Custom Picture Framer Part Time
๐ Job Overview
Job Title: Custom Picture Framer Part Time
Company: Michaels Stores
Location: Puyallup, Washington, United States
Job Type: PART_TIME
Category: Retail Operations / Customer Service
Date Posted: 2026-06-19T00:00:00
Experience Level: Entry Level (0-2 years)
Remote Status: On-site
๐ Role Summary
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Execute custom framing solutions by building strong customer relationships and understanding their creative vision.
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Drive sales and production targets by effectively utilizing sales techniques and operational processes.
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Maintain a safe, clean, and well-merchandised store environment, adhering to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
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Support omni-channel processes and assist customers with locating products and providing solutions.
๐ Enhancement Note: While the job title is "Custom Picture Framer," the responsibilities listed indicate a broader retail associate role with a specific focus on the custom framing department. The role requires direct customer interaction, sales, production, and general store operations.
๐ Primary Responsibilities
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Build and nurture customer relationships by understanding their needs and recommending tailored custom framing solutions, utilizing the "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodology.
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Achieve sales and production goals by accurately completing framing orders with a high degree of quality and within established timelines.
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Maintain the ready-made frame department, including SISO (Sales In, Sales Out) and Directed Replenishment processes, ensuring optimal product availability and presentation.
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Provide exceptional customer service by acknowledging customers, assisting with product location, and offering solutions to enhance their shopping experience.
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Adhere strictly to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company programs for compliance, safety, and operational efficiency.
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Participate actively in truck un-loading and stocking processes, ensuring adherence to truck standards and budgetary guidelines.
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Operate the cash register and execute cash handling procedures according to company standards, ensuring accuracy and security.
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Support shrink and safety programs through diligent adherence to policies and proactive identification of potential risks.
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Demonstrate positive and respectful interactions with colleagues and customers, embodying company values and serving as a role model.
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Assist with and support omni-channel fulfillment processes to ensure seamless customer experiences across all touchpoints.
๐ Enhancement Note: The core responsibilities blend direct customer-facing sales and service with hands-on production and operational tasks. Candidates should be prepared for a dynamic role that requires flexibility and a strong customer-centric approach alongside technical framing skills.
๐ Skills & Qualifications
Education: Not specified, but a high school diploma or equivalent is typically expected for entry-level retail positions.
Experience: Entry-level with a willingness to learn and develop. Prior retail experience is preferred but not mandatory.
Required Skills:
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Basic computer skills for point-of-sale (POS) and system navigation.
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Basic measuring skills for accurate custom framing order specifications.
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Ability to operate framing equipment and glass cutters safely and effectively.
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Strong customer service orientation with excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
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Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced retail environment.
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Basic cash handling and transaction processing skills. Preferred Skills:
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Previous retail sales experience, particularly in a custom services or art/craft environment.
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Experience selling products or services directly to customers, demonstrating persuasive sales techniques.
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Familiarity with visual merchandising principles to maintain appealing displays.
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Basic understanding of inventory management concepts.
๐ Enhancement Note: The "Minimum Type of experience" and "Physical Requirements" sections strongly suggest that practical, hands-on abilities and physical stamina are critical. While computer and measuring skills are listed as basic, the proficiency in operating framing equipment is a key technical requirement.
๐ Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements
Portfolio Essentials:
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Customer Interaction Documentation: Examples of how you've built rapport with customers, understood their needs, and provided solutions, particularly in a sales or service context.
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Production Quality Examples: While a physical portfolio of framed items isn't expected for this role, be prepared to discuss your understanding of quality standards in production and how you ensure accuracy and craftsmanship.
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Process Adherence Examples: Ability to articulate how you follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company guidelines in previous roles, emphasizing compliance and efficiency.
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Sales Achievement Metrics: If applicable, be ready to discuss sales performance and how you contributed to revenue generation in prior positions.
Process Documentation:
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Workflow Design & Optimization: Understanding of how to follow established workflows for custom framing orders, from consultation to completion, and how to identify potential areas for efficiency.
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Implementation & Automation: Experience or understanding of using POS systems, order management software, and potentially basic store management tools.
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Measurement & Analysis: Ability to track personal sales performance and contribute to team goals, understanding how individual contributions impact overall store performance.
๐ Enhancement Note: For an entry-level role, a formal "portfolio" might not be required in the traditional sense. Instead, candidates should focus on articulating their experiences, skills, and understanding of processes through their resume and during interviews. Emphasize instances where they've demonstrated customer service, sales, problem-solving, and adherence to procedures.
๐ต Compensation & Benefits
Salary Range: $17.25 - $20.30 per hour. This range is provided based on the job posting and reflects the company's stated compensation for this specific part-time position in Puyallup, WA.
Benefits:
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Health Insurance (medical, dental, and vision)
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Paid Time Off (PTO)
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Tuition Assistance
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Generous employee discounts on Michaels products and services.
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Other benefits as detailed on mikbenefits.com.
Working Hours: Part-time position. The specific number of hours per week will vary. Work hours include nights, weekends, and early mornings, reflecting the demands of a public retail store setting.
๐ Enhancement Note: The salary range is competitive for a part-time, entry-level retail position with specialized duties like custom framing. The benefits package, including health insurance and PTO for part-time employees, is a significant perk that aligns with Michaels' commitment to employee well-being.
๐ฏ Team & Company Context
๐ข Company Culture
Industry: Arts and Crafts Retail. Michaels is a leading retailer in North America for arts, crafts, and custom framing.
Company Size: Large (over 1,000 employees globally, with a significant retail footprint). This implies established processes, structured training, and opportunities for advancement within a large organization.
Founded: 1973. With a long history, Michaels has a well-defined brand identity and operational framework.
Team Structure:
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Store Level: Part of a local store team, likely reporting to a Store Manager, Assistant Store Manager, and potentially a Framing Department Lead or Supervisor.
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Cross-functional Collaboration: Will interact with various store departments and potentially with corporate support for operational guidance. Collaboration is key to ensuring a cohesive customer experience across all store functions and omni-channel initiatives.
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Departmental Focus: A significant portion of the role is dedicated to the Custom Framing department, requiring specialized knowledge and customer interaction within that area.
Methodology:
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Customer-Centric Approach: Emphasis on building relationships and providing solutions ("Elevated ABC Deliver").
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Process Adherence: Strict adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for consistency, quality, and compliance.
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Data-Driven Operations: While not explicitly detailed for this role, the company likely uses sales data, inventory metrics, and customer feedback to drive operational decisions and performance.
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Teamwork & Support: Encouragement of teamwork, particularly during truck un-loads and stocking, and a focus on supporting colleagues.
Company Website: https://www.michaels.com/
๐ Enhancement Note: Michaels operates on a model that balances creative fulfillment for customers with structured operational efficiency. The company culture likely emphasizes customer engagement, teamwork, and adherence to established retail best practices.
๐ Career & Growth Analysis
Operations Career Level: Entry-Level Retail Associate with specialized responsibilities in Custom Framing. This role serves as a foundational position within the retail operations of Michaels.
Reporting Structure: Typically reports to a Framing Department Lead, Assistant Store Manager, or Store Manager, depending on the store's hierarchy.
Operations Impact: Directly influences customer satisfaction and revenue through sales of custom framing services and products. Contributes to store operational efficiency through adherence to SOPs, merchandising, and inventory management.
Growth Opportunities:
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Within Framing: Potential to become a Framing Department Lead or Supervisor, responsible for managing the department, training staff, and driving sales.
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Across Store Operations: Advancement into roles like Key Holder, Assistant Store Manager, or Store Manager, involving broader responsibility for store performance, team leadership, and operational management.
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Specialization: Development of advanced custom framing skills, potentially leading to specialized roles or training opportunities within the company's framing division (e.g., Artistree).
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Cross-Functional Roles: Opportunities to gain experience in other areas of store operations, such as visual merchandising or inventory management.
๐ Enhancement Note: Michaels, as a large retailer, offers a structured career path for dedicated employees. This role provides a solid entry point to learn retail operations, customer service, and specialized craft skills, with clear avenues for progression within the company.
๐ Work Environment
Office Type: Public retail store setting. The primary workspace is the sales floor and the dedicated custom framing area.
Office Location(s): Puyallup, WA - 4621 S Meridian St Ste A905. The store is located in a retail center, offering accessibility to customers.
Workspace Context:
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Customer Interaction Zone: The framing counter and sales floor are primary areas for direct customer engagement, requiring a professional and welcoming demeanor.
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Production Area: The framing shop involves working with specialized equipment like a glass cutter and heat press, requiring attention to safety and precision.
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Stockroom & Back Areas: May involve working in stockrooms which may not be climate-controlled, and participating in truck un-loads.
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Tools & Technology: Access to POS systems, framing equipment, and potentially basic computer terminals for order management.
Work Schedule: The schedule is flexible and part-time, accommodating nights, weekends, and early mornings. This requires adaptability and reliability.
๐ Enhancement Note: The work environment is dynamic, involving a mix of customer-facing sales, hands-on production, and general retail tasks. Candidates should be comfortable with varied responsibilities and working conditions.
๐ Application & Portfolio Review Process
Interview Process:
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Initial Screening: Likely a brief phone or online screening to assess basic qualifications and availability.
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In-Person Interview: A more in-depth interview at the store location. This will likely involve the Store Manager or Assistant Store Manager. Expect questions about customer service experience, problem-solving, and your interest in custom framing.
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Skills Assessment: You may be asked to demonstrate basic measuring skills, or discuss how you would approach a framing consultation.
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On-the-Job Training: If hired, a structured training program will be provided for operating equipment and mastering framing techniques.
Portfolio Review Tips:
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Framing Consultation Scenarios: Be prepared to discuss how you would consult with a customer about framing their artwork or memorabilia. Focus on asking clarifying questions and understanding their aesthetic preferences and budget.
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Customer Service Stories: Have specific examples ready of times you went above and beyond to help a customer or resolve an issue. Quantify results where possible (e.g., "increased customer satisfaction scores by X%").
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Process Adherence: Discuss your understanding of following instructions and procedures. For example, "In my previous role at [Previous Company], I consistently followed [specific procedure] to ensure accuracy in [task]."
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Motivation for Framing: Express genuine interest in the craft of custom framing and the creative process involved.
Challenge Preparation:
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Situational Questions: Be ready for "what if" scenarios, such as how you would handle a difficult customer, a complex framing request, or a production delay.
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Sales Approach: Articulate your approach to sales, focusing on consultative selling rather than high-pressure tactics.
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Teamwork Scenarios: Prepare examples demonstrating your ability to collaborate with team members, especially during busy periods or for tasks like truck un-loads.
๐ Enhancement Note: For this role, the "portfolio" is less about a curated collection of work and more about demonstrating your communication skills, problem-solving abilities, and understanding of customer service and operational processes through interview responses and potential practical demonstrations.
๐ Tools & Technology Stack
Primary Tools:
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Custom Framing Equipment: Standard framing tools including mat cutters, saws, mounting equipment, and potentially heat presses.
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Glass Cutting Tools: Essential for precise glass sizing for frames.
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Cash Register/POS System: For processing sales transactions, managing customer accounts, and potentially inventory lookups.
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Measuring Tools: Tape measures, rulers, and calipers for accurate order specifications.
Analytics & Reporting:
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Sales Reporting: Ability to view personal sales performance and team sales metrics through the POS system.
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Inventory Management Systems: Potentially used for tracking stock levels of frame materials, mats, and ready-made frames.
CRM & Automation:
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Customer Database: The POS system likely includes basic customer relationship management features for tracking past orders and customer preferences.
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Order Management Software: Software used to input, track, and manage custom framing orders from creation to completion.
๐ Enhancement Note: Proficiency with specialized framing equipment and POS systems is critical. While advanced analytics tools are unlikely to be directly managed by this role, understanding how to interpret basic sales and inventory data from the POS is beneficial.
๐ฅ Team Culture & Values
Operations Values:
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Customer Focus: Prioritizing customer satisfaction and building relationships through excellent service and creative solutions.
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Creativity & Passion: Encouraging a love for arts, crafts, and the creative process, reflected in the custom framing services.
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Quality & Precision: Commitment to high standards in both customer service interactions and the physical production of custom frames.
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Teamwork & Support: Fostering a collaborative environment where team members assist each other to achieve store goals and provide a seamless customer experience.
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Reliability & Accountability: Upholding company standards, adhering to schedules, and taking ownership of tasks and responsibilities.
Collaboration Style:
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Cross-functional Interaction: Working closely with other store associates to ensure smooth operations across all departments.
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Feedback & Improvement: Openness to receiving and providing constructive feedback to improve processes and customer service.
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Knowledge Sharing: Willingness to share knowledge about products, services, and operational best practices with colleagues.
๐ Enhancement Note: Michaels emphasizes a culture that blends creative expression with operational discipline. The values likely promote a supportive and customer-centric environment where employees are encouraged to contribute to the overall success of the store.
โก Challenges & Growth Opportunities
Challenges:
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Balancing Sales and Production: Effectively managing customer consultations, order creation, and the actual production of frames within given timeframes.
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Handling Diverse Customer Needs: Meeting a wide range of customer expectations and artistic visions, requiring creativity and problem-solving.
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Physical Demands: The role involves standing for long periods, lifting heavy items, and precise manual work, which can be physically demanding.
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Adapting to Retail Fluctuations: Managing busy periods, seasonal demands, and potential stockroom challenges.
Learning & Development Opportunities:
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Custom Framing Mastery: Developing expertise in framing techniques, materials, and design principles.
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Sales & Customer Service Skills: Enhancing consultative selling abilities and customer engagement strategies.
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Operational Proficiency: Gaining experience with POS systems, inventory management, and retail store operations.
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Team Leadership: Potential to grow into supervisory roles, leading a team and managing departmental performance.
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Industry Exposure: Learning about art, design, and preservation techniques relevant to custom framing.
๐ Enhancement Note: This role presents an excellent opportunity for individuals to develop specialized craft skills alongside core retail competencies. The challenges are typical of a hands-on, customer-facing retail position, with clear paths for skill development and career advancement.
๐ก Interview Preparation
Strategy Questions:
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Customer Consultation: "Describe how you would approach a customer who wants to frame a valuable piece of art. What questions would you ask?" (Focus on understanding customer needs, material options, and budget.)
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Problem Solving: "Imagine a customer is unhappy with the time it's taking to complete their framing order. How would you handle this?" (Emphasize empathy, clear communication, and finding solutions.)
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Sales Approach: "How do you approach selling a premium service like custom framing?" (Highlight consultative selling, understanding value, and building trust.)
Company & Culture Questions:
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Motivation: "Why are you interested in working at Michaels, specifically in the custom framing department?" (Connect your interest to creativity, customer service, and craftsmanship.)
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Teamwork: "Describe a time you worked effectively as part of a team to achieve a goal." (Provide a specific example demonstrating collaboration.)
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Values Alignment: "How do you embody our company values of creativity, customer focus, and quality in your work?" (Relate your past experiences to these values.)
Portfolio Presentation Strategy:
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Framing Case Study (Verbal): Be prepared to walk through the process of a hypothetical framing project from start to finish, detailing customer interaction, material selection, production steps, and final delivery.
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Highlighting Key Skills: Emphasize your measuring skills, attention to detail, ability to operate equipment, and customer service aptitude.
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Demonstrating Enthusiasm: Show genuine interest in the craft of framing and the opportunity to help customers bring their creative visions to life.
๐ Enhancement Note: Interviewers will be looking for a blend of customer service acumen, practical skills, an understanding of sales processes, and a genuine interest in the creative aspects of custom framing. Be ready to provide specific examples from your experience.
๐ Application Steps
To apply for this operations position:
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Submit your application through the provided link on the Michaels careers portal.
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Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight any customer service, sales, crafting, or manual dexterity experience. Use keywords from the job description such as "customer service," "sales," "measuring skills," and "retail operations."
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Portfolio Preparation (Conceptual): Prepare detailed examples of customer interactions, problem-solving scenarios, and how you follow procedures. Be ready to discuss your approach to custom framing consultations.
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Interview Practice: Rehearse answers to common interview questions, focusing on situational and behavioral examples that showcase your skills and fit with Michaels' culture. Practice articulating your interest in custom framing.
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Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Michaels' products, services, and brand values. Understand their commitment to creativity and customer experience.
โ ๏ธ 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.
Application Requirements
Requires basic computer and measuring skills, with the ability to operate framing equipment and glass cutters. Physical ability to lift heavy boxes, stand for long periods, and use ladders is necessary.