CUSTOM FRAMER

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Custom Framer

Company: Michaels Stores

Location: Gilbert, Arizona, United States

Job Type: Part time

Category: Retail Operations / Customer Service

Date Posted: September 16, 2026

Experience Level: Entry Level (0-2 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role focuses on enhancing the customer experience through personalized custom framing solutions, acting as a key touchpoint for client engagement.

• Responsibilities include driving sales and production targets within the custom framing department, directly impacting revenue generation.

• The position requires meticulous execution of framing orders to ensure high quality and timely delivery, maintaining customer satisfaction and repeat business.

• A significant aspect of the role involves maintaining store standards, including merchandising, inventory management, and ensuring a safe, clean, and organized retail environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Custom Framer," the description outlines a hybrid role that includes direct customer interaction, sales, production, and general retail operations. The emphasis on "building customer relationships" and "delivering sales and production results" indicates a strong GTM (Go-To-Market) component within a retail setting, requiring operational execution for sales success.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Build and nurture customer relationships by understanding their needs and translating them into compelling custom framing solutions, leveraging sales techniques and product knowledge.

• Execute custom framing orders with exceptional quality and adherence to production timelines, ensuring all specifications and customer expectations are met.

• Manage and maintain the ready-made frame department, including SISO (Store Inventory, Store Out) and Directed Replenishment processes, to optimize product availability and visual appeal.

• Provide outstanding customer service, assisting shoppers with product location, offering solutions, and ensuring a positive shopping experience that encourages repeat visits.

• Uphold Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company programs related to sales, production, safety, and loss prevention to ensure compliance and operational efficiency.

• Operate the cash register and manage cash handling procedures with accuracy and adherence to company standards, facilitating smooth transactional processes.

• Actively participate in truck un-load and stocking processes, ensuring efficient inventory management and adherence to established truck standards.

• Support and implement company-wide shrink and safety programs to maintain a secure and accident-free work environment.

• Collaborate effectively with team members, demonstrating respect and positivity, especially in challenging situations, to foster a supportive and productive work atmosphere.

• Assist with and execute Omni-channel processes, such as buy online, pick up in-store (BOPIS), to provide a seamless customer experience across all touchpoints.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of direct sales, operational execution, and customer service. For a "Custom Framer," the emphasis on "sales and production results" and "building customer relationships" suggests a role that requires proactive selling and a consultative approach to custom framing solutions, rather than just order-taking.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While no specific degree is mandated, a strong aptitude for learning and applying new skills is essential, particularly in areas of design, measurement, and operational procedures.

Experience: 0-2 years of experience in a customer-facing role, preferably within a retail or service environment, is required. Experience in sales or a role involving direct customer interaction is highly valued.

Required Skills:

• Basic computer skills for operating point-of-sale (POS) systems and potentially design software.

• Proficiency in basic measuring skills to accurately assess artwork and frame dimensions.

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

• Strong customer service orientation with a proven ability to build rapport and address customer needs.

• Competency in cash handling and operating a cash register according to established procedures.

• Understanding and adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company policies.

• Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment and maintain a positive attitude.

• Physical stamina to stand for extended periods, lift heavy items, and perform bending and reaching tasks. Preferred Skills:

• Prior retail experience, providing a foundational understanding of store operations and customer flow.

• Proven experience in selling products and/or services, demonstrating an ability to influence customer purchasing decisions.

• Familiarity with visual merchandising principles to maintain an appealing retail display.

• Basic understanding of art or design principles to assist customers with aesthetic choices.

• Experience with Omni-channel retail processes (e.g., BOPIS).

📝 Enhancement Note: The "0-2 years" experience level suggests this is an entry-level to junior role. The required skills are foundational for retail operations, with a specific emphasis on the technical aspects of custom framing. Preferred skills like retail experience and sales acumen are key for candidates looking to excel and grow within this specific operational niche.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• While a formal portfolio might not be strictly required for this entry-level role, candidates are encouraged to highlight any relevant projects or experiences that demonstrate their ability to manage processes or deliver results. This could include examples of:
  • Process Improvement: Documenting a time you improved a workflow or solved a recurring issue in a previous role.
  • Metrics & Efficiency: Showcasing how you contributed to sales targets or improved efficiency in a task.
  • System Implementation: Describing your experience learning and using new systems or equipment.
  • ROI Demonstration: Quantifying the positive impact of your contributions, even in a small way (e.g., increased customer satisfaction scores, reduced errors).

Process Documentation:

• Candidates should be prepared to discuss their understanding of and experience with:
  • Workflow Design: How to follow and potentially suggest improvements to established workflows for custom framing orders and retail operations.
  • Implementation & Automation: Experience with using tools and equipment (like framing machines, glass cutters, POS systems) to execute tasks efficiently.
  • Measurement & Analysis: How to track personal performance (e.g., sales targets, order completion times) and contribute to overall store metrics.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an entry-level retail operations role like this, the "portfolio" is less about formal design documents and more about demonstrating practical application of skills and understanding of operational principles through examples. Candidates should focus on articulating their experience with processes, problem-solving, and achieving results.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on industry benchmarks for similar part-time retail roles in Gilbert, Arizona, and considering the entry-level experience requirement, the estimated hourly wage for a Custom Framer is typically between $13.00 - $17.00 per hour. This range can vary based on specific skills, prior experience, and the exact responsibilities of the role.

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 issues.

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Coverage: Comprehensive health insurance options.

• Telemedicine Services: Convenient access to healthcare professionals remotely.

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

• Commuter Benefits: Assistance with transportation costs.

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

• Adoption Assistance: Financial support for employees building their families through adoption.

• Various Voluntary Insurance Options: Additional coverage for life, disability, and other 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. While the standard workweek is generally 40 hours for full-time roles, part-time employees will have a reduced schedule. Exact hours and days will vary based on store needs, including nights, weekends, and early mornings. Flexibility in scheduling is often a requirement.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on publicly available data for similar retail positions in the specified geographic area and the "0-2 years" experience level. The listed benefits are extensive for a part-time role and should be a significant draw for candidates. The mention of "nights, weekends, and early mornings" is crucial for managing candidate expectations regarding scheduling flexibility.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Arts and Crafts Retail. Michaels operates as the leading specialty retailer of arts, crafts, and home decor products in North America, with a strong emphasis on DIY culture and creative expression.

Company Size: Michaels operates over 1,300 stores across the US and Canada, employing a significant workforce. This large scale means there are established processes, opportunities for advancement, and a diverse customer base.

Founded: 1973, with headquarters in Irving, Texas. This long history indicates a stable company with a well-defined market position and operational framework.

Team Structure:

• Store-Level Operations: The Custom Framer will be part of a store team, likely reporting to a Store Manager or Assistant Store Manager, with direct supervision from a Custom Framing Manager or Department Lead if applicable.

• Cross-functional Collaboration: Collaboration will occur primarily within the store team, including sales associates, stock associates, and management. Interaction with other departments (e.g., receiving, customer service) is also expected.

• Customer-Centric Focus: The culture is heavily focused on customer engagement, creativity, and providing solutions that cater to diverse artistic and crafting needs.

Methodology:

• Customer Engagement: Emphasis on proactive customer interaction, building relationships, and providing personalized solutions (Elevated ABC Deliver).

• Process Adherence: Strong focus on following Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for sales, production, safety, and inventory management.

• Efficiency and Quality: Balancing the need for speed in retail operations with the high-quality standards required for custom framing.

• Data-Driven Decisions: While not explicitly stated for this role, the company likely uses sales data, inventory metrics, and customer feedback to inform operational strategies.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The company context emphasizes a large retail environment with established processes and a strong customer-centric culture. For a Custom Framer, understanding the "creative" aspect of the business and how to translate that into sales and service is key to cultural fit.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned at an entry-level to junior operational specialist level within a retail context. It provides foundational experience in customer service, sales, production, and retail operations. The focus is on mastering specific operational tasks and contributing to team goals.

Reporting Structure: The Custom Framer will likely report to a Store Manager or Assistant Store Manager. In larger stores, there might be a dedicated Custom Framing Manager or Department Lead who provides direct supervision for framing-specific duties.

Operations Impact: The Custom Framer directly impacts store revenue through custom framing sales and contributes to overall store performance by ensuring efficient operations, excellent customer service, and maintaining store standards. Their role is crucial for customer satisfaction, repeat business, and achieving departmental sales targets.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Development: Opportunities to deepen expertise in custom framing techniques, sales, and customer relationship management.

• Advancement within Store Operations: Potential to move into roles like Sales Associate, Key Holder, Assistant Manager, or Store Manager within Michaels retail locations.

• Specialization: With demonstrated success, potential to become a lead or specialist in the custom framing department.

• Cross-Training: Possibility to gain experience in other store departments, broadening operational knowledge.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth potential within Michaels is significant, moving from a specialized operational role into broader retail management or leadership positions. Highlighting the transferable skills gained in this role is crucial for career progression discussions.

🌐 Work Environment

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

Office Location(s): The specific store is located at 3771 S Gilbert Rd, Gilbert, Arizona. This is a customer-facing environment.

Workspace Context:

• Customer-Facing Environment: The majority of time is spent interacting with customers on the sales floor and in the framing area.

• Operations Tools & Technology: Access to POS systems, framing equipment, glass cutters, heat presses, and potentially basic computer systems for order management or internal communications.

• Team Interaction: Regular opportunities for collaboration and communication with store colleagues and management, fostering a team-oriented atmosphere.

• Variable Climate Control: While public areas are climate-controlled, some stock rooms may not be, and outdoor work may be required during truck unloads.

Work Schedule: The role is part-time, requiring flexibility to work nights, weekends, and early mornings based on store operational needs and customer traffic. This schedule allows for balancing work with other commitments but requires adaptability.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is dynamic and customer-focused, typical of a busy retail setting. The mention of specific tools like glass cutters and heat presses indicates hands-on operational work.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process: The interview process likely involves several stages:

• Application Review: Initial screening of submitted resumes and applications.

• Phone Screen: A brief call with an HR representative or hiring manager to assess basic qualifications and interest.

• In-Person Interview: This will likely be with the Store Manager or Department Lead. It will focus on customer service skills, retail experience, understanding of the Custom Framer role, and cultural fit. Expect behavioral questions.

• Skills Assessment (Potential): A brief practical demonstration of measuring skills, basic computer use, or discussion of how you would handle a customer inquiry.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Focus on Relevant Experience: Since this is an entry-level role, don't feel pressured to create a formal portfolio. Instead, be prepared to discuss specific examples from previous jobs, volunteer work, or even personal projects that demonstrate:

  • Customer Service Excellence: How you've gone above and beyond for a customer.
  • Problem-Solving: A time you encountered an issue and how you resolved it.
  • Attention to Detail: Examples of tasks requiring precision and accuracy.
  • Teamwork: How you collaborated with colleagues.
  • Learning Agility: How quickly you pick up new skills or adapt to new systems.

• Quantify Achievements: Where possible, use numbers to illustrate your impact (e.g., "assisted an average of X customers per hour," "maintained department tidiness for X months").

• Enthusiasm for Creativity: Express genuine interest in arts, crafts, and helping customers bring their creative visions to life through custom framing.

Challenge Preparation:

• Customer Scenario: Be ready to role-play a customer interaction, from greeting them to understanding their framing needs and offering solutions.

• Problem-Solving Question: Prepare for questions like, "What would you do if a customer was unhappy with their framing order?" or "How would you handle a busy period with multiple customers needing assistance?"

• Operational Understanding: Be prepared to discuss your understanding of retail operations, safety procedures, and the importance of following SOPs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis for this role is on practical skills, customer interaction, and a willingness to learn. Candidates should prepare to discuss their experiences using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for behavioral questions.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Custom Framing Equipment: Various machinery and tools specific to cutting mats, assembling frames, and finishing custom pieces. This includes a glass cutter and potentially a heat press for certain applications.

• Point of Sale (POS) System: For processing transactions, managing sales, and potentially order entry.

• Basic Computer Skills: For accessing internal systems, email, and potentially order management software.

• Measuring Tools: Tape measures, rulers, and other precision instruments for accurate sizing.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While direct responsibility for complex analytics is unlikely, the role contributes to store-level reporting through:
  • Sales Data: Transactions processed through the POS system.
  • Inventory Tracking: Through replenishment and SISO processes.
  • Customer Feedback: Direct input from customer interactions.

CRM & Automation:

• Customer Relationship Management (CRM): The "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodology implies a focus on customer relationship building, which is a form of informal CRM. The POS system may also have basic customer profile capabilities.

• Automation: While not heavy on software automation, the role involves using specialized equipment (framing machines, glass cutters) to automate and standardize the framing process.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is practical and hands-on, centered around retail operations and specialized framing tools. Proficiency with basic computer systems and a willingness to learn specialized equipment are key.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Customer Focus: Prioritizing customer satisfaction and building strong, lasting relationships through exceptional service and tailored solutions.

• Creativity & Passion: Embracing the joy of creativity and contributing to a culture where artistic expression is valued and supported.

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

• Teamwork & Respect: Fostering a positive and supportive work environment where colleagues treat each other with acceptance and respect.

• Efficiency & Process Adherence: Following established procedures and working efficiently to meet operational goals while maintaining high standards.

Collaboration Style:

• Team-Oriented: Working collaboratively with fellow store associates and management to ensure smooth store operations and excellent customer experiences.

• Proactive Communication: Sharing information, offering assistance, and providing feedback to colleagues to improve team performance and address challenges.

• Customer-Centric Collaboration: Working together to solve customer issues and ensure a seamless experience, especially with Omni-channel orders.

• Learning Culture: Encouraging knowledge sharing and continuous learning, particularly regarding new products, techniques, and operational procedures.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture emphasizes a blend of creativity, customer service, and operational discipline. Candidates who are enthusiastic about arts and crafts, enjoy interacting with people, and can follow established processes will likely thrive.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Sales, Production, and Service: Effectively managing time to meet sales targets, complete high-quality framing orders, and provide excellent customer service simultaneously.

• Handling Diverse Customer Needs: Understanding and catering to a wide range of artistic styles, framing requirements, and budget considerations from customers.

• Physical Demands: The role requires standing for long periods, lifting heavy items, and performing repetitive tasks, which can be physically demanding.

• Adapting to Seasonal Peaks: Managing workflow and customer traffic during busy retail periods (holidays, craft seasons).

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Custom Framing Expertise: Developing advanced skills in framing techniques, material selection, and design consultation.

• Sales and Customer Engagement: Enhancing sales abilities, negotiation skills, and customer relationship management through practical application and training.

• Retail Operations Proficiency: Gaining comprehensive experience in various aspects of retail management, including inventory control, merchandising, and POS operations.

• Leadership Potential: Opportunities to take on more responsibility, mentor new team members, and potentially move into supervisory or management roles within Michaels.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are typical of a hands-on retail role, requiring strong organizational skills and resilience. The growth opportunities are tied to mastering the core functions and demonstrating potential for broader responsibility within the retail environment.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Tell me about a time you helped a customer find the perfect solution for their needs." (Focus on active listening, problem-solving, and successful outcomes).

• "How do you ensure accuracy and attention to detail in your work?" (Provide examples of tasks where precision was critical and how you achieved it).

• "Describe your experience with custom framing or similar craft/design work." (If no direct experience, highlight transferable skills like precision, creativity, or following instructions).

• "How would you handle a situation where a customer is unhappy with a custom framing order?" (Emphasize empathy, active listening, and problem-solving within company policy).

• "What interests you about working at Michaels and specifically in custom framing?" (Show genuine enthusiasm for the brand, creativity, and customer interaction). Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Michaels and our commitment to creativity?" (Research the company mission, values, and product offerings).

• "How do you contribute to a positive team environment?" (Discuss collaboration, respect, and proactive support for colleagues).

• "How do you approach learning new skills or operating new equipment?" (Highlight eagerness to learn and ability to follow instructions). Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Verbalize Experience: Since a formal portfolio isn't expected, be prepared to verbally walk through specific examples from your resume or past experiences that align with the job requirements.

• Highlight Transferable Skills: If you lack direct framing experience, emphasize skills like:

  • Precision and Measurement: From any role requiring accuracy.
  • Customer Service: Demonstrating how you've delighted customers.
  • Problem-Solving: Instances where you overcame challenges.
  • Process Following: How you adhere to instructions and SOPs.

• Showcase Enthusiasm: Express your passion for creativity, art, and helping customers realize their vision.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a strong customer service orientation, attention to detail, a willingness to learn specialized skills, and alignment with Michaels' creative brand.

📌 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 relevant customer service, sales, retail, and any hands-on or detail-oriented experiences. Use keywords from the job description like "customer service," "sales," "merchandising," "detail-oriented," and "problem-solving."

• Prepare Your "Verbal Portfolio": Be ready to discuss specific examples from your past experience that demonstrate your ability to handle customer interactions, maintain accuracy, follow processes, and contribute to a team. Think about the STAR method for answering behavioral questions.

• Research Michaels: Familiarize yourself with Michaels' brand, its commitment to creativity, and its product offerings. Understand how the Custom Framing department fits into the overall store experience.

• Practice Interview Questions: Rehearse answers to common retail and customer service interview questions, focusing on demonstrating enthusiasm, a positive attitude, and a strong work ethic.

⚠️ 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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