Framer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Framer

Company: Michaels Stores

Location: Vista, California, United States

Job Type: Part time

Category: Retail Operations / Sales Associate

Date Posted: 2026-09-19

Experience Level: Entry Level (0-2 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Drive customer engagement and build strong relationships by providing expert custom framing solutions.

• Execute sales and production targets within the framing department to meet business objectives.

• Ensure adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company programs for consistent operational excellence.

• Maintain a visually appealing and well-stocked retail environment, focusing on the ready-made frame department and other assigned areas.

• Provide exceptional customer service, assisting shoppers with product location and needs, thereby enhancing the overall shopping experience.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Framer" title at Michaels Stores, while seemingly focused on a specific craft, encompasses broader retail operations and sales responsibilities. The role requires a blend of customer interaction, sales acumen, operational execution, and product knowledge, positioning it within the retail operations and sales associate categories. The emphasis on "building customer relationships" and "delivering sales and production results" indicates a performance-driven environment where operational efficiency directly impacts revenue.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Build and nurture customer relationships through proactive engagement, understanding their needs, and offering tailored custom framing solutions.

• Achieve and exceed sales and production goals for custom framing orders by effectively utilizing sales techniques and product knowledge.

• Execute framing orders with a high degree of quality, precision, and adherence to deadlines, ensuring customer satisfaction.

• Maintain the visual presentation and stock levels of the ready-made frame department, including Single Item Single Out (SISO) and directed replenishment processes.

• Deliver friendly and efficient customer service, assisting customers in locating merchandise, answering inquiries, and resolving issues to enhance their shopping experience.

• Uphold Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company programs to ensure compliance, operational consistency, and adherence to safety and security standards.

• Support company-wide shrink reduction and safety initiatives through diligent execution of daily tasks and adherence to protocols.

• Interact positively and respectfully with colleagues and customers, acting as a role model for company values and maintaining a professional demeanor.

• Participate actively in the truck unloading and stocking processes, ensuring efficient inventory management and adherence to established standards.

• Operate the cash register accurately and efficiently, adhering to cash handling procedures and standards for all transactions.

• Assist with and execute various Omni-channel processes, such as Buy Online, Pick Up In Store (BOPIS) and ship-from-store, to meet evolving customer needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core responsibilities highlight a customer-centric approach to sales and operations. The emphasis on "Elevated ABC Deliver" suggests a structured sales methodology focused on building rapport and delivering value. The inclusion of "Omni channel processes" points to the evolving nature of retail operations, requiring adaptability and proficiency in integrated customer service models.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: High school diploma or equivalent is typically expected for entry-level retail positions, providing a foundational understanding of basic communication and task completion.

Experience: 0-2 years of experience in a customer-facing role, with a preference for retail environments. Demonstrated ability to learn and apply new skills, particularly in customer service and product knowledge.

Required Skills:

• Basic computer proficiency for point-of-sale (POS) systems and potential inventory management software.

• Fundamental measuring skills for accurate order specification and production.

• Ability to learn and operate specialized framing equipment safely and effectively.

• Basic glass cutting skills to prepare materials for framing.

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

• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced retail environment, managing multiple tasks simultaneously.

• Basic math skills for cash handling and transaction processing. Preferred Skills:

• Previous retail experience, particularly in a sales or specialized department role.

• Proven experience in selling products or services, with a track record of meeting sales targets.

• Familiarity with art or framing concepts is a plus.

• Experience with inventory management and merchandising principles.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Minimum Type of experience" and "Preferred Type of experience" directly inform the required and preferred skills. Basic computer and measuring skills are foundational, while the ability to operate framing equipment and glass cutters are job-specific technical requirements. Retail experience and sales background are advantageous, indicating a desire for candidates who can quickly contribute to sales performance.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• While a formal portfolio is not typically required for this entry-level retail role, candidates are encouraged to highlight relevant experience in past roles that demonstrate key competencies.

• For candidates with custom framing experience, showcasing examples of completed projects (e.g., through photographs or descriptions of complex projects) can be beneficial.

• If prior roles involved sales targets or customer service metrics, quantifiable achievements should be emphasized.

• Demonstrations of problem-solving skills, particularly in customer service or operational scenarios, can be valuable. Process Documentation:

• Candidates should be prepared to discuss their understanding of and experience with following Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company-specific programs.

• Ability to articulate how they would learn and adhere to framing order processes, from consultation to completion.

• Understanding of how to maintain store standards, including visual merchandising and inventory organization, as part of daily operational processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an entry-level retail position like Framer, a formal portfolio is less common. The focus shifts to demonstrating learned skills and adherence to processes. Candidates should be prepared to speak to their ability to follow instructions, learn new systems, and execute operational tasks according to established guidelines, showcasing their potential to contribute to the store's operational flow.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $17.00 - $20.00 per hour.

Benefits:

• 401(k) with employer match: Provides a retirement savings plan with company contributions.

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Offers confidential support for personal and work-related challenges.

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Coverage: Comprehensive health insurance options for eligible team members.

• Telemedicine Services: Convenient access to healthcare professionals remotely.

• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs): Allows pre-tax contributions for healthcare or dependent care expenses.

• Commuter Benefits: Assistance with costs related to commuting to work.

• Tuition Assistance: Support for continuing education and skill development.

• Adoption Assistance: Financial support for team members building their families through adoption.

• Voluntary Insurance Options: Additional insurance plans for enhanced protection.

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

• Partner Discount Programs: Access to discounts with other affiliated companies.

Working Hours: This is a part-time position. Specific hours will vary based on store needs and scheduling, potentially including nights, weekends, and early mornings. The role description mentions 40 hours as a potential maximum, but as a part-time role, actual hours may be less.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided salary range of $17.00 - $20.00 per hour is competitive for entry-level retail positions in California, especially considering the specific skills involved in custom framing. The extensive benefits package, including health coverage, retirement savings, and various forms of assistance, indicates Michaels' commitment to supporting its part-time workforce. The mention of overtime compensation aligns with state and local labor laws. The "working hours" note clarifies the part-time nature and potential variability.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Arts and Crafts Retail. Michaels operates as the leading destination for creating and celebrating in North America, with a strong focus on art supplies, craft materials, and custom framing services.

Company Size: The Michaels Companies, Inc. operates over 1,300 stores, indicating a large-scale retail operation with a significant employee base, likely in the tens of thousands. This size offers opportunities for structured training, established processes, and potential for internal advancement.

Founded: Founded in 1973 and headquartered in Irving, Texas. This long history suggests a stable company with established operational frameworks and a deep understanding of its market.

Team Structure:

• The Framer will be part of the in-store retail team, working under the direct supervision of store management (e.g., Store Manager, Assistant Store Manager).

• They will collaborate closely with fellow sales associates and potentially other department specialists within the store.

• Cross-functional collaboration primarily occurs within the store environment, focusing on customer service, sales, and operational tasks. Interaction with a corporate framing support team might exist for complex design or production inquiries, though day-to-day operations are store-based. Methodology:

• Data Analysis & Insights: While not a primary analytical role, the Framer is expected to utilize sales data (e.g., performance against targets) and inventory data (e.g., stock levels) to inform their daily tasks and customer interactions.

• Workflow Planning & Optimization: The role involves executing established workflows for framing orders, customer service, and store maintenance. Efficiency in these processes contributes to overall store performance.

• Automation & Efficiency: While direct automation might be limited for this role, proficiency with POS systems and understanding efficient customer service protocols contribute to operational efficiency.

Company Website: www.michaels.com

📝 Enhancement Note: The company context emphasizes Michaels as a large, established player in the arts and crafts retail sector. This implies a structured environment with defined processes and a significant customer base. The "Team Structure" section clarifies that this is a store-level role, with collaboration primarily occurring among in-store personnel.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This "Framer" position is positioned as an entry-level to early-career role within the retail operations and sales domain. It provides foundational experience in customer service, sales, operational execution, and specialized craft skills.

Reporting Structure: The Framer typically reports to the Store Manager or an Assistant Store Manager, who oversee daily store operations and team performance. This direct reporting line ensures clear guidance and performance feedback.

Operations Impact: The Framer's role directly impacts store revenue through custom framing sales and contributes to overall customer satisfaction and loyalty. By ensuring a positive customer experience and maintaining store standards, they help drive repeat business and enhance the brand's reputation. Their ability to effectively execute sales and production processes directly influences the store's profitability and operational efficiency.

Growth Opportunities:

• Operations Skill Advancement: Progression to roles like Lead Framer, Sales Associate, or Key Holder, with increased responsibility in sales, customer service, and store operations.

• Specialization: Deepening expertise in custom framing techniques, design consultation, and potentially cross-training in other specialized areas of the store.

• Leadership Potential: Opportunities to develop leadership skills through training programs, potentially leading to roles such as Assistant Store Manager or Store Manager, managing teams and overseeing larger operational scopes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The career path for a Framer at Michaels is typical for retail, offering a clear trajectory from entry-level to supervisory and management roles. The emphasis is on developing customer service, sales, and operational competencies. Growth opportunities are tied to performance, willingness to take on more responsibility, and potentially further training within the company.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is a public retail store setting, requiring interaction with customers and the general public. The primary workspace is the retail floor and the dedicated framing shop area.

Office Location(s): The specific store location is Vista, California (1851 University Dr). This is a physical retail store environment.

Workspace Context:

• The work environment is a climate-controlled public retail space, with potential for non-climate-controlled stock rooms.

• The framing shop area will contain specialized equipment like a glass cutter and heat press, requiring careful operation and adherence to safety protocols.

• Opportunities for team interaction exist throughout the workday, especially during busy periods, stocking, and customer assistance.

Work Schedule: The role is part-time, with working hours that may include nights, weekends, and early mornings to meet store operational needs and customer traffic patterns. Flexibility in scheduling is often a requirement for retail associates.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is a typical retail setting with specific considerations for the framing shop. The mention of potential outdoor work (retrieving carts, unloading trucks) and non-climate-controlled stock rooms highlights the varied nature of tasks within a retail operation. The schedule flexibility is a key aspect for part-time retail roles.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Likely an online application followed by a brief phone or video screening to assess basic qualifications and interest.

• In-Person Interview: Typically involves meeting with the Store Manager or Assistant Store Manager. This interview will focus on customer service skills, retail experience, problem-solving abilities, and cultural fit. Be prepared to discuss how you handle customer interactions, sales scenarios, and operational tasks.

• Practical Assessment (Potential): For a Framer role, there might be a brief practical demonstration or discussion about how you would approach a framing consultation or a specific operational task (e.g., maintaining a department).

• Final Offer: Following successful interviews and assessments, a job offer will be extended.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Highlight Relevant Experience: Since a formal portfolio isn't standard, focus on verbally showcasing your experience. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to describe past accomplishments in customer service, sales, or operational roles.

• Quantify Achievements: Whenever possible, use numbers to demonstrate impact. For example, "Increased custom framing sales by 15% in my department" or "Successfully handled an average of 50 customer inquiries per shift."

• Demonstrate Problem-Solving: Be ready with examples of how you've resolved customer complaints or operational issues, emphasizing your ability to find solutions and maintain a positive outcome.

• Showcase Enthusiasm for Craft: If you have personal experience with art or crafts, or a genuine interest in framing, express this during the interview. It shows passion and a deeper connection to the role.

Challenge Preparation:

• Customer Service Scenarios: Prepare for questions like, "How would you handle an unhappy customer?" or "How do you approach a customer who seems unsure about what they need?"

• Sales Approach: Be ready to discuss how you would upsell or cross-sell framing services and products. Think about how you can add value to the customer's purchase.

• Operational Understanding: Consider questions about maintaining store standards, managing inventory, or working as part of a team to achieve store goals.

📝 Enhancement Note: The application process for this role is typical for retail. Emphasis will be placed on soft skills, customer interaction abilities, and a demonstrated willingness to learn and follow procedures. Candidates should prepare to articulate their experience using concrete examples and demonstrate a positive, customer-focused attitude.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Point-of-Sale (POS) System: Used for processing customer transactions, managing sales, and potentially basic inventory lookups. Proficiency with cash handling and card processing is essential.

• Custom Framing Software/Design Tools: Michaels likely utilizes specific software for designing custom frames, calculating costs, and generating work orders. Familiarity with design interfaces and data entry is key.

• Basic Computer Skills: Essential for accessing internal communications, training modules, and potentially basic order management systems.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Sales Performance Dashboards: While not directly managed by the Framer, they will likely see reports or receive updates on their individual and team sales performance against targets.

• Inventory Management Systems: Used for tracking stock levels of frames, mats, and supplies, and for replenishment processes.

CRM & Automation:

• Customer Relationship Management (CRM) aspects: Building customer relationships is a key responsibility, often managed through direct interaction and potentially through store-level customer loyalty programs.

• Order Management Systems: Used to track the status of custom framing orders from placement through production to completion.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack for this role is primarily focused on front-end retail operations. The key tools involve customer transaction processing, specialized design/production software for framing, and systems for managing inventory and orders. While advanced analytics tools are not directly used, understanding sales performance metrics is important.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Customer Focus: A primary value at Michaels, emphasizing building relationships, providing exceptional service, and ensuring customer satisfaction through quality products and solutions.

• Creativity & Passion: Encouraging a culture where creativity is celebrated, and team members are passionate about arts, crafts, and helping customers bring their projects to life.

• Teamwork & Collaboration: Fostering an environment where team members support each other, share knowledge, and work together to achieve store goals and provide a seamless customer experience.

• Integrity & Respect: Upholding ethical business practices, treating all individuals with respect, and promoting an inclusive environment for team members and customers alike.

• Efficiency & Execution: Valuing the ability to execute tasks accurately, follow procedures diligently, and contribute to the overall operational efficiency of the store.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Operations Integration: The Framer collaborates with other store associates to ensure smooth customer flow, inventory management, and overall store presentation. This involves clear communication and shared responsibility for store tasks.

• Process Review Culture: While not heavily formal, feedback on processes and operational challenges can be shared with management to identify areas for improvement.

• Knowledge Sharing: Team members are encouraged to share tips, product knowledge, and best practices, particularly regarding framing techniques and customer service approaches.

📝 Enhancement Note: Michaels' culture appears to be deeply rooted in creativity, customer service, and teamwork, reflecting its brand identity. The values emphasize a positive and supportive work environment where employees are encouraged to be passionate about their work and contribute to a collective success.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Sales and Production: Effectively managing time to engage with customers for sales consultations while also meeting production deadlines for custom framing orders can be a challenge.

• Customer Expectations Management: Handling diverse customer needs and expectations for custom framing, from simple requests to complex artistic visions, requires strong communication and problem-solving skills.

• Learning Specialized Skills: Mastering the intricacies of custom framing, including material selection, design principles, and equipment operation, requires dedicated learning and practice.

• Retail Environment Demands: Adapting to the dynamic nature of retail, including fluctuating customer traffic, inventory management, and varied tasking, requires resilience and adaptability.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Operations Skill Advancement: Opportunities to learn advanced framing techniques, sales strategies, and potentially cross-train in other store departments.

• Industry Conference & Certification Participation: While less common for this specific role, Michaels may offer opportunities for specialized training or workshops related to art, design, or retail management.

• Operations Mentorship & Leadership: Potential to be mentored by experienced store leaders, fostering growth towards supervisory or management roles within Michaels.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges for a Framer are typical of specialized retail roles, focusing on balancing multiple demands and mastering specific craft skills. Growth opportunities are framed within the context of retail career progression, emphasizing skill development and leadership potential.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Operations Strategy & Methodology: "How would you approach a customer who is unsure about the best framing option for their artwork?" or "Describe your process for ensuring a custom framing order is completed accurately and on time." (Prepare to discuss customer consultation, needs assessment, material selection, and order processing steps.)

• Collaboration & Stakeholder Management: "How would you work with a fellow associate to assist a customer who needs help with both a framing consultation and finding other craft supplies?" or "How would you communicate a delay in a custom framing order to a customer?" (Focus on clear communication, teamwork, and proactive problem-solving.)

• Problem-Solving: "Imagine a customer is unhappy with the final framing of their piece. How would you handle this situation?" or "What would you do if you discovered a discrepancy in inventory for a popular frame style?" (Prepare to demonstrate empathy, active listening, and a structured approach to resolving issues.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Michaels and why are you interested in working here?" (Research Michaels' mission, values, and product offerings. Emphasize your passion for creativity or customer service.)

• "How do you handle working in a fast-paced retail environment with changing priorities?" (Highlight your adaptability, organizational skills, and ability to multitask.)

• "Describe a time you went above and beyond to help a customer." (Prepare a specific example that showcases your commitment to customer satisfaction.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Verbal Showcase: Since a physical portfolio is unlikely, prepare to verbally "walk through" examples of your experience.

• Case Study Approach: For sales or customer service challenges, use the STAR method:

  • Situation: Briefly describe the context.
  • Task: Explain your role and objective.
  • Action: Detail the steps you took.
  • Result: Quantify the outcome and what you learned.

• Metrics Presentation: If you have sales experience, be ready to discuss metrics like conversion rates, average transaction value, or sales growth you contributed to.

• Demonstrate Enthusiasm: Show genuine interest in custom framing and Michaels' products.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation for this role should focus on demonstrating strong customer service, sales aptitude, and a proactive approach to operational tasks. Preparing specific examples using the STAR method will be crucial for answering behavioral questions effectively.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

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

• Prepare your resume: Tailor your resume to highlight any relevant customer service, sales, or hands-on/craft experience. Quantify achievements whenever possible (e.g., sales figures, customer satisfaction improvements).

• Research Michaels: Familiarize yourself with Michaels' brand, products, and company values. Understand their commitment to creativity and customer experience.

• Practice interview responses: Prepare to answer common retail interview questions, focusing on your customer service skills, problem-solving abilities, and experience with sales or operational tasks. Use the STAR method for behavioral questions.

• Prepare to discuss your interest: Be ready to articulate why you are interested in the Framer role specifically and how your skills align with the requirements. Highlight any passion for art, crafts, or design.

⚠️ 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.