Framer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Framer

Company: Michaels Stores

Location: Reistertown Rd, Garrison, MD (United States)

Job Type: Part-Time

Category: Retail Operations / Custom Framing

Date Posted: May 25, 2026

Experience Level: Entry-Level to 2 Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Execute custom framing consultations and design solutions to build customer relationships and drive sales.

• Manage the end-to-end framing order process, ensuring high-quality production and on-time delivery.

• Maintain visual merchandising standards for the ready-made frame department and other assigned retail areas.

• Provide exceptional customer service, assisting shoppers with product location and offering solutions.

• Operate the point-of-sale system for accurate cash handling and transaction processing.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is situated within a retail environment, specifically focused on custom framing services. While the title is "Framer," the responsibilities extend to broader retail operations, customer engagement, and sales, indicating a hybrid role blending specialized craft with general store duties. The emphasis on "Elevated ABC Deliver" and "personal designer" suggests a consultative sales approach within the framing department.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Actively engage customers using the "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodology to build rapport and understand their custom framing needs.

• Design and propose framing solutions, leveraging product knowledge and design principles to meet customer expectations and drive sales.

• Accurately measure artwork and select appropriate framing materials, including mats, frames, glass, and hardware.

• Operate specialized framing equipment, such as mat cutters, saws, and mounting presses, safely and efficiently.

• Produce high-quality custom framing orders, adhering to established production standards and timelines.

• Manage inventory for the ready-made frame department, ensuring products are well-organized, stocked, and visually appealing.

• Assist with directed replenishment and SISO (Single Item, Single Order) processes to maintain optimal stock levels.

• Provide general customer assistance throughout the store, helping shoppers locate merchandise and offering product information.

• Operate the cash register, process transactions accurately, and adhere to all cash handling procedures.

• Participate in truck un-loading and stocking activities, ensuring compliance with company standards and safety protocols.

• Support company-wide shrink reduction and safety programs by adhering to operational guidelines.

• Maintain a safe, clean, and clutter-free work environment, particularly within the framing area and sales floor.

• Assist with and understand Omni-channel processes, such as buy online, pick up in-store (BOPIS) or ship-from-store.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a dual focus on specialized framing services and general retail operations. The emphasis on "Elevated ABC Deliver" implies a structured approach to customer interaction and sales, aiming to maximize the value of each customer interaction within the framing context. The inclusion of Omni-channel support indicates the need for adaptability in fulfilling customer orders across different channels.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Experience:

• 0-2 years of experience in a retail or customer-facing role.

Required Skills:

• Basic computer skills for POS system operation and potential order management.

• Basic measuring skills with accuracy for framing applications.

• Ability to operate framing equipment (e.g., mat cutter, saw, mounting press) and a glass cutter safely and effectively.

• Strong customer service orientation with effective communication and interpersonal skills.

• Basic sales aptitude to identify customer needs and recommend solutions.

• Ability to handle cash transactions accurately and efficiently.

• Familiarity with visual merchandising principles for retail displays.

Preferred Skills:

• Previous retail experience, particularly in a specialty or custom goods environment.

• Proven experience selling products or services, with a consultative approach.

• Familiarity with art conservation principles and archival framing techniques.

• Knowledge of different framing materials, styles, and their aesthetic applications.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirements emphasize foundational skills necessary for both specialized framing tasks and general retail duties. The "0-2 years" experience level suggests that while prior framing knowledge is beneficial, comprehensive on-the-job training will be provided for the technical aspects of framing. The inclusion of "measuring skills" and "computer skills" points to a need for both hands-on precision and basic technological proficiency.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• While a formal portfolio might not be required for this entry-level role, candidates are encouraged to showcase examples of their work or projects demonstrating precision, creativity, and problem-solving skills in framing or related crafts.

• If applicable, provide visual documentation of past framing projects, highlighting complexity, material choices, and the final aesthetic outcome.

• Be prepared to discuss process workflows for custom orders, from initial customer consultation to final product delivery.

Process Documentation:

• Ability to understand and follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for framing production, customer service, and store operations.

• Demonstrate an understanding of workflow for order taking, production scheduling, and quality control in a custom service environment.

• Be prepared to discuss how processes can be optimized for efficiency and customer satisfaction within a retail framing context.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an entry-level role like this, a formal portfolio is less critical than demonstrating the potential for precision, customer engagement, and process adherence. The emphasis should be on the candidate's ability to learn and apply established procedures, rather than extensive prior documentation. The company's focus on SOPs suggests a structured approach to operations that candidates should be prepared to discuss.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $15.25 - $17.90 per hour

Benefits:

• Health Insurance (Medical, Dental, and Vision)

• Paid Time Off (PTO)

• Tuition Assistance

• Generous Employee Discounts on Michaels products and services

Working Hours:

• Part-time position, likely involving variable hours based on business needs, including evenings, weekends, and potentially early mornings. The description mentions a standard 40-hour workweek for full-time roles, implying a reduced but flexible schedule for part-time associates.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided salary range is competitive for entry-level retail positions in the US, reflecting the specialized nature of the framing role and the company's commitment to fair compensation. The benefits package, including health insurance and tuition assistance, is comprehensive for a part-time role, indicating Michaels' investment in its employees' well-being and development. The inclusion of employee discounts is a significant perk for a company that sells crafting and creative supplies.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

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

Company Size: Large (Over 1,300 stores in North America)

Founded: 1973, headquartered in Irving, Texas. Michaels is a leading destination for creative individuals.

Team Structure:

• The Framer will be part of a store-level team, reporting to store management (e.g., Store Manager, Assistant Store Manager, or Department Specialist).

• Collaboration will occur with fellow sales associates, cashiers, and potentially other department specialists.

Methodology:

• Emphasis on customer-centric service ("Elevated ABC Deliver") to build relationships and drive sales.

• Adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for consistent execution of tasks and policies.

• Focus on creating a positive and inspiring environment for both customers and team members.

• Commitment to visual merchandising and maintaining an attractive, well-stocked store.

• Integration of Omni-channel capabilities to serve customers across various purchasing platforms.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Michaels operates in a highly competitive retail landscape, emphasizing creativity, community, and customer experience. The company's "purpose is to fuel the joy of creativity and celebration," which should guide how candidates approach customer interactions and their role within the store. The culture likely values enthusiasm for crafts, a helpful attitude, and a commitment to quality service.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Entry-Level / Associate

Reporting Structure: Reports to store management, likely a Department Specialist or Store Manager, depending on store hierarchy.

Operations Impact:

• Directly impacts store revenue through custom framing sales and general merchandise sales.

• Contributes to customer satisfaction and loyalty by providing expert advice and high-quality custom solutions.

Growth Opportunities:

• Framing Specialization: Potential to become a Senior Framer or Custom Framing Specialist, taking on more complex projects and training new team members.

• Retail Leadership: Advancement into roles such as Department Specialist, Key Holder, Assistant Store Manager, or Store Manager within Michaels Stores.

• Cross-Training: Opportunities to gain experience in other store departments, broadening retail skill sets.

• Transfer Opportunities: Potential to transfer to different store locations.

• Skill Development: Continuous learning in custom framing techniques, sales, and customer engagement.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role serves as a solid entry point into the retail industry, particularly for those interested in creative services. Michaels offers clear pathways for advancement, from deepening expertise in framing to moving into broader retail management roles. The company's size provides ample opportunities for internal mobility and career progression.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Public retail store setting.

Office Location(s): Garrison, MD (Store - 9934 Reistertown Rd).

Workspace Context:

• The primary workspace is the retail sales floor and a dedicated custom framing shop within the store.

• The framing shop involves specialized equipment, including a glass cutter and heat press, requiring careful attention to safety protocols.

• Work areas are generally climate-controlled, though some stock rooms might not be.

• Occasional outdoor work may be required for tasks like retrieving shopping carts or during truck un-loading.

Work Schedule:

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

• Availability to work nights, weekends, and early mornings is expected.

• The role requires the ability to stand for long periods and move throughout the store.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is typical of a busy retail store, characterized by customer interaction and a need for physical stamina. The framing area presents unique operational considerations due to specialized equipment and materials. Candidates should be comfortable with a fast-paced, public-facing role that demands both technical skill and strong interpersonal abilities.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Application: Submit resume and complete online application.

• Screening Call/Interview: A brief conversation with an HR representative or hiring manager to assess basic qualifications, availability, and interest in the role.

• In-Person Interview: This will likely involve meeting with store management to discuss experience, customer service approach, and suitability for the framing role. You may be asked about your understanding of design principles or how you'd handle specific customer scenarios.

• Skills Assessment/Demonstration: You might be asked to demonstrate basic measuring skills or discuss your approach to operating framing equipment (though a full practical might be part of training).

• Final Offer: Based on interview performance and fit.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• If you have previous framing projects, prepare clear photos and brief descriptions of the artwork, materials used, and the design rationale. Focus on showcasing precision in cuts, neatness of assembly, and aesthetic balance.

• For candidates without direct framing experience, consider a "mini-portfolio" of creative projects that demonstrate attention to detail, problem-solving, or design sensibility (e.g., a well-designed layout for a personal project, a detailed craft you've undertaken).

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared to answer behavioral questions about customer service scenarios (e.g., "How would you handle a customer who is unhappy with their framing choice?").

• Think about how you would explain the value of custom framing to a customer who might be considering cheaper, off-the-shelf options.

• Consider how you would manage your time effectively between customer consultations, framing production, and other store duties.

📝 Enhancement Note: For this role, the interview process will likely focus on assessing customer service skills, a willingness to learn technical framing skills, and alignment with Michaels' values. While a formal portfolio isn't explicitly required, articulating your understanding of design, precision, and customer engagement will be key. Emphasize any relevant DIY or craft experience that demonstrates meticulousness and creativity.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• POS System: For sales transactions, cash handling, and potentially order entry.

• Framing Equipment: Mat cutters (e.g., Logan, Fletcher), assembly tools, glass cutters, mounting presses (e.g., heat press), framing saws.

• Measuring Tools: Tape measures, rulers, calipers.

• Computer/Tablet: For accessing training modules, company information, and potentially order management software.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Basic reporting through the POS system for sales performance.

CRM & Automation:

• Customer relationship management might be informal, built through personalized service and the "Elevated ABC Deliver" approach.

• Limited automation; primary focus is on manual craftsmanship and direct customer interaction.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is primarily focused on operational efficiency and customer transactions. Proficiency with basic computer functions and a willingness to learn specialized framing equipment are essential. The role relies more on hands-on skills and manual processes than on complex software integration.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Creativity: Encouraging and supporting creative expression in customers and team members.

• Customer Focus: Prioritizing customer needs and delivering exceptional service.

• Quality: Commitment to producing high-quality custom framing and maintaining store standards.

• Teamwork: Collaborating effectively with colleagues to achieve store goals.

• Integrity: Adhering to company policies, ethical practices, and honest transactions.

• Passion for Craft: A genuine interest in arts, crafts, and the creative process.

Collaboration Style:

• Open communication and mutual support among store team members.

• Cross-functional collaboration between the framing department and other store functions (e.g., sales floor, stock room).

• A culture that encourages sharing knowledge, best practices, and assisting colleagues as needed.

• Positive and respectful interactions, even during busy periods.

📝 Enhancement Note: Michaels emphasizes a culture that celebrates creativity and community. Team members are expected to be enthusiastic, helpful, and collaborative. A passion for crafting and DIY projects is likely a strong cultural fit for this role and the company as a whole.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Multiple Responsibilities: Juggling custom framing consultations, production, sales, and general store duties.

• Customer Expectations: Meeting diverse customer needs and design preferences, sometimes with tight deadlines.

• Learning Curve: Mastering the technical skills required for high-quality custom framing and operating specialized equipment.

• Pace of Retail: Adapting to busy periods, peak seasons, and the general demands of a high-traffic retail environment.

• Shrink & Safety: Maintaining vigilance to minimize loss and ensure a safe working environment, especially with framing tools.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Comprehensive Training: Michaels provides training on custom framing techniques, design principles, sales strategies, and POS operations.

• Skill Enhancement: Opportunities to develop advanced framing skills, including complex matting, custom design, and archival techniques.

• Retail Management Training: Potential to learn about store operations, inventory management, visual merchandising, and leadership through cross-training and development programs.

• Industry Trends: Staying updated on new framing materials, design trends, and art display methods.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are typical of a specialized retail role that requires both technical proficiency and strong customer interaction. The growth opportunities are significant, offering pathways for both craft mastery and broader retail career development within a large organization.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Customer Service Scenarios: "Describe a time you went above and beyond to help a customer." "How would you handle a customer who is unsure about their framing design?"

• Problem-Solving: "Imagine a customer needs a frame for an unusual-sized piece of art. What steps would you take?" "How would you manage your time if you had a framing order due and multiple customers needed assistance on the sales floor?"

• Motivation & Fit: "Why are you interested in custom framing?" "What do you enjoy about working with customers?" "What does creativity mean to you?"

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Michaels and our mission?"

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

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• If you have relevant work samples, be prepared to walk the interviewer through your process, materials selection, and the outcome.

• For candidates without a formal portfolio, be ready to discuss projects you've undertaken (personal or professional) that demonstrate attention to detail, design thinking, or problem-solving.

• Emphasize your understanding of precision, aesthetics, and the importance of creating a lasting solution for the customer's artwork.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on showcasing your customer service skills, your enthusiasm for creative projects, and your ability to learn and follow procedures. Be ready to articulate how your existing skills, even if not directly in framing, translate to the requirements of the role.

📌 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 any experience with customer service, sales, detailed work, creative projects, or operating equipment. Quantify achievements where possible (e.g., "Increased customer satisfaction scores by X%").

• Portfolio Preparation (Optional but Recommended): Gather photos of any framing, art, or detailed craft projects. Prepare a brief narrative for each, explaining your process and choices. If no visual portfolio exists, prepare to discuss specific projects verbally.

• Interview Practice: Rehearse answers to common retail interview questions, focusing on customer service, problem-solving, and your interest in Michaels and custom framing. Practice articulating your approach to design and customer consultation.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Michaels' mission, values, and product offerings. Understand the importance of custom framing as a service within their retail strategy.

⚠️ 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.