Framer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Framer

Company: Michaels Stores

Location: Princeton, NJ (300 Nassau Park Blvd)

Job Type: Part Time

Category: Retail Operations / Art & Design Services

Date Posted: September 13, 2026

Experience Level: Entry-Level (0-2 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is centered around providing expert custom framing services and exceptional customer experiences within a retail environment.

• Key responsibilities include building strong customer relationships, driving sales through personalized design consultations, and ensuring high-quality, timely order fulfillment.

• The position also involves maintaining store presentation, supporting inventory management, and adhering to operational standards for safety and efficiency.

• Successful candidates will leverage basic computer and measuring skills, alongside proficiency in operating specialized framing equipment.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role, while titled "Framer," has significant customer service, sales, and operational components within a retail context. It requires a blend of artistic/design aptitude and adherence to structured retail processes. The "Part time" designation suggests flexibility but also requires efficient time management to meet all responsibilities.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Customer Engagement & Sales:

  • Actively build and nurture customer relationships through personalized interactions and design consultations, utilizing the "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodology.
  • Drive custom framing sales by effectively understanding customer needs and proposing creative, high-quality framing solutions.
  • Acknowledge customers promptly, assist them in locating products, and provide solutions to meet their creative project needs.

• Production & Quality Assurance:

  • Complete custom framing orders with a high degree of craftsmanship, ensuring adherence to quality standards and on-time delivery.
  • Operate and maintain framing equipment, including glass cutters and heat presses, safely and efficiently.

• Store Operations & Merchandising:

  • Maintain the ready-made frame department, SISO (Shop In Shop Out), and directed replenishment areas to ensure a visually appealing and well-stocked environment.
  • Assist with truck un-loads and stocking processes, adhering to established standards and timelines to ensure optimal inventory levels.
  • Operate the cash register and execute cash handling procedures accurately and efficiently according to company standards.
  • Support overall store operations by ensuring a safe, clean, and clutter-free environment for both customers and team members.

• Compliance & Teamwork:

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

  • Participate in shrink and safety programs, contributing to a secure and loss-preventative store environment.

  • Interact positively and respectfully with colleagues, promoting a collaborative and supportive team atmosphere.

  • Assist with Omni-channel processes as needed, ensuring seamless customer experiences across all sales channels.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a dual focus on direct customer interaction (sales, design) and operational execution (production, merchandising, stocking). The emphasis on "Elevated ABC Deliver" suggests a structured approach to customer engagement that candidates should be prepared to discuss.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• While no specific degree is mandated, a strong aptitude for visual arts, design principles, or a related field would be beneficial. Experience:

• 0-2 years of experience in a customer-facing role, preferably within a retail or service environment.

• Demonstrated ability to learn and apply new skills, particularly in operating specialized equipment and following procedural guidelines. Required Skills:

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

• Basic Computer Skills: Proficiency in using point-of-sale (POS) systems, basic computer applications, and potentially digital design tools for framing mock-ups.

• Measuring & Spatial Reasoning: Accurate basic measuring skills are essential for custom framing order accuracy.

• Equipment Operation: Ability to safely and effectively operate framing equipment, including specialized tools like glass cutters and potentially heat presses.

• Sales Acumen: Aptitude for suggesting products and services, closing sales, and contributing to sales targets.

• Adherence to Procedures: Demonstrated ability to follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company programs consistently.

Preferred Skills:

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

• Sales Experience: Proven track record of selling products or services, with an ability to consult and recommend solutions.

• Custom Framing Knowledge: Familiarity with framing techniques, materials, and design principles is a significant advantage.

• Inventory Management: Basic understanding of inventory control, stocking, and merchandising principles.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "0-2 years" experience level indicates this is an entry-level position. However, the "Preferred Skills" suggest that candidates with prior retail or sales experience will be more competitive. The ability to operate equipment and follow procedures is critical.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Process Documentation: While a formal portfolio might not be required, candidates should be prepared to discuss their understanding of workflow processes. This could include:

  • Workflow Design: How they would approach designing a custom framing order from initial customer consultation to final product delivery.
  • Quality Control: Steps they would take to ensure the quality and accuracy of each framing order.
  • Efficiency Improvements: Examples of how they might optimize processes within the framing department to reduce waste or improve turnaround time.

• System Proficiency Examples: Be ready to articulate your experience with or ability to learn:

  • POS Systems: Discuss your experience with cash registers and transaction processing.
  • Inventory Management Software: If applicable, highlight any experience with tracking stock or managing inventory.
  • Basic Computer Applications: Demonstrate comfort with general computer use for order entry or system navigation.

Process Documentation:

• Candidates should be able to articulate their understanding of following established processes, such as:
  • Order Fulfillment Cycle: Describing the steps involved in taking a customer order, producing the item, and preparing it for pickup.
  • Merchandising Standards: Explaining how they would maintain visual presentation guidelines for the framing department.
  • Safety Protocols: Demonstrating awareness of safety procedures related to equipment operation and store maintenance.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an entry-level role like this, a formal "portfolio" is unlikely. However, candidates should prepare to discuss their understanding of operational processes, problem-solving skills, and ability to learn new systems through behavioral examples.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Estimated Range: $16.50 - $19.40 per hour

• Explanation: This range is directly provided in the job description. It aligns with entry-level retail positions in the Princeton, NJ area, considering the cost of living and typical hourly wages for customer service and specialized retail roles.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health & Wellness:

  • Medical, Dental, and Vision Coverage
  • Telemedicine Services
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

• Financial & Retirement:

  • 401(k) with Employer Match
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)
  • Commuter Benefits

• Professional Development & Support:

  • Tuition Assistance
  • Adoption Assistance
  • Voluntary Insurance Options

• Employee Perks:

  • Employee Discounts on Michaels products

  • Access to Partner Discount Programs Working Hours:

• This is a 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 retail environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided salary range is specific and competitive for a part-time, entry-level retail role in a higher cost-of-living area like Princeton, NJ. The benefits package is robust for a part-time position, offering significant value.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Arts and Crafts Retail / Home Decor

Company Size: Large (Over 10,000 employees)

Founded: 1973

Company Headquarters: Irving, Texas, USA

Team Structure:

• Retail Store Environment: This role is part of a local store team, reporting to store management (e.g., Store Manager, Assistant Store Manager, Framing Department Manager if applicable).

• Cross-functional Collaboration: The Framer will collaborate with other store associates, including cashiers, stock associates, and potentially other department specialists, to ensure smooth store operations and excellent customer service.

• Customer-Centric Focus: The company culture emphasizes creativity, customer engagement, and a passion for crafting and celebration. Operations are geared towards supporting these values.

Methodology:

• Process Adherence: A strong emphasis on following Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to ensure consistency, quality, and safety across all stores.

• Customer Experience Driven: All operational activities are designed to enhance the customer journey, from product discovery and selection to purchase and post-sale support.

• Team-Based Operations: Encouragement of teamwork and mutual support to achieve store-wide goals.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Michaels operates as a large, established retail chain with a strong brand identity centered on creativity. The culture likely values customer engagement, teamwork, and adherence to operational standards necessary for a large-scale retail operation.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Entry-Level / Specialist

• This is an entry-level position focused on a specific operational function (custom framing) within the retail environment. It requires hands-on skills and direct customer interaction. Reporting Structure:

• Reports to Store Management (e.g., Store Manager, Assistant Store Manager, or a dedicated Department Manager for Framing).

• Works collaboratively with other store team members. Operations Impact:

• Directly impacts store revenue through custom framing sales and customer loyalty.

• Contributes to the overall store's operational efficiency, visual appeal, and customer satisfaction by maintaining departments and assisting with stocking.

• Upholds the brand's reputation for quality and service in custom framing. Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Development: Opportunity to become a highly skilled custom framer, mastering design principles and production techniques.

• Retail Advancement: Potential to move into other retail roles within Michaels, such as Lead Associate, Department Specialist, or Assistant Management, by demonstrating strong performance, customer service skills, and operational knowledge.

• Cross-Training: Possibility of cross-training in other store departments (e.g., cashier, merchandising) to broaden retail experience.

• Leadership Potential: For individuals showing strong leadership and operational capabilities, there may be pathways toward supervisory or management roles.

📝 Enhancement Note: While entry-level, this role provides a solid foundation in retail operations, customer service, and specialized craft skills. Growth is typically within the retail store structure, emphasizing progression through demonstrated performance and acquired skills.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Retail Store Environment

• The primary work location is a public retail store, specifically within the framing department and throughout the sales floor. Office Location(s):

• Princeton, NJ (300 Nassau Park Blvd)

• The role is specific to this single store location. Workspace Context:

• Customer-Facing Area: The framing counter and sales floor areas are climate-controlled, designed for customer interaction and product display.

• Production Area: The frame shop itself may have specific environmental considerations due to the tools and materials used (e.g., potential for dust from mat cutting, proximity to glass).

• Stock Rooms: Some stock rooms may not be climate-controlled, requiring adaptability.

• Collaborative Space: The store environment necessitates frequent interaction with colleagues and customers.

• Tools & Technology: Access to framing equipment, glass cutters, heat presses, POS systems, and potentially basic computer workstations.

Work Schedule:

• Part-time schedule, with hours varying based on business needs.

• Must be available to work nights, weekends, and early mornings.

• The role requires standing for long periods and regular physical activity.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is a typical active retail setting. Candidates should be prepared for physical demands, varied hours, and a dynamic customer-focused atmosphere.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Likely a review of the application and resume for basic qualifications and relevant experience.

• In-Person Interview: Candidates will likely participate in an interview at the store location. This may involve:

  • Behavioral Questions: Discussing past experiences related to customer service, problem-solving, teamwork, and handling challenging situations.
  • Situational Questions: Presenting hypothetical scenarios to assess judgment and approach (e.g., "How would you handle a customer who is unhappy with their framing order?").
  • Skills Assessment: Discussion or demonstration of basic measuring skills or understanding of framing concepts.
  • Cultural Fit: Assessing alignment with Michaels' values of creativity, customer focus, and teamwork.

• Operational/Production Discussion: Potential questions about ability to learn and operate framing equipment, follow SOPs, and manage time effectively.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• As this is an entry-level role, a formal portfolio is not expected. However, candidates can prepare by:
  • Crafting a Strong Resume: Clearly highlighting any relevant customer service, sales, or hands-on experience. Quantify achievements where possible (e.g., "Assisted an average of X customers per hour").
  • Preparing Examples: Having specific examples ready to illustrate skills like problem-solving, customer engagement, attention to detail, and teamwork.
  • Demonstrating Enthusiasm: Showing passion for creativity, art, or crafting can be a significant advantage.
  • Understanding the Brand: Researching Michaels' commitment to creativity and community.

Challenge Preparation:

• Scenario-Based Questions: Be prepared for questions like:

  • "A customer wants a frame for a very unusual piece of art. How would you approach this consultation?"
  • "How would you prioritize tasks if you had a framing order due, a customer waiting for assistance, and a shipment of new frames to unpack?"
  • "Describe a time you had to learn a new skill quickly for a job."

• Focus on Process and Detail: Emphasize your ability to follow instructions accurately and maintain high standards for quality and efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will likely focus on assessing customer service aptitude, basic operational understanding, and cultural fit. Candidates should prepare to showcase their soft skills and willingness to learn.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Custom Framing Equipment:

  • Mat cutters (e.g., Logan, Fletcher)
  • Framing saws/cutters
  • Glass cutters
  • Heat presses (for specific applications)
  • Staplers, jointers, and other assembly tools

• Point of Sale (POS) System: For processing transactions, customer orders, and managing sales data.

• Basic Computer Applications: For internal communication, training, and potentially order entry/management software.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not directly a data analysis role, the Framer contributes to sales data through transactions.

• Understanding basic sales reports or performance metrics related to framing sales might be beneficial for growth. CRM & Automation:

• The POS system likely has CRM-like functionalities for tracking customer orders and potentially customer history.

• Automation is less relevant in this specific role, beyond efficient use of equipment and processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency with specialized framing equipment is a core requirement. Familiarity with retail POS systems is also essential. The role does not typically involve complex CRM or automation tools.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Creativity: Encouraging customers and team members to explore their creative potential.

• Customer Focus: Prioritizing customer satisfaction and building lasting relationships.

• Quality & Craftsmanship: Commitment to delivering high-quality custom framing solutions.

• Teamwork & Respect: Fostering a supportive and collaborative environment where everyone contributes and is respected.

• Efficiency & Safety: Adhering to operational procedures to ensure safe and productive work.

Collaboration Style:

• Team-Oriented: Working closely with fellow store associates to cover all operational needs, from customer service to stocking and sales.

• Customer-Centric: All interactions, whether with customers or colleagues, should aim to facilitate a positive experience and achieve shared goals.

• Process-Driven: Following established procedures ensures consistency and allows for smoother collaboration and problem-solving.

• Open Communication: Encouraging clear communication regarding orders, customer needs, and operational tasks.

📝 Enhancement Note: Michaels emphasizes a culture that blends creativity with strong operational execution and excellent customer service. Team members are expected to be supportive, respectful, and dedicated to the company's mission.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Multiple Demands: Juggling customer consultations, production tasks, stocking, and cashier duties efficiently.

• Meeting Production Deadlines: Ensuring custom framing orders are completed on time, especially during peak periods.

• Handling Difficult Customers: Managing customer expectations and resolving issues related to custom orders or store policies.

• Learning Specialized Skills: Mastering the operation of framing equipment and understanding design principles takes practice.

• Physical Demands: The role requires standing for extended periods, lifting, and repetitive motions.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Framing Expertise: Developing advanced skills in custom framing design, material selection, and production techniques.

• Customer Service & Sales Training: Enhancing abilities to build rapport, consult effectively, and drive sales.

• Retail Operations Knowledge: Gaining a broader understanding of store management, inventory, visual merchandising, and loss prevention.

• Cross-Training: Opportunities to learn skills in other store departments, broadening overall retail competence.

• Career Progression: Potential pathways into lead roles, department management, or other positions within Michaels' extensive retail network.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a chance to develop specialized craft skills within a supportive retail framework. The primary growth path is within retail store operations, with opportunities to advance through demonstrated performance and skill acquisition.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Customer Service Scenarios: "Describe a time you went above and beyond for a customer." "How would you handle a customer who is upset about the price of a custom frame?"

• Problem-Solving & Detail Orientation: "Imagine a framing order has a mistake in measurements. What steps would you take?" "How do you ensure accuracy when working with detailed instructions?"

• Teamwork & Collaboration: "Tell me about a time you worked effectively as part of a team to achieve a goal." "How would you contribute to a positive team environment in the store?"

Company & Culture Questions:

• Motivation: "Why are you interested in working at Michaels?" "What interests you about custom framing?"

• Values Alignment: "What does 'creativity' mean to you in a retail context?" "How do you embody customer focus in your work?"

• Understanding the Role: "What do you understand to be the main responsibilities of a Framer?"

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Resume Highlights: Be ready to discuss specific achievements or responsibilities listed on your resume that are relevant to customer service, sales, attention to detail, or hands-on work.

• Behavioral Examples: Prepare concise stories using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to answer behavioral questions.

• Enthusiasm for Craft: Express genuine interest in art, design, and the creative process. If you have personal crafting or framing experience, be prepared to share it.

• Showcase Learning Ability: Emphasize your capacity to learn new equipment, procedures, and customer service techniques quickly and effectively.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interviews will likely focus on assessing your customer service skills, ability to follow procedures, teamwork, and enthusiasm for the brand and the craft. Prepare specific examples to demonstrate these qualities.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

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

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight relevant customer service, sales, retail, and any hands-on experience. Use keywords from the job description such as "customer service," "sales," "merchandising," "equipment operation," and "attention to detail."

• Prepare for Behavioral Questions: Think of specific examples from past experiences that demonstrate your ability to handle customer interactions, solve problems, work in a team, and learn new skills. Use the STAR method for structuring your answers.

• Research Michaels: Understand the company's mission, values, and product offerings, particularly in custom framing. This will help you articulate your interest and cultural fit.

• Practice Your Introduction: Be ready to briefly and enthusiastically introduce yourself and explain why you are a good candidate for the Framer role.

⚠️ 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.