Framer-5

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Framer

Company: Michaels Stores

Location: Kingston, NY

Job Type: Part time

Category: Retail Operations / Customer Service

Date Posted: August 06, 2026

Experience Level: Entry-Level / Junior

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is centered on providing exceptional customer service within a retail environment, with a specific focus on custom framing solutions.

• Key responsibilities include building customer relationships, driving sales through consultative framing services, and ensuring high-quality production of custom framing orders.

• The position also involves general store operations, such as maintaining visual merchandising standards, managing inventory, and supporting omni-channel processes.

• A strong emphasis is placed on adhering to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and contributing to a safe, clean, and efficient store environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title "Framer-5" and the description focus heavily on the custom framing aspect, the broader responsibilities indicate a hybrid retail associate role where framing is a specialized function. The "5" likely denotes a level or tier within the framing specialization, suggesting potential for growth or increased complexity within that area. The role requires a blend of sales, customer service, and production skills, typical of specialized retail positions.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Customer Engagement & Sales:

  • Proactively engage customers, build rapport, and understand their needs to recommend suitable custom framing solutions using the "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodology.
  • Drive sales by effectively presenting framing options, materials, and design possibilities, meeting or exceeding personal sales and production targets.
  • Assist customers in locating products throughout the store and provide comprehensive solutions to their creative needs.

• Custom Framing Production:

  • Execute custom framing orders with a high degree of quality, precision, and timeliness, adhering to all design specifications and production standards.
  • Operate specialized framing equipment, including glass cutters and heat presses, safely and efficiently.
  • Maintain the ready-made frame department and other assigned areas, including SISO (Single Item, Single Order) and directed replenishment processes.

• Store Operations & Merchandising:

  • Ensure the store environment is safe, clean, and clutter-free, maintaining a well-merchandised and in-stock appearance for customers.
  • Participate actively in truck un-loading and stocking processes, adhering to established truck standards and timelines.
  • Manage inventory replenishment for designated areas, ensuring product availability.

• Point of Sale & Omni-Channel Support:

  • Operate the cash register accurately and efficiently, adhering to all cash handling and transaction standards.
  • Support and execute omni-channel processes, such as buy online, pick up in-store (BOPIS) and ship-from-store.

• Teamwork & Compliance:

  • Adhere strictly to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and all company programs to ensure compliance with applicable laws and requirements.

  • Support loss prevention and safety programs, contributing to a secure and hazard-free workplace.

  • Collaborate positively with team members, demonstrating respect, maintaining a positive attitude, and serving as a role model.

📝 Enhancement Note: The mention of "Elevated ABC Deliver" suggests a specific sales methodology Michaels uses for custom framing consultations. Candidates should be prepared to discuss how they build relationships and "deliver" solutions within a consultative sales framework, even if they are unfamiliar with this exact term. The emphasis on SOPs and compliance is critical for a retail operations role.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• While no specific degree is mandated, a high school diploma or equivalent is typically expected for retail positions. Experience:

• A minimum of 0-2 years of experience is targeted, indicating an entry-level to junior position.

• Experience in a customer-facing role is essential, with a preference for retail environments. Required Skills:

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

• Basic Computer Skills: Proficiency in using point-of-sale (POS) systems and basic computer applications for order entry and information retrieval.

• Basic Measuring Skills: Accurate measurement capabilities are crucial for custom framing orders.

• Equipment Operation: Ability to safely and effectively operate framing equipment, including a glass cutter and heat press.

• Sales Acumen: Aptitude for selling products and services, identifying customer needs, and recommending appropriate solutions.

• Cash Handling: Proficiency in operating a cash register and managing financial transactions accurately.

Preferred Skills:

• Retail Experience: Prior experience working in a retail store environment.

• Consultative Sales Experience: Experience in selling products or services where understanding customer needs and providing tailored solutions is key.

• Art/Design Aptitude: A natural inclination or interest in art, design, and aesthetics would be beneficial for custom framing consultations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "0-2" experience level suggests that candidates with strong transferable skills in customer service and a willingness to learn the technical aspects of framing will be considered. The emphasis on "basic" skills implies that extensive prior experience with specialized equipment is not a prerequisite, but a demonstrated ability to learn and execute is vital.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Custom Framing Case Studies: Showcase 2-3 examples of custom framing projects, detailing the customer's initial request, design consultation process, material selection, and the final framed product. Highlight problem-solving aspects and customer satisfaction.

• Sales Performance Data: If available, include quantifiable achievements in sales, such as exceeding targets or growing customer relationships, relevant to a retail or consultative sales environment.

• Process Documentation Examples: Briefly illustrate a process you've improved or managed, such as inventory tracking, customer order management, or visual merchandising, focusing on efficiency and accuracy.

• Customer Service Scenarios: Detail how you've handled challenging customer interactions or resolved issues to ensure customer satisfaction, demonstrating problem-solving and communication skills.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design: Demonstrate an understanding of how to map out and follow established workflows for custom framing orders, from initial consultation to final production and customer pick-up.

• Quality Control: Outline how you ensure the quality and accuracy of custom framing projects, adhering to specifications and company standards.

• System Navigation: Be prepared to discuss your experience with POS systems and any other relevant retail management software, highlighting your ability to learn and adapt to new systems quickly.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an entry-level role like this, a formal "portfolio" might not be strictly required in a digital submission. However, candidates should be prepared to discuss their relevant experiences and achievements using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) during interviews, effectively presenting their "portfolio" of skills and accomplishments verbally. The focus should be on demonstrating practical application of skills in customer service, sales, and operational tasks.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Estimated Range: $16.25 - $19.10 per hour.

• This range is based on the provided data and reflects typical entry-level to junior retail associate wages in the Kington, NY area, considering the specialized nature of custom framing. Benefits:

• Healthcare: Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage, along with Telemedicine services.

• Retirement: 401(k) plan with an employer match.

• Financial Wellness: Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) and Commuter Benefits.

• Personal Development: Tuition Assistance and Adoption Assistance programs.

• Additional Perks: Employee Assistance Program (EAP), Voluntary Insurance Options, and significant Employee Discounts on Michaels products.

Working Hours:

• This is a part-time position.

• Working hours may include nights, weekends, and early mornings, as is typical for retail environments. The specific schedule will be determined by business needs and store coverage requirements.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided salary range is specific and appears to be the total base pay. The benefits listed are comprehensive for a part-time role, suggesting Michaels values its employees and offers substantial support. Candidates should inquire about eligibility requirements for specific benefits during the interview process.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Arts and Crafts Retail. Michaels is the leading specialty retailer of arts and crafts supplies in North America.

Company Size: Over 1,300 stores across the US and Canada. This indicates a large, established retail operation with structured processes and a significant employee base.

Founded: 1973, headquartered in Irving, Texas. This long history suggests stability and a well-developed corporate structure.

Team Structure:

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

• Cross-functional Collaboration: Collaboration will occur with fellow sales associates, inventory specialists, and potentially online order fulfillment teams. The role requires interaction with customers of all backgrounds.

• Departmental Focus: While part of the broader store team, there's a specialized focus on the Custom Framing department, requiring close coordination with team members involved in sales, design consultation, and production within that area.

Methodology:

• Customer-Centric Approach: Michaels emphasizes building customer relationships and providing solutions, particularly evident in the custom framing sales process.

• Process Adherence: A strong reliance on Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for consistent execution of tasks, from sales to production and inventory management.

• Data-Driven Improvement: While not explicitly detailed for this role, large retail organizations typically leverage sales data, inventory metrics, and customer feedback to drive operational improvements and merchandising strategies.

Company Website: www.michaels.com

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's purpose, "to fuel the joy of creativity and celebration," is a key cultural driver. Candidates should align with this mission. The size of Michaels suggests opportunities for structured training and clear career paths, but also a need for adaptability within established corporate frameworks.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned at an entry-level to junior level within the retail operations and specialized services (custom framing) domain. It serves as a foundational position for developing customer service, sales, and operational skills within a large retail organization.

Reporting Structure: The Framer typically reports to a Store Manager or Assistant Store Manager. Within the framing specialization, there may be a dedicated Framing Manager or lead associate overseeing production and consultation.

Operations Impact: The Framer directly impacts store revenue through custom framing sales and overall customer satisfaction by providing a positive shopping experience and quality products. Efficient store operations, including merchandising and inventory management, contribute to the store's profitability and customer appeal.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Advance within the Custom Framing department, potentially becoming a Framing Specialist, Lead Framer, or even a Framing Manager, taking on more complex projects and sales targets.

• Retail Management Track: Progress into broader retail management roles, such as Key Holder, Assistant Store Manager, or Store Manager, by demonstrating leadership, operational efficiency, and sales performance.

• Cross-Departmental Experience: Gain experience in other store departments, such as inventory management, visual merchandising, or omni-channel fulfillment, broadening skill sets for future opportunities.

• Corporate Opportunities: With significant experience and proven performance, opportunities may arise in corporate roles related to retail operations, merchandising, or training.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Framer-5" designation suggests a tiered system within framing roles. Demonstrating proficiency, sales success, and operational excellence in this role can lead to advancement to higher tiers or into broader store management tracks.

🌐 Work Environment

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

Office Location(s): Kingston, NY (specifically 1167 Ulster Ave). This is a physical retail location requiring on-site presence.

Workspace Context:

• Customer Interaction: The environment is highly customer-facing, requiring constant interaction and service provision on the sales floor and within the framing area.

• Production Space: The framing shop is a specialized area equipped with tools like glass cutters and heat presses, necessitating adherence to safety protocols.

• Team Collaboration: Regular interaction with other store associates is expected for support, task delegation, and operational coordination.

• Tools & Technology: Access to POS systems, framing equipment, and potentially inventory management tools.

Work Schedule:

• Part-time employment.

• Work hours are flexible and will include nights, weekends, and potentially early mornings, depending on store operating hours and business needs. This schedule requires adaptability.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is dynamic and fast-paced, typical of a retail setting. Candidates should be comfortable with standing for extended periods, performing physical tasks, and working in a public-facing role with varying shifts.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Likely a brief phone or online assessment to gauge basic qualifications and interest.

• In-Person Interview: This will involve meeting with the hiring manager (Store Manager or Assistant Manager). Expect questions related to customer service scenarios, sales approach, problem-solving, and your understanding of the Framer role.

• Skills Assessment/Demonstration: You may be asked to demonstrate basic measuring skills, discuss how you would approach a framing consultation, or operate simple equipment if feasible and safe.

• Team Interaction: You might interact with other team members to assess cultural fit and collaborative capabilities.

• Final Offer: Based on the assessment of skills, experience, and cultural fit.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Verbal "Portfolio": Since this is an entry-level role, a formal digital portfolio isn't typically expected. Instead, prepare to articulate your skills and experiences using the STAR method.

• Customer Service Stories: Have 2-3 specific examples ready of how you've provided excellent customer service, resolved a customer issue, or gone above and beyond.

• Sales Scenarios: Be ready to describe how you would approach a customer interested in custom framing, what questions you would ask, and how you would guide them to a solution. Mention any sales successes you've had.

• Operational Examples: Discuss any experience you have with merchandising, inventory, or handling cash transactions accurately.

• Enthusiasm for Craft: Express genuine interest in art, crafts, and helping customers bring their creative visions to life.

Challenge Preparation:

• Scenario-Based Questions: Be prepared for hypothetical situations like: "A customer is unhappy with their custom frame. How would you handle it?" or "How would you approach a customer who seems unsure about what they want?"

• Product Knowledge (Basic): While extensive framing knowledge isn't required initially, showing an understanding of different framing materials (matting, glass types, frame styles) and their benefits will be advantageous. Research common framing terminology.

• Process Adherence: Understand the importance of SOPs and be ready to explain how you would ensure you follow them in your daily tasks.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Framer-5" designation might imply a basic assessment of framing knowledge or potential. Candidates should research common framing materials and processes to demonstrate initiative and interest. Emphasize transferable skills from previous customer-facing roles.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Point of Sale (POS) System: Essential for processing transactions, managing customer orders, and potentially accessing customer history. Familiarity with any major retail POS system is beneficial.

• Custom Framing Equipment:

  • Glass Cutter: For precise cutting of glass or acrylic.
  • Heat Press: Used for applying adhesive or sealing certain framing components.
  • Mat Cutter: For cutting custom mats to fit artwork.
  • Frame Assembly Tools: Various saws, joiners, and hardware for assembling frames.

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

Analytics & Reporting:

• While this role doesn't directly involve complex analytics, understanding how sales data (custom framing orders, total sales) contributes to store performance is valuable.

• The POS system may generate basic reports on sales volume and transaction types. CRM & Automation:

• Customer Relationship Management (CRM): The POS system likely has CRM capabilities to track customer purchases and preferences for custom framing.

• Order Management System: Integrated with the POS, this system tracks custom framing orders from creation to completion.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary focus is on hands-on operational tools and a robust POS system. Candidates should highlight any experience with specialized retail equipment or POS systems, and their ability to learn new technical tools quickly and safely.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Customer Focus: Prioritizing customer needs and satisfaction through exceptional service and tailored solutions. This is central to building relationships and driving sales.

• Creativity & Passion: Embracing the company's mission to fuel creativity; showing enthusiasm for art, design, and helping customers bring their projects to life.

• Quality & Precision: Commitment to delivering high-quality custom framing work that meets customer expectations and company standards.

• Teamwork & Respect: Collaborating effectively with colleagues, fostering a positive and inclusive work environment where everyone feels valued.

• Integrity & Compliance: Adhering to all company policies, procedures, and safety standards to ensure operational excellence and a safe workplace.

Collaboration Style:

• Customer-Centric Collaboration: Working with customers to co-create framing solutions, acting as a design consultant.

• Peer Support: Assisting fellow team members with customer service, operational tasks, and production as needed to ensure smooth store operations.

• Process-Oriented: Following established workflows and SOPs to ensure consistency and efficiency across all team members.

• Feedback Integration: Being open to feedback from supervisors and peers to continuously improve skills and processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: Michaels' stated values likely revolve around creativity, community, and customer service. Candidates should demonstrate how their personal values align with these principles, particularly in how they approach customer interactions and team collaboration.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Sales and Production: Effectively managing time to engage customers for sales consultations while also completing custom framing orders accurately and on time.

• Customer Expectations Management: Handling diverse customer needs and aesthetic preferences, ensuring satisfaction with custom framing solutions, which can be subjective.

• Learning Specialized Skills: Acquiring proficiency with framing equipment and understanding various framing materials and techniques.

• Pace of Retail: Adapting to the fast-paced nature of a retail environment, including busy periods, truck unloads, and omni-channel demands.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Custom Framing Expertise: Deepen knowledge of framing techniques, materials (mat boards, glass types, frame profiles), and design principles through on-the-job training and potential internal workshops.

• Sales & Customer Service Skills: Enhance consultative selling techniques and customer engagement strategies, potentially leading to higher sales performance and customer loyalty.

• Retail Operations Proficiency: Develop a comprehensive understanding of retail operations, including inventory management, visual merchandising, and POS system utilization.

• Career Advancement: Opportunities to progress into higher-level framing roles or broader retail management positions within Michaels Stores.

📝 Enhancement Note: The key challenge for this role is the dual responsibility of sales generation and quality production. Candidates who can demonstrate strong organizational skills and a proactive approach to learning will be well-suited.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Customer Service Approach: "Describe a time you went above and beyond to help a customer. How would you handle a customer who is unhappy with their custom frame?" Focus on empathy, problem-solving, and resolution.

• Sales Consultation: "How would you approach a customer who walks into the framing department and seems unsure about what they need?" Be ready to outline your consultative sales process, asking clarifying questions about the artwork, desired style, and budget.

• Problem-Solving: "Imagine you're running behind on a framing order. How would you manage your time and communicate with your manager or the customer?" Highlight prioritization, efficiency, and transparent communication.

Company & Culture Questions:

• Motivation: "Why are you interested in working for Michaels and specifically in custom framing?" Connect your answer to the company's mission and your personal interests in creativity or art.

• Teamwork: "Describe your ideal team environment. How do you contribute to a positive team dynamic?" Emphasize collaboration, respect, and a willingness to support colleagues.

• Adherence to Standards: "How important are Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to you in a retail environment?" Show your understanding of consistency, quality, and compliance.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Verbal Storytelling: Prepare concise, impactful stories using the STAR method to illustrate your customer service, sales, and any operational experience.

• Framing Interest: Clearly articulate your interest in custom framing, even if you have limited direct experience. Mention any personal creative hobbies or appreciation for art and design.

• Quantifiable Achievements: If you have past sales figures or customer service metrics, be ready to share them to demonstrate impact.

• Enthusiasm and Fit: Convey genuine enthusiasm for the role and demonstrate how your personality and work ethic align with Michaels' values.

📝 Enhancement Note: Research Michaels' current marketing campaigns, framing trends, and their core values. Be prepared to discuss how you can contribute to the "joy of creativity" and support customers in their artistic endeavors.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

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

• Resume Customization: Tailor your resume to highlight customer service, sales experience, any technical aptitude (even basic tool use), and attention to detail. Use keywords from the job description such as "customer service," "sales," "custom framing," "merchandising," and "POS systems."

• STAR Method Preparation: Prepare 3-4 concise examples using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to showcase your skills in customer interaction, problem-solving, sales, and operational tasks.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Michaels' mission, values, and product offerings, particularly their custom framing services. Understand their commitment to creativity and customer experience.

• Interview Practice: Practice articulating your responses to common interview questions, focusing on demonstrating enthusiasm, a strong work ethic, and a customer-centric approach. Be ready to discuss your interest in custom framing and how you can contribute to the team.

⚠️ 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.