Custom Framer / Designer Part Time

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Custom Framer / Designer Part Time

Company: Michaels Stores

Location: Enfield, Connecticut, United States

Job Type: Part time

Category: Retail Operations / Art & Design

Date Posted: September 15, 2026

Experience Level: Entry Level (0-2 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role focuses on delivering exceptional customer experiences within a retail environment, specifically within the custom framing department.

• Responsibilities include building strong customer relationships, understanding their needs, and translating them into creative framing solutions.

• Key operational duties involve managing inventory, operating specialized equipment, and ensuring adherence to standard operating procedures (SOPs) for quality and efficiency.

• The position also requires proficiency in point-of-sale (POS) transactions, merchandising, and supporting omni-channel fulfillment processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title suggests "Designer," the core responsibilities and requirements lean heavily into customer service, sales, and operational execution within a retail framing department. The "Designer" aspect appears to be integrated into the sales process of offering framing solutions rather than independent design work.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Customer Engagement & Sales:

  • Build and nurture customer relationships through proactive engagement and active listening, utilizing the "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodology to understand customer needs.
  • Consult with customers to create memorable and effective custom framing solutions for their artwork and cherished items.
  • Drive sales by effectively presenting framing options, materials, and pricing, meeting established sales and production targets.
  • Acknowledge customers promptly, assist them in locating products, and offer tailored solutions to enhance their shopping experience.

• Production & Quality Assurance:

  • Execute custom framing orders with a high degree of quality, ensuring timely completion and adherence to design specifications.
  • Operate framing equipment, including specialized tools like glass cutters and heat presses, safely and efficiently.
  • Maintain the ready-made frame department and other assigned areas, ensuring they are well-organized and stocked according to merchandising standards.

• Store Operations & Merchandising:

  • Uphold Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company programs to ensure compliance with all applicable laws and operational standards.
  • Maintain a safe, clean, and clutter-free store environment, with particular attention to the framing area.
  • Participate actively in truck un-loading and stocking processes, adhering to established truck standards and timelines.
  • Manage assigned areas, including SISO (Shop In, Ship Out) and Directed Replenishment tasks, to ensure optimal inventory levels and product availability.
  • Operate the cash register and execute cash handling procedures to company standards, ensuring accuracy and security.

• Team Collaboration & Compliance:

  • Interact with colleagues and supervisors in an accepting and respectful manner, promoting a positive and inclusive work environment.

  • Remain positive and respectful, even in challenging situations, and serve as a role model by embodying the organization's vision and values.

  • Support company-wide shrink and safety programs, actively contributing to a secure and efficient operational framework.

  • Assist with omni-channel processes, such as online order fulfillment and customer pick-ups, to ensure a seamless customer journey.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of direct customer interaction, sales acumen, technical execution in framing, and general retail operational duties. The emphasis on "Elevated ABC Deliver" suggests a structured approach to customer service and sales within the framing context.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: High school diploma or equivalent preferred.

Experience: 0-2 years of experience in a customer-facing role, with a strong preference for retail environments.

Required Skills:

• Basic Computer Skills: Ability to navigate and use store POS systems, basic computer applications, and potentially internal communication platforms.

• Basic Measuring Skills: Proficiency in accurate measurement for custom framing orders.

• Equipment Operation: Aptitude to learn and safely operate framing equipment and a glass cutter.

• Customer Service Excellence: Proven ability to engage customers, understand their needs, and provide solutions in a friendly and helpful manner.

• Sales Acumen: Demonstrated ability to present products and services, upsell, and contribute to sales targets.

• Adherence to Procedures: Willingness and ability to follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company policies diligently.

• Teamwork & Communication: Ability to collaborate effectively with team members and communicate clearly.

Preferred Skills:

• Retail Experience: Prior experience working in a retail setting, understanding store operations, and customer flow.

• Sales Experience: Proven track record of successfully selling products or services, with an ability to close sales.

• Visual Merchandising: Understanding of how to present products effectively to enhance customer appeal and drive sales.

• Inventory Management Basics: Familiarity with stocking, replenishment, and maintaining organized stock areas.

• Problem-Solving: Ability to address customer issues or operational challenges creatively and efficiently.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on "basic" skills for required qualifications indicates this is an entry-level role with significant on-the-job training provided. The preferred skills highlight areas that would allow a candidate to ramp up more quickly and contribute more significantly to sales and operational efficiency.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• While a formal portfolio is not explicitly required for this entry-level role, candidates are encouraged to highlight relevant experiences in their resume or cover letter that demonstrate:
  • Customer Solution Examples: Instances where they identified a customer need and provided a successful product or service solution.
  • Process Adherence: Examples of following specific instructions or procedures to achieve a desired outcome.
  • Sales Achievements: Quantifiable results from previous sales roles, if applicable.
  • Learning Agility: Evidence of quickly learning new skills or operating new equipment.

Process Documentation:

• The company emphasizes adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company programs. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their understanding of and experience with following documented processes for:
  • Customer Service Workflows: How they approach customer interactions from greeting to problem resolution.
  • Sales Processes: How they guide a customer through a sales cycle, from needs assessment to closing.
  • Operational Tasks: Examples of executing tasks like stocking, merchandising, or cash handling according to defined steps.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an entry-level retail position, a formal "portfolio" is less common. The expectation is more around demonstrating foundational skills and a willingness to learn through resume content and interview discussions. The emphasis is on understanding and executing defined processes.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $17.50 - $20.60 per hour

Benefits:

• Health & Wellness:

  • Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage.
  • Telemedicine services for convenient healthcare access.
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for confidential support.

• Financial Security:

  • 401(k) plan with employer match for retirement savings.
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) for healthcare and dependent care expenses.
  • Commuter benefits to assist with transportation costs.

• Professional Development:

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

• Additional Perks:

  • Voluntary insurance options for supplemental coverage.

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

  • Access to partner discount programs. Working Hours: Part-time. While the description mentions nights, weekends, and early mornings, the specific number of hours per week is not defined but is generally understood to be less than 30-40 hours for a part-time role. Overtime compensation may be available in accordance with state and local laws.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is clearly stated and competitive for entry-level retail positions in the specified region. The benefits package is comprehensive for a part-time role, offering a good mix of health, financial, and professional development support, which is a significant draw for retail operations roles.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Arts and Crafts Retail. Michaels is a leading retailer in North America, focusing on providing supplies and inspiration for creative pursuits, crafting, and celebrations. The company also operates Artistree, a custom framing manufacturer.

Company Size: Over 1,300 stores across North America, indicating a large, established retail footprint with a significant employee base. This size implies structured operational processes and career pathways.

Founded: 1973, with headquarters in Irving, Texas. This long history suggests stability, established brand recognition, and a deep understanding of its market.

Team Structure:

• Store Level: This role is part of a store team, likely reporting to a Store Manager or Assistant Store Manager, with direct supervision from a Framing Department Lead or similar position.

• Departmental Focus: The role is primarily situated within the Custom Framing department, requiring close collaboration with other framers and potentially sales associates assisting customers in that area.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: While focused on framing, the role involves interaction with other store departments for general customer assistance, stocking, and omni-channel fulfillment, requiring coordination with various store team members.

Methodology:

• Customer-Centric Approach: The company emphasizes building customer relationships and providing personalized solutions, as highlighted by the "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodology for customer interaction and sales.

• Process Standardization: Adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) is crucial, ensuring consistent service delivery, quality control, and operational efficiency across all stores.

• Data-Informed Merchandising: While not explicitly detailed for this role, the company's scale suggests data is used for inventory management, product placement, and sales tracking to optimize store performance.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Michaels' culture is centered around creativity, community, and customer service within the arts and crafts sector. For operations roles like this, it means a focus on creating a positive, inspiring environment for both customers and team members, coupled with the need for efficient, standardized execution of retail and specialized department tasks.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Entry Level / Associate. This position is designed for individuals starting their careers in retail operations or seeking to develop skills in customer service, sales, and specialized department execution. It provides a foundational understanding of retail workflows and customer engagement.

Reporting Structure: The Custom Framer / Designer will report to store management (e.g., Store Manager, Assistant Store Manager) and likely receive day-to-day direction from a lead within the framing department. This structure allows for direct mentorship and operational guidance.

Operations Impact: This role directly impacts store revenue through custom framing sales and contributes to overall customer satisfaction and store appearance through merchandising and maintaining a clean environment. Effective execution of framing orders and customer service builds loyalty and repeat business.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Opportunity to become a skilled custom framer, mastering techniques, material knowledge, and design consultation, potentially leading to a Senior Framer or Framing Specialist role.

• Sales Progression: Develop strong sales capabilities, potentially advancing to roles with higher sales targets or responsibilities within the sales floor.

• Leadership Development: With demonstrated performance and leadership potential, opportunities may arise to move into supervisory roles such as Key Holder, Assistant Department Manager, or even Assistant Store Manager.

• Cross-Training: Potential to gain experience in other store departments, broadening operational knowledge and making one a more versatile team member.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an entry-level position, the growth path is typically within the store's operational structure. The emphasis is on developing core competencies that can lead to increased responsibility and potentially supervisory roles within Michaels' extensive retail network.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Retail Store Environment. This role operates within a busy, customer-facing retail store setting.

Office Location(s): Enfield, CT - 25 Hazard Ave. This specific location serves the local community.

Workspace Context:

• Customer Interaction Hub: The primary workspace is the sales floor and the custom framing department, requiring constant interaction with customers and team members.

• Specialized Tools: Access to framing equipment, glass cutters, heat presses, and POS systems is integral to the daily work.

• Dynamic Atmosphere: The environment is typically fast-paced, especially during peak seasons or weekends, requiring adaptability and efficiency.

• Climate Control: While most public areas are climate-controlled, some stock rooms might not be, and outdoor work may be assigned for specific tasks like retrieving shopping carts or during truck unloads.

Work Schedule: Part-time, requiring availability for nights, weekends, and early mornings. Flexibility in scheduling is a key aspect of this role to meet store operational needs and customer demand.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is typical for a retail associate, with the added specialization of a framing department. It demands a high level of energy, customer focus, and the ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously in a dynamic setting.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Likely a brief phone or online screening to assess basic qualifications, availability, and interest.

• In-Person Interview: A more in-depth interview at the store, potentially including:

  • Behavioral Questions: Assessing customer service aptitude, teamwork, problem-solving, and adherence to procedures (e.g., "Tell me about a time you dealt with a difficult customer").
  • Situational Questions: Presenting scenarios related to framing consultations, sales, or operational challenges to gauge problem-solving skills.
  • Skills Assessment: Discussion of basic computer and measuring skills, and willingness to learn framing equipment operation.
  • Company Culture Fit: Evaluating alignment with Michaels' values of creativity, customer service, and teamwork.

• On-the-Job Trial/Training: For framing-specific tasks, there may be an opportunity to observe or participate in basic framing tasks as part of the interview or onboarding to assess aptitude.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Resume Focus: For this role, your resume is your primary "portfolio." Ensure it clearly highlights:

  • Any customer service or sales experience, detailing responsibilities and achievements.
  • Any experience with tools, equipment, or technical tasks, even if not directly framing-related.
  • Examples of following instructions or procedures meticulously.
  • Any creative skills or artistic interests that align with Michaels' brand.

• Verbal Examples: Be prepared to verbally describe specific instances where you demonstrated strong customer service, problem-solving, or sales skills. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses.

• Enthusiasm for Craft: Express genuine interest in the arts, crafts, and custom framing. This passion can be a significant differentiator.

Challenge Preparation:

• Customer Scenario: Be ready to role-play a customer interaction where a client has a specific item they want framed. Consider asking clarifying questions about the item, its value, and the desired aesthetic.

• Sales Pitch: Practice a brief "pitch" for custom framing services, highlighting the benefits of professional framing for preserving and enhancing artwork.

• Operational Task Description: Be prepared to describe how you would ensure a workspace is clean and organized, or how you would accurately measure a piece for framing.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is likely to be practical and focused on assessing core retail competencies and trainability for the specific framing aspects of the role. Demonstrating a positive attitude, strong work ethic, and genuine interest in customer service and creativity will be key.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• POS System: Proficiency with point-of-sale systems for processing transactions, managing customer orders, and handling payments.

• Custom Framing Equipment: This includes specialized machinery and tools for cutting mats, glass, and assembling frames. Hands-on training will be provided.

• Glass Cutter & Heat Press: Specific tools within the framing shop that require careful operation.

• Basic Computer Applications: For accessing training materials, communication, and potentially inventory look-up.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While this role doesn't directly manage analytics, understanding that sales data, customer order information, and inventory levels are tracked is beneficial. The POS system will likely provide basic sales reporting for the department. CRM & Automation:

• Customer Relationship Management (CRM): The POS system may have basic CRM capabilities for tracking customer orders and contact information. The "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodology implies a structured approach to customer relationship building.

• Omni-Channel Support: Familiarity with systems that support online order fulfillment, customer pick-ups, and ship-from-store processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is focused on direct retail operations: POS for transactions and customer data, specialized equipment for production, and basic computing for access and communication. The emphasis is on trainability and safe operation of these tools.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Creativity & Passion: A core value is fostering and fueling the joy of creativity. Team members are encouraged to embrace and share this passion.

• Customer Focus: "We are here for all Team Members and all customers to create, innovate and be better together." This highlights a strong commitment to exceptional customer service and positive interactions.

• Teamwork & Respect: The culture promotes accepting and respectful interactions, aiming for a positive and inclusive environment where everyone can contribute and feel valued.

• Integrity & Compliance: Adherence to SOPs, safety programs, and company policies is essential, ensuring operational integrity and a secure work environment.

• Efficiency & Quality: While creativity is key, operational roles also demand efficiency in task execution and a commitment to high-quality results, particularly in custom framing.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Support: Team members are expected to support each other across departments to ensure the smooth operation of the store and a positive customer experience.

• Open Communication: Encouragement of positive and respectful communication, even in difficult situations, to foster a supportive team dynamic.

• Shared Goals: Working collaboratively towards common store objectives, such as sales targets, customer satisfaction scores, and operational efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: Michaels cultivates a culture that blends creative enthusiasm with operational discipline. For this role, it means being personable and helpful to customers while also being diligent and precise in executing tasks according to established procedures.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Sales and Service: Effectively managing customer consultations and sales opportunities while simultaneously ensuring timely and high-quality framing production.

• Learning Specialized Skills: Mastering the operation of framing equipment, understanding material properties, and developing design consultation skills requires dedicated learning and practice.

• Pace of Retail: Adapting to the fast-paced nature of a retail environment, especially during peak hours or seasons, while maintaining accuracy and customer focus.

• Inventory Management: Keeping the framing department and related areas well-stocked and organized, which can be demanding with a wide variety of materials and components.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• On-the-Job Training: Comprehensive training on custom framing techniques, equipment operation, sales consultation, and store operational procedures.

• Product Knowledge: Deepening understanding of various framing materials, matting options, glass types, and design principles.

• Sales & Customer Service Skills: Enhancing abilities in consultative selling, relationship building, and conflict resolution through practical experience and potential workshops.

• Career Advancement: Opportunities to progress within the store structure, potentially moving into supervisory roles or specializing further in custom framing.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are typical for a specialized retail role that blends customer interaction with technical execution. The growth opportunities are structured around developing expertise within the company's operational framework.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Customer Service Scenarios: "Describe how you would assist a customer who is unsure about what framing style would best suit their artwork." or "How would you handle a situation where a customer is unhappy with the final framing product?"

  • Preparation: Focus on active listening, asking clarifying questions, presenting options, and seeking solutions that align with company policies and customer satisfaction.

• Sales Approach: "What would be your approach to selling custom framing services to a customer who initially only came in for basic supplies?" or "How would you upsell additional services or premium materials?"

  • Preparation: Emphasize understanding customer needs first, then showcasing value, benefits, and how custom framing enhances their item. Mention product knowledge and confidence.

• Process & Safety: "How important is it to follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) in a retail environment, especially in a framing department?" or "What steps would you take to ensure safety when operating framing equipment like a glass cutter?"

  • Preparation: Stress the importance of consistency, quality, safety, and compliance. Detail a methodical approach to learning and executing procedures. Company & Culture Questions:

• Motivation: "Why are you interested in working at Michaels, specifically in custom framing?" or "What do you know about Michaels and our commitment to creativity?"

  • Preparation: Research Michaels' mission, values, and product offerings. Express genuine enthusiasm for art, crafts, and helping customers bring their creative visions to life.

• Teamwork: "Describe your ideal team environment." or "How do you contribute to a positive team atmosphere?"

  • Preparation: Highlight your ability to collaborate, communicate respectfully, and support colleagues.

• Problem-Solving: "Tell me about a time you had to solve a problem at work."

  • Preparation: Use the STAR method to illustrate a situation where you identified an issue, took action, and achieved a positive resolution. Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Resume as Guide: Use your resume as the primary document.

Be prepared to elaborate on any bullet point, especially those related to customer service, sales, technical aptitude, or adherence to procedures.

• Verbal Case Studies: If you have prior retail or sales experience, prepare 1-2 brief "case studies" (using STAR method) demonstrating your ability to:

  • Successfully assist a customer with a complex need.
  • Achieve a sales target or exceed expectations.
  • Improve a process or resolve an operational issue.

• Enthusiasm for Craft: Articulate your interest in custom framing and design. Even without direct experience, convey a willingness to learn and a creative eye.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview will likely assess a candidate's trainability, customer service orientation, and basic aptitude for sales and operational tasks. Demonstrating a positive attitude, a strong work ethic, and a genuine interest in the Michaels brand and its products will be crucial.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

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

• Resume Customization: Tailor your resume to highlight customer service, sales, any experience with tools or technical tasks, and your ability to follow instructions and procedures. Use keywords from the job description such as "customer service," "sales," "measuring skills," and "basic computer skills."

• Prepare Verbal Examples: Practice articulating your experience using the STAR method, focusing on situations related to customer interactions, problem-solving, and executing tasks accurately.

• Research Michaels: Understand the company's mission, values, and product range. Be ready to express your enthusiasm for creativity and customer engagement.

• Availability Check: Ensure your stated availability aligns with the part-time requirements, including nights, weekends, and early mornings, as this is critical for retail operations roles.

⚠️ 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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