Custom Framer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Custom Framer

Company: Michaels Stores

Location: San Rafael, California, United States

Job Type: Part time

Category: Retail Operations / Art & Design Services

Date Posted: 2026-08-08

Experience Level: Entry Level (0-2 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Focus on building strong customer relationships through personalized art consultation and custom framing solutions.

• Drive sales and production targets within the Custom Framing department by leveraging elevated sales techniques.

• Ensure adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company programs to maintain compliance and operational excellence.

• Contribute to a positive and efficient retail environment by maintaining store standards, assisting with merchandising, and supporting inventory management.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is foundational within Michaels' retail operations, specifically focusing on the specialized Custom Framing department. The emphasis on "Elevated ABC Deliver" suggests a structured approach to customer engagement and sales, aiming to convert initial customer interest into significant sales opportunities through expert consultation and product knowledge. The "Part time" nature of the role implies a need for flexibility and adaptability within the team's operational schedule.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Engage customers in consultative sales interactions to understand their artistic vision and recommend tailored custom framing solutions.

• Execute custom framing orders with a high degree of quality, precision, and adherence to established timelines.

• Maintain the visual presentation and stock levels of the ready-made frame department, including managing SISO (Store-Initiated, Store-Ordered) and Directed Replenishment processes.

• Provide exceptional customer service by assisting shoppers in locating products, offering solutions, and ensuring a well-merchandised and in-stock store environment.

• Operate the cash register and handle financial transactions accurately, adhering to cash handling standards and supporting shrink prevention programs.

• Participate actively in truck un-loading and stocking processes to ensure efficient inventory management and adherence to truck standards.

• Support and implement company-wide safety and shrink programs to foster a secure and loss-resistant operational environment.

• Collaborate effectively with team members, maintaining a positive and respectful attitude, especially during challenging situations, and embodying the company's vision and values.

• Assist with and understand Omni-channel processes, ensuring a seamless customer experience across all sales channels.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a dual focus on direct customer interaction and operational execution. The emphasis on "Elevated ABC Deliver" and "personal designer" suggests that sales training and customer engagement are paramount. The inclusion of "SISO and Directed Replenishment" indicates a need for understanding inventory management systems beyond basic stocking. The requirement to participate in truck unloads points to a hands-on approach to operations, common in retail environments.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: High school diploma or equivalent required.

Experience:

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

• Demonstrated ability to learn and apply new skills quickly. Required Skills:

• Basic computer skills for POS (Point of Sale) system operation and potential inventory lookup.

• Fundamental measuring skills for accurate order specification.

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

• Strong customer service orientation with a genuine desire to assist customers.

• Basic cash handling proficiency and accuracy.

• Ability to understand and adhere to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).

• Physical stamina to stand for extended periods, lift heavy items, and perform manual tasks.

• Positive attitude and ability to work collaboratively in a team environment. Preferred Skills:

• Previous retail sales experience, particularly in art, custom products, or home décor.

• Experience in selling products or services, with a proven ability to influence purchasing decisions.

• Familiarity with art consultation or design principles to better advise customers.

• Experience with visual merchandising and maintaining department presentation standards.

• Understanding of inventory management principles.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the experience level is entry-level, the "preferred" skills suggest that candidates with prior retail sales or consultative selling experience will be more competitive. The emphasis on "basic" skills indicates that comprehensive training will be provided for the technical aspects of custom framing, such as equipment operation and glass cutting.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Candidates are not expected to have a formal portfolio for this entry-level role. However, the ability to articulate past experiences demonstrating customer service, problem-solving, and attention to detail will be crucial. Process Documentation:

• Understanding and adherence to established Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for all framing, sales, and operational tasks.

• Ability to follow detailed work instructions for custom framing order fulfillment, ensuring accuracy and quality control.

• Commitment to maintaining organized and efficient workflows within the framing department and the broader store.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an entry-level retail position focused on custom framing, a formal portfolio is typically not required. Instead, candidates should be prepared to discuss their past experiences and demonstrate their understanding of following processes and procedures through behavioral examples. The emphasis is on a willingness to learn and adhere to established operational workflows.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $17.00 - $20.00 per hour.

This range reflects the compensation for the Custom Framer position in San Rafael, CA, considering the entry-level experience requirement and local market conditions for retail positions with specialized duties.

Benefits:

• Health & Wellness:

  • Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage (eligibility may vary by employment status and hours worked).
  • Telemedicine services for convenient healthcare access.
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP) offering confidential support.

• Financial & Retirement:

  • 401(k) plan with employer match, supporting long-term financial goals.
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) for healthcare and dependent care expenses.

• Professional Development:

  • Tuition assistance to support continued education and skill development.
  • Adoption assistance to support team members growing their families.

• Perks & Discounts:

  • Employee discounts on Michaels products, fostering personal creativity and savings.

  • Access to partner discount programs for additional savings.

  • Commuter benefits to support transportation to and from work. Working Hours: This is a part-time position. Actual hours will vary based on business needs, potentially including nights, weekends, and early mornings, as indicated by the "Work Environment" section. While not explicitly stated, part-time roles often offer some flexibility in scheduling, though operational demands of a retail store will be the primary determinant.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range provided is specific to the San Rafael, CA location and aligns with entry-level retail positions that involve specialized skills like custom framing. The benefits package is comprehensive for a part-time role, with specific mention of employer match for 401(k) and tuition assistance, which are attractive to individuals seeking career growth within retail. The working hours are explicitly part-time, suggesting a need for schedule flexibility.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Arts & Crafts Retail. Michaels operates as the largest arts and crafts specialty retailer in North America, providing a wide range of supplies for various creative pursuits.

Company Size: The Michaels Companies, Inc. operates over 1,300 stores across the US and Canada, indicating a large, established retail footprint. This scale means established processes, diverse customer bases, and opportunities for internal mobility.

Founded: Founded in 1973 and headquartered in Irving, Texas. This long history suggests a stable company with deep roots in the creative industry.

Team Structure:

• Departmental Focus: This role is situated within the Custom Framing department of a specific retail store location. The team will likely include a Store Manager, Assistant Store Manager(s), and fellow Team Members, with specialized roles like the Custom Framer.

• Reporting: The Custom Framer will report to store leadership, likely an Assistant Store Manager or Store Manager, who oversees daily operations and team performance.

• Collaboration: Expect close collaboration with other sales associates to ensure cohesive customer service and operational flow throughout the store, particularly during peak times or shared tasks like truck unloads and stocking.

Methodology:

• Customer-Centric Approach: Michaels emphasizes building customer relationships and providing memorable experiences, especially within specialized departments like Custom Framing.

• Process Adherence: The company relies on Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to ensure consistency in sales, service, production, and operational tasks across all locations.

• Data-Informed Operations: While not explicitly detailed for this role, a large retail organization like Michaels likely uses sales data, inventory metrics, and customer feedback to inform operational decisions and performance targets.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture at Michaels is built around fostering creativity and community. For operations roles, this translates to a focus on customer experience, process efficiency, and teamwork. The large store count implies a structured operational environment with clear guidelines and expectations.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Entry-Level Retail Associate. This role is designed for individuals beginning their careers in retail operations or seeking to specialize in a specific department like Custom Framing. It provides foundational experience in sales, customer service, and operational tasks.

Reporting Structure: The Custom Framer reports directly to store management (e.g., Store Manager, Assistant Store Manager). This structure allows for direct guidance, training, and performance feedback from experienced retail leaders.

Operations Impact: The Custom Framer directly impacts store revenue through custom framing sales and contributes to overall customer satisfaction by providing expert consultation and quality products. They also influence operational efficiency through proper inventory management and adherence to SOPs.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Develop expertise in custom framing techniques, art consultation, and sales, becoming a go-to resource for customers and colleagues.

• Retail Advancement: Potential to move into roles such as Lead Custom Framer, Assistant Store Manager, or Store Manager, with increased responsibility for team leadership, sales targets, and operational oversight.

• Cross-Departmental Experience: Opportunity to gain experience in other store departments, broadening retail skill sets and understanding of overall store operations.

• Continuous Learning: Michaels provides access to training programs (e.g., tuition assistance) that can support career development within the company or related fields.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role serves as an excellent entry point into retail operations and specialized sales. The growth path is clearly defined within the retail hierarchy, offering opportunities for advancement based on performance, demonstrated skills, and commitment to the company's values.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Public retail store setting. The primary workspace is the sales floor and the dedicated Custom Framing department within the San Rafael store.

Office Location(s): 400 Las Gallinas Ave, San Rafael, CA. This location is a customer-facing environment.

Workspace Context:

• Customer Interaction: The environment is dynamic, with constant interaction with diverse customers seeking creative solutions and products.

• Tools & Technology: Access to framing equipment, glass cutters, heat presses, POS systems, and potentially inventory management software. The "Frame shop contains glass cutter and heat press" indicates specific safety protocols and specialized equipment management.

• Team Dynamics: A collaborative atmosphere where team members support each other to meet customer needs and operational goals. The environment requires adaptability to different customer demands and operational priorities throughout the day.

Work Schedule: The role requires flexibility, with work hours including nights, weekends, and early mornings. This is typical for retail environments to ensure adequate staffing during all operating hours and customer traffic periods.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is fast-paced and customer-centric. The Custom Framing area is a specialized zone within the store, requiring specific technical skills and adherence to safety protocols for equipment like glass cutters and heat presses. Flexibility in scheduling is a key requirement due to the nature of retail operations.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Application review to assess qualifications against the job requirements.

• In-Person Interview: Likely to involve a discussion with the Store Manager or Assistant Store Manager. This will focus on:

  • Customer Service Philosophy: How you approach customer interactions and problem-solving.
  • Sales Aptitude: Your ability to understand customer needs and recommend solutions.
  • Operational Understanding: Your grasp of following procedures and working in a retail setting.
  • Teamwork: Your ability to collaborate with others.
  • Technical Aptitude: Your comfort level with learning new equipment and skills.

• Skills Assessment: May include a brief demonstration or discussion related to basic measuring, computer use, or a role-playing scenario for customer interaction.

• Background Check: Standard procedure for retail roles.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• For this role, a formal portfolio is not expected. Instead, be prepared to discuss:
  • Past Customer Interactions: Examples of how you have successfully helped customers, resolved issues, or exceeded expectations.
  • Problem-Solving Scenarios: Instances where you encountered a challenge and how you addressed it.
  • Learning Experiences: How you have learned new skills or adapted to new environments in previous roles.
  • Teamwork Examples: Situations where you collaborated effectively with colleagues.

Challenge Preparation:

• Customer Interaction Scenarios: Be ready to role-play common customer interactions, such as assisting a customer with product selection or handling a complaint.

• Product Knowledge Application: While specific framing knowledge will be trained, demonstrate an ability to quickly learn and communicate product benefits.

• Operational Adherence: Discuss your understanding of why following procedures (like SOPs) is important in a retail setting.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will likely be behavioral and situational, designed to assess core competencies such as customer service, sales potential, and operational diligence rather than deep technical expertise. Demonstrating a positive attitude and a willingness to learn are paramount for this entry-level role.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• POS System: Used for processing sales transactions, managing customer accounts, and potentially looking up product information.

• Custom Framing Equipment: Specialized machinery for cutting mats, assembling frames, and finishing custom orders. This includes equipment like:

  • Glass Cutter: For precise cutting of glass or acrylic for frames.
  • Heat Press: Used in certain framing processes for mounting or sealing.
  • Mat Cutters: For creating professional-looking mats for artwork.

• Measuring Tools: Tape measures, rulers, and potentially specialized framing jigs for accurate measurements.

Analytics & Reporting:

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

• Inventory Management Systems: Used for tracking stock levels of ready-made frames, mat boards, and framing supplies.

CRM & Automation:

• Customer Relationship Management (CRM) elements: Potentially integrated into the POS system or a separate tool to track customer preferences and order history, aiding in personalized service.

• Omni-channel Support Tools: Systems that facilitate order fulfillment for online purchases picked up in-store or ship-from-store processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency with a POS system and basic computer skills are essential. The role also requires hands-on operation of specialized framing equipment. While advanced analytics tools are unlikely for this specific role, understanding how sales data and inventory information are used at a store level is beneficial.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Customer Focus: Placing the customer at the center of all interactions, from initial consultation to final product delivery.

• Creativity & Passion: Encouraging a passion for arts and crafts, inspiring customers and team members alike.

• Quality & Craftsmanship: Commitment to delivering high-quality custom framing solutions that meet customer expectations.

• Teamwork & Support: Fostering a collaborative environment where team members assist each other to achieve common goals.

• Integrity & Respect: Upholding ethical standards in all dealings and treating everyone with respect.

• Efficiency & Process: Adhering to established procedures to ensure smooth operations and consistent results.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Support: Team members are expected to support each other across different store functions, especially during busy periods or when specific expertise is needed (e.g., helping with stocking, customer assistance).

• Open Communication: Encouraging clear and respectful communication to resolve issues, share information, and improve processes.

• Shared Goals: Working towards collective store performance targets, including sales, customer satisfaction, and operational efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture at Michaels is centered on creativity, community, and customer engagement. For a Custom Framer, this means being a helpful, knowledgeable, and friendly point of contact for customers, while also being a reliable team player who contributes to the overall store's success.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Sales and Production: Effectively managing customer consultations and sales while also fulfilling framing orders accurately and on time.

• Handling Diverse Customer Needs: Catering to a wide range of artistic tastes, budgets, and framing requirements.

• Maintaining Quality Standards: Consistently producing high-quality framing work, especially under pressure.

• Adapting to Retail Demands: Managing fluctuating customer traffic, stocking duties, and other operational tasks alongside framing responsibilities.

• Learning Specialized Equipment: Mastering the operation of framing tools and the glass cutter safely and efficiently.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Framing Expertise: Becoming proficient in custom framing techniques, design principles, and material selection through on-the-job training and company resources.

• Sales and Customer Service Skills: Enhancing consultative selling techniques and customer relationship management.

• Retail Operations Knowledge: Gaining a comprehensive understanding of store operations, inventory management, and merchandising.

• Career Advancement: Opportunities for progression within Michaels, potentially into leadership roles or specialized positions.

• Tuition Assistance: A program to support further education and skill development relevant to career goals.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary challenge will be mastering the balance between customer-facing sales/consultation and the hands-on production work required for custom framing, all while adhering to strict quality and time standards. Growth opportunities are strongly tied to developing specialized skills and demonstrating potential for leadership within the retail environment.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you helped a customer find the perfect solution for their needs." (Assesses customer service and problem-solving)

• "How would you approach a customer who seems unsure about what they're looking for in custom framing?" (Evaluates consultative sales skills)

• "Why is it important to follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) in a retail environment?" (Tests understanding of operational importance)

• "Tell me about a time you had to learn a new skill or operate new equipment quickly." (Gauges adaptability and learning aptitude)

• "How do you handle working under pressure or when facing multiple tasks simultaneously?" (Assesses time management and stress resilience) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about working at Michaels, specifically in the Custom Framing department?" (Probes motivation and alignment with the brand)

• "How do you contribute to a positive team environment?" (Evaluates teamwork and interpersonal skills)

• "What does excellent customer service mean to you?" (Assesses customer-centric mindset)

• "How do you align with Michaels' values of creativity and customer passion?" (Tests cultural fit) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Since a formal portfolio isn't required, focus on preparing concise, compelling examples from your past experiences that demonstrate the required skills:

  • STAR Method: For behavioral questions, structure your answers using Situation, Task, Action, Result.
  • Quantify Achievements: Whenever possible, use numbers to illustrate your impact (e.g., "increased customer satisfaction by X%", "handled Y transactions per shift").
  • Highlight Transferable Skills: Emphasize how skills from previous roles (even non-retail) apply to this position (e.g., attention to detail from administrative work, customer interaction from service roles).
  • Show Enthusiasm: Convey genuine interest in art, design, and helping customers bring their visions to life.

📝 Enhancement Note: Prepare to discuss specific examples that showcase your customer service, sales aptitude, and ability to learn and follow procedures. A positive attitude and a clear demonstration of how you can contribute to a customer-focused, operational environment will be key.

📌 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 relevant experience, such as customer service, sales, attention to detail, and any exposure to art, design, or crafting. Use keywords from the job description.

• Prepare for Behavioral Questions: Think of specific examples from past experiences that demonstrate your ability to handle customer interactions, solve problems, work in a team, and learn new skills, using the STAR method.

• Research Michaels: Familiarize yourself with Michaels' brand, its commitment to creativity, and its role in the arts and crafts industry. Understand their customer base and the importance of the Custom Framing department.

• Practice Articulating Your Skills: Be ready to clearly explain why you are a good fit for the role, focusing on your enthusiasm for customer service, your willingness to learn, and your ability to follow operational processes.

⚠️ 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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