Custom Framer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Custom Framer

Company: Michaels Stores

Location: Holly Springs, North Carolina, United States

Job Type: Part time

Category: Retail Operations / Sales

Date Posted: 2026-07-27

Experience Level: Entry Level (0-2 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Drive sales and customer engagement by providing expert custom framing solutions and exceptional in-store service.

• Execute retail operations, including merchandising, inventory management, and maintaining store standards to ensure a positive customer experience.

• Operate point-of-sale systems, manage cash handling with accuracy, and support omni-channel fulfillment processes.

• Uphold Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company programs to ensure compliance, safety, and efficiency in all daily tasks.

📝 Enhancement Note: The raw job description focuses heavily on the hands-on framing and customer interaction aspects. This summary translates those duties into a more operational context, highlighting the importance of sales targets, process adherence (SOPs), and omni-channel support, which are critical for a retail operations perspective. The "Entry Level (0-2 years)" experience level is inferred from the "Minimum Type of experience the job requires" section.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Build and nurture customer relationships by understanding their needs and translating them into high-quality, on-time custom framing orders.

• Actively promote and sell custom framing services, leveraging sales techniques to meet and exceed individual sales and production targets.

• Manage and maintain the visual presentation and stock levels of the ready-made frame department, including SISO (Shop-in-Shop) and Directed Replenishment processes.

• Ensure a safe, clean, and well-organized store environment by adhering to all safety protocols and executing visual merchandising standards.

• Process customer transactions accurately using the cash register, adhering to all cash handling procedures and standards.

• Participate actively in the truck un-load and stocking processes, ensuring adherence to truck standards and completing tasks within designated timelines.

• Support the execution of omni-channel processes, including order fulfillment and customer pick-ups, to ensure seamless customer experiences.

• Assist customers in locating products, providing solutions, and enhancing their overall shopping experience through proactive engagement.

📝 Enhancement Note: These responsibilities are derived directly from the "Major Activities" section of the provided description. They have been rephrased to emphasize the operational impact and the application of retail best practices, such as sales targets, inventory management, and omni-channel support, rather than just listing tasks.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: A High School Diploma or equivalent is generally expected for entry-level retail positions, though not explicitly stated. Continuous learning and skill development are encouraged.

Experience: 0-2 years of experience in a customer-facing role, preferably within a retail or sales environment. Experience in custom framing or a related craft is a plus.

Required Skills:

• Basic computer proficiency for system navigation and potential order entry.

• Essential measuring skills for accurate custom framing production.

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

• Proficiency in cash handling and operating a point-of-sale (POS) system.

• Strong customer service and interpersonal skills to build rapport and provide solutions.

• Basic merchandising and inventory awareness to maintain department presentation. Preferred Skills:

• Prior retail sales experience, demonstrating a track record of driving sales and customer satisfaction.

• Experience in selling products or services, with a consultative approach to customer needs.

• Familiarity with art, design principles, or custom framing processes.

• Experience with omni-channel retail operations, such as Buy Online, Pick Up In Store (BOPIS).

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Minimum Type of experience" and "Preferred Type of experience" sections from the raw description have been expanded into specific skill categories. Basic computer and measuring skills are highlighted as fundamental, while operational skills like POS and cash handling are crucial for day-to-day execution. Preferred skills focus on sales acumen and direct framing experience.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• While a formal portfolio is not explicitly required for this entry-level role, candidates are encouraged to prepare examples of past work that demonstrate attention to detail, creativity, and problem-solving skills related to custom projects or customer solutions.

• Showcase any experience with visual merchandising or display setup that highlights an understanding of product presentation and customer appeal.

• Be prepared to discuss how you have managed tasks, met deadlines, and contributed to team goals in previous roles, demonstrating process adherence. Process Documentation:

• Candidates should be ready to discuss their understanding of following Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company programs.

• Demonstrate an ability to learn and execute new processes, such as those related to custom framing order fulfillment, inventory management, and cash handling.

• Be prepared to explain how they would approach learning and implementing new system functionalities related to POS, inventory, or customer management.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section infers portfolio expectations based on the role's requirements and typical retail operations hiring practices. For an entry-level role, the focus shifts from a formal portfolio to demonstrating transferable skills and an understanding of process adherence through past experiences. The emphasis is on the ability to learn and execute defined processes.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on industry benchmarks for part-time retail associates in North Carolina with 0-2 years of experience, an estimated salary range would be $12.00 - $16.00 per hour. This estimate is influenced by the cost of living in the Holly Springs area and the specific responsibilities of a Custom Framer role which involves specialized skills.

Benefits:

• 401(k) with Employer Match: Opportunity to save for retirement with company contributions.

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Confidential support services for personal and work-related challenges.

• Health Coverage: Access to Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance plans.

• Telemedicine Services: Convenient access to healthcare professionals remotely.

• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs): Pre-tax accounts for healthcare or dependent care expenses.

• Commuter Benefits: Assistance with public transportation costs.

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

• Adoption Assistance: Financial support for team members growing their families through adoption.

• Voluntary Insurance Options: Additional insurance coverage for specific needs.

• Employee Discounts: Significant discounts on Michaels products and services.

• Partner Discount Programs: Access to discounts with other affiliated companies.

Working Hours: This is a part-time position. Actual hours may vary based on business needs, but typically involve a mix of weekdays, evenings, and weekends, potentially totaling up to 40 hours per week during peak periods. Flexibility to work varied shifts is expected.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimation based on typical part-time retail associate wages in Holly Springs, NC, factoring in the specialized nature of the Custom Framer role. The benefits listed are directly extracted from the provided "ai_benefits" and company description, tailored to highlight their relevance to retail employees. Working hours are clarified from the "Part time" employment type and general retail scheduling practices.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Arts and Crafts Retail. Michaels operates as a leading specialty retailer in North America, focusing on providing a wide array of arts, crafts, and home decor products, with a significant emphasis on custom framing. This industry demands creativity, customer engagement, and efficient inventory management.

Company Size: The Michaels Companies operates over 1,300 stores across North America, indicating a large-scale retail operation with a significant employee base. This size suggests structured operational processes and opportunities for career development within a well-established organization.

Founded: Founded in 1973 and headquartered in Irving, Texas. This long history signifies stability and a deep understanding of the arts and crafts market.

Team Structure:

• The store team likely includes a Store Manager, Assistant Store Manager(s), Team Leads, and various associates specializing in different areas such as framing, crafts, and visual merchandising.

• The Custom Framer will report to a designated supervisor or manager responsible for the framing department and overall store operations.

• Close collaboration is expected with fellow sales associates, inventory specialists, and potentially visual merchandisers to ensure a cohesive store experience. Methodology:

• Data-Driven Decisions: While not explicitly stated for this role, Michaels likely uses sales data, inventory levels, and customer feedback to inform operational decisions, merchandising strategies, and staffing.

• Process Optimization: Adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) is a core methodology, ensuring consistency, efficiency, and compliance across all stores.

• Customer-Centric Approach: The company's purpose, "to fuel the joy of creativity and celebration," underscores a customer-centric approach, focusing on delivering inspiration and solutions.

Company Website: www.michaels.com

📝 Enhancement Note: The company context is built from the provided LinkedIn data and the company description. The industry and size are directly stated. The founding date provides historical context. The team structure and methodology are inferred based on standard retail store operations and the company's stated purpose and emphasis on SOPs.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned at an entry-level to associate level within retail operations. It requires foundational skills in customer service, sales, and operational execution. It serves as a stepping stone for individuals looking to grow within the retail sector, particularly in specialized departments like custom framing.

Reporting Structure: The Custom Framer will typically report to a Framing Supervisor, Department Manager, or Assistant Store Manager, who oversees daily operations, sales targets, and team performance within their designated area.

Operations Impact: The Custom Framer directly impacts store revenue through custom framing sales and contributes to overall store profitability by driving customer engagement, maintaining visual standards, and supporting efficient store operations. Their role is crucial in converting customer interest into tangible sales and repeat business.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Develop advanced custom framing techniques, design consultation skills, and proficiency with specialized equipment.

• Retail Leadership: Progress into roles such as Framing Supervisor, Department Lead, Assistant Store Manager, or Store Manager by demonstrating leadership potential, sales acumen, and operational excellence.

• Cross-Functional Development: Gain exposure to other areas of store operations, such as visual merchandising, inventory management, or omni-channel fulfillment, to broaden skill sets.

• Continuous Learning: Access to company training programs and resources to enhance product knowledge, sales techniques, and operational efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section analyzes the role's placement within a typical retail career path. The "Operations Career Level" describes the foundational nature of the role, while "Growth Opportunities" outlines logical progression paths within Michaels, emphasizing both specialized skill development and broader retail management opportunities. The "Operations Impact" highlights the direct link between the Framer's activities and business outcomes.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is a retail store environment. The workspace includes a public retail floor for customer interaction and sales, and a dedicated custom framing shop area equipped with specialized tools and materials.

Office Location(s): The role is located at the Michaels store at 164 Grand Hill Place in Holly Springs, North Carolina. This location serves the local community.

Workspace Context:

• Customer-Facing Area: A dynamic, climate-controlled retail floor where interaction with customers is frequent and requires a positive, helpful demeanor.

• Framing Shop: A specialized workspace containing tools like glass cutters and heat presses, requiring careful operation and adherence to safety protocols. While generally climate-controlled, stock rooms may not always be.

• Team Collaboration: Opportunities for regular interaction with fellow team members, supervisors, and management, fostering a collaborative work environment focused on customer service and operational efficiency.

Work Schedule: As a part-time position, the work schedule will vary and includes nights, weekends, and potentially early mornings. Flexibility is key to accommodate customer traffic and operational needs. Some outdoor work may be assigned, such as retrieving shopping carts or assisting with truck unloads.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section details the physical work environment specific to a retail store and framing shop. It contrasts the public retail floor with the specialized framing area, emphasizing the different demands and conditions of each. The work schedule reflects the typical demands of part-time retail positions.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Typically involves a review of your application and resume to assess basic qualifications and experience.

• In-Person Interview: A one-on-one or panel interview with store management (e.g., Store Manager, Assistant Manager). Expect questions about customer service philosophy, problem-solving scenarios, retail experience, and your interest in custom framing.

• Skills Assessment: You may be asked to demonstrate basic measuring skills or discuss your understanding of operating equipment, or walk through a hypothetical customer service scenario.

• Final Interview/Offer: Based on the interview and assessment, a final decision will be made, and an offer extended if you are a good fit.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• For this entry-level role, a formal portfolio isn't expected. Instead, be prepared to discuss specific examples from previous jobs or personal projects that showcase:

  • Problem-Solving: How you've handled challenging customer requests or operational issues.
  • Detail Orientation: Examples of your accuracy in tasks like measuring, assembly, or transaction processing.
  • Customer Engagement: How you've built rapport and provided excellent service.
  • Teamwork: Instances where you collaborated effectively with colleagues.

• Be ready to articulate your understanding of the custom framing process and your interest in learning the craft. Challenge Preparation:

• Scenario-Based Questions: Prepare for questions like "A customer wants a frame for a very unusual item, how would you approach this?" or "How would you handle a customer who is unhappy with their framing order?".

• Product Knowledge: Familiarize yourself with Michaels' product offerings, especially in the framing department.

• Operational Understanding: Be ready to discuss your understanding of retail operations, such as merchandising, inventory, and cash handling, as outlined in the job description.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section provides a structured approach to the application process, inferring typical retail interview stages and expectations. It emphasizes how to present oneself without a formal portfolio, focusing on transferable skills and situational responses relevant to a retail and custom framing environment.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Custom Framing Equipment: Framing saws, mat cutters, manual and possibly automated assembly tools, heat presses for specific mounting techniques.

• Glass Cutting Tools: Essential for precise glass sizing for frames.

• Point-of-Sale (POS) System: For processing customer transactions, managing sales, and potentially inventory lookups.

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

Analytics & Reporting:

• While direct analytics tools are unlikely for this role, understanding sales reports and inventory counts generated by the POS system would be beneficial.

• Awareness of how individual sales performance contributes to store-level metrics. CRM & Automation:

• Customer Relationship Management (CRM): The primary interaction is direct customer engagement on the sales floor. Building rapport and remembering customer preferences can act as a form of informal CRM.

• Omni-channel Systems: Familiarity with systems that support online orders for in-store pickup or custom order management.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section lists the tools and technologies directly relevant to the Custom Framer role, based on the job description's mention of framing equipment, glass cutters, cash registers, and omni-channel processes. It differentiates between direct operational tools and broader systems.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Customer Focus: Prioritizing customer satisfaction through helpful service, creative solutions, and a positive shopping experience.

• Creativity & Inspiration: Encouraging a passion for arts and crafts, and helping customers bring their creative visions to life.

• Teamwork & Collaboration: Working together to achieve store goals, support colleagues, and ensure smooth operations.

• Integrity & Respect: Upholding ethical standards, treating all individuals with respect, and fostering an inclusive environment.

• Efficiency & Quality: Striving for accuracy and timely completion of tasks, particularly in custom framing production and store operations.

Collaboration Style:

• Service-Oriented: A collaborative style focused on meeting customer needs promptly and effectively, often involving cross-training and shared responsibilities across departments.

• Process-Driven: Adhering to established SOPs and workflows to ensure consistency and efficiency, while also being open to feedback for process improvement.

• Supportive Environment: Encouraging a culture where team members assist each other, share knowledge, and contribute to a positive and productive work atmosphere.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section infers the team's cultural values and collaboration style based on Michaels' stated purpose, the nature of retail work, and the emphasis on customer service and SOPs. The values reflect a blend of customer engagement, operational discipline, and teamwork.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Multiple Responsibilities: Juggling customer service, custom framing production, sales targets, and general store upkeep requires strong time management and prioritization skills.

• Handling Diverse Customer Needs: Meeting the unique and sometimes complex framing requirements of a wide range of customers, from artists to individuals with sentimental items.

• Maintaining Production Quality and Speed: Ensuring custom framing orders are completed to a high standard of quality while also meeting production deadlines, especially during busy periods.

• Adapting to New Products/Processes: Staying current with new materials, framing techniques, and evolving retail technologies or omni-channel processes.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Framing Techniques: Opportunities to master specialized framing methods, materials, and design principles.

• Sales and Customer Engagement Training: Developing skills in consultative selling, upselling, and building long-term customer relationships.

• Retail Operations Management: Potential to learn about inventory control, visual merchandising, and store management principles.

• Cross-Training: Gaining experience in other store departments to become a more versatile team member.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section identifies potential challenges inherent in the Custom Framer role and outlines specific learning and development opportunities that align with career growth within Michaels. The challenges focus on the practical demands of the job, while growth opportunities point towards skill enhancement and advancement.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Customer Service Scenarios: "Describe a time you went above and beyond to help a customer." or "How would you handle a customer who is unhappy with a custom framing order they received?" (Focus on empathy, problem-solving, and adherence to company policy.)

• Sales Approach: "How would you approach a customer to offer custom framing services?" or "What strategies would you use to upsell framing services or materials?" (Highlight consultative selling, understanding needs, and presenting solutions.)

• Operational Understanding: "What is your understanding of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and why are they important in retail?" or "Describe your experience with cash handling and operating a POS system." (Emphasize accuracy, efficiency, and compliance.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• Motivation: "Why are you interested in working at Michaels and specifically in the Custom Framer role?" (Connect your skills and interests to the company's mission and the role's responsibilities.)

• Teamwork: "Describe a time you worked effectively as part of a team to achieve a goal." (Show your collaborative spirit and willingness to support colleagues.)

• Problem-Solving: "A customer is looking for a specific frame that we don't have in stock. What would you do?" (Demonstrate resourcefulness, knowledge of alternatives, and customer focus.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Verbal Examples: Since a formal portfolio isn't required, prepare strong "STAR" method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) examples for your past experiences that highlight:

  • Successfully resolving a customer issue.
  • Achieving a sales target or exceeding expectations.
  • Demonstrating attention to detail in a task.
  • Collaborating with a team to complete a project or task.

• Enthusiasm for Framing: Be ready to articulate your passion for art, design, or craftsmanship, and your eagerness to learn the custom framing trade.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section provides targeted interview preparation advice, including common question types relevant to retail, sales, and operations roles. It guides candidates on how to leverage their experience to answer questions effectively and prepare for discussions about company culture and operational processes.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

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

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight customer service, sales experience, any measuring or crafting skills, and familiarity with retail operations (e.g., POS, inventory). Use keywords from the job description.

• Portfolio Preparation: While not a formal portfolio, prepare specific examples from past roles or personal projects that demonstrate your problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, customer engagement, and teamwork skills. Be ready to discuss these using the STAR method.

• Interview Practice: Rehearse answers to common interview questions related to customer service, sales, and retail operations. Practice articulating your interest in custom framing and Michaels.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Michaels' products, services (especially custom framing), and company culture. Understand their mission to "fuel the joy of creativity and celebration."

⚠️ 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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