Framer
📍 Job Overview
Job Title: Framer
Company: Michaels Stores
Location: Windsor, Quebec, Canada
Job Type: Part time
Category: Retail Operations / Customer Service
Date Posted: 2026-08-03
Experience Level: 0-2 years
Remote Status: On-site
🚀 Role Summary
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Primarily focused on customer engagement and sales within the custom framing department, requiring strong interpersonal and sales skills.
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Involves hands-on creation and production of custom framing orders, demanding precision and adherence to quality standards.
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Requires active participation in store operations, including merchandising, inventory management, and general upkeep to ensure a positive shopping environment.
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Entails operational tasks such as cash handling, assisting with stock replenishment, and supporting omni-channel processes.
📝 Enhancement Note: This role is framed as a customer-facing position with a strong emphasis on sales and service within a specialized department (Custom Framing). While the title is "Framer," the responsibilities extend beyond mere production to encompass retail operations, customer relationship building, and direct sales. The role appears entry-level, suitable for individuals with minimal prior experience, focusing on developing core retail and sales competencies.
📈 Primary Responsibilities
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Build and maintain strong customer relationships by providing personalized design consultations and creating memorable custom framing solutions.
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Drive sales within the Custom Framing department by actively engaging customers, understanding their needs, and offering tailored product and service recommendations.
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Execute custom framing orders with a high degree of quality, accuracy, and on-time delivery, adhering to established production standards and techniques.
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Maintain the visual presentation and stock levels of the ready-made frame department, as well as other assigned areas, including SISO (Ship-from-Store) and Directed Replenishment processes.
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Deliver friendly and efficient customer service throughout the store, assisting shoppers with product location, providing solutions, and ensuring a well-merchandised and in-stock environment.
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Adhere strictly to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and Company programs to ensure compliance with all applicable laws, requirements, policies, and standards.
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Actively participate in shrink and safety programs, contributing to a secure and accident-free workplace.
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Interact positively and respectfully with colleagues and customers, maintaining a positive attitude even in challenging situations, and embodying the organization's vision and values.
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Support efficient truck un-loading and stocking processes, ensuring adherence to truck standards and completion within budgetary guidelines.
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Operate the cash register and execute cash handling procedures to established standards, ensuring accuracy and security.
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Acknowledge customers promptly, assist them in locating products, and provide effective solutions to their needs.
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Support and execute omni-channel processes, including online order fulfillment and customer pick-ups, to enhance the overall customer experience.
📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a dual focus on specialized framing sales/production and general retail operations. The emphasis on "Elevated ABC Deliver" and "personal designer" suggests a structured sales approach for custom framing, moving beyond transactional interactions to consultative selling. The inclusion of omni-channel support indicates the evolving nature of retail operations and the need for flexibility.
🎓 Skills & Qualifications
Education: High school diploma or equivalent is typically expected for entry-level retail positions, though not explicitly stated, it's a standard prerequisite for understanding instructions and basic math.
Experience: 0-2 years of experience in a customer-facing or retail environment is ideal. Previous experience in sales or a hands-on craft such as framing is a strong asset.
Required Skills:
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Basic computer skills for operating point-of-sale systems and potentially design software.
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Basic measuring skills for accurate framing specifications.
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Ability to safely and effectively operate framing equipment and a glass cutter.
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Strong customer service and interpersonal skills to build rapport and provide solutions.
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Cash handling proficiency and accuracy.
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Merchandising and visual display skills to maintain departmental standards.
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Ability to understand and adhere to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
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Physical stamina for standing, lifting, and performing tasks in a retail environment. Preferred Skills:
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Prior retail sales experience, particularly in a custom or specialized service environment.
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Experience in selling products and/or services directly to customers, demonstrating persuasive abilities.
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Familiarity with art, design principles, or framing techniques.
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Experience with inventory management and stock replenishment processes.
📝 Enhancement Note: The "Minimum Type of experience" and "Preferred Type of experience" sections clearly define the baseline and aspirational skill sets. The emphasis on "basic" skills suggests a strong training program will be in place, but candidates with prior retail or sales exposure will likely transition more quickly. The physical requirements are critical and should be carefully considered by applicants.
📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements
Portfolio Essentials:
- While a formal portfolio is not explicitly required for this entry-level role, candidates are encouraged to highlight relevant past projects or experiences that demonstrate their ability to:
- Design and Visualize: Showcase any instances where they conceptualized and executed a design or creative project, even if personal.
- Customer-Centric Solutions: Provide examples of how they identified customer needs and offered effective solutions in previous roles.
- Quality Execution: Demonstrate attention to detail and a commitment to delivering high-quality work, perhaps through examples of completed crafts or tasks.
- Process Adherence: Illustrate instances where they followed specific instructions or procedures to achieve a desired outcome.
Process Documentation:
- Candidates should be prepared to discuss their understanding of and willingness to learn and follow established processes, including:
- Workflow Design & Optimization: Understanding the importance of efficient workflows in retail operations and custom framing production.
- Implementation & Automation: A willingness to learn and utilize company-provided equipment and systems for order processing and production.
- Measurement & Analysis: An understanding that performance is tracked through sales metrics, production quality, and adherence to SOPs.
📝 Enhancement Note: For an entry-level role like this, a formal portfolio is less critical than demonstrating a willingness to learn and follow established processes. The "Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements" section is interpreted to mean the candidate's ability to understand, adapt to, and execute defined operational processes and utilize company systems effectively. Evidence of this can be drawn from previous work or academic experiences where process adherence was key.
💵 Compensation & Benefits
Salary Range: $17.85 - $20.80 CAD per hour.
Benefits:
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Health insurance (medical, dental, and vision)
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Paid time off (PTO)
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Tuition assistance
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Generous employee discounts on Michaels products
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Other benefits as detailed on mikbenefits.com
Working Hours: Part-time position. The job description indicates work hours include nights, weekends, and early mornings. The "Total Base Pay Range" suggests a standard 40-hour work week is the basis for salary calculation, though the role is part-time.
📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is provided in CAD, consistent with the Canadian location. The stated range is competitive for part-time retail positions in Canada, especially for roles involving specialized skills like custom framing. The benefits package is comprehensive for part-time employees, exceeding typical offerings and includes significant discounts, which are a key perk for retail employees.
🎯 Team & Company Context
🏢 Company Culture
Industry: Arts and Crafts Retail. Michaels is the leading destination for creating and celebrating in North America, operating over 1,300 stores. This industry context means a focus on creativity, inspiration, and customer passion for DIY projects and celebrations.
Company Size: Over 1,300 stores across North America, indicating a large, established retail organization with significant operational scale. This implies structured processes, defined roles, and opportunities for advancement within a large network.
Founded: 1973, headquartered in Irving, Texas. This history suggests a stable company with established brand recognition and operational expertise in the arts and crafts sector.
Team Structure:
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The Framer likely works within a store team structure, reporting to a Store Manager or Assistant Manager.
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The Custom Framing department may have a dedicated lead or supervisor, with the Framer working collaboratively within this specialized area.
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Cross-functional collaboration is expected with other store associates for general operations, customer assistance, and inventory management. Methodology:
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Data Analysis & Insights: While not directly a data analyst role, performance is likely measured through sales figures, customer feedback, and production efficiency metrics.
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Workflow Planning & Optimization: Adherence to SOPs and efficient execution of framing orders and general store tasks are key.
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Automation & Efficiency: Utilizing company systems and equipment effectively to manage orders, inventory, and customer interactions.
Company Website: www.michaels.com
📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture is centered around creativity, customer inspiration, and a passion for arts and crafts. For operations roles, this translates to a need for attention to detail, an understanding of product aesthetics, and a commitment to customer satisfaction. The large scale of the company suggests that adherence to standardized processes is crucial for consistent operational excellence across all locations.
📈 Career & Growth Analysis
Operations Career Level: This role is an entry-level position within the retail operations framework, specifically focused on specialized sales and production within the Custom Framing department. It's a foundational role for developing customer service, sales, and operational skills in a retail setting.
Reporting Structure: The Framer will report to store management, likely a Framing Department Lead or Store Manager/Assistant Manager. This structure provides direct supervision and guidance for day-to-day tasks and performance.
Operations Impact: The Framer directly impacts store revenue through custom framing sales and contributes to overall store performance by maintaining visual standards, ensuring product availability, and providing excellent customer experiences that encourage repeat business. Efficiency in production and order fulfillment also impacts profitability.
Growth Opportunities:
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Operations Skill Advancement: Potential to become a Framing Department Lead or Supervisor, taking on more responsibility for sales, production management, and team training within the framing area.
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Cross-Functional Development: Opportunity to gain broader retail operational experience by cross-training in other store departments, such as merchandising, inventory, or customer service.
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Leadership Potential: With demonstrated success and commitment, there are pathways to Assistant Store Manager or Store Manager roles within Michaels, leading larger teams and overseeing entire store operations.
📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a clear entry point into retail operations with specific training in a specialized area. The growth path is well-defined within the retail hierarchy, allowing individuals to progress from an individual contributor role to leadership positions by developing a comprehensive skill set in sales, operations, and team management.
🌐 Work Environment
Office Type: Public retail store setting. The workspace includes both the main retail floor, where customer engagement and merchandising occur, and a dedicated frame shop area.
Office Location(s): Windsor, Canada (specifically 4339 Walker Rd). This is a physical retail store location, not a corporate office.
Workspace Context:
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Collaborative Environment: The store environment requires interaction with customers and colleagues, fostering a team-oriented atmosphere.
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Operations Tools & Technology: Access to point-of-sale (POS) systems, framing equipment, glass cutters, heat presses, and potentially inventory management software.
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Team Interaction: Opportunities to collaborate with other store associates on daily tasks, customer service initiatives, and operational support. The frame shop itself is a specialized workspace requiring specific tools and safety protocols.
Work Schedule: Part-time. The role involves working nights, weekends, and early mornings, reflecting the operational needs of a retail environment. Flexibility in scheduling is essential.
📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is dynamic and fast-paced, typical of a retail store. The frame shop area presents a unique, specialized workspace with specific equipment. Candidates should be comfortable with variable hours, including evenings and weekends, and the physical demands of a retail setting.
📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process
Interview Process:
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Initial Screening: Likely a brief phone or online screening to assess basic qualifications and interest.
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In-Person Interview: A more in-depth interview at the store location, focusing on customer service skills, problem-solving abilities, and suitability for the retail environment. This may involve a tour of the store and framing area.
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Skills Assessment/Demonstration: Potentially a practical assessment of basic measuring skills or a demonstration of comfort with tools (though actual framing operation may be trained).
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Final Interview: May involve meeting with the Store Manager or a senior team member to discuss role expectations, company culture, and career aspirations.
Portfolio Review Tips:
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Highlight Relevant Experience: If you have prior experience in custom framing, art, design, or any sales role, be prepared to discuss specific projects, customer interactions, and outcomes.
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Showcase Problem-Solving: Prepare examples of how you've solved customer issues or improved processes in previous roles, even if not directly related to framing.
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Demonstrate Enthusiasm: Express genuine interest in Michaels, its products, and the creative aspect of the business.
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Prepare Questions: Have thoughtful questions ready about the team, daily responsibilities, training, and growth opportunities within the framing department and the store.
Challenge Preparation:
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Be ready to answer behavioral questions about customer service scenarios, teamwork, handling difficult customers, and managing multiple tasks.
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Think about how you would approach a customer interested in custom framing – what questions would you ask? How would you guide their choices?
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Prepare to discuss your understanding of the importance of accuracy and quality in production work.
📝 Enhancement Note: For this role, the "portfolio" is less about a formal collection of work and more about demonstrating relevant skills and experiences through conversation and potentially a practical assessment. The interview process will likely focus on assessing customer service aptitude, sales potential, and the ability to learn and follow procedures.
🛠 Tools & Technology Stack
Primary Tools:
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Point of Sale (POS) System: For processing transactions, managing sales, and potentially customer accounts.
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Custom Framing Equipment: Including, but not limited to, mat cutters, frame saws, jointers, and potentially mounting equipment.
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Glass Cutter: For precise cutting of glass or acrylic for frames.
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Heat Press: Potentially used for specific framing applications or finishing.
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Measuring Tools: Tape measures, rulers, and specialized framing measurement devices.
Analytics & Reporting:
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While not directly using advanced analytics tools, performance will be tracked via POS data on sales, order volume, and potentially production turnaround times. CRM & Automation:
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The POS system may have basic CRM functionalities for customer tracking.
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Omni-channel processes will require interaction with online order fulfillment systems.
📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is primarily operational and production-focused. Proficiency with basic computer skills and a willingness to learn specialized equipment are key. The emphasis is on the practical application of tools to deliver a product and service to the customer.
👥 Team Culture & Values
Operations Values:
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Creativity & Inspiration: A core value of Michaels, encouraging a passion for arts and crafts and inspiring customers.
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Customer Focus: Prioritizing customer satisfaction through excellent service, product knowledge, and creating memorable experiences.
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Quality & Craftsmanship: Upholding high standards in custom framing production and store presentation.
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Teamwork & Respect: Fostering a positive and inclusive environment where team members support each other.
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Efficiency & Compliance: Adhering to SOPs, safety protocols, and operational standards to ensure smooth store functioning.
Collaboration Style:
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Cross-functional Integration: Working seamlessly with other store associates to meet customer needs and operational demands.
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Process Improvement: A willingness to contribute ideas for improving workflows and customer service within the framing department and store.
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Knowledge Sharing: Sharing best practices and learnings with colleagues to enhance team performance and customer experience.
📝 Enhancement Note: The culture values creativity, customer engagement, and a collaborative spirit. Operations roles are expected to embody these values by delivering exceptional service, maintaining high standards in their work, and contributing to a positive team environment.
⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities
Challenges:
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Balancing Sales and Production: Effectively managing customer consultations and sales targets while also meeting production deadlines for custom framing orders.
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Customer Expectations: Handling diverse customer needs and expectations for custom framing, requiring strong design sense and problem-solving skills.
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Physical Demands: The role involves standing for long periods, lifting heavy items, and working with sharp tools, requiring physical resilience.
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Adapting to Retail Pace: Keeping up with the fast-paced nature of retail, including busy periods, truck unloads, and omni-channel order fulfillment.
Learning & Development Opportunities:
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Framing Expertise: Comprehensive training on custom framing techniques, design principles, and product knowledge.
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Sales & Customer Service Skills: Development in consultative selling, relationship building, and handling customer inquiries effectively.
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Retail Operations: Gaining experience in visual merchandising, inventory management, cash handling, and omni-channel support.
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Career Progression: Opportunities to advance into leadership roles within the store or specialized roles within the company.
📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are typical of a hands-on retail role with a specialized component. The growth opportunities are substantial for an entry-level position, providing a solid foundation for a career in retail operations and management.
💡 Interview Preparation
Strategy Questions:
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Sales Approach: "Describe your approach to helping a customer find the perfect custom framing solution. What questions would you ask?" (Focus on consultative selling and understanding needs).
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Problem-Solving: "Imagine a customer is unhappy with a framing order. How would you handle the situation to ensure customer satisfaction while adhering to company policy?" (Focus on de-escalation, empathy, and finding solutions).
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Process & Quality: "How do you ensure accuracy and quality when completing a task, especially when working with specific instructions or equipment?" (Focus on attention to detail and adherence to SOPs).
Company & Culture Questions:
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"Why are you interested in working for Michaels, and specifically in the custom framing department?" (Demonstrate genuine interest in the brand and the craft).
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"How do you contribute to a positive team environment?" (Highlight teamwork, respect, and supportive behaviors).
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"What does 'customer service' mean to you in a retail context?" (Focus on going above and beyond to meet customer needs). Portfolio Presentation Strategy:
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Verbalize Experience: Be ready to verbally walk through relevant past experiences, highlighting accomplishments and skills that align with the job description.
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Showcase Enthusiasm: Clearly articulate your passion for creativity, art, or helping customers bring their visions to life.
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Discuss Learning Agility: Emphasize your willingness and ability to learn new skills, operate equipment, and follow company procedures quickly and effectively.
📝 Enhancement Note: The interview will likely assess soft skills (customer service, communication, teamwork) and a candidate's aptitude for learning technical skills. Candidates should prepare to discuss their experiences in a way that highlights these qualities, even if their background isn't directly in framing.
📌 Application Steps
To apply for this operations position:
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Submit your application through the provided application link on the Michaels Careers portal.
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Resume Customization: Tailor your resume to highlight any customer service, sales, crafting, or retail experience. Quantify achievements where possible (e.g., "Increased sales by X%," "Handled Y transactions daily").
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Portfolio Preparation (Verbal): Be ready to discuss specific examples from previous roles or personal projects that demonstrate your customer service, problem-solving, attention to detail, and ability to follow instructions.
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Interview Practice: Rehearse answers to common retail interview questions, focusing on scenarios related to customer interaction, teamwork, and handling tasks efficiently.
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Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Michaels' mission, values, and product offerings, especially regarding custom framing. Understand the company's commitment to creativity and customer experience.
⚠️ 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
Candidates must possess basic computer and measuring skills, along with the ability to operate framing equipment and glass cutters. Previous retail experience and a background in selling products or services are preferred.