and configurations based on artwork type and customer preferences.

• Enthusiasm for Craft: Convey genuine interest in the art of framing and helping customers preserve and display their cherished items.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a blend of customer service skills, practical abilities, a willingness to learn, and an affinity for the arts and crafts environment. Using the STAR method for behavioral questions will be highly effective.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided Workday link: https://michaels.wd5.myworkdayjobs.com/External/job/San-Jose-1444-Kooser-Rd/Custom-Framer---Designer---Kooser-Location--_R00317697

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight any relevant experience in customer service, sales, retail operations, or creative fields. Quantify achievements where possible (e.g., "Increased department sales by X%," "Managed inventory for Y SKUs").

• Prepare Specific Examples: Think of concrete examples using the STAR method to illustrate your skills in customer interaction, problem-solving, teamwork, and any experience with tools or design.

• Research Michaels: Familiarize yourself with Michaels' mission, values, and product offerings, particularly their custom framing services. Understand their commitment to creativity and customer experience.

• Practice Interview Responses: Rehearse answers to common interview questions, focusing on demonstrating enthusiasm, reliability, and a strong work ethic, especially for nights and weekends.

⚠️ 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.