Framer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Framer

Company: Michaels Stores

Location: Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States

Job Type: PART_TIME

Category: Retail Operations / Creative Services

Date Posted: May 01, 2026

Experience Level: Entry Level (0-2 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Deliver exceptional customer service and build strong customer relationships through personalized design consultations for custom framing solutions.

• Execute sales and production targets by effectively utilizing the Elevated ABC Deliver methodology to create memorable customer experiences.

• Ensure high-quality and timely completion of all custom framing orders, adhering strictly to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).

• Maintain visual merchandising standards for the ready-made frame department, SISO (Single Item, Single Order), and Directed Replenishment areas.

• Contribute to a safe, clean, and organized store environment, supporting comprehensive shrink and safety programs.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role, while titled "Framer," encompasses significant customer-facing responsibilities that extend beyond pure production. The emphasis on "Elevated ABC Deliver" suggests a structured approach to sales and customer engagement, requiring strong interpersonal and consultative selling skills in addition to technical framing abilities. The "PART_TIME" designation indicates flexibility may be required in scheduling.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Engage customers proactively, acting as a brand ambassador to build lasting relationships and identify their custom framing needs.

• Conduct in-depth design consultations, leveraging product knowledge and creative expertise to propose tailored framing solutions that meet customer expectations and artistic vision.

• Operate and maintain framing equipment, including specialized tools like glass cutters and heat presses, ensuring safety and precision in production.

• Manage the custom framing order process from initial consultation and design through to final production and timely delivery, ensuring quality control at every stage.

• Responsible for the presentation and stock levels of the ready-made frame department, ensuring it is visually appealing and well-organized for customer browsing.

• Execute sales transactions accurately and efficiently using the cash register, adhering to all cash handling and payment processing standards.

• Participate actively in inventory management tasks, including truck unloads, stocking, and replenishment, ensuring adherence to company guidelines and budget constraints.

• Support and implement company-wide shrink and safety programs to minimize loss and ensure a secure working environment for team members and customers.

• Assist with Omni-channel processes, which may include tasks related to online order fulfillment, in-store pickup, or customer inquiries originating from digital channels.

• Uphold company values by interacting positively and respectfully with colleagues and customers, acting as a role model for professional conduct and commitment to organizational goals.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of customer engagement, sales, technical production, and general retail operations. The explicit mention of "Elevated ABC Deliver" implies a sales methodology that candidates should be prepared to discuss, focusing on building rapport, understanding needs, and closing sales. Omni-channel responsibilities suggest a need for adaptability and familiarity with integrated retail operations.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: No specific educational degree is mandated, but a strong foundation in practical skills and a willingness to learn are essential.

Experience: 0-2 years of experience is preferred, with a focus on customer interaction, sales, or creative arts.

Required Skills:

• Basic computer proficiency for system navigation and order entry.

• Accurate basic measuring skills for precise framing dimensions.

• Ability to operate and maintain standard framing equipment.

• Proficiency with a glass cutter for custom glass sizing.

• Effective cash handling and point-of-sale (POS) operation.

• Strong customer service and interpersonal communication skills.

Preferred Skills:

• Previous retail sales experience, particularly in consultative selling or service-oriented environments.

• Experience selling products and/or services to customers, demonstrating an ability to influence purchasing decisions.

• Familiarity with visual merchandising principles.

• Basic understanding of inventory management principles.

• Experience with custom design or art services.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirements lean towards practical, hands-on skills and customer engagement rather than formal education. The emphasis on "basic" skills suggests that extensive prior experience in framing is not a prerequisite, making this an accessible entry-level role. However, the "preferred" skills in sales and retail suggest that candidates with some commercial acumen will be highly valued.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Examples of previous work demonstrating an eye for design and aesthetic composition in framing.

• Case studies or descriptions of customer interactions where you successfully identified needs and proposed solutions, highlighting sales or customer satisfaction outcomes.

• Documentation of processes you've followed to ensure quality and efficiency in production or service delivery, if applicable from prior roles.

Process Documentation:

• Ability to follow and document adherence to established Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for framing orders and customer service.

• Willingness to learn and apply new process methodologies, such as the "Elevated ABC Deliver" sales approach, for consistent customer engagement.

• Understanding of how to track and report on personal sales performance and production metrics within a retail framework.

📝 Enhancement Note: While a formal "portfolio" in the traditional sense might not be expected, candidates should be prepared to discuss their approach to customer interaction, sales, and quality control. Demonstrating an understanding of process adherence and a structured approach to problem-solving will be key. For this role, "portfolio" can be interpreted as a collection of experiences and skills that showcase their capability to perform the core responsibilities.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $16.25 - $19.10 per hour.

Benefits:

• Health insurance (medical, dental, and vision) for eligible team members.

• Paid time off, accrued based on hours worked.

• Tuition assistance programs to support ongoing education and skill development.

• Generous employee discounts on Michaels products and services.

• Access to other benefits as detailed on mikbenefits.com.

Working Hours: Part-time, with potential for varied shifts including nights, weekends, and early mornings, aligning with public retail store hours. The expected standard full-time workweek is 40 hours, but this position is designated as part-time.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is competitive for entry-level retail positions in a high-cost-of-living area like Cambridge, MA. The benefits package is comprehensive for part-time employees, which is a significant draw for retail roles. The mention of "40 hours" in the context of working hours likely refers to a standard full-time week, and this specific role is part-time, implying fewer hours but potentially flexible scheduling within the store's operating hours.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Retail (Arts and Crafts, Home Decor, Custom Framing)

Company Size: Large (Over 1,000 employees, with over 1,300 stores across North America).

Founded: 1973, with headquarters in Irving, Texas. Michaels has a long-standing reputation as a leading destination for creative supplies and custom framing.

Team Structure:

• The Framer will be part of a store-level team, likely reporting to a Store Manager or a designated Framing Department Manager/Lead.

• This role involves direct collaboration with fellow sales associates, cashiers, and potentially other specialized departments within the store.

Methodology:

• Emphasis on data-driven decision-making within retail operations, particularly concerning sales performance, inventory turnover, and customer traffic patterns.

• Structured approach to customer engagement through methodologies like "Elevated ABC Deliver" to ensure consistent service quality and sales effectiveness.

• Focus on process adherence and efficiency, with clear SOPs for production, sales, and operational tasks to maintain quality and compliance.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Michaels operates in a highly competitive retail landscape, emphasizing customer experience and product variety. The company culture likely values creativity, customer centricity, and operational efficiency. The scale of operations means that process adherence and team collaboration are critical for success.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Entry-Level Retail Associate with a specialization in Custom Framing. This role provides foundational experience in customer service, sales, and operational tasks within a retail environment.

Reporting Structure: The Framer reports to store leadership, such as the Store Manager or an Assistant Manager/Department Lead responsible for the framing department.

Operations Impact: This role directly impacts store revenue through custom framing sales and overall customer satisfaction by providing creative solutions and excellent service. Accurate order fulfillment and efficient operations contribute to the store's profitability and customer loyalty.

Growth Opportunities:

• Within Framing: Potential to advance to a Framing Lead or Department Manager role, overseeing operations, sales, and staff within the framing department.

• Retail Management: Progression into Assistant Store Manager or Store Manager positions, managing all aspects of store operations, P&L, and team leadership.

• Specialization: Development into specialized roles within Michaels or its parent company, potentially in visual merchandising, inventory management, or corporate roles related to product development or operations strategy.

• Skill Development: Opportunities to hone sales, customer service, design, and operational skills, which are transferable across various retail and service industries.

📝 Enhancement Note: While this is an entry-level position, Michaels provides clear pathways for career advancement within its extensive retail network. The emphasis on sales and customer interaction offers a solid foundation for anyone looking to build a career in retail management or customer-facing roles.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Public retail store setting. The primary workspace will be the sales floor and the custom framing department within the Michaels store.

Office Location(s): Cambridge, Massachusetts (specifically 37 White St). This is a customer-facing retail environment.

Workspace Context:

• The environment is dynamic and customer-centric, requiring constant interaction and problem-solving.

• The framing shop is equipped with specialized tools (glass cutter, heat press) and requires adherence to safety protocols.

• Opportunities for collaboration exist with all store team members to ensure a seamless customer experience and efficient store operations.

Work Schedule: Part-time, with hours that will include evenings, weekends, and potentially early mornings, aligning with the operational needs of a retail store. Flexibility in scheduling is often a requirement for part-time retail roles.

📝 Enhancement Note: This is a hands-on, fast-paced retail environment. Candidates should be comfortable working directly with the public, managing multiple tasks simultaneously, and adapting to the demands of a retail setting, including peak seasons and promotional events.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Application & Screening: Review of resume and application for basic qualifications and relevant experience.

• Phone/Video Interview: A conversation with a hiring manager to discuss experience, customer service approach, and interest in the role. This may include situational questions.

• In-Person Interview: An interview at the store location to assess customer interaction skills, problem-solving abilities, and fit with the store team and company culture. This may involve a brief practical demonstration or scenario.

• Offer & Onboarding: If successful, an offer will be extended, followed by background checks and onboarding processes.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Customer Service Examples: Be prepared to describe instances where you went above and beyond to assist a customer, solved a customer issue, or built a strong customer relationship.

• Sales Approach: Articulate your understanding of consultative selling. If you have sales experience, describe how you identified customer needs and recommended solutions that led to a sale.

• Design Sensibility: While not a formal portfolio, be ready to discuss your personal interest in art, design, or custom framing, and how you would approach helping a customer design a frame for their artwork.

• Process Adherence: Discuss your experience following SOPs and company procedures in previous roles, emphasizing reliability and attention to detail.

Challenge Preparation:

• Scenario-Based Questions: Expect questions like, "A customer is unhappy with their framing order. How would you handle it?" or "How would you approach a customer who seems hesitant about a custom framing option?"

• Product Knowledge: While extensive framing knowledge isn't required initially, showing a willingness to learn about different frame materials, matting options, and glass types will be beneficial.

• Teamwork: Be ready to discuss how you collaborate with colleagues to achieve common goals, such as ensuring a smooth store opening/closing or assisting with busy periods.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for this role is designed to gauge practical skills, customer interaction abilities, and cultural fit. Candidates should focus on highlighting their customer service ethos, sales aptitude, and reliability. Demonstrating enthusiasm for art, creativity, and problem-solving will be advantageous.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• POS System: For processing sales transactions, managing customer accounts, and handling payments.

• Custom Framing Software/System: Likely an internal system for designing frames, calculating costs, and managing production orders.

• Inventory Management System: To track stock levels for ready-made frames, matting, glass, and other supplies.

• Basic Computer Software: For email, internal communications, and potentially order tracking.

Analytics & Reporting:

CRM & Automation:

• Customer Relationship Management (CRM) functionalities within the POS or dedicated system to track customer preferences and purchase history for repeat business and personalized service.

• Potential for automated order tracking or notification systems for custom framing orders.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in point-of-sale (POS) systems is crucial. While advanced technical skills are not typically required for this entry-level role, familiarity with retail software and a willingness to learn specific company systems for custom framing design and order management are important.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Creativity & Inspiration: Fostering an environment where creativity is celebrated, both in customer projects and team member expression.

• Customer Focus: Prioritizing customer needs and experiences, aiming to inspire and assist them in their creative endeavors.

• Teamwork & Collaboration: Encouraging a supportive atmosphere where team members work together to achieve store goals and provide exceptional service.

• Quality & Craftsmanship: Upholding high standards in custom framing production and product presentation.

• Integrity & Respect: Operating with honesty, treating all individuals with respect, and fostering an inclusive environment.

Collaboration Style:

• Emphasis on open communication and mutual support among store team members to ensure smooth daily operations.

• A culture of shared responsibility for customer service and store presentation, encouraging team members to assist each other and customers across departments.

• Regular team huddles or meetings to discuss daily goals, promotions, and operational updates.

📝 Enhancement Note: Michaels emphasizes a culture that blends creativity with operational excellence. Team members are expected to be collaborative, customer-focused, and uphold the company's commitment to quality and integrity.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Production and Sales: Effectively managing time to complete custom framing orders to high standards while also engaging customers on the sales floor and driving sales.

• Customer Expectations: Meeting diverse customer needs and design preferences, sometimes requiring creative problem-solving or upselling appropriate solutions.

• Technical Skill Acquisition: Learning to operate specialized framing equipment safely and efficiently.

• Retail Pace: Thriving in a fast-paced retail environment that requires multitasking, quick problem-solving, and continuous customer engagement.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Framing Expertise: Comprehensive training on custom framing techniques, materials, and design principles.

• Sales & Customer Service: Development of advanced consultative selling skills and customer relationship management through the "Elevated ABC Deliver" program.

• Retail Operations: Gaining practical experience in visual merchandising, inventory control, POS operation, and store management principles.

• Career Advancement: Clear pathways to leadership roles within Michaels stores and the broader organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a practical introduction to the operational and customer-facing aspects of the retail industry, with a specific focus on a creative service. The challenges are typical of a customer-centric retail position, and the growth opportunities are structured and accessible for motivated individuals.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Customer Service Scenarios: "Describe a time you helped a customer find exactly what they needed, even if it wasn't immediately obvious." "How would you handle a situation where a customer is unsure about the best framing option for their artwork?"

• Sales Approach: "How do you approach selling a premium product or service like custom framing?" "What steps would you take to build rapport with a new customer?"

• Problem-Solving: "Imagine you have a framing order due today, but you're also assisting a customer with a complex design. How would you prioritize your tasks?"

• Teamwork: "Describe a time you collaborated with colleagues to achieve a store goal or help a customer."

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about working at Michaels and specifically in the framing department?"

• "How do you align with Michaels' values of creativity and customer focus?"

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Highlight Relevant Experiences: Even without a formal portfolio, be ready to verbally "walk through" experiences where you demonstrated customer service, sales, problem-solving, or attention to detail.

• Showcase Design Interest: Express your personal interest in art, craft, or design. If you have personal projects (even non-professional) that showcase an eye for aesthetics, mention them.

• Emphasize Learning Aptitude: Clearly state your eagerness to learn the framing craft and company processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating strong interpersonal skills, a proactive sales attitude, a commitment to quality, and an enthusiasm for the creative aspect of the role. Highlighting any past experiences that align with these areas will be key.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Framer position:

• Submit your application through the Michaels Careers portal (https://michaels.wd5.myworkdayjobs.com/External/job/Cambridge-37-White-St/Framer_R00309165).

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight customer service, sales experience (even if informal), any retail background, and any mention of artistic or creative interests. Use keywords from the job description like "customer service," "sales," "merchandising," and "problem-solving."

• Prepare for Situational Questions: Think about specific examples from your past experiences that demonstrate your ability to handle customer interactions, resolve issues, and work effectively in a team.

• Research Michaels: Familiarize yourself with Michaels' product offerings, brand mission, and commitment to creativity. Understand their approach to custom framing and customer service.

• Practice Your "Elevated ABC Deliver" Pitch: While you won't know the full details, be ready to discuss how you would approach building customer relationships, identifying needs, and offering solutions in a consultative manner.

⚠️ 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.