Custom Framer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Custom Framer

Company: Michaels Stores

Location: Stafford, Texas, United States

Job Type: Part-Time

Category: Retail Operations / Art & Design Services

Date Posted: May 28, 2026

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

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is centered on providing exceptional customer service within a retail environment, specifically focusing on the creation and sale of custom framing solutions.

• Responsibilities include building customer relationships, understanding their needs, and translating them into high-quality, timely framing orders.

• The position requires proficiency in basic measuring, computer, and operational skills for framing equipment, alongside a strong commitment to maintaining store presentation and safety standards.

• This role is integral to the in-store customer experience, directly impacting sales, customer satisfaction, and operational efficiency within the custom framing department.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the job title is "Custom Framer," the core responsibilities and required skills indicate a role that blends direct customer sales, operational execution within a specialized department, and general retail duties. The "Revenue Operations" and "Sales Operations" lens here focuses on how this customer-facing role contributes to revenue generation, customer retention through service, and the operational processes that support these outcomes. The emphasis on "Elevated ABC Deliver" suggests a structured sales and service methodology.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Customer Engagement & Sales:

  • Build and nurture customer relationships by actively engaging them in the custom framing process, using "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodologies.
  • Consult with customers to understand their vision for framing artwork, photos, or memorabilia, providing expert recommendations on materials and design.
  • Drive sales by effectively presenting framing options, upselling complementary products, and closing custom framing orders.
  • Achieve and exceed personal sales and production targets for custom framing services.

• Production & Quality Control:

  • Accurately measure and cut materials (e.g., glass, matboard, frame stock) according to customer specifications and design.
  • Operate specialized framing equipment, including mat cutters and potentially heat presses, safely and efficiently.
  • Assemble custom frames with a high degree of craftsmanship, ensuring quality, durability, and aesthetic appeal.
  • Complete framing orders within established timelines to meet customer expectations and internal production goals.

• Store Operations & Merchandising:

  • Maintain the visual presentation and stock levels of the ready-made frame department, as well as other assigned areas (e.g., SISO, Directed Replenishment).
  • Ensure a safe, clean, and clutter-free environment throughout the store and the framing department.
  • Participate in truck un-load and stocking processes, adhering to established standards and timelines.
  • Operate the cash register, execute cash handling procedures, and process transactions accurately and efficiently.
  • Assist with Omni-channel processes, which may include fulfilling online orders or assisting customers with online-related inquiries.

• Teamwork & Compliance:

  • Adhere to all Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), company programs, and policies to ensure compliance and operational consistency.

  • Support company initiatives related to shrink reduction and safety programs.

  • Interact positively and respectfully with colleagues, management, and customers, even in challenging situations.

  • Serve as a role model by projecting a positive image and commitment to organizational values.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary responsibilities are heavily weighted towards direct customer interaction, sales, and the physical execution of framing services. From an operations perspective, this translates to managing a sales pipeline (custom orders), ensuring production efficiency and quality, and contributing to overall store operational standards. The mention of "Elevated ABC Deliver" implies a structured sales process that candidates should be prepared to discuss.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Experience:

• 0-2 years of experience in a customer-facing role, preferably within a retail environment where sales and customer service are paramount.

Required Skills:

• Basic Computer Skills: Ability to navigate point-of-sale (POS) systems, potentially basic design software, and internal communication tools.

• Measuring Skills: Accurate and precise measurement capabilities are fundamental for custom framing.

• Equipment Operation: Demonstrated ability to safely operate framing equipment, including a glass cutter.

• Customer Service Excellence: Proven ability to build rapport, understand customer needs, and provide solutions in a friendly and professional manner.

• Sales Acumen: Aptitude for identifying sales opportunities, presenting product benefits, and closing sales, particularly for custom-designed services.

• Cash Handling: Proficiency in operating a cash register and accurately managing financial transactions.

• Attention to Detail: Crucial for ensuring the accuracy and quality of custom framing orders.

• Adaptability: Ability to work in a dynamic retail environment, manage multiple tasks, and adapt to changing priorities.

Preferred Skills:

• Retail Experience: Prior experience in a retail setting, especially in visual merchandising or specialized departments, is a plus.

• Sales Experience: Proven track record in selling products or services, particularly custom solutions or creative goods.

• Art & Design Aptitude: A basic understanding of design principles, color theory, or art appreciation can enhance customer consultations.

• Experience with Framing Equipment: Familiarity with operating mat cutters, saws, or other framing tools.

📝 Enhancement Note: The required skills are foundational for a retail associate with a specialized function. From an operations perspective, these skills contribute to the efficient functioning of the sales floor and the specialized framing service. The emphasis on "basic computer skills" and "measuring skills" highlights the need for operational proficiency in core retail and technical tasks.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• While a formal "portfolio" in the traditional sense might not be required for this entry-level role, candidates are strongly encouraged to prepare examples of their work or projects that demonstrate:
  • Quality of Workmanship: Showcase examples of projects where precision, attention to detail, and aesthetic appeal were critical. This could include personal projects, volunteer work, or previous professional outputs.
  • Problem-Solving & Customer Focus: Be prepared to discuss how you've addressed customer needs or solved problems in a service-oriented or project-based context.
  • Process Adherence: If you have examples of following specific procedures or guidelines to achieve a desired outcome, highlight these.

Process Documentation:

• Candidates should demonstrate an understanding of and willingness to follow established Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for:
  • Order Taking & Design Consultation: Following a structured process for capturing customer requirements, suggesting materials, and finalizing design choices.
  • Production Workflow: Adhering to the steps involved in cutting, assembling, and finishing custom framing orders.
  • Inventory Management: Understanding processes for maintaining stock levels in the ready-made frame area and assisting with replenishment.
  • Point-of-Sale (POS) Operations: Executing transactions according to established cash handling and checkout protocols.

📝 Enhancement Note: For this specific role, the "portfolio" is less about formal documentation of complex operations and more about demonstrating practical skills and a commitment to process. Candidates should be ready to talk through examples of their work that showcase precision, customer interaction, and adherence to guidelines. The emphasis is on the ability to learn and execute existing processes effectively.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Benefits:

• Health Insurance: Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance are available, reflecting a commitment to employee well-being.

• Paid Time Off (PTO): Accrued PTO provides flexibility for personal needs and rest.

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

• Employee Discounts: Generous discounts on Michaels products, encouraging personal creativity and savings.

• Other Benefits: The company may offer additional benefits such as retirement savings plans (e.g., 401k), employee assistance programs, and potential for advancement.

Working Hours:

• This is a Part-Time position. Actual hours will vary based on business needs and scheduling, but typically range from 10-25 hours per week.

• The role requires flexibility to work nights, weekends, and early mornings, as specified by the store's operating hours and scheduling demands.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary is estimated based on typical part-time retail roles in Texas, factoring in the specialized nature of custom framing. Specific benefits are listed as provided in the input data. The working hours are explicitly part-time with a requirement for flexibility.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

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

• Michaels operates within the highly competitive arts, crafts, and home decor retail sector. As the leading specialty retailer in North America, it caters to a broad customer base seeking supplies for creative projects, home decoration, and personalized gifting solutions. The custom framing service is a key differentiator, offering a high-value, personalized product that requires specialized skills and customer interaction.

Company Size: Large (Over 1,300 stores in North America)

• Michaels is a significant player in the retail landscape. This large company size implies established operational processes, potentially a structured career path, and a wide network of colleagues. For operations professionals, this size often means opportunities to work with robust systems, large datasets, and established supply chains, but also requires adaptability and clear communication to navigate a large organization.

Founded: 1973

Team Structure:

• Operations Team: In a retail store context, the "operations team" is multifaceted. It includes store management (Store Manager, Assistant Store Manager), department leads (like a Framing Department Lead, though this role is an individual contributor), and floor associates responsible for sales, customer service, and operational tasks.

• Reporting Structure: A Custom Framer would typically report to a Department Manager or Assistant Store Manager responsible for the framing department and sales floor operations.

• Cross-functional Collaboration: This role requires collaboration with other store associates (e.g., for truck unloading, general customer assistance, cash register support) and potentially with corporate teams for specific operational programs or training.

Methodology:

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

• Process Standardization: Adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) is critical for consistent execution across all stores.

• Data-Driven Insights (at Corporate Level): While not directly managed by this role, the company likely uses sales data, inventory metrics, and customer feedback to inform operations and merchandising strategies.

• Efficiency & Safety: Emphasis on efficient workflows for sales and production, alongside robust safety programs.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The company context highlights Michaels as a large, established retail leader with a clear mission centered on creativity. This implies a structured operational environment where process adherence is key. The "Custom Framer" role is a direct contributor to revenue through sales and service, operating within established retail operational frameworks.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Entry-Level Retail Associate with Specialized Function

Reporting Structure:

Operations Impact:

• Revenue Generation: Directly contributes to revenue through custom framing sales and potentially by driving general store sales through customer engagement.

• Customer Loyalty: By providing high-quality framing solutions and excellent service, this role helps build customer loyalty and repeat business.

• Operational Efficiency: Efficiently managing framing production, maintaining department presentation, and supporting general store operations contributes to the overall smooth functioning of the retail location.

• Brand Representation: As a direct point of contact, the Custom Framer represents the Michaels brand and its commitment to creativity and customer satisfaction.

Growth Opportunities:

• Advancement within Framing: Potential to become a lead framer or department supervisor within the custom framing department, taking on more responsibility for production, training, and inventory.

• Retail Management Track: Progression to roles like Assistant Store Manager or Store Manager, requiring broader operational and leadership skills across all store functions.

• Specialized Skills Development: Opportunities to deepen expertise in framing techniques, materials, and sales strategies.

• Cross-Departmental Experience: Potential to gain experience in other store departments, broadening retail operational knowledge.

• Corporate Opportunities: With significant experience and demonstrated capabilities, there may be opportunities in corporate roles related to merchandising, operations, or product development.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role serves as a critical entry point into retail operations. The growth path emphasizes developing core retail competencies and specialized skills, with clear avenues for advancement into leadership or specialized roles within the company.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Public Retail Store

Office Location(s):

• Stafford, VA: The specific store is located at 1110 Stafford Market Place. Being in a retail setting, accessibility via public transport might be limited, so personal transportation is often assumed.

Workspace Context:

• Customer Interaction Zones: The primary workspace includes the sales floor, customer service desk, and the custom framing counter where consultations and sales occur.

• Production Area: The framing shop itself is a specialized workspace containing tools like glass cutters and heat presses. This area requires careful attention to safety protocols due to the nature of the equipment and materials.

• Stock Room: While most of the work is on the sales floor, some tasks may involve the stock room, which might not always be climate-controlled.

• Collaborative Environment: The role necessitates close collaboration with other store associates, management, and direct interaction with a diverse customer base. The environment is dynamic, with fluctuating customer traffic and varying task demands.

Work Schedule:

• The schedule is flexible and includes nights, weekends, and early mornings, aligning with the operational hours of a retail store. This flexibility is crucial for meeting business needs and customer availability.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is typical for a retail associate role, emphasizing customer interaction and dynamic task management. The framing shop is a specialized area within this environment, requiring specific safety awareness.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: May involve an online application and potentially a brief phone screen with an HR representative or hiring manager to assess basic qualifications and interest.

• In-Person Interview: A primary interview with the Store Manager or Assistant Store Manager. This will likely focus on:

  • Behavioral Questions: Assessing customer service skills, problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and handling pressure (e.g., "Tell me about a time you dealt with a difficult customer," "How do you prioritize tasks?").
  • Situational Questions: Understanding how you would handle specific scenarios related to customer interactions, sales challenges, or operational issues within the framing department.
  • Skills Assessment: Discussion of your measuring, computer, and equipment operation skills. You may be asked to demonstrate basic measuring or explain how you would approach a framing consultation.
  • Cultural Fit: Evaluating your alignment with Michaels' values, such as creativity, customer focus, and teamwork.

• Practical Demonstration (Potential): Depending on the interviewer and store needs, you might be asked to perform a basic measuring task or discuss how you'd approach a framing consultation with a hypothetical customer.

• Final Steps: Reference checks and onboarding process for successful candidates.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Focus on Demonstrable Skills: Since a formal operations portfolio isn't expected, be ready to verbally "walk through" examples of your skills.

  • Customer Service Example: Describe a time you went above and beyond for a customer, or how you've successfully handled a customer complaint or request.
  • Precision/Craftsmanship Example: Discuss a project (personal or professional) where attention to detail and accuracy were paramount. Explain the steps you took to ensure quality.
  • Sales Example: Share an experience where you successfully recommended a product or service, leading to a sale, especially if it involved understanding a customer's needs and offering a tailored solution.
  • Problem-Solving Example: Outline a situation where you encountered an issue (operational or customer-related) and how you resolved it.

• Highlight Process Adherence: Mention your understanding of the importance of following procedures, like SOPs, for consistent results.

Challenge Preparation:

• Customer Scenario: Be prepared to role-play a customer consultation for a custom framing order. Think about how you would greet the customer, ask clarifying questions about their artwork and desired outcome, present options, and discuss pricing.

• Problem-Solving Scenario: Consider how you would handle a situation where a customer is unhappy with a completed framing order, or if there's a delay in production.

• Sales Pitch: Practice articulating the value of custom framing and how it enhances artwork compared to off-the-shelf options.

📝 Enhancement Note: The application process is standard for retail roles, with a focus on behavioral and situational questions. The "portfolio" aspect is de-emphasized in favor of verbal demonstrations of skills and experience relevant to customer service, sales, and precision work.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Point-of-Sale (POS) System: Used for processing customer transactions, managing sales, and potentially tracking inventory. Familiarity with retail POS systems is beneficial.

• Custom Framing Software/Tools: While specific software isn't detailed, the role requires using tools for design consultation, measurement, and potentially generating order forms or quotes.

• Measuring Tools: Tape measures, rulers, and potentially specialized framing measurement devices.

• Glass Cutter: Essential for preparing glass for frames.

• Framing Equipment: This may include mat cutters, saws, pressing equipment, and assembly tools.

Analytics & Reporting:

CRM & Automation:

• The "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodology suggests a structured approach to customer relationship management within the sales process. While not a formal CRM system in the enterprise sense, it implies a systematic way of engaging, understanding, and serving customers to drive sales and build loyalty.

• Inventory Management Systems: Associates will interact with systems for managing stock levels, receiving inventory, and potentially fulfilling online orders (Omni-channel).

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is primarily focused on direct operational tools for sales, production, and inventory management within a retail setting. The "CRM" aspect is more about a structured sales methodology than enterprise software.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Customer Focus: Prioritizing customer needs and ensuring a positive, creative experience is paramount. This means actively listening, offering solutions, and building rapport.

• Creativity & Passion: As a company centered on arts and crafts, a genuine appreciation for creativity and a passion for helping customers realize their creative visions is highly valued.

• Quality & Craftsmanship: Delivering high-quality custom framing solutions that meet or exceed customer expectations is essential. This involves attention to detail and pride in workmanship.

• Teamwork & Collaboration: Working effectively with colleagues to achieve store goals, support each other, and maintain a positive work environment.

• Integrity & Respect: Upholding company values, treating everyone with respect, and maintaining ethical business practices.

• Efficiency & Adaptability: Being able to manage multiple tasks, adapt to changing priorities in a fast-paced retail environment, and contribute to efficient store operations.

Collaboration Style:

• Customer-Centric Collaboration: The primary collaboration is with customers to design and create their framing projects.

• Peer Support: Working alongside fellow associates to ensure smooth store operations, assist customers across departments, and share workload during busy periods.

• Management Guidance: Receiving direction and support from store management to uphold standards, resolve issues, and develop skills.

• Process-Oriented: Collaboration often involves following established procedures (SOPs) to ensure consistency and quality in all operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture emphasizes creativity, customer service, and teamwork, aligned with the company's mission. Operations roles within this culture are expected to be customer-facing, process-driven, and collaborative.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

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

• Customer Expectations: Meeting diverse customer expectations regarding design, budget, and turnaround time for custom framing.

• Technical Skill Development: Quickly learning and mastering the operation of framing equipment and precision techniques.

• Pace of Retail: Handling fluctuating customer traffic and multitasking in a dynamic retail environment.

• Physical Demands: The role involves standing for long periods, lifting heavy items, and using ladders, which can be physically demanding.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Framing Expertise: Developing in-depth knowledge of framing materials, techniques, design principles, and conservation methods.

• Sales & Customer Engagement Skills: Enhancing consultative selling abilities, effective communication, and customer relationship management through the "Elevated ABC Deliver" program.

• Retail Operations Fundamentals: Gaining practical experience in visual merchandising, inventory management, POS operations, and store upkeep.

• Potential for Leadership: Opportunities to progress into supervisory or management roles within the store, developing leadership and team management skills.

• Cross-Training: Learning about other departments within Michaels to gain a broader understanding of retail operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: Challenges are typical for customer-facing roles with production components in retail. Growth opportunities focus on skill development within the specialized framing area and broader retail operations, with clear pathways for advancement.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Operations Strategy:

  • "How would you approach a customer who is unsure about the best framing option for their valuable artwork?" (Focus on consultative selling, asking clarifying questions, presenting options based on value and aesthetics.)
  • "Describe your process for ensuring the accuracy and quality of a custom framing order from start to finish." (Emphasize measuring, material selection, assembly steps, quality checks, adherence to SOPs.)
  • "How do you manage your time effectively when you have multiple framing orders to complete and customers waiting for service on the sales floor?" (Discuss prioritization, time blocking, and communication with customers and colleagues.)

• Company & Culture Questions:

  • "What interests you about working for Michaels, specifically in the Custom Framing department?" (Connect personal interest in art, creativity, or customer service with Michaels' mission.)
  • "How do you contribute to a positive team environment in a retail setting?" (Highlight collaboration, support for colleagues, and maintaining a positive attitude.)
  • "How do you ensure you are providing excellent customer service, even during busy periods?" (Focus on active listening, efficiency, and maintaining composure.)

• Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

  • Verbal Walkthrough: Be prepared to describe a project where you demonstrated precision, customer service, or problem-solving. Structure your answer using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result).
  • Example: "In my previous role [Situation], I was responsible for [Task]. I [Action] which resulted in [Result]. For example, when a customer needed a specific type of frame for a graduation photo, I listened to their needs, explained the archival benefits of certain matting options, and guided them to a solution that fit their budget and aesthetic. This led to a satisfied customer and a successful sale."
  • Highlighting Skills: Clearly articulate how your skills in measuring, communication, and attention to detail align with the requirements of a Custom Framer.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating customer service skills, sales aptitude, attention to detail, and an understanding of operational processes within a retail context. The "portfolio" is about verbally showcasing relevant experiences.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

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

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight any relevant experience in customer service, sales, retail, or tasks requiring precision and attention to detail. Use keywords from the job description like "customer service," "sales," "measuring skills," and "retail operations."

Quantify achievements where possible (e.g., "Increased custom framing sales by X%," "Served an average of Y customers per hour").

• Portfolio Preparation (Verbal): Mentally prepare specific examples of your work or experiences that showcase your ability to:

  • Consult with customers to understand their needs and provide solutions.
  • Perform tasks requiring precision and attention to detail.
  • Handle sales transactions or contribute to revenue generation.
  • Work effectively in a team or follow established procedures.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Michaels' brand, mission ("fuel the joy of creativity and celebration"), and the types of products and services they offer, especially custom framing. Understand their commitment to customer service and creativity.

• Interview Practice: Practice answering common retail interview questions, focusing on behavioral and situational responses. Be ready to discuss how you would handle customer interactions, sales scenarios, and operational tasks specific to a framing 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.