Framer
📍 Job Overview
Job Title: Framer
Company: Michaels Stores
Location: Grande Prairie, Alberta, Canada
Job Type: Part-Time
Category: Retail Operations / Custom Framing Specialist
Date Posted: June 08, 2026
Experience Level: Entry-Level to Mid-Level (0-2 years)
Remote Status: On-site
🚀 Role Summary
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This role focuses on providing expert custom framing solutions and exceptional customer service within a retail environment.
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Key responsibilities include building customer relationships, advising on framing options, and executing framing orders to high-quality standards.
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The position demands proficiency in basic measuring, computer skills, and the safe operation of framing equipment.
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It involves maintaining store presentation, managing inventory, and operating the point-of-sale system, contributing to overall retail operations and customer satisfaction.
📝 Enhancement Note: While the job title is "Framer," the responsibilities clearly indicate a customer-facing retail role with a specialization in custom framing services. The "Operations" aspect is inherent in the retail environment, focusing on sales, inventory, and process adherence within the framing department.
📈 Primary Responsibilities
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Customer Engagement & Sales:
- Build strong customer relationships by actively engaging them in the framing process and offering personalized design consultations using elevated selling techniques.
- Understand customer needs and provide expert recommendations for custom framing solutions, aiming to meet and exceed sales targets for framing services.
- Assist customers in locating products and provide solutions to their creative needs, ensuring a positive shopping experience.
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Custom Framing Production:
- Execute custom framing orders with a high degree of quality, precision, and adherence to established timelines and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
- Operate specialized framing equipment, including glass cutters and heat presses, safely and efficiently.
- Ensure all framing projects meet company quality standards and customer expectations.
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Store Operations & Merchandising:
- Maintain the ready-made frame department, as well as other assigned areas, ensuring they are well-merchandised, organized, and in-stock.
- Participate in inventory management processes, including SISO (Sales In, Stock Out) and Directed Replenishment, to ensure product availability.
- Contribute to the truck un-load and stocking processes, adhering to company standards and timelines.
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Point-of-Sale & General Duties:
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Operate the cash register and execute cash handling procedures according to company standards, ensuring accuracy.
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Assist with Omni-channel processes, such as buy online, pick up in-store (BOPIS) or ship-from-store, as required.
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Maintain a safe, clean, and clutter-free store environment, adhering to all safety and shrink control programs.
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Perform other duties as assigned to support store operations and team goals.
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📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities blend direct customer interaction and sales with the technical aspects of framing production and general retail operations. The emphasis on "Elevated ABC Deliver" suggests a structured approach to customer engagement and sales within the framing department.
🎓 Skills & Qualifications
Education:
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High school diploma or equivalent is typically expected for retail roles, though not explicitly stated, it is a common prerequisite. Experience:
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0-2 years of experience in a customer-facing retail environment or a role involving direct sales and consultation.
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Demonstrated ability to learn and apply new skills, particularly in technical or artistic areas. Required Skills:
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Basic Computer Skills: Ability to navigate point-of-sale systems, basic software, and potentially online order management tools.
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Measuring Skills: Proficiency in taking accurate measurements for custom framing projects.
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Framing Equipment Operation: Ability to learn and safely operate framing equipment, including glass cutters and heat presses.
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Customer Service Excellence: Proven ability to engage customers, understand their needs, and provide solutions in a friendly and professional manner.
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Sales Acumen: Aptitude for selling products and services, building relationships, and driving sales targets.
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Cash Handling: Experience operating a cash register and performing accurate cash transactions.
Preferred Skills:
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Retail Experience: Prior experience working in a retail setting, particularly in art, craft, or custom framing environments.
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Sales Experience: Proven track record of selling products or services, with an understanding of consultative selling techniques.
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Artistic/Design Sensibility: An eye for design and aesthetics that can be applied to framing solutions.
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Inventory Management: Familiarity with retail inventory processes, such as stocking, replenishment, and visual merchandising.
📝 Enhancement Note: The requirements emphasize foundational skills in customer service, basic technical operation, and sales. The "0-2 years" experience level suggests that extensive prior framing expertise may not be mandatory, with a focus on trainability and customer interaction skills.
📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements
Portfolio Essentials:
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While a formal portfolio might not be strictly required for this entry-level role, candidates are encouraged to highlight any past projects or experiences that demonstrate their ability to:
- Design and Conceptualization: Showcase examples of creative problem-solving or design thinking, particularly related to visual aesthetics or custom solutions.
- Quality and Precision: If possible, present examples of work where attention to detail and accuracy were critical.
- Customer Satisfaction: Any testimonials or feedback from previous roles that highlight successful customer interactions or problem resolution.
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Candidates should be prepared to discuss their understanding of how processes contribute to customer satisfaction and operational efficiency. Process Documentation:
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Candidates should demonstrate an understanding of following Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company programs to ensure compliance and consistency.
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Familiarity with workflow design and optimization is a plus, particularly in how it relates to the framing process from consultation to completion.
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An understanding of how to measure and improve operational performance within a retail context will be beneficial.
📝 Enhancement Note: Given the retail and entry-level nature, a traditional "operations portfolio" might not be expected. However, demonstrating an understanding of process adherence, quality control, and customer-centric workflow is crucial. Candidates should be ready to articulate their approach to executing tasks efficiently and effectively.
💵 Compensation & Benefits
Salary Range:
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For a Part-Time Framer position in Grande Prairie, Alberta, Canada, with 0-2 years of experience, the estimated hourly wage typically ranges from CAD $16.00 to CAD $20.00 per hour.
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This estimate is based on typical retail wages for specialized roles in similar markets, considering the required skills in customer service, sales, and technical operation of framing equipment. Factors such as specific experience, performance during the interview process, and the exact store's compensation structure can influence the final offer. Benefits:
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Health Insurance: Comprehensive coverage including medical, dental, and vision insurance.
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Paid Time Off (PTO): Accrued paid time off for rest and personal needs.
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Tuition Assistance: Support for continuing education and skill development.
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Employee Discounts: Generous discounts on Michaels products and services, highly valuable for creative individuals.
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Other Potential Benefits: May include retirement savings plans, employee assistance programs, and opportunities for professional development.
Working Hours:
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This is a part-time position, with hours expected to vary based on store needs and customer traffic.
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Work hours will include nights, weekends, and early mornings, reflecting typical retail scheduling requirements.
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The role may require approximately 20-30 hours per week, with potential for more during peak seasons.
📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate for the Grande Prairie, Alberta market for a part-time retail role with specialized duties. The benefits listed are explicitly mentioned in the job description and are a significant draw for part-time employees.
🎯 Team & Company Context
🏢 Company Culture
Industry:
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Michaels operates within the Retail industry, specifically focusing on arts, crafts, and custom framing. As the "leading destination for creating and celebrating in North America," Michaels plays a significant role in the DIY and creative consumer market. The company's focus on customer creativity and celebration directly influences its store culture and team interactions. Company Size:
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The Michaels Companies, Inc. operates over 1,300 stores in 49 states and Canada, plus online retail. This large scale indicates a well-established corporate structure with standardized processes and a significant employee base. For operations professionals, this means opportunities to work within established frameworks and potentially contribute to process improvements across a wide network. Founded:
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Founded in 1973 and headquartered in Irving, Texas, Michaels has a long history in the retail sector, demonstrating stability and extensive market experience. This longevity suggests a mature business with a deep understanding of its customer base and operational needs. Team Structure:
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Store-Level Operations: The Framer will be part of a store team, likely reporting to a Store Manager or Assistant Manager, with direct supervision from a Framing Manager or Lead if applicable.
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Departmental Focus: The framing department functions as a specialized unit within the store, requiring collaboration with other departments for general store upkeep and customer service.
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Cross-Functional Collaboration: Team members are expected to support various store functions, including sales floor operations, inventory management, and customer assistance, fostering a collaborative and adaptable team environment.
Methodology:
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Customer-Centric Approach: The company emphasizes building customer relationships and providing solutions, which drives operational focus on customer experience and satisfaction.
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Process Adherence: Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) are critical for maintaining consistency, quality, and compliance across all stores.
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Data-Driven Insights (Implied): While not explicit for this role, larger retail organizations like Michaels use data for sales, inventory, and customer behavior analysis, which influences operational strategies.
Company Website:
📝 Enhancement Note: The company's mission and scale highlight a customer-focused, process-driven retail environment. For operations candidates, this means an emphasis on SOPs, sales performance, and customer engagement as key drivers of success.
📈 Career & Growth Analysis
Operations Career Level:
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This Framer role is positioned at an entry-level to mid-level within the retail operations framework. It requires a blend of customer service, sales, and technical skills specific to custom framing. The role is foundational for understanding the operational flow of a specialized department within a large retail chain. Reporting Structure:
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The Framer will typically report to the Store Manager or an Assistant Manager. In larger stores or those with a dedicated framing department, there might be a Framing Lead or Manager who provides direct supervision and technical guidance for framing operations. Operations Impact:
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The Framer's primary impact is on customer satisfaction and revenue generation through high-quality custom framing services and upselling. By providing excellent customer experiences and accurate, timely framing solutions, they contribute directly to store sales and customer loyalty. Their ability to maintain an organized and well-stocked framing department also supports overall store efficiency and sales. Growth Opportunities:
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Advancement within Framing: Potential to become a Framing Lead or Manager, taking on more responsibility for team supervision, inventory management, and complex framing projects.
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Cross-Functional Retail Roles: Opportunities to move into other store-based roles such as Key Holder, Assistant Manager, or Store Manager, leveraging experience in customer service, sales, and operations.
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Specialized Skills Development: Continuous learning in framing techniques, design, and advanced customer service strategies.
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Corporate Opportunities: With proven success and further development, potential pathways to roles in merchandising, visual arts, or operational support at the corporate level within Michaels.
📝 Enhancement Note: The growth path in retail is often structured, starting with front-line roles and progressing through increased responsibility. For operations-minded individuals, this role provides a practical understanding of retail workflows, customer demand, and specialized service delivery.
🌐 Work Environment
Office Type:
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This is a public retail store setting, meaning the primary workspace is the sales floor and the dedicated framing area within a Michaels store. The environment is customer-facing and dynamic, requiring adaptability and a proactive approach. Office Location(s):
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The specific location is Grande Prairie, Alberta, Canada, at 10502-109A St Unit 102. This is a physical retail store accessible to the public. Workspace Context:
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Collaborative Environment: The store operates as a team, with staff working together to serve customers, manage inventory, and maintain store standards. Collaboration is essential for effective customer service and operational efficiency.
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Tools and Technology: The workspace includes access to framing equipment (glass cutters, heat presses), POS systems for transactions, and basic computer interfaces for order management or inventory lookup.
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Team Interaction: Frequent interaction with colleagues for support, task coordination, and problem-solving is expected. The framing area requires close coordination with sales floor staff for customer handoffs and inquiries.
Work Schedule:
- The role involves a flexible schedule, including nights, weekends, and early mornings, as is standard in retail. Part-time hours will be assigned based on business needs. Adaptability to varying shifts is key.
📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is hands-on, customer-focused, and team-oriented. The framing shop itself has specific environmental considerations due to tools like glass cutters and heat presses, requiring adherence to safety protocols.
📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process
Interview Process:
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Initial Screening: Likely an online application followed by a phone screen to assess basic qualifications and interest.
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In-Person Interview: A one-on-one or panel interview at the store location. This will assess:
- Customer Service Skills: Role-playing scenarios or behavioral questions about handling customer interactions.
- Sales Aptitude: Questions about past sales experiences and how they would approach selling framing solutions.
- Technical Aptitude: Discussion of basic measuring and computer skills, and willingness to learn framing equipment operation.
- Problem-Solving: Situational questions about handling challenges in a retail or framing context.
- Cultural Fit: Assessing alignment with Michaels' values of creativity, customer focus, and teamwork.
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Practical Assessment (Potential): A brief, hands-on demonstration of basic measuring skills or a discussion of how they would approach a framing consultation.
Portfolio Review Tips:
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Focus on Transferable Skills: Since a formal portfolio isn't explicitly required, candidates should prepare to discuss examples from previous roles that demonstrate:
- Customer Interaction: How they built rapport, solved problems, or exceeded expectations.
- Sales Achievements: Any instances where they successfully sold a product or service, especially custom or consultative sales.
- Detail Orientation: Projects or tasks where accuracy and precision were critical.
- Creativity/Design: Any personal projects or professional experiences showcasing an eye for design or artistic sensibility.
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Prepare Case Studies: Be ready to walk through a hypothetical framing consultation: from understanding the customer's artwork and needs, to recommending materials, explaining the process, and closing the sale.
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Quantify Achievements: If discussing sales or customer service metrics from past roles, use numbers where possible.
Challenge Preparation:
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Customer Scenario: Be prepared to discuss how you would handle a challenging customer, such as one who is indecisive, has a complex framing request, or is dissatisfied.
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Sales Approach: Articulate your strategy for upselling or cross-selling framing services and related products.
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Process Understanding: Explain how you ensure accuracy and quality in your work, especially when following established procedures.
📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will likely be a blend of behavioral questions, situational assessments, and a focus on customer service and sales potential. Candidates should highlight their ability to learn new technical skills and their passion for creative solutions.
🛠 Tools & Technology Stack
Primary Tools:
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POS System: For processing sales, managing transactions, and potentially basic customer lookup.
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Framing Equipment:
- Glass Cutter: For precise cutting of glass or acrylic to fit custom frames.
- Heat Press: Used for various framing applications, such as mounting or applying protective films.
- Mat Cutters: For precise cutting of matting materials.
- Frame Assembly Tools: For cutting, joining, and finishing frames.
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Measuring Tools: Tape measures, rulers, and other precision instruments for accurate project dimensions.
Analytics & Reporting:
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Basic Computer Skills: For accessing online training, company portals, and potentially inventory management software.
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POS Reporting: The POS system likely provides basic sales reports for the framing department.
CRM & Automation:
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Customer Relationship Management (Implied): While not a formal CRM, the "Elevated ABC Deliver" approach suggests a structured method for customer engagement and relationship building, which can be seen as a form of micro-CRM at the customer interaction level.
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Inventory Management Systems: Potentially used for tracking stock levels of framing materials, ready-made frames, and supplies.
📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is focused on operational tools for production and sales within a retail setting. Proficiency with basic computer systems and the willingness to learn specialized equipment are key.
👥 Team Culture & Values
Operations Values:
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Creativity & Celebration: Michaels' core purpose is to fuel the joy of creativity and celebration. This translates into a work environment that values artistic expression, customer enjoyment, and positive experiences.
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Customer Focus: The emphasis on building customer relationships and providing solutions means that customer satisfaction is paramount. Operations are geared towards making the customer's creative journey enjoyable and successful.
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Teamwork & Respect: The company promotes an accepting, respectful, and positive environment, encouraging collaboration and mutual support among team members.
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Efficiency & Quality: Adherence to SOPs and standards ensures consistent quality of products and services, contributing to operational efficiency and customer trust.
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Integrity & Safety: Upholding company policies, supporting safety programs, and maintaining ethical conduct are foundational.
Collaboration Style:
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Cross-Functional Integration: Team members are expected to support each other across different store functions, not just within their specialized area. This means a Framer might assist with floor coverage, and floor staff might help with framing tasks or customer referrals.
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Process-Oriented Communication: Collaboration often revolves around executing tasks according to SOPs, ensuring smooth handoffs between sales, production, and fulfillment.
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Feedback Exchange: A culture that encourages open communication and feedback to improve processes and customer service is implied by the focus on continuous improvement and team support.
📝 Enhancement Note: The culture is geared towards a positive, creative, and customer-centric retail experience, supported by structured processes and teamwork. Operations professionals are expected to contribute to this atmosphere through their work ethic and collaborative spirit.
⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities
Challenges:
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Balancing Sales and Production: Effectively managing customer consultations and sales while also meeting production demands for framing orders can be challenging.
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Customer Expectations: Meeting diverse customer expectations for design, quality, and turnaround time for custom framing projects.
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Technical Skill Acquisition: Learning to operate specialized framing equipment and mastering precise cutting and assembly techniques requires dedication.
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Pace of Retail: Adapting to the fast-paced retail environment, including busy periods, truck unloads, and general store duties alongside framing responsibilities.
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Inventory Management: Ensuring adequate stock of framing materials while minimizing waste and managing inventory accuracy.
Learning & Development Opportunities:
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Framing Expertise: Deepen knowledge of framing techniques, materials, design principles, and conservation framing.
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Sales & Customer Service Mastery: Develop advanced consultative selling skills and customer relationship management techniques.
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Retail Operations Knowledge: Gain a comprehensive understanding of store operations, including inventory, merchandising, and POS management.
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Leadership Potential: Opportunities to progress into team lead or management roles within the store.
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Industry Certifications: Potential to pursue certifications in custom framing through industry associations.
📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a solid foundation for developing specialized retail skills. The challenges are typical of a hands-on, customer-facing role, with clear opportunities for skill enhancement and career progression within the company.
💡 Interview Preparation
Strategy Questions:
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"How would you approach a customer who is unsure about the best framing option for their artwork?"
- Preparation: Prepare to discuss your consultative selling process, focusing on active listening, asking clarifying questions about the artwork, the customer's style preferences, and the intended location of the framed piece. Mention using visual aids and samples.
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"Describe a time you had to ensure accuracy and attention to detail in your work. How did you ensure a high-quality outcome?"
- Preparation: Think about past roles where precision was critical. Discuss your methods for double-checking measurements, following instructions, and quality control steps.
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"Imagine you have a customer waiting for a framing consultation, but a delivery truck is also arriving with new inventory. How would you prioritize your tasks?"
- Preparation: Demonstrate your ability to manage multiple priorities and communicate effectively. Discuss how you would delegate or coordinate tasks if possible, or how you would manage customer expectations while addressing urgent operational needs. Company & Culture Questions:
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"What interests you about working at Michaels and specifically in the framing department?"
- Preparation: Research Michaels' mission and values. Connect your passion for creativity, art, or helping customers bring their visions to life with the company's purpose.
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"How do you contribute to a positive and collaborative team environment?"
- Preparation: Provide examples of how you've supported colleagues, communicated effectively, and maintained a positive attitude, even during busy periods.
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"How do you ensure you are following company policies and procedures, such as SOPs?"
- Preparation: Discuss your understanding of the importance of standardized processes for consistency, quality, and safety. Mention your proactive approach to learning and adhering to guidelines. Portfolio Presentation Strategy:
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Bring Examples (If Applicable): If you have any personal framing projects, design work, or even well-documented customer service success stories from previous roles, be prepared to briefly discuss them.
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Focus on Process: Be ready to describe your thought process for solving problems, whether it's a design challenge or an operational efficiency issue.
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Quantify When Possible: If discussing past sales or customer service achievements, use metrics to demonstrate impact.
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Show Enthusiasm for Learning: Emphasize your eagerness to learn the specific framing equipment and techniques Michaels uses.
📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating customer service skills, sales potential, attention to detail, and a willingness to learn. Highlighting any creative or artistic background, even personal, can be beneficial.
📌 Application Steps
To apply for this operations position:
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Submit your application through the Michaels Stores careers portal via the provided link.
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Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight relevant retail experience, customer service skills, any sales achievements, and any experience with measuring or detailed work. Use keywords from the job description such as "customer service," "sales," "measuring skills," and "retail operations."
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Portfolio Preparation: While not a formal portfolio, prepare to discuss specific examples from your past work or personal projects that demonstrate your attention to detail, customer interaction skills, sales ability, and any artistic or design aptitude. Be ready to articulate how you would approach a customer consultation.
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Interview Practice: Rehearse answers to common interview questions, focusing on behavioral and situational scenarios related to customer service, sales, and problem-solving in a retail context. Practice explaining your understanding of operational processes and your eagerness to learn new skills.
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Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Michaels' mission, values, and product offerings, particularly their custom framing services. Understand their commitment to creativity and customer celebration to align your responses with their company culture.
⚠️ 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, and the ability to operate framing equipment and glass cutters. Physical ability to lift heavy boxes, stand for long periods, and use ladders is necessary.