Framer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Framer

Company: Michaels Stores

Location: Auburn, Washington, United States

Job Type: Part time

Category: Retail Operations / Sales

Date Posted: 2026-07-27

Experience Level: 0-2 years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role focuses on delivering exceptional customer experiences by creating custom framing solutions and assisting customers with their retail needs.

• Responsibilities include building customer relationships, achieving sales and production targets, and maintaining store presentation standards.

• Requires proficiency in basic computer skills, measuring, and operating specialized framing equipment.

• Involves hands-on tasks such as order completion, merchandising, and cash handling within a retail store environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is within the "Retail" and "Art & Design" taxonomies, emphasizing a blend of customer-facing sales and specialized craft skills. The "Framer" title implies a focus on custom product creation and client consultation, distinct from general retail associate roles.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Develop and nurture customer relationships through consultative selling, identifying their needs for custom framing solutions using the Elevated ABC Deliver methodology.

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

• Achieve and exceed personal sales and production goals within the Custom Framing department.

• Maintain the visual presentation and stock levels of the ready-made frame department, including SISO (Ship-from-Store) and Directed Replenishment processes.

• Provide friendly and efficient customer service, assisting shoppers in locating products and offering solutions to enhance their shopping experience.

• Ensure a safe, clean, and clutter-free store environment by adhering to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and merchandising standards.

• Operate the cash register and perform cash handling procedures accurately and in accordance with company standards.

• Participate actively in truck unloading and stocking processes, ensuring compliance with truck standards and budgetary guidelines.

• Support company-wide shrink and safety programs through diligent adherence to procedures and proactive awareness.

• Assist with Omni-channel processes to support seamless customer experiences across all sales channels.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a dual focus on sales/customer engagement and operational execution. The emphasis on "Elevated ABC Deliver" and "personal designer" suggests a consultative sales approach where building rapport and understanding customer vision are paramount for custom framing solutions.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While no specific educational degree is mandated, a strong understanding of measurement and spatial reasoning is implied, often developed through general education or vocational training.

Experience: 0-2 years of experience is ideal, with a preference for prior retail or customer-facing sales roles.

Required Skills:

• Basic computer proficiency for order entry, POS systems, and potential design software.

• Basic measuring skills for accurate custom framing order specifications.

• Ability to safely and effectively operate framing equipment, including a glass cutter.

• Strong customer service orientation with excellent interpersonal communication skills.

• Ability to maintain a clean, organized, and visually appealing retail environment.

• Proficiency in cash handling and operating a Point of Sale (POS) system. Preferred Skills:

• Previous retail sales experience, ideally in a custom or specialized product environment.

• Proven experience in selling products and/or services, with a consultative approach.

• Familiarity with art, design, or crafting principles that enhance custom framing recommendations.

• Experience with inventory management and merchandising within a retail setting.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirements are geared towards entry-level candidates with a focus on fundamental retail skills and a willingness to learn specialized framing techniques. The "0-2 years" experience level suggests that on-the-job training will be a significant component of the role's development.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• While a formal portfolio is not explicitly required for this entry-level role, candidates are encouraged to highlight examples of past work demonstrating attention to detail, creativity, and problem-solving.

• For custom framing, this could include personal projects, volunteer work, or any instances where precise execution and aesthetic judgment were applied.

• Showcase instances where you successfully met customer needs or solved a problem related to product creation or service delivery. Process Documentation:

• Candidates should be prepared to discuss their understanding of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and how they ensure consistent, high-quality execution in a retail or production environment.

• Familiarity with workflow processes, from customer consultation to order fulfillment, will be beneficial.

• Examples of how you have contributed to maintaining a safe or efficient work environment are valuable.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an entry-level position like this, the "portfolio" is more about demonstrating foundational skills and a readiness to learn. The emphasis is on the candidate's ability to articulate their understanding of processes and their commitment to quality, rather than a pre-compiled portfolio of past framing work.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $17.00 - $20.00 per hour

Benefits:

• 401(k) with employer match

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

• Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage

• Telemedicine Services

• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) for healthcare and dependent care

• Commuter Benefits

• Tuition Assistance programs

• Adoption Assistance

• Various Voluntary Insurance Options

• Everyday Perks: Employee Discounts and Partner Discount Programs

Working Hours: This is a part-time position. While the exact number of hours may vary, the role requires flexibility to work nights, weekends, and early mornings to meet store operational needs. A standard full-time equivalent would be 40 hours per week, but part-time schedules will be less.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided salary range is for the United States. The benefits package is comprehensive for a retail role, particularly the inclusion of tuition assistance and adoption assistance, which can be significant draws for career development and personal circumstances.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Arts and Crafts Retail. Michaels Stores is a leading retailer in North America, specializing in arts, crafts, home décor, and custom framing.

Company Size: Over 1,300 stores in the US and Canada. This indicates a large, established retail organization with significant operational scale.

Founded: 1973. With a long history, Michaels has established robust operational processes and a recognizable brand presence in the creative market.

Team Structure:

• The Framer will be part of the in-store retail team. This typically includes a Store Manager, Assistant Store Managers, Key Holders, and Sales Associates.

• The Framer will likely report directly to a Framing Department Manager or a senior sales associate responsible for the framing department, who in turn reports to store management.

• Cross-functional collaboration will occur with other store associates for general sales, customer service, and operational tasks like truck unloading and stocking. Methodology:

• Emphasis on Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for consistent execution of tasks, from customer service to operational processes.

• Data-driven decision-making is implied through sales targets and production goals, requiring an understanding of performance metrics.

• Workflow optimization is key in the framing department to ensure quality and timely order completion.

• Automation is less likely to be a primary focus for this specific role, but efficiency in manual processes is critical.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's focus on "fueling the joy of creativity and celebration" suggests a culture that values passion, creativity, and customer engagement. For operations, this translates to a need for efficient processes that support creative product delivery and a positive customer experience.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This "Framer" position is an entry-level to early-career role within the retail operations and sales spectrum. It provides foundational experience in customer service, sales, and specialized production.

Reporting Structure: The Framer will report to store management, likely a Framing Department Manager or a senior associate overseeing the framing operations. This provides direct mentorship and oversight.

Operations Impact: The Framer directly impacts revenue through custom framing sales and customer satisfaction. Their ability to create quality products and provide excellent service contributes to repeat business and positive store reputation. Efficient processing of orders also impacts operational efficiency and profitability for the department.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Advancement: Develop advanced custom framing techniques, intricate design skills, and proficiency with a wider range of framing materials and equipment.

• Retail Management Track: Progress into roles like Key Holder, Assistant Store Manager, or Store Manager, gaining broader retail operational and leadership experience.

• Specialization: Become a subject matter expert in custom framing, potentially leading a framing department or training new framers.

• Cross-functional Roles: Opportunities to move into other areas of retail operations or sales within Michaels or its parent company.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth path is clearly defined within retail operations. The role serves as a strong stepping stone for individuals looking to build a career in retail sales, customer service, or specialized craft services within a large organization.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Public retail store setting with a dedicated Custom Framing shop area.

Office Location(s): Auburn, Washington (2785 Bell Rd). The store environment is climate-controlled, with some stock rooms potentially not being climate-controlled.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace involves direct customer interaction within a retail sales floor and a specialized framing area.

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

• Collaboration with other store associates is frequent, especially during peak times, truck unload, and for Omni-channel support.

• Access to basic computer systems and POS terminals is integral to daily tasks.

Work Schedule: This is a part-time position requiring flexibility. Working hours include nights, weekends, and early mornings, aligning with typical retail operating hours. The role may also involve some outdoor work for tasks like retrieving shopping carts or during truck unloading.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is dynamic, blending customer-facing sales with a production-oriented craft space. Candidates should be comfortable with varied tasks, standing for extended periods, and working in a fast-paced retail setting.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Typically involves a review of the application and resume, followed by a brief phone screening to assess basic qualifications and interest.

• In-Person Interview: A more in-depth interview will likely be conducted at the store location. This will involve meeting with the hiring manager (e.g., Store Manager or Framing Department Manager).

• Skills Assessment: Candidates may be asked to demonstrate basic measuring skills or discuss their understanding of customer service scenarios. For a Framer role, a practical demonstration of operating equipment or discussing their approach to a custom framing project might be included.

• Situational Questions: Expect questions about handling difficult customers, managing multiple tasks, and working in a team environment.

• Final Assessment: May involve a brief store walk-through to assess understanding of store operations and merchandising.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• While a formal portfolio isn't strictly required, be prepared to discuss any relevant creative projects, past work, or experiences that demonstrate attention to detail, craftsmanship, and customer focus.

• If you have photos of custom framing work, art projects, or anything showcasing precision and aesthetic sensibility, be ready to share them or describe them effectively.

• Highlight instances where you've solved problems or exceeded expectations in a customer service or production role. Challenge Preparation:

• Be ready to discuss how you would approach a customer requesting a specific, potentially challenging, framing project.

• Practice articulating your understanding of the importance of accurate measurements and quality craftsmanship.

• Prepare examples of how you have handled customer complaints or difficult situations in a professional manner.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for this role will likely focus on assessing soft skills like customer service, communication, and problem-solving, alongside basic aptitude for the technical aspects of framing. Demonstrating enthusiasm for art and creativity will be a significant advantage.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Point of Sale (POS) System: For processing transactions, managing sales, and potentially order entry.

• Custom Framing Software/Design Tools: While not explicitly mentioned, likely used for designing custom frames, calculating costs, and generating order details.

• Framing Equipment: Standard framing tools such as mat cutters, glass cutters, mounting presses, and chopping saws.

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

Analytics & Reporting:

• Basic reporting on sales performance and production output may be accessed through the POS system or store management software.

• Understanding of key performance indicators (KPIs) for retail sales and custom services is beneficial. CRM & Automation:

• Customer relationship management is handled through direct interaction and potentially through the store's POS system for tracking repeat customers.

• Automation is primarily within the framing process itself (e.g., using machinery for efficiency) rather than software automation.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency with basic computer skills and a willingness to learn specialized framing equipment are key. The technology stack is typical for a retail environment with a specialized production component.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Customer Focus: Prioritizing customer needs and ensuring a positive experience, especially in custom framing consultations.

• Creativity & Craftsmanship: Valuing quality, attention to detail, and aesthetic appeal in all framing work.

• Teamwork: Collaborating effectively with colleagues to ensure smooth store operations and customer service.

• Integrity & Accountability: Adhering to company policies, standards, and ethical practices in all dealings.

• Efficiency & Productivity: Striving for timely order completion and effective use of resources.

Collaboration Style:

• Open communication and mutual support among store associates to ensure all tasks are completed.

• Cross-functional collaboration between sales floor associates and the framing department to provide comprehensive customer solutions.

• A culture that encourages sharing best practices in customer service and framing techniques.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture emphasizes creativity and customer joy. For operations, this means ensuring that processes enable, rather than hinder, this creative output and customer delight.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Sales and Production: Effectively managing customer consultations and sales while also producing high-quality framing orders on time.

• Handling Diverse Customer Needs: Meeting the unique and sometimes complex framing requests of a wide range of customers.

• Maintaining Quality Standards: Ensuring consistent, high-quality craftsmanship across all framing projects.

• Physical Demands: The role requires standing for long periods, lifting heavy items, and using ladders, which can be physically demanding.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• On-the-job training: Comprehensive training on framing techniques, equipment operation, and customer consultation.

• Sales & Customer Service Training: Opportunities to enhance consultative selling skills and customer engagement strategies.

• Product Knowledge: Deepen understanding of various art, matting, and framing materials to better advise customers.

• Potential for Advancement: Clear pathways to leadership roles within Michaels Stores.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role offers a direct path to developing specialized craft skills alongside essential retail operational competencies, providing a solid foundation for a career in the creative retail sector.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Be prepared to discuss your customer service philosophy and how you build rapport with clients.

• If you have any art, design, or craft background, be ready to share how that experience would translate to custom framing.

• How would you handle a situation where a customer is unsure about their framing choices, or requests something technically difficult?

• Discuss your understanding of the importance of accuracy in measuring and production. Company & Culture Questions:

• Why are you interested in working for Michaels Stores, and specifically in a framing role?

• What do you know about Michaels' commitment to creativity and customer experience?

• How do you handle working in a fast-paced retail environment?

• Describe a time you worked effectively as part of a team. Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Even without a formal portfolio, prepare to articulate specific examples of your attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and any creative projects you've undertaken.

• If you have photos of projects (even non-framing related) that showcase precision, craftsmanship, or artistic vision, be ready to describe them and the process you followed.

• Focus on demonstrating your ability to translate a client's vision into a tangible, high-quality product.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interviewers will be looking for candidates who are not only capable of performing the technical aspects of framing but also possess strong interpersonal skills and a genuine enthusiasm for art, creativity, and customer satisfaction.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

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

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight customer service experience, any sales achievements, measuring skills, and any relevant creative or crafting hobbies. Use keywords from the job description like "customer service," "sales," "measuring skills," and "retail operations."

• Portfolio Preparation (Informal): If you have any examples of creative work, detailed projects, or even strong customer service stories, be ready to discuss them. Think about how you would explain a project's process and outcome.

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

• Interview Practice: Practice answering common retail and customer service interview questions, as well as situational questions related to problem-solving and teamwork. Be prepared to discuss why you are a good fit for a creative retail environment.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.

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