Framer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Framer

Company: Michaels Stores

Location: Palm Desert, California, United States

Job Type: Part time

Category: Retail Operations / Customer Service

Date Posted: 2026-09-16

Experience Level: Entry Level (0-2 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is central to the in-store customer experience, focusing on building strong customer relationships through personalized framing solutions.

• It involves driving sales and production within the custom framing department, directly impacting store revenue and customer satisfaction.

• The position requires adherence to operational standards, including merchandising, inventory management, and maintaining a safe, clean retail environment.

• Responsibilities extend to general store support, such as assisting with truck unloads, stocking, and omni-channel processes, contributing to overall store efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the job title is "Framer," the description clearly indicates a dual role encompassing both specialized custom framing duties and broader retail associate responsibilities. The emphasis on "building customer relationships," "helping customers shop," and "providing a well merchandised and in-stock store" points to a customer-facing role that goes beyond just framing production.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Customer Engagement & Sales:

  • Build strong customer relationships by acting as a personal designer, utilizing the Elevated ABC Deliver methodology to understand customer needs and create custom framing solutions.
  • Drive sales and production targets within the custom framing department.
  • Acknowledge customers promptly, assist them in locating products, and provide effective solutions to their needs.

• Custom Framing Production:

  • Complete custom framing orders with a high degree of quality and within established timelines.
  • Operate framing equipment and glass cutters safely and efficiently.

• Store Operations & Merchandising:

  • Maintain the ready-made frame department and other assigned areas, including SISO (Single Item, Single Order) and Directed Replenishment processes.
  • Ensure a safe, clean, and clutter-free store environment for customers.
  • Assist with truck un-loads and stocking processes, adhering to established standards and budgets.

• Customer Service & Support:

  • Deliver friendly and helpful customer service, assisting customers in their shopping journey.

  • Operate the cash register and execute cash handling procedures according to company standards.

  • Support company-wide shrink and safety programs.

  • Assist with omni-channel processes, ensuring a seamless customer experience across all channels.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities are a blend of specialized framing duties and general retail associate tasks. The emphasis on "Elevated ABC Deliver" suggests a structured sales and customer engagement process that candidates should be prepared to discuss. The inclusion of "SISO and Directed Replenishment" points to specific inventory management practices.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: No specific educational degree is mandated, but a foundational understanding of basic math and measurement is implied for framing tasks.

Experience:

• 0-2 years of experience in a retail environment is ideal.

• Prior experience in selling products and/or services directly to customers is preferred. Required Skills:

• Basic computer skills for operational tasks and potential POS system use.

• Basic measuring skills essential for accurate custom framing.

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

• Strong customer service orientation and interpersonal skills.

• Ability to adhere to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company programs.

• Physical ability to perform tasks such as bending, lifting, carrying, reaching, stretching, standing for extended periods, and lifting heavy boxes. Preferred Skills:

• Previous retail sales experience.

• Experience in custom framing or a related craft/art field.

• Familiarity with merchandising principles and visual presentation.

• Cash handling and point-of-sale (POS) system operation proficiency.

• Teamwork and collaboration skills to support store operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "0-2 years" experience level suggests this is an entry-level position. The required skills focus on fundamental operational and customer-facing abilities, with framing-specific equipment operation being a key technical requirement. Preferred skills indicate areas where candidates can differentiate themselves.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• While a formal portfolio is not explicitly requested, candidates are encouraged to prepare examples demonstrating their customer service skills, problem-solving abilities, and any prior framing or creative project experience.

• Showcase instances where you have successfully built customer relationships or exceeded sales expectations.

• If you have prior framing experience, be ready to discuss your process, quality standards, and creative problem-solving. Process Documentation:

• Understanding and adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) is critical. Be prepared to discuss how you follow established processes.

• Familiarity with inventory management processes like SISO and Directed Replenishment is a plus.

• Ability to follow specific workflows for custom framing order completion and customer interaction.

📝 Enhancement Note: For this entry-level retail operations role, a traditional "process portfolio" is less likely to be a requirement. The focus will be on demonstrating understanding of and ability to execute established procedures and customer interaction protocols. Candidates should be ready to articulate their approach to customer service and sales within a structured retail environment.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $17.50 - $20.60 per hour.

Explanation of Range: This range is based on the provided information for the Framer position in Palm Desert, CA. It reflects entry-level to slightly experienced retail roles in this specific geographic area, considering the cost of living and typical retail wages. Research indicates that hourly retail associate wages in Palm Desert, CA, generally fall within this bracket, with variations based on specific duties and experience.

Benefits:

• Core Benefits:

  • 401(k) retirement plan with employer match.
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for confidential support.
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance coverage.
  • Telemedicine services for convenient healthcare access.

• Additional Benefits:

  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) for healthcare and dependent care.
  • Commuter benefits to assist with transportation costs.
  • Tuition assistance programs to support further education.
  • Adoption assistance to support team members growing their families.
  • Various voluntary insurance options for personalized coverage.

• Perks:

  • Employee discounts on Michaels products.

  • Access to partner discount programs. Working Hours: This is a part-time position. Specific hours will vary and may include nights, weekends, and early mornings, consistent with retail operational needs. The job description mentions "40 hours" which is likely the standard full-time equivalent, but the role is listed as Part Time.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is competitive for a part-time, entry-level retail position in the specified California location. The extensive benefits package, even for part-time roles, is a significant draw and should be highlighted by candidates. The mention of "40 hours" alongside "Part time" employment type suggests potential for varied scheduling and that the total operational hours of the store might be around 40, with this role filling a portion of that.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Arts & Crafts Retail. Michaels is the largest specialty arts and crafts retail chain in North America.

Company Size: Over 1,300 stores across the US and Canada, indicating a large, established retail organization. This size implies structured operations, standardized processes, and a significant customer base. For operations professionals, this means opportunities to work within well-defined systems and potentially contribute to large-scale initiatives.

Founded: 1973. With decades of experience, Michaels has a long-standing presence and established brand recognition in the arts and crafts market. This history suggests a stable work environment with a deep understanding of its customer base.

Team Structure:

• The Framer will be part of the in-store retail team, likely reporting to a Store Manager or Assistant Store Manager.

• Collaboration will occur with fellow sales associates, visual merchandisers, and potentially department leads.

• Cross-functional collaboration will involve supporting other departments as needed and contributing to overall store performance goals. Methodology:

• Customer-Centric Approach: The company emphasizes "fueling the joy of creativity and celebration," indicating a focus on customer experience and positive interactions.

• Process Adherence: Strong emphasis on Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company programs for consistency and compliance.

• Sales & Production Focus: Drives sales and production targets, particularly within the custom framing department.

• Teamwork: Encourages positive interaction and mutual respect among team members.

Company Website: www.michaels.com

📝 Enhancement Note: Michaels operates within a highly competitive retail landscape. Its culture is likely geared towards customer engagement, sales performance, and efficient store operations. For operations roles, understanding how to drive efficiency within a large retail footprint and enhance the customer journey are key cultural drivers.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This "Framer" position is an entry-level, individual contributor role within the retail operations framework. It focuses on direct customer interaction, sales, and production within a specific department (Custom Framing), while also contributing to general store operations.

Reporting Structure: The Framer will report to store leadership, such as a Store Manager or Assistant Store Manager. This structure provides direct oversight and guidance typical of a retail environment.

Operations Impact: The role directly impacts store revenue through custom framing sales and customer engagement. It also contributes to overall store operational efficiency by maintaining departments, assisting with stocking, and supporting omni-channel processes. Positive customer interactions can lead to repeat business and brand loyalty.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Development: Opportunity to develop specialized skills in custom framing, advanced sales techniques, and customer relationship management.

• Retail Progression: Potential to advance into roles such as Lead Sales Associate, Department Specialist, Key Holder, Assistant Store Manager, or Store Manager within Michaels.

• Cross-Training: Possibility to gain experience in various store functions, building a well-rounded retail operational skillset.

• Specialization: Continued growth within the framing department, potentially leading to more advanced design or production roles if such opportunities exist at larger Michaels locations or within their manufacturing arm (Artistree).

📝 Enhancement Note: For candidates aspiring to move into broader Revenue Operations or Sales Operations roles, this position can serve as a foundational stepping stone. It provides hands-on experience with sales processes, customer data (through POS and CRM interactions), inventory management, and the direct impact of operational execution on revenue. Demonstrating strong performance here can open doors to internal opportunities or build a transferable skillset.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Public retail store setting. The primary workspace is the sales floor and the custom framing shop area within a Michaels store.

Office Location(s): The specific location is 44150 Town Center Way, Suite B-3, Palm Desert, CA. This is a retail storefront in a commercial area.

Workspace Context:

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

• The framing shop is a specialized workspace containing equipment like a glass cutter and heat press, necessitating careful adherence to safety protocols.

• The general store environment is climate-controlled, though some stock rooms may not be.

• Outdoor work may be assigned, such as retrieving shopping carts or assisting with truck unloads.

Work Schedule: This is a part-time role. Work hours will include nights, weekends, and early mornings, as dictated by store operating hours and customer traffic patterns. Flexibility in scheduling is essential for success in this role.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is dynamic and fast-paced, typical of a retail setting. Candidates should be comfortable with customer interaction, physical tasks, and variable work schedules. Understanding the interplay between front-end customer experience and back-end operational support is crucial.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Likely a brief phone or online screening to assess basic qualifications and interest.

• In-Person Interview: This will be the primary assessment, likely with the Store Manager or Assistant Store Manager. Expect questions focused on customer service scenarios, problem-solving, retail experience, and motivation for the role.

• Practical Assessment (Potential): May involve a brief demonstration of measuring skills or discussion of framing concepts if the candidate has prior experience.

• Onboarding: If selected, a comprehensive onboarding process covering company policies, safety, POS system, and framing procedures.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Customer Service Examples: Prepare specific examples of how you have provided excellent customer service, resolved customer issues, or built rapport with customers. Quantify results where possible (e.g., "increased customer satisfaction scores," "received positive customer feedback").

• Problem-Solving Scenarios: Be ready to discuss how you would handle common retail challenges (e.g., a customer unhappy with a framing job, managing multiple customer requests simultaneously, dealing with stock issues).

• Framing Interest/Skills: If you have any framing experience, be prepared to articulate your process, your understanding of materials, and your commitment to quality. If you don't, express enthusiasm for learning and highlight your basic measuring and computer skills.

• Resume Walkthrough: Be ready to walk through your resume, highlighting relevant retail or customer-facing experience and skills that align with the job description.

Challenge Preparation:

• Scenario-Based Questions: Anticipate questions like: "How would you handle a customer who is unhappy with their custom framing order?" or "Describe a time you went above and beyond for a customer."

• Product/Service Knowledge: While specific framing knowledge is learned, demonstrating an aptitude for learning product details and understanding customer needs is key.

• Teamwork: Be prepared to discuss how you contribute to a team environment and support colleagues.

📝 Enhancement Note: For this role, the "portfolio" will primarily consist of your resume, your interview responses, and potentially a demonstration of basic skills. Focus on articulating your customer service philosophy, your ability to learn and follow processes, and your enthusiasm for the Michaels brand and the framing craft.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Point of Sale (POS) System: Essential for processing transactions, managing customer orders, and potentially accessing customer history. Proficiency or ability to quickly learn POS systems is key.

• Framing Equipment: Requires hands-on operation of specialized tools such as a glass cutter, mat cutter, framing tools (e.g., staple guns, gluers), and potentially a heat press.

• Measuring Tools: Standard measuring tapes, rulers, and potentially specialized framing measurement devices.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While direct involvement in complex analytics is unlikely, understanding how sales data (from POS) and inventory levels contribute to store performance is beneficial.

• Basic computer skills will be used for accessing internal systems, training modules, and potentially communication platforms. CRM & Automation:

• The POS system may have CRM-like functionalities for tracking customer orders and preferences.

• Basic understanding of how customer data is used to personalize service and drive sales is helpful.

• Omni-channel processes may involve using systems to manage online orders for in-store pickup or returns.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack for this role is heavily weighted towards direct customer interaction tools (POS) and specialized operational equipment (framing tools). While advanced analytics or automation tools are not expected, an understanding of how these systems contribute to overall business operations is a plus.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Customer Focus: "Fueling the joy of creativity and celebration" translates to a commitment to providing positive, helpful, and inspiring customer experiences.

• Quality & Craftsmanship: High standards for custom framing production and timely order completion.

• Teamwork & Respect: Encouraging positive interactions, mutual respect, and a collaborative spirit among team members.

• Efficiency & Compliance: Adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), safety protocols, and operational standards for a well-run store.

• Continuous Improvement: Willingness to learn new skills, adapt to new processes, and contribute to a positive store environment.

Collaboration Style:

• Customer-First Collaboration: Team members are expected to support each other in serving customers effectively.

• Process-Oriented: Working together to ensure smooth execution of daily tasks, from sales to stocking and framing production.

• Open Communication: Encouraging positive communication to resolve issues and share information efficiently.

• Cross-Departmental Support: Assisting colleagues in other areas of the store as needed to meet overall store objectives.

📝 Enhancement Note: Michaels likely fosters a culture that values creativity, customer engagement, and operational excellence. For a Framer, demonstrating a blend of artistic sensibility, customer service acumen, and reliability in executing operational duties will align well with these values.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Multiple Responsibilities: Juggling custom framing production with direct customer service, sales, and general store duties.

• Managing Customer Expectations: Effectively communicating timelines and managing expectations for custom framing projects.

• Physical Demands: Performing physically demanding tasks, including standing for long periods and lifting heavy items, in a retail environment.

• Learning Specialized Skills: Mastering the operation of framing equipment and developing proficiency in custom framing design and execution.

• Adapting to Retail Pace: Thriving in a fast-paced retail environment with variable customer traffic and operational demands.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Framing Expertise: Comprehensive training on custom framing techniques, materials, and design principles.

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

• Operational Proficiency: Gaining experience in retail merchandising, inventory management, POS systems, and omni-channel fulfillment.

• Product Knowledge: Deepening understanding of arts, crafts, and framing-related products.

• Career Advancement: Opportunities for internal promotion and cross-training within the Michaels retail network.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents a clear path for developing specialized craft skills within a retail context. The challenges are typical of customer-facing retail roles, with the added complexity of a specialized production department. Growth opportunities are structured around skill acquisition and internal progression within a large retail organization.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Customer Service Scenarios: Be prepared for questions like: "How would you handle a customer who is unhappy with a framing job they received?" or "Describe a time you helped a customer find the perfect solution for their needs." Focus on empathy, problem-solving, and escalating issues appropriately.

• Sales Approach: Expect questions about your sales experience or how you would approach selling custom framing solutions. Emphasize understanding customer needs, highlighting benefits, and closing the sale.

• Process & Procedure: Discuss your understanding of and commitment to following Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). Be ready to explain why following established processes is important in a retail environment.

Company & Culture Questions:

• Motivation: Why Michaels? Why the Framer role? Research Michaels' mission and values ("fuel the joy of creativity"). Express enthusiasm for arts, crafts, and helping customers bring their creative visions to life.

• Teamwork: "Describe your ideal team environment." "How do you contribute to a positive team dynamic?" Highlight your collaborative spirit and willingness to support colleagues.

• Adaptability: "How do you handle busy periods or unexpected challenges in a retail setting?" Demonstrate your ability to stay calm, organized, and productive under pressure.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Resume as Portfolio: Your resume is your primary portfolio. Highlight any relevant experience in customer service, sales, retail, or creative/crafting fields. Use action verbs and quantify achievements where possible.

• Framing Experience (If Any): If you have framing experience, be ready to discuss specific projects, your process, and the quality of your work. Even personal framing projects can be relevant.

• Prepared Examples: Have 1-2 concise, STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) examples ready for common interview questions related to customer service, sales, or problem-solving.

📝 Enhancement Note: For this role, interview preparation should focus on demonstrating strong customer service skills, a willingness to learn and follow procedures, and a genuine interest in the Michaels brand and the custom framing craft. Quantifiable achievements and specific examples will be more impactful than generalized statements.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Michaels Stores careers portal.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight customer service, sales experience, any retail background, and basic technical skills (computer, measuring). Use keywords from the job description like "customer service," "sales," "custom framing," and "merchandising."

• Portfolio Preparation: While a formal portfolio isn't required, prepare specific examples of your customer service successes, problem-solving abilities, and any relevant creative or framing experience. Be ready to articulate these clearly during an interview.

• Interview Practice: Practice answering common retail interview questions, focusing on the STAR method for behavioral questions. Prepare to discuss your understanding of Michaels' brand and your enthusiasm for the Framer role.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Michaels' mission, values, and product offerings. Understand their commitment to customer experience and creativity.

⚠️ 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.