Custom Framer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Custom Framer

Company: Michaels Stores

Location: Strongsville, Ohio, United States

Job Type: Part-Time

Category: Retail Operations / Custom Framing

Date Posted: May 23, 2026

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

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Develop and execute custom framing solutions to meet customer artistic and design needs, driving personalized sales opportunities.

• Cultivate strong customer relationships through consultative selling and elevated service, acting as a trusted advisor for art preservation and display.

• Ensure operational excellence by adhering to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company programs for sales, production, and customer engagement.

• Maintain visual merchandising standards and inventory accuracy within assigned departments, including ready-made frames, SISO, and directed replenishment.

• Handle all customer transactions with accuracy and efficiency, including operating the cash register and managing cash handling procedures.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role, while titled "Custom Framer," involves significant customer interaction, sales, and retail operations. The focus is on building customer relationships through a consultative approach to custom framing, requiring both artistic sensibility and strong sales acumen. The "Elevated ABC Deliver" mentioned suggests a structured customer engagement model focused on building rapport, understanding needs, and delivering solutions.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Engage with customers to understand their framing needs, providing expert recommendations on materials, styles, and preservation techniques to create bespoke framing solutions.

• Execute custom framing orders with a high degree of quality, precision, and adherence to on-time delivery schedules, ensuring customer satisfaction.

• Actively participate in sales initiatives, leveraging product knowledge and consultative selling skills to achieve and exceed individual sales and production targets.

• Maintain the aesthetic appeal and stock integrity of the ready-made frame department, including SISO (Single Item, Single Order) and directed replenishment processes.

• Deliver exceptional customer service by assisting shoppers in locating products, answering inquiries, and ensuring a well-merchandised and in-stock store environment.

• Uphold company policies and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) across all job functions, including safety, security, and operational efficiency.

• Support company-wide shrink and safety programs through diligent adherence to protocols and proactive identification of potential risks.

• Foster a positive and respectful work environment by interacting constructively with colleagues and promoting organizational values and vision.

• Participate in the efficient execution of truck un-loading and stocking processes, ensuring adherence to established standards and budget.

• Accurately operate the cash register, manage all cash handling procedures, and execute financial transactions according to company standards.

• Assist customers with all Omni-channel processes, such as buy online, pick up in-store (BOPIS) and ship-from-store, ensuring a seamless customer experience.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a dual focus: specialized custom framing expertise and general retail operations. The emphasis on "Elevated ABC Deliver" and "personal designer" indicates a strategic approach to customer engagement that goes beyond transactional service, aiming for a consultative, relationship-driven sales model.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: High school diploma or equivalent required.

Experience: 0-2 years of experience in a customer-facing role, with a strong emphasis on sales and service.

Required Skills:

• Basic computer proficiency for order entry, POS systems, and internal communication.

• Fundamental measuring skills for accurate order specification and production.

• Ability to operate specialized framing equipment, including mat cutters and potentially other fabrication tools.

• Aptitude for learning and operating a glass cutter safely and effectively.

• Strong customer service orientation with a passion for helping clients achieve their creative goals.

• Effective communication and interpersonal skills to build rapport and understand customer needs.

• Basic understanding of retail operations, including stocking, merchandising, and inventory management.

Preferred Skills:

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

• Experience in selling products or services, with a proven ability to meet sales targets.

• Familiarity with custom framing processes, materials, and design principles.

• Experience operating a cash register and managing financial transactions.

• Knowledge of visual merchandising techniques to maintain store presentation.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the role requires specific technical skills for framing, the foundational requirements lean towards essential retail competencies. The "basic computer skills" and "basic measuring skills" indicate an entry-level focus, with the expectation that hands-on training will be provided for specialized framing equipment. The preferred skills suggest that prior retail experience and a sales aptitude will be advantageous.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Examples demonstrating successful customer engagement and needs assessment for custom projects.

• Documentation of completed framing projects, showcasing quality craftsmanship and adherence to design specifications.

• Case studies or examples of how customer needs were translated into effective framing solutions.

Process Documentation:

• Understanding of how to follow and execute Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for sales, production, and customer service.

• Ability to document customer orders accurately, ensuring all specifications are captured for production.

• Familiarity with basic inventory management processes for framing materials and ready-made products.

• Adherence to safety protocols for operating machinery and handling materials.

📝 Enhancement Note: While a formal "portfolio" in the traditional sense might not be expected for an entry-level retail role, candidates are implicitly expected to demonstrate their capabilities through their experience, interview responses, and potentially a discussion of past projects or relevant skills. The emphasis is on understanding and executing established processes rather than creating new ones.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $11.25 - $13.20 per hour

Benefits:

• Health Insurance (Medical, Dental, and Vision)

• Paid Time Off (PTO)

• Tuition Assistance

• Generous Employee Discounts on Michaels products and services

• Other benefits as detailed on mikbenefits.com

Working Hours: Part-time schedule, likely including nights, weekends, and early mornings, with flexibility required to accommodate retail operational needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is typical for entry-level retail positions in the United States. The inclusion of comprehensive benefits like health insurance, PTO, and tuition assistance, even for part-time roles, is a strong differentiator and demonstrates Michaels' commitment to employee well-being and development.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Arts and Crafts Retail, Custom Framing Manufacturing (Artistree subsidiary)

Company Size: Large (over 10,000 employees globally, based on LinkedIn data for The Michaels Companies Inc.)

Founded: 1973, headquartered in Irving, Texas.

Team Structure:

• The Custom Framer will be part of the store's retail team, reporting to store leadership (e.g., Framing Department Manager, Assistant Store Manager, or Store Manager).

• Collaboration will occur with fellow sales associates, stock associates, and potentially other specialized roles within the store.

Methodology:

• Emphasizes a consultative sales approach ("Elevated ABC Deliver") to build customer relationships and drive sales.

• Focuses on adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for consistent execution of tasks and programs.

• Promotes a data-driven approach to sales and production targets, encouraging team members to meet and exceed goals.

• Values a strong commitment to customer service and creating a positive shopping experience.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Michaels operates within the highly competitive arts and crafts retail sector. As a large, established company, it likely has well-defined operational processes and a structured corporate culture that balances creativity with business efficiency. The mention of Artistree indicates an integrated approach to custom framing, from manufacturing to in-store sales.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

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

Reporting Structure: Reports to Store Management (e.g., Framing Department Manager, Assistant Store Manager). The role offers a direct path to understanding retail operations from the ground up.

Operations Impact: Directly impacts store revenue through custom framing sales and contributes to overall store performance by enhancing customer experience, maintaining visual standards, and supporting operational efficiency.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Develop expertise in custom framing techniques, design, and consultative sales, becoming a subject matter expert within the store.

• Retail Leadership: Potential to advance into roles such as Framing Department Manager, Assistant Store Manager, or Store Manager, requiring broader leadership and operational management skills.

• Cross-Functional Development: Gain experience in various store departments, such as merchandising, inventory, and customer service, preparing for broader retail roles.

• Training & Development: Access to company-provided training for sales, customer service, and operational procedures, with opportunities for tuition assistance for further education.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role serves as a strong foundation for a career in retail operations, particularly within specialized areas like custom design and sales. The growth path is clearly defined within the retail hierarchy, with opportunities to move into management and broader operational responsibilities.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Public retail store setting. The primary workspace is the sales floor and the dedicated custom framing area within the store.

Office Location(s): Strongsville, Ohio, at the Southpark Center location.

Workspace Context:

• The environment is customer-facing, requiring a professional and friendly demeanor at all times.

• The framing shop involves specialized equipment, including glass cutters and heat presses, necessitating adherence to safety protocols.

• Stock rooms may not always be climate-controlled, and outdoor work may be required for tasks like truck un-loading.

• Opportunities for collaboration exist with store team members during daily operations, stocking, and customer assistance.

Work Schedule: Part-time, with flexibility required. Work hours include nights, weekends, and early mornings to cover store operating hours and customer demand.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is dynamic and customer-centric. The framing area requires specialized skills and safety awareness, while the broader store environment demands strong customer service and operational support. The schedule flexibility is typical for part-time retail roles.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Likely involves a review of the application and resume for basic qualifications and relevant experience.

• In-Person Interview: A one-on-one or panel interview with store management to assess customer service skills, sales aptitude, problem-solving abilities, and cultural fit.

• Skills Assessment: May include practical demonstrations of measuring skills, basic computer use, or a mock customer interaction scenario.

• Onboarding: If selected, candidates will undergo onboarding and comprehensive training on framing equipment, processes, and company standards.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• While a formal portfolio isn't typically required for this role, be prepared to discuss relevant past experiences.

• Highlight customer service achievements, sales successes, and any experience with custom projects or design.

• If you have examples of personal projects or creative work that demonstrate design sensibility or craftsmanship, be ready to mention them.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be ready to answer behavioral questions about how you handle difficult customers, manage multiple tasks, and work as part of a team.

• Prepare examples of situations where you used problem-solving skills to resolve a customer issue or improve a process.

• Demonstrate your understanding of the importance of accuracy in measurements and production for custom orders.

• Show enthusiasm for the creative aspects of the role and a willingness to learn the art of custom framing.

📝 Enhancement Note: For this role, the "portfolio" is more about showcasing transferable skills and a strong work ethic rather than a curated collection of past work. The interview process will likely focus on assessing the candidate's potential to learn and excel in a customer-facing, sales-oriented, and operational role.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Custom Framing Equipment: Mat cutters, glass cutters, heat presses, potentially specialized saws or mounting tools.

• Point of Sale (POS) System: For processing sales transactions, managing customer orders, and potentially accessing customer history.

• Basic Computer Systems: For internal communication, order entry, and accessing company resources.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While direct involvement in complex analytics is unlikely, understanding sales reports and production targets will be crucial.

CRM & Automation:

• The POS system may have basic CRM functionalities for tracking customer purchases and preferences.

• Focus is on executing defined processes rather than utilizing advanced automation tools.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is focused on operational efficiency and direct customer interaction within a retail environment. Proficiency in POS systems and familiarity with basic computer operations are key, alongside the ability to learn and safely operate specialized framing machinery.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Customer Focus: Prioritizing customer needs and delivering exceptional service to build loyalty.

• Creativity & Innovation: Encouraging creative solutions for customers and supporting the joy of crafting.

• Teamwork & Respect: Fostering a collaborative and inclusive environment where all team members are valued.

• Accountability & Integrity: Adhering to company policies, procedures, and ethical standards in all actions.

• Efficiency & Quality: Striving for high-quality workmanship and operational efficiency in all tasks.

Collaboration Style:

• Works collaboratively with store team members to ensure smooth store operations, customer assistance, and efficient task completion.

• Engages with customers in a consultative and helpful manner, building relationships to drive sales and satisfaction.

• Follows established communication channels for feedback, issue resolution, and sharing best practices within the team.

📝 Enhancement Note: Michaels emphasizes a culture that blends a passion for creativity with strong operational execution and customer service. The company values a positive, respectful, and team-oriented environment, encouraging employees to contribute to a fulfilling customer experience.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Sales and Production: Effectively managing customer consultations, sales targets, and the timely, high-quality production of custom framing orders.

• Customer Expectations: Meeting diverse customer needs and design preferences while working within material and equipment limitations.

• Physical Demands: The role requires standing for extended periods, lifting heavy items, and working with specialized equipment, which can be physically demanding.

• Pace of Retail: Adapting to the fast-paced retail environment, including peak seasons and fluctuating customer traffic.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Framing Expertise: Deepen knowledge of framing materials, design trends, and advanced framing techniques.

• Sales & Customer Service: Enhance consultative selling skills, customer relationship management, and conflict resolution.

• Operational Proficiency: Gain comprehensive understanding of retail store operations, inventory management, and visual merchandising.

• Leadership Potential: Develop skills necessary for future advancement into supervisory or management roles within Michaels.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are typical of a specialized retail role that combines technical skill with customer interaction and sales. The growth opportunities are well-defined, offering a clear path for development within the company, from mastering a craft to managing a retail operation.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you helped a customer find the perfect solution for their needs, even if it wasn't what they initially expected." (Assesses consultative selling and customer focus)

• "How would you handle a situation where a customer is unhappy with a custom framing quote or design?" (Evaluates problem-solving, customer service, and de-escalation skills)

• "What steps would you take to ensure the accuracy and quality of a custom framing order from consultation to completion?" (Tests attention to detail, process adherence, and quality commitment)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Michaels and why are you interested in working with us?" (Assesses company research and cultural alignment)

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

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Since a formal portfolio isn't required, be prepared to discuss your experience with:
  • Customer Interactions: Share examples of how you've built rapport, understood needs, and provided solutions.
  • Problem-Solving: Detail instances where you overcame challenges to ensure customer satisfaction or operational success.
  • Attention to Detail: Discuss how you ensure accuracy in tasks that require precision, like measurements or order specifications.
  • Learning Agility: Highlight instances where you quickly learned new skills or adapted to new processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating strong customer service aptitude, a willingness to learn specialized skills, a commitment to quality and accuracy, and an understanding of retail sales dynamics. Highlighting any creative or design-related experiences will also be beneficial.

📌 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 customer service experience, any sales achievements, attention to detail, and any experience with creative projects or hands-on work. Use keywords like "customer service," "sales," "customization," "detail-oriented," and "problem-solving."

• Interview Preparation: Practice answering behavioral interview questions focusing on customer interactions, problem-solving, teamwork, and your approach to learning new skills. Be ready to discuss why you are interested in Michaels and the Custom Framer role.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Michaels' mission, values, and product offerings. Understand the importance of custom framing within their business model.

⚠️ 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.