Custom Framer- Part Time

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Custom Framer - Part Time

Company: Michaels Stores

Location: Portage, Michigan, United States

Job Type: Part Time

Category: Retail Operations / Sales Support

Date Posted: August 11, 2026

Experience Level: Entry Level (0-2 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is critical in driving customer satisfaction and sales within the Custom Framing department, requiring direct customer interaction and sales execution.

• Responsibilities include managing the entire custom framing order lifecycle, from design consultation to production and timely delivery, emphasizing quality and customer experience.

• The position demands operational efficiency, including adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), inventory management for ready-made frames, and contributing to overall store presentation and stock replenishment.

• Successful candidates will leverage basic computer and measuring skills, alongside the ability to operate specialized framing equipment, to meet sales and production targets in a dynamic retail environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is clearly focused on a specialized retail function (Custom Framing) within a larger retail organization (Michaels Stores). While not a traditional "Revenue Operations" or "Sales Operations" role in the B2B SaaS sense, it involves direct customer interaction, sales, order fulfillment, and operational tasks that contribute to store revenue and efficiency. The "operations" aspect is centered on store-level processes, customer service, and product customization.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Customer Engagement & Design:

  • Build strong customer relationships through elevated service delivery (Elevated ABC Deliver) to understand their needs and create memorable custom framing solutions.
  • Act as a personal designer, guiding customers through framing options, materials, and design aesthetics to meet their specific art and project requirements.
  • Acknowledge customers promptly, assist them in locating products, and provide effective solutions to their creative needs.

• Sales & Production Execution:

  • Drive sales and production results within the Custom Framing department by effectively selling products and services.
  • Complete custom framing orders with a high degree of quality and within established timelines, ensuring customer satisfaction.
  • Operate the cash register and execute cash handling procedures with accuracy and adherence to company standards.

• Store Operations & Merchandising:

  • Maintain the ready-made frame department, including SISO (Shop In Store Out) and Directed Replenishment, ensuring optimal product presentation and availability.
  • Contribute to a safe, clean, and clutter-free store environment by actively participating in stocking processes, including truck unloads and merchandise placement.
  • Support company-wide shrink and safety programs through diligent adherence to procedures and proactive identification of potential issues.

• Process Adherence & Collaboration:

  • Adhere strictly to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company programs to ensure compliance with applicable laws and requirements, and to execute company policies and standards consistently.

  • Participate actively in the truck un-load and stocking processes, ensuring adherence to truck standards and completion within budget.

  • Assist with Omni channel processes as required, supporting integrated customer experiences across various sales channels.

  • Interact positively and respectfully with colleagues, remaining positive and constructive even in challenging situations, and acting as a role model for organizational values.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of direct sales, customer service, specialized production (framing), and general retail operations. The emphasis on "Elevated ABC Deliver" and "personal designer" suggests a customer-centric sales approach, while "SOPs," "shrink and safety programs," and "truck un-load and stocking" point to core retail operational duties.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• High school diploma or equivalent is typically expected for retail positions, though not explicitly stated, it is a common prerequisite. Experience:

• 0-2 years of experience in a customer-facing role, preferably within a retail environment, is ideal for this entry-level position.

• Experience in sales or selling products/services is preferred, demonstrating an ability to engage customers and drive transactions. Required Skills:

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

• Basic Measuring Skills: Essential for accurate custom framing measurements, ensuring proper fit and material usage.

• Equipment Operation: Proficiency in operating framing equipment and a glass cutter safely and effectively.

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

• Cash Handling: Accuracy and reliability in processing transactions, managing cash, and operating a cash register.

• Merchandising & Presentation: Skills to maintain an organized and appealing ready-made frame department and contribute to overall store visual standards.

Preferred Skills:

• Retail Sales Experience: Proven track record of successfully selling products or services to customers, ideally in a specialty retail or custom-order environment.

• Art & Design Aptitude: A natural inclination for design, aesthetics, and understanding how to best present artwork through framing.

• Inventory Management Basics: Familiarity with stock replenishment and maintaining organized inventory levels.

• Omni Channel Support: Understanding of or willingness to learn and support integrated customer shopping experiences.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "ai_experience_level": "0-2" suggests this is an entry-level role, thus the focus on "basic" skills. The "ai_key_skills" list provides a solid foundation for required proficiencies. The preferred skills align with enhancing customer interaction and sales performance.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Customer Interaction Case Studies: While a formal portfolio isn't typically required for this level, candidates can prepare examples of how they've successfully resolved customer issues or upsold products in previous roles.

• Sales & Production Examples: Be ready to discuss specific instances where you met or exceeded sales targets or completed complex orders efficiently and to a high standard.

• Process Adherence Demonstration: Examples of following SOPs, maintaining a clean workspace, or contributing to team operational goals.

• Problem-Solving Scenarios: Prepare to discuss how you would handle common retail challenges, such as customer complaints, inventory discrepancies, or equipment issues.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Understanding: Demonstrate an understanding of a typical retail workflow from customer engagement to transaction completion and order fulfillment.

• SOP Compliance Awareness: Show an understanding of the importance of following established procedures for consistency, safety, and compliance.

• Measurement & Quality Control: Be prepared to discuss how you ensure accuracy in measurements and quality in the final framed product.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an entry-level retail role, a formal portfolio is unlikely. This section focuses on what candidates should be prepared to discuss or demonstrate through examples during the interview process, aligning with the operational and sales aspects of the role.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Estimated Range: $12.00 - $16.00 per hour.

• Methodology: This estimate is based on part-time, entry-level retail positions in the Portage, Michigan area, considering typical hourly wages for customer service and sales roles in large retail chains. Factors like experience, specific store performance, and the specialized nature of custom framing might influence the exact offer. Research was conducted using aggregated salary data for similar roles in Michigan.

Benefits:

• Core Benefits:

  • 401(k) with employer match: Provides a retirement savings plan with company contributions.
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Offers confidential support for personal and work-related issues.
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision Coverage: Comprehensive health insurance options for eligible team members.
  • 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 commuting costs.
  • Tuition Assistance: Support for continuing education and skill development.
  • Adoption Assistance: Financial support for employees growing their families through adoption.

• Additional Perks:

  • Employee Discounts: Significant discounts on Michaels products, fostering creativity and savings.

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

• This is a part-time position. Exact hours will vary based on business needs and scheduling, but will likely include nights, weekends, and early mornings, as typical for retail environments. The specified "ai_working_hours": 40 might indicate a maximum potential for full-time hours if available or a general guideline, but the "Part time" employment type is definitive.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided benefits are extensive for a part-time retail role, indicating Michaels' commitment to team member well-being. The salary estimate is based on general market research for similar roles in the specified location.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Arts and Crafts Retail. Michaels is the largest specialty arts and crafts retail chain in North America.

Company Size: Large (Over 10,000 employees, with a significant number of these being store associates). This implies a structured corporate environment with established retail operations and procedures.

Founded: 1973. With decades of experience, Michaels has a well-defined operational model and brand identity.

Team Structure:

• Store-Level Operations: This role is part of a local store team, likely reporting to a Store Manager or Assistant Store Manager, with direct supervision from a Framing Department Lead or Manager if applicable.

• Departmental Focus: Operates within the Custom Framing department, requiring collaboration with other store associates for general store tasks and customer service.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Interacts with customers, fellow sales associates, stockroom personnel, and potentially management for operational support, sales assistance, and task delegation.

Methodology:

• Customer-Centric Approach: Emphasis on "Elevated ABC Deliver" and building customer relationships, indicating a focus on personalized service to drive sales and loyalty.

• Process-Driven Operations: Strict adherence to SOPs for consistency, quality, and compliance across all store functions, including framing production and retail operations.

• Data-Informed Merchandising: Use of "Directed Replenishment" suggests a data-driven approach to maintaining stock levels and product presentation in the ready-made frame area.

Company Website: www.michaels.com

📝 Enhancement Note: The company context emphasizes a large, established retail environment with a focus on customer experience and operational consistency. The team structure is typical of a retail store setting.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as an Entry-Level/Associate position within the retail operations framework. It provides foundational experience in customer interaction, sales, specialized production, and general store operations.

Reporting Structure: Typically reports to a Store Manager or Assistant Store Manager, with day-to-day guidance potentially coming from a Framing Department Lead or a designated senior associate.

Operations Impact: Directly impacts store revenue through custom framing sales and customer satisfaction. Contributes to operational efficiency by maintaining departments, assisting with stocking, and adhering to SOPs. The role is a building block for developing skills essential in retail operations and customer-facing sales.

Growth Opportunities:

• Within Custom Framing: Potential to advance to a Framing Department Lead or Manager role, taking on more responsibility for production, sales targets, and team supervision within the department.

• Retail Management Path: Opportunity to transition into broader retail management roles (e.g., Assistant Store Manager, Store Manager) by demonstrating strong operational skills, sales acumen, and leadership potential.

• Cross-Departmental Skills: Development of transferable skills in customer service, sales, inventory management, and operational execution applicable to various retail functions.

• Specialized Training: Access to company-provided training on framing techniques, sales strategies, and operational procedures, enhancing professional skill sets.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth analysis focuses on the typical progression within a large retail organization like Michaels, highlighting pathways from an entry-level associate to more senior roles in specialized departments or general store management.

🌐 Work Environment

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

Office Location(s): The specific store is located at 6601 S Westnedge Ave, Portage, Michigan. This is a customer-facing environment.

Workspace Context:

• Customer Interaction Hub: The environment is dynamic, with constant interaction with a diverse customer base.

• Specialized Production Area: The frame shop is equipped with tools like a glass cutter and heat press, requiring attention to safety protocols.

• Team Collaboration: Opportunities for collaboration with other store associates for shared tasks, customer support, and maintaining store standards.

• Climate Control: Public areas are climate-controlled, though some stock rooms may not be.

Work Schedule:

• Part-time position.

• Work hours are flexible and include nights, weekends, and early mornings, which is standard for the retail industry to meet customer demand throughout operating hours.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section describes the typical retail store environment, emphasizing customer interaction, specialized tools in the frame shop, and the need for flexibility in scheduling.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Application Review: Screening of resumes and applications for basic qualifications, experience, and alignment with company values.

• Phone Screen/Initial Interview: A brief discussion, often with HR or a hiring manager, to assess general suitability, interest, and basic qualifications.

Focus on customer service experience and availability.

• In-Person Interview: Typically involves a conversation with the Store Manager or Assistant Manager. This stage will likely focus on:

  • Behavioral questions about past experiences in customer service, sales, and handling difficult situations.
  • Situational questions assessing problem-solving skills and decision-making in a retail context.
  • Discussion of your understanding of the Custom Framing role, including your interest in art and design.
  • Assessment of your ability to operate equipment and your comfort with physical demands.

• Skills Assessment (Potential): May include a brief demonstration of basic measuring skills or a discussion about operating framing equipment.

• Final Offer: Based on the successful completion of interviews and background checks.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• For this role, a formal portfolio is not expected. Instead, focus on preparing to discuss your experiences verbally.

• Prepare specific examples: Have ready anecdotes that demonstrate your customer service skills, sales success, problem-solving abilities, and any experience with crafts, art, or hands-on work.

• Highlight relevant skills: Be ready to talk about your comfort with basic computer tasks, measuring, and operating tools.

• Show enthusiasm: Express genuine interest in Michaels, custom framing, and helping customers bring their creative visions to life.

Challenge Preparation:

• Situational Scenarios: Be ready to answer questions like: "How would you handle a customer who is unhappy with their framing order?" or "A customer can't find the specific item they're looking for; what do you do?"

• Process Understanding: Be prepared to discuss how you would approach measuring a piece of art for framing or how you ensure accuracy in your work.

• Teamwork: Discuss instances where you collaborated effectively with a team to achieve a common goal.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section is tailored for an entry-level retail role, emphasizing that a formal portfolio isn't required but rather the ability to articulate relevant experiences and skills through discussion and examples.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

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

• Custom Framing Software/Equipment: Specialized tools for designing, measuring, cutting, and assembling custom frames. This includes:

  • Glass Cutter: For precise cutting of glass or acrylic.
  • Framing Equipment: Likely includes mat cutters, jointers, and potentially specialized assembly tools.
  • Heat Press: Mentioned in the work environment, likely used for specific framing applications or mounting.

• Basic Measuring Tools: Rulers, tape measures for accurate dimensions.

Analytics & Reporting:

• POS Reporting: Basic sales data and transaction summaries accessible through the POS system.

• Inventory Management Systems: Potentially used for tracking ready-made frames and supplies.

CRM & Automation:

• Customer Relationship Management (CRM): While not a formal B2B CRM, the POS and potentially order entry systems may store customer purchase history for repeat business and personalized service.

• Workforce Management Software: Used for scheduling and managing employee hours.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is focused on retail operations, point-of-sale systems, and specialized custom framing equipment. The emphasis is on practical tools used in a store setting.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Customer Focus: A strong emphasis on providing exceptional customer service and building relationships ("Elevated ABC Deliver"). This means prioritizing the customer experience in all interactions.

• Creativity & Passion: As a company centered on arts and crafts, there's an underlying value placed on creativity, inspiration, and helping customers realize their artistic visions.

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

• Integrity & Accountability: Adhering to company policies, SOPs, and ethical standards in all dealings, including cash handling and customer interactions.

• Efficiency & Quality: Balancing the need for speed in retail operations with a commitment to high-quality craftsmanship in custom framing.

Collaboration Style:

• Customer-Centric Teamwork: Associates are expected to support each other in serving customers, whether it's finding a product, processing a transaction, or assisting in the frame shop.

• Process-Oriented Operations: Collaboration often involves following established procedures and working together to ensure tasks like stocking and store maintenance are completed efficiently.

• Open Communication: Encouraging positive interactions and respectful communication among team members to resolve issues and share information.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture and values are aligned with a large retail organization focused on customer experience, creativity, and operational consistency.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Sales and Service: The role requires simultaneously engaging customers, providing design advice, and executing sales while also managing production timelines and store operational duties.

• Pace of Retail: Retail environments can be fast-paced, requiring adaptability and the ability to multitask effectively during peak hours.

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

• Learning Specialized Skills: Mastering the techniques for custom framing, operating equipment safely, and understanding design principles requires dedicated learning and practice.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Custom Framing Expertise: Develop in-depth knowledge of framing materials, techniques, and design principles, becoming a skilled craftsperson.

• Sales & Customer Engagement: Enhance skills in consultative selling, building rapport with customers, and handling diverse customer needs.

• Retail Operations Fundamentals: Gain practical experience in inventory management, visual merchandising, cash handling, and store maintenance.

• Company-Specific Training: Access to Michaels' internal training programs for product knowledge, operational procedures, and career development.

• Career Advancement: Potential to grow into leadership roles within the store or within the broader Michaels organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section outlines the inherent challenges of a hands-on retail role and highlights the valuable skill development and career progression opportunities available at Michaels.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Customer Service Scenarios: Be prepared to discuss how you build rapport with customers, handle complaints, and go the extra mile to ensure satisfaction. Think about specific examples.

• Sales Approach: How do you identify customer needs and recommend solutions? Discuss your experience in selling products or services.

• Problem-Solving: Describe a time you faced a challenge at work and how you resolved it. How would you handle a situation where a customer is unhappy with the quality of a framing job?

• Teamwork: Provide an example of a time you worked effectively as part of a team to achieve a goal.

Company & Culture Questions:

• Interest in Michaels: Why are you interested in working for Michaels? What do you know about our custom framing services?

• Values Alignment: How do your personal values align with Michaels' values (e.g., creativity, customer focus, teamwork)?

• Work Environment: What are your expectations for a retail work environment? How do you handle working under pressure or during busy periods?

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Verbal Storytelling: Since a formal portfolio isn't required, focus on crafting compelling verbal narratives of your past experiences.

• STAR Method: Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers to behavioral questions, providing concrete examples.

• Highlight Key Skills: Explicitly mention your basic computer skills, measuring abilities, and any experience with tools or crafts.

• Enthusiasm for Framing: Express genuine interest in the art of custom framing and the opportunity to help customers preserve and display their cherished items.

📝 Enhancement Note: This preparation advice is tailored for an entry-level retail position, emphasizing verbal communication, behavioral examples, and demonstrating enthusiasm for the specific role and company.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

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

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight customer service experience, any sales achievements, and any hands-on or craft-related skills. Use keywords like "customer engagement," "sales support," "merchandising," and "operational tasks."

• Prepare for Behavioral Interviews: Practice answering common interview questions using the STAR method, focusing on examples that demonstrate your customer service, problem-solving, and teamwork abilities.

• Research Michaels: Familiarize yourself with Michaels' mission, values, and the specific services offered by their Custom Framing department. Understand their commitment to customer experience and creativity.

• Confirm Availability: Be clear about your availability for part-time work, including nights, weekends, and early mornings, as this is crucial for retail scheduling.

⚠️ 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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