framer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Framer

Company: Michaels Stores

Location: Houston, Texas, United States

Job Type: Part-Time

Category: Retail Operations / Custom Framing Specialist

Date Posted: May 26, 2026

Experience Level: Entry Level (0-2 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is focused on providing exceptional customer service within a retail environment, specifically in the custom framing department.

• Key responsibilities include building customer relationships, understanding their needs for custom framing solutions, and executing orders with high quality.

• The position requires operating specialized framing equipment and adhering to operational standards, including sales, production, and store maintenance.

• Success in this role involves contributing to an organized, safe, and well-merchandised store, ensuring a positive customer shopping experience.

📝 Enhancement Note: The raw job description focuses heavily on the direct customer-facing and production aspects of framing. This enhancement positions it within a broader "Retail Operations / Custom Framing Specialist" category to reflect the blend of customer service, sales, and operational duties. The experience level is inferred from the "Minimum Type of experience the job requires" section.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Customer Engagement & Design Consultation:

  • Proactively engage customers, build rapport, and understand their creative vision and framing needs using the "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodology.
  • Guide customers through custom framing options, materials, and design choices to create memorable and satisfactory solutions.
  • Achieve personal sales and production targets within the custom framing department.

• Order Fulfillment & Production:

  • Accurately complete custom framing orders, ensuring high-quality craftsmanship and adherence to specified timelines.
  • Operate and maintain framing equipment, including specialized tools like glass cutters and heat presses, safely and efficiently.
  • Manage the production workflow to meet order deadlines and customer expectations.

• Store Operations & Merchandising:

  • Maintain the ready-made frame department, including SISO (Single Item, Single Order) and Directed Replenishment, to ensure optimal presentation and stock levels.
  • Contribute to general store operations, including truck un-loads, stocking processes, and maintaining a safe, clean, and clutter-free environment.
  • Assist with inventory management and merchandising tasks as assigned.

• Customer Service & Sales Support:

  • Provide friendly and efficient customer service, helping customers locate products and offering solutions.
  • Operate the cash register accurately, executing cash handling procedures to company standards.
  • Support Omni-channel processes, such as fulfilling online orders or assisting with in-store pickup.

• Safety & Compliance:

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

  • Actively participate in and support shrink prevention and safety programs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary responsibilities have been detailed to reflect the specific actions and outcomes expected in a customer-facing retail and production role. This includes breaking down the broad "Major Activities" into more granular, actionable duties, emphasizing the blend of sales, design consultation, production, and general store operations.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• No specific degree requirements are listed, indicating an entry-level focus. However, a strong understanding of basic math and measurement is implicit for framing. Experience:

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

• Demonstrated ability to learn and apply new skills quickly, particularly in technical or production-oriented tasks. Required Skills:

• Basic Computer Skills: Ability to navigate point-of-sale (POS) systems, basic software for order entry, and potentially simple design tools.

• Basic Measuring Skills: Accurate measurement and calculation abilities are fundamental for custom framing.

• Framing Equipment Operation: Proficiency with or ability to quickly learn to operate framing equipment and a glass cutter.

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

• Sales Acumen: Aptitude for selling products and services, driving sales, and meeting performance targets.

• Cash Handling: Experience or ability to accurately manage cash transactions and operate a cash register.

• Physical Stamina: Ability to stand for extended periods, lift and carry heavy boxes, and perform tasks requiring bending, reaching, and stretching.

• Adherence to SOPs: Commitment to following established Standard Operating Procedures and company policies.

Preferred Skills:

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

• Sales Experience: Proven track record of selling products or services, with an understanding of consultative selling techniques.

• Art/Design Aptitude: A natural inclination or basic understanding of aesthetics, color theory, and design principles can be beneficial for custom framing consultations.

• Experience with Heat Press: Familiarity with operating a heat press, as mentioned in the work environment description.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Minimum Type of experience" and "Preferred Type of experience" sections have been expanded into a more comprehensive skills and qualifications list. This includes inferring the need for basic computer skills and elaborating on the implications of the physical requirements for the role. The "Entry Level" AI experience level is reflected here.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• While a formal portfolio is not explicitly requested, candidates are encouraged to demonstrate their capabilities through:
  • Examples of Past Work: If applicable, showcasing previous framing projects, design consultations, or retail sales achievements.
  • Problem-Solving Scenarios: Being prepared to discuss how they would handle common customer requests or production challenges in framing.
  • Process Improvement Ideas: Demonstrating an understanding of how to optimize workflow, customer service, or sales processes within a retail context.
  • Measuring and Quality Standards: Articulating their approach to ensuring accuracy and high-quality output in their work.

Process Documentation:

• Understanding and adherence to documented Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for all aspects of the role, including:

  • Customer consultation and order placement.

  • Framing production and quality control.

  • Cash handling and transaction processing.

  • Store maintenance and merchandising.

  • Safety protocols and equipment operation.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section is tailored for operations roles where process is key. Since a formal portfolio isn't typical for this specific entry-level retail position, the focus shifts to demonstrating process understanding and problem-solving capabilities through discussion and examples, aligning with how operations candidates often showcase their skills.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Estimated Range: $12.00 - $16.00 per hour (USD)

• Methodology: This estimate is based on typical part-time retail associate wages for similar roles in the Houston, Texas area, considering the entry-level experience requirement and the specific skills involved in custom framing. Data from industry benchmarks and online salary aggregators for retail positions in major metropolitan areas were consulted. Actual compensation will vary based on experience, performance, and specific store needs.

Benefits:

• For Part-Time Team Members:

  • Health Insurance: Access to medical, dental, and vision insurance plans.
  • Paid Time Off (PTO): Accrual of paid time off for vacation, sick leave, or personal days.
  • Tuition Assistance: Support for continuing education and skill development.
  • Employee Discounts: Generous discounts on Michaels products and services, fostering creativity and personal use.
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan: Potential eligibility for retirement savings plans.
  • Employee Assistance Program: Resources and support for personal and professional challenges.

Working Hours:

• This is a part-time position.

• Typical working hours may vary and can include nights, weekends, and early mornings, as required by retail operational needs.

• The role requires standing for long periods, with flexibility to adapt to varying customer traffic and operational demands.

📝 Enhancement Note: A salary range has been estimated for the Houston, Texas area, reflecting typical part-time retail wages. The benefits listed are directly extracted from the provided text and are highlighted as being available to part-time team members, which is a significant draw for such roles.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry:

• Arts and Crafts Retail. Michaels Stores is a leading North American retailer focused on providing supplies and inspiration for creative projects, celebrations, and custom framing. The industry emphasizes creativity, DIY culture, and personalized solutions. Company Size:

• Large (over 10,000 employees, based on company description and known scale of Michaels Stores). This indicates a well-established corporate structure with defined processes and a significant operational footprint across North America. Founded:

• 1973. Michaels has a long history, signifying stability and deep experience in the retail sector, with a strong brand presence and established customer base. Team Structure:

• Store-Level Operations: The Framer will be part of a store team, likely reporting to a Store Manager or Assistant Store Manager. Within the store, there will be specialized roles such as department leads (e.g., Framing Lead).

• Departmental Focus: The role is primarily situated within the Custom Framing department, requiring close collaboration with other framing specialists and sales associates.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: While focused on framing, the role involves interaction with all store departments for general operations, customer assistance, and Omni-channel fulfillment.

Methodology:

• Customer-Centric Approach: Emphasis on building relationships and providing solutions, as highlighted by "Elevated ABC Deliver."

• Process Adherence: Strong reliance on Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for consistency, quality, and compliance.

• Sales and Production Driven: Focus on achieving both sales targets and timely, high-quality production output.

• Teamwork and Support: Encouragement of mutual support and positive interactions among team members.

Company Website:

• www.michaels.com

📝 Enhancement Note: The company context has been fleshed out using general knowledge of Michaels Stores as a large retail entity. The "Industry," "Company Size," and "Founded" details provide context for the operational environment. The "Team Structure" and "Methodology" sections infer how a Framer would fit into the broader store and company operational framework.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level:

• Entry-Level Specialist: This role is positioned at the entry-level within the retail and operations sphere. It focuses on executing specific tasks and customer interactions under direct supervision, with a clear learning curve for technical skills (framing equipment) and customer service protocols.

Reporting Structure:

• The Framer typically reports to a Framing Lead or the Store Manager/Assistant Manager. This direct reporting line ensures guidance on operational tasks, performance feedback, and adherence to company standards. Operations Impact:

• Customer Satisfaction & Loyalty: By providing excellent custom framing solutions and customer service, the Framer directly influences customer satisfaction, repeat business, and positive word-of-mouth referrals.

• Revenue Generation: Direct sales of custom framing services contribute significantly to the store's overall revenue. High-quality work and upselling can maximize this contribution.

• Brand Reputation: The quality of custom framing and the customer experience reflect on the Michaels brand, impacting its reputation for creativity, quality, and service.

• Operational Efficiency: Adhering to production timelines and maintaining department organization contributes to the overall efficiency of store operations.

Growth Opportunities:

• Framing Specialist/Lead: Progression to a Framing Lead role, involving more responsibility for training, inventory, and potentially design consultation.

• Sales Associate/Key Holder: Transitioning to broader sales associate roles with increased responsibilities, including keyholder duties.

• Department Management: Potential to move into management roles in other store departments or assistant store management.

• Cross-Training: Opportunity to gain experience in various store functions, broadening skill sets for future retail roles.

• Skill Development: Continuous learning in custom framing techniques, sales strategies, and customer relationship management.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section analyzes the role from an operations career perspective. It defines the level, impact, and potential growth paths, framing the entry-level position as a stepping stone within Michaels' retail operations structure.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type:

• Retail Store Floor & Frame Shop: The primary work environment is a public retail store, with a dedicated area for custom framing that includes specialized equipment. This involves constant interaction with the public and a dynamic, fast-paced atmosphere.

Office Location(s):

• Houston-7630 FM 1960 W, Houston, TX: A specific store location in the Willowbrook area of Houston. The environment is typical of a large retail store in a suburban commercial area.

Workspace Context:

• Customer-Facing Area: The front of the store requires a welcoming, clean, and well-merchandised appearance.

• Frame Shop Area: This is a production space that requires organization and safety awareness due to tools like glass cutters and heat presses. It may involve controlled climate conditions, but some stock rooms might not be climate-controlled.

• Collaborative Setting: The role necessitates constant interaction with customers and fellow team members. Opportunities for collaboration exist during daily operations, truck unloads, and customer service scenarios.

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

Work Schedule:

• Flexible Part-Time: Work hours are flexible but can be demanding, including nights, weekends, and early mornings, to cover store operating hours and peak customer times.

• Standing and Physical Activity: The role requires extended periods of standing, lifting, and physical movement throughout the store and frame shop.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section details the physical and social environment of the workplace, connecting it to the operational demands of a retail framing role. The specific store location is noted, and the blend of customer-facing and production workspace is described.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Application: Submit resume and application online.

• Phone/Video Screening: A brief initial conversation with HR or a hiring manager to assess basic qualifications, interest, and availability.

• In-Person Interview: Typically conducted at the store location. This will likely involve:

  • Behavioral Questions: Assessing past experiences related to customer service, teamwork, problem-solving, and handling pressure.
  • Situational Questions: Presenting hypothetical scenarios common in retail and framing (e.g., "How would you handle a customer unhappy with their frame?" or "Describe a time you had to learn a new skill quickly.").
  • Skills Assessment: Potentially a practical demonstration or discussion about basic measuring, computer, or equipment operation skills.
  • Cultural Fit: Evaluating alignment with Michaels' values of creativity, customer focus, and teamwork.

• Possible Second Interview/Manager Review: A final discussion with the Store Manager or a higher-level manager for final approval.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• For this role, a traditional portfolio is less critical than demonstrating relevant skills through discussion:

  • Prepare Examples: Have specific examples ready for behavioral and situational interview questions, focusing on customer service, problem-solving, and learning new skills.
  • Showcase Technical Aptitude: Be ready to discuss your comfort level with learning to use tools and equipment. If you have any DIY or craft experience, mention it.
  • Highlight Sales & Service Skills: Emphasize any experience where you successfully sold products or provided excellent customer service.
  • Discuss Process Adherence: Be prepared to talk about why following procedures (SOPs) is important in a retail environment.
  • Demonstrate Enthusiasm: Show genuine interest in custom framing, creativity, and working with customers.

Challenge Preparation:

• Practical Demonstration: Be prepared for a potential hands-on task, such as a simple measurement exercise or a role-play scenario involving customer interaction.

• Problem-Solving Scenarios: Think through common retail challenges like managing busy periods, dealing with stock issues, or handling customer complaints.

• Product Knowledge: While not expected to be an expert initially, showing an interest in learning about framing materials and techniques will be beneficial.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process and preparation tips are tailored for an entry-level retail position. The emphasis is on behavioral and situational questioning, demonstrating practical skills, and cultural fit, rather than a formal portfolio review, reflecting the nature of the role.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Custom Framing Equipment: Specialized machinery for cutting mats, assembling frames, and potentially heat presses for sealing.

• Glass Cutter: A critical tool for precision cutting of glass or acrylic for framing.

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

• Hand Tools: Knives, mat cutters, staple guns, etc., for assembly and finishing.

Analytics & Reporting:

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

• Inventory Management Software: Used for tracking stock levels of framing materials, ready-made frames, and other store merchandise.

CRM & Automation:

• Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Aspects: While not a dedicated CRM role, the "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodology implies a focus on building customer relationships, tracking preferences, and encouraging repeat business through service and personalized recommendations.

• Order Management System: Integrated within the POS or a separate system to track custom framing orders from placement to completion.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section outlines the specific tools and technology relevant to a framer role within a retail setting. It focuses on the physical tools used in framing production and the essential retail technology like POS systems, with an acknowledgment of the CRM-like aspects of customer relationship building.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Creativity & Inspiration: Fostering a culture that embraces creative expression and inspires customers to pursue their crafting and decorating projects.

• Customer Focus: Prioritizing customer needs, satisfaction, and building lasting relationships through excellent service and personalized solutions.

• Quality & Craftsmanship: Commitment to delivering high-quality custom framing products and services that meet or exceed customer expectations.

• Teamwork & Respect: Encouraging a supportive environment where team members collaborate, respect each other, and work together towards common store goals.

• Efficiency & Productivity: Striving for efficient operations, timely order fulfillment, and effective use of resources.

• Safety & Compliance: Upholding safety standards and adhering to all company policies and procedures to ensure a secure and compliant work environment.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Support: Team members are expected to support each other across different departments and tasks, especially during busy periods or for Omni-channel fulfillment.

• Direct Communication: Clear and open communication is encouraged for resolving customer issues, coordinating production, and sharing operational updates.

• Learning & Development: A collaborative approach to learning, where experienced team members mentor newer ones, especially concerning framing techniques and customer service.

• Feedback Exchange: Openness to providing and receiving constructive feedback to improve individual performance and team operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section infers the core values and collaboration styles at Michaels based on their brand positioning and typical retail operations. It emphasizes creativity, customer service, quality, and teamwork, which are crucial for success in a role like a Framer.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Production and Customer Service: Effectively managing time to complete framing orders accurately while also providing prompt and engaging service to walk-in customers.

• Handling Diverse Customer Needs: Catering to a wide range of customer expectations, budgets, and design preferences for custom framing.

• Working with Technical Equipment: Mastering the operation and maintenance of specialized framing tools and equipment, including safety protocols.

• Physical Demands: Consistently meeting the physical requirements of the job, such as standing for long periods and lifting heavy items.

• Shrinkage and Safety: Vigilance in preventing inventory shrinkage and maintaining a safe working environment, especially in the frame shop.

• Adapting to Retail Fluctuations: Managing workflow during peak seasons and promotions, requiring flexibility and efficiency.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Framing Techniques: Opportunities to learn more complex framing methods, material knowledge, and design principles.

• Sales and Customer Service Skills: Developing expertise in consultative selling, relationship building, and conflict resolution.

• Operational Efficiency: Gaining insights into store operations, inventory management, and process optimization within a retail context.

• Team Leadership: Potential to develop leadership skills by mentoring new team members or taking on lead responsibilities within the framing department.

• Cross-Departmental Experience: Exposure to various aspects of retail operations, broadening career versatility.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section identifies potential challenges specific to the Framer role and outlines clear growth and learning paths, aligning with the career analysis from an operations perspective.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Customer Service & Sales Scenarios:

  • "Describe a time you went above and beyond to help a customer."
  • "How would you approach a customer who is unsure about their framing design?"
  • "Imagine a customer is unhappy with their finished frame. How would you handle this?"
  • "How do you prioritize tasks when you have multiple customers waiting and an order to complete?"

• Technical & Process Questions:

  • "What is your experience with measuring and using tools? Are you comfortable learning new equipment?"
  • "Why is it important to follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) in a retail environment?"
  • "Describe your approach to maintaining an organized workspace."

• Teamwork & Culture Questions:

  • "How do you contribute to a positive team environment?"

  • "Describe a time you worked effectively as part of a team."

  • "What does creativity mean to you in a retail setting?" Company & Culture Questions:

• Research: Familiarize yourself with Michaels' mission, values, and product offerings. Understand the importance of custom framing to their business.

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

• Fit: Demonstrate how your personality and work ethic align with Michaels' emphasis on customer service, quality, and teamwork.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Verbal Examples: Since a physical portfolio isn't standard, prepare concise, impactful stories (using the STAR method: Situation, Task, Action, Result) that illustrate your skills in customer service, problem-solving, attention to detail, and ability to learn.

• Showcase Aptitude: Be ready to discuss your willingness and ability to learn the technical aspects of framing and operate specialized equipment. Highlight any relevant DIY, crafting, or hands-on experience.

• Focus on Process: Emphasize your understanding of why following procedures, maintaining quality, and ensuring customer satisfaction are critical in this role.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section provides actionable advice on preparing for the interview, focusing on the types of questions likely to be asked for an entry-level retail role with specialized duties, and how to "present" one's qualifications without a formal portfolio.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Framer position:

• Submit your application: Complete the online application through the provided Workday portal link.

• Tailor your resume: Highlight any customer service, sales, hands-on, or detail-oriented experience. Use keywords from the job description such as "customer service," "sales," "measuring skills," and "retail operations."

• Prepare for the interview:

  • Practice STAR method examples: Have specific stories ready that demonstrate your customer service, problem-solving, teamwork, and learning abilities.
  • Research Michaels: Understand their brand, products, and commitment to creativity.
  • Articulate your interest: Clearly state why you are interested in custom framing and working for Michaels.

• Be ready to discuss skills: Prepare to talk about your comfort level with learning new tools and equipment, your measuring accuracy, and your ability to work in a fast-paced retail environment.

⚠️ 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.

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