Framer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Framer

Company: Michaels Stores

Location: Clifton Park, NY, United States

Job Type: Part-Time

Category: Retail Operations / Customer Service

Date Posted: April 23, 2026

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

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Deliver exceptional customer experiences by building strong relationships and providing personalized custom framing solutions.

• Drive sales and production targets within the custom framing department through effective design consultation and product knowledge.

• Maintain high standards of quality and timeliness for all custom framing orders, adhering to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).

• Ensure a safe, clean, and well-merchandised store environment, contributing to overall operational efficiency and customer satisfaction.

📝 Enhancement Note: While this role is titled "Framer," the description emphasizes a blend of customer service, sales, and operational duties within a retail environment. The "Framer" aspect is central, but the role requires broader retail competencies.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Engage customers proactively, utilizing the "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodology to build rapport and identify custom framing needs, ultimately driving sales and production.

• Execute custom framing orders with meticulous attention to detail, ensuring high-quality craftsmanship and on-time delivery to meet customer expectations.

• Maintain the ready-made frame department, including Single Item, Single Order (SISO) displays and directed replenishment, ensuring visual appeal and product availability.

• Provide friendly and efficient customer service, assisting shoppers in locating products, offering solutions, and ensuring a positive and well-stocked shopping environment.

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

• Actively participate in and support shrink reduction and safety programs, contributing to a secure and accident-free workplace.

• Operate the cash register and manage cash handling according to established standards, ensuring accuracy and security.

• Assist with Omni-channel processes, such as buy online, pick up in-store (BOPIS) or ship-from-store, to enhance customer convenience and operational flexibility.

• Participate in truck un-loading and stocking processes, ensuring adherence to truck standards and completion within budget guidelines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a dual focus on direct customer-facing sales and service, alongside essential operational tasks like inventory management, merchandising, and process adherence, critical for a retail environment.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: High school diploma or equivalent is generally expected for entry-level retail positions. Specific educational requirements are not listed, but a foundational understanding of basic math for measurements and transactions is essential.

Experience:

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

Required Skills:

• Basic computer skills for system operation and potential order entry.

• Basic measuring skills for accurate framing and product layout.

• Ability to operate framing equipment and glass cutters safely and effectively.

• Strong customer service orientation with a friendly and helpful demeanor.

• Effective communication skills to interact with customers and team members.

• Ability to follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and Company programs.

Preferred Skills:

• Previous retail experience, particularly in a sales or design-oriented role.

• Proven experience selling products and/or services to customers, with a focus on consultative selling.

• Familiarity with custom framing processes and materials.

• Experience operating a cash register and handling monetary transactions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Minimum Type of experience" and "Preferred Type of experience" sections clearly outline the foundational and advantageous skill sets. The emphasis on "basic" skills suggests this is an entry point role with opportunities for skill development.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• While a formal portfolio is not explicitly requested, candidates should be prepared to discuss examples of customer interactions, problem-solving scenarios, and instances where they contributed to sales or operational improvements.

• Demonstrating an understanding of quality control and attention to detail in previous work, even if not in framing, will be beneficial.

• Examples of how you've followed processes or SOPs accurately in previous roles.

Process Documentation:

• Candidates are expected to understand and follow established Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for all framing, sales, and operational tasks.

• The ability to learn and execute new processes related to custom framing design, production, and customer service is key.

• Understanding of how to contribute to a safe and efficient work environment through adherence to established safety protocols.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an entry-level role like this, a formal portfolio is unlikely. However, candidates should prepare to discuss their experience through the lens of process adherence, quality, and customer service, aligning with the operational expectations of the role.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $16.25 - $19.10 per hour. This range reflects the entry-level nature of the position and the specific location.

Benefits:

• Health Insurance: Comprehensive coverage including medical, dental, and vision insurance.

• Paid Time Off (PTO): Accrued time off for vacation, personal days, and sick leave.

• Tuition Assistance: Support for employees pursuing further education.

• Employee Discounts: Generous discounts on Michaels products and services.

• Other Benefits: Details available at mikbenefits.com, likely including retirement savings plans and other wellness programs.

Working Hours: This position is listed as Part-Time. The description mentions work hours including nights, weekends, and early mornings, indicating flexibility is required. The AI-derived "Working Hours: 40" likely refers to a standard full-time week, but for this part-time role, hours will be less and scheduled according to business needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is explicitly provided. The benefits are detailed and comprehensive for a part-time retail role, reflecting Michaels' commitment to employee well-being. The working hours are explicitly stated as part-time with flexible scheduling requirements.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Arts and Crafts Retail. Michaels is the leading specialty retailer of arts and crafts in North America, serving a broad customer base interested in creative pursuits, DIY projects, and home décor.

Company Size: The Michaels Companies, Inc. operates over 1,300 stores across the US and Canada, indicating a large, established retail organization with a significant employee base.

Founded: Founded in 1973 and headquartered in Irving, Texas, Michaels has a long-standing history in the retail sector, known for its focus on creativity and celebration.

Team Structure:

• The operations at the store level typically involve a Store Manager, Assistant Store Managers, Team Leads, and individual Contributors (like the Framer). The Framer likely reports to a Team Lead or Assistant Store Manager responsible for the framing department or specific operational areas.

• The team structure emphasizes cross-functional collaboration, with team members expected to support various departments and tasks as needed, especially during peak times or truck unloads.

Methodology:

• Michaels emphasizes a customer-centric approach, focusing on building relationships and providing solutions. The "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodology underscores this.

• Operational efficiency is driven by adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), ensuring consistency, safety, and compliance across all stores.

• Data-driven insights are likely used at a corporate level for inventory management, sales forecasting, and strategic planning, while store-level operations focus on executing these strategies effectively.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture is centered around creativity, customer service, and operational excellence within a large retail framework. The team structure is hierarchical but encourages cross-functional support.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This "Framer" role represents an entry-level position within the retail operations framework. It serves as a foundational role for individuals looking to gain experience in customer service, sales, and the operational aspects of a retail environment.

Reporting Structure: The Framer typically reports to a Team Lead or an Assistant Store Manager who oversees specific departments or operational functions within the store. This structure provides direct supervision and guidance.

Operations Impact: The Framer's impact is primarily felt at the store level through:

• Customer Satisfaction: Directly contributing to positive customer experiences through excellent framing services and helpful interactions.

• Sales Performance: Driving revenue through consultative selling of custom framing solutions.

• Operational Efficiency: Maintaining the framing department's organization, inventory accuracy, and adherence to SOPs, which supports overall store productivity.

• Brand Representation: Acting as a brand ambassador by embodying Michaels' values of creativity and customer focus.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Development: Opportunities to deepen expertise in custom framing techniques, sales, and customer relationship management.

• Advancement: Potential to move into roles such as Senior Framer, Team Lead, Assistant Store Manager, or other specialized retail positions within Michaels, by demonstrating proficiency, leadership potential, and a strong work ethic.

• Cross-Training: Exposure to other areas of store operations, such as visual merchandising, inventory management, or customer service desk functions, can broaden skill sets.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as an entry point with clear pathways for growth within the retail operations of Michaels, focusing on developing core competencies in customer service, sales, and operational execution.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is a Public Retail Store setting. The primary workspace is the retail floor and a dedicated custom framing shop area within the store.

Office Location(s): Clifton Park-48 Crossing Blvd, Clifton Park, NY. This is a specific retail location.

Workspace Context:

• The work environment is dynamic and customer-facing, requiring constant interaction with shoppers.

• The framing shop is a specialized area equipped with tools like glass cutters and a heat press, necessitating adherence to specific safety protocols.

• Team members are expected to collaborate closely, support each other across different tasks, and maintain a positive atmosphere.

• Access to basic computer systems for operational tasks is provided.

Work Schedule: The role is part-time, with work hours scheduled to cover operational needs, including nights, weekends, and early mornings. Flexibility in scheduling is a key requirement.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is a typical retail setting with a specialized framing department. The emphasis is on customer interaction, teamwork, and adherence to a flexible schedule.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Likely involves an online application and potentially a brief phone screen to assess basic qualifications and interest.

• In-Person Interview: Candidates will likely participate in an interview at the store location. This may involve behavioral questions to gauge customer service skills, problem-solving abilities, and alignment with company values.

• Skills Demonstration (Informal): While not a formal portfolio review, candidates may be asked to demonstrate basic measuring skills or discuss their understanding of customer service scenarios.

• Team Interaction: The interview may include interaction with the hiring manager or other team members to assess cultural fit and collaborative potential.

• Final Offer: Based on the interview and assessment of qualifications.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Since a formal portfolio isn't a requirement, focus on preparing specific examples from past experiences that demonstrate:

  • Customer Service Excellence: Situations where you went above and beyond for a customer.
  • Sales Acumen: Instances where you successfully sold a product or service, perhaps by understanding customer needs and offering solutions.
  • Process Adherence: Examples of how you followed instructions, SOPs, or safety guidelines accurately.
  • Problem Solving: How you handled a challenging customer situation or operational issue.
  • Teamwork: Contributions to a team effort or how you supported colleagues.

• Be ready to discuss your understanding of custom framing and how you would approach advising a customer on their framing needs.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared for situational questions: "How would you handle a customer who is unhappy with their framing order?" or "How would you approach a customer who seems unsure about what they need?"

• Think about how you would prioritize tasks during a busy period, such as managing customer inquiries, fulfilling orders, and stocking merchandise simultaneously.

• Articulate your understanding of safety protocols in a retail environment, especially concerning tools like glass cutters.

📝 Enhancement Note: The application and interview process for this role is typical for entry-level retail positions, focusing on practical skills, customer interaction, and adherence to operational standards rather than a formal portfolio submission.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• POS System: Michaels likely uses a proprietary Point of Sale (POS) system for transactions, customer data management, and potentially order entry for custom framing. Proficiency in basic computer operations is essential.

• Custom Framing Equipment:

  • Framing Mat Cutter/Blade: Essential for precise cutting of mats.
  • Glass Cutter: For custom sizing of glass or acrylic.
  • Heat Press: Used for certain types of mounting or sealing processes.
  • Miter Saw/Chopper: For cutting frame mouldings to size.
  • V-Nailer/Stapler: For securing frame corners.
  • Measuring Tools: Rulers, tape measures for accurate job specifications.

• Basic Computer Skills: For accessing training, company communications, and potentially basic order management or inventory lookups.

Analytics & Reporting:

CRM & Automation:

• The POS system likely has CRM capabilities for tracking customer purchases and preferences, aiding in personalized service and sales.

• Automation in this context would primarily refer to efficient workflow processes within the framing department and store operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is focused on essential retail operations tools, with a significant emphasis on specialized equipment for custom framing. Basic computer literacy is a prerequisite.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Creativity & Joy: Fostering an environment where creativity is celebrated and customers are inspired.

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

• Integrity & Respect: Upholding ethical standards and treating all team members and customers with respect.

• Collaboration: Working together as a team to achieve store goals and support one another.

• Efficiency & Quality: Striving for operational excellence, timely order completion, and high-quality craftsmanship.

Collaboration Style:

• The team operates with a supportive and collaborative style, essential for a busy retail environment. Team members are expected to assist each other across various functions, from customer service to stocking and framing.

• Open communication is encouraged to resolve issues, share information, and ensure smooth operations.

• A culture of continuous learning and process improvement is fostered, where feedback is valued to enhance efficiency and customer satisfaction.

📝 Enhancement Note: Michaels' culture is deeply rooted in creativity and customer engagement, supported by strong values of integrity and teamwork. Collaboration is a practical necessity for daily operations.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Multiple Priorities: Juggling customer consultations, framing production, stocking, and cashier duties simultaneously in a fast-paced environment.

• Customer Expectations: Managing diverse customer needs and expectations for custom framing, which can range from simple to complex artistic projects.

• Learning Curve: Mastering the operation of specialized framing equipment and understanding various framing techniques and materials.

• Sales Pressure: Meeting individual and team sales targets for custom framing.

• Physical Demands: The role involves standing for long periods, lifting heavy items, and repetitive motions.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Framing Expertise: Deepen knowledge of framing techniques, materials, design principles, and product offerings through on-the-job training and potentially specialized workshops.

• Sales & Customer Service Skills: Develop consultative selling techniques, active listening skills, and advanced customer relationship management.

• Operational Proficiency: Gain experience in inventory management, visual merchandising, cash handling, and Omni-channel processes.

• Career Advancement: Opportunities to progress into leadership roles within the store through demonstrated performance and leadership potential.

• Cross-Training: Potential to learn and contribute to other areas of store operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role presents opportunities for skill development in a specialized area of retail, with clear pathways for advancement within a large organization, while also acknowledging the inherent challenges of a busy retail environment.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Customer Service: "Describe a time you helped a customer find exactly what they were looking for, even when they weren't sure what it was." or "How would you handle a customer who is upset about the price of a custom framing order?"

• Sales Approach: "How would you approach a customer browsing the framing section to offer assistance?" or "What steps would you take to recommend the best framing solution for a customer's artwork?"

• Problem-Solving: "Imagine a customer needs a frame for a unique-sized item. What process would you follow?" or "What would you do if you noticed a safety hazard in the framing area?"

• Process Adherence: "Why is it important to follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) in a retail environment?" or "Describe a time you had to learn a new process quickly. How did you approach it?"

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Michaels and our custom framing services?"

• "What does 'fueling the joy of creativity' mean to you?"

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

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Verbal Examples: Be ready to articulate specific situations from your past work or volunteer experiences that highlight your skills in customer service, sales, problem-solving, and process adherence. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for clear and concise storytelling.

• Demonstrate Enthusiasm: Show genuine interest in custom framing, art, and helping customers express their creativity.

• Highlight Relevant Skills: Emphasize any experience with tools, measurements, attention to detail, or previous retail sales roles.

• Ask Insightful Questions: Prepare questions about the team, daily operations, training, and opportunities for growth to show engagement.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on behavioral examples, demonstrating customer service skills, sales aptitude, and an understanding of operational processes within a retail context.

📌 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 customer service, sales experience, any experience with tools or measurements, and your ability to follow procedures. Use keywords from the job description such as "customer service," "sales," "retail operations," and "framing."

• Prepare Examples: Gather specific examples using the STAR method to answer potential behavioral interview questions related to customer interactions, problem-solving, and teamwork.

• Research Michaels: Familiarize yourself with Michaels' products, services (especially custom framing), company values, and mission to demonstrate genuine interest and cultural alignment.

• Practice Your Pitch: Be ready to articulate why you are a good fit for the Framer role and how your skills and enthusiasm align with Michaels' commitment to creativity and customer satisfaction.

⚠️ 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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