Framer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Framer

Company: Michaels Stores

Location: Skokie, Illinois, United States

Job Type: PART_TIME

Category: Retail Operations / Custom Framing

Date Posted: 2026-05-12

Experience Level: Entry Level (0-2 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Drive customer engagement and sales by providing expert custom framing solutions, acting as a key point of contact for clients seeking personalized art and memorabilia display.

• Execute high-quality framing orders efficiently, ensuring adherence to production timelines and maintaining meticulous attention to detail throughout the fabrication process.

• Uphold store presentation standards by managing the ready-made frame department and assigned areas, contributing to an optimal shopping experience for customers.

• Facilitate seamless customer interactions by assisting with product location, offering solutions, and supporting omni-channel processes to enhance overall service delivery.

• Operate point-of-sale systems with accuracy, managing cash handling and transaction processing according to established company procedures and security protocols.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role, while titled "Framer," encompasses significant customer-facing retail operations responsibilities. The focus is on building customer relationships through personalized design consultations and sales within the custom framing department, alongside general store operations and customer service. The "PART_TIME" designation suggests flexibility in scheduling, which is common for retail roles.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Engage customers to build relationships and understand their framing needs, leveraging design expertise to propose tailored solutions that meet aesthetic and budgetary requirements.

• Accurately measure artwork and select appropriate materials (mats, frames, glass, backing) to create custom framing proposals and orders.

• Operate specialized framing equipment, including mat cutters, saws, and assembly tools, with precision and adherence to safety guidelines.

• Fabricate and assemble custom framing orders to exact specifications, ensuring high standards of quality, craftsmanship, and timely completion.

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

• Provide exceptional customer service by assisting shoppers, answering product inquiries, and ensuring a clean, safe, and well-organized store environment.

• Process customer transactions accurately using the point-of-sale (POS) system, including cash handling, returns, and exchanges.

• Support omni-channel fulfillment processes, such as buy online, pick up in-store (BOPIS) and ship-from-store, ensuring timely and accurate order processing.

• Participate actively in truck unloads and stocking activities, adhering to established procedures to maintain inventory accuracy and store readiness.

• Uphold all Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company policies related to sales, production, safety, and shrink prevention.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of technical framing skills and customer-centric retail operations. Emphasis on "Elevated ABC Deliver" and "personal designer" indicates a consultative sales approach within the framing service. The need to adhere to SOPs and execute company programs is critical for consistent service delivery and operational efficiency.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: High school diploma or equivalent required.

Experience:

• 0-2 years of experience in a customer-facing role, preferably within a retail environment.

Required Skills:

• Basic computer proficiency for POS and potential order management systems.

• Fundamental measuring skills for accurate order specification.

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

• Strong customer service orientation with effective interpersonal communication skills.

• Basic math skills for cash handling and transaction processing.

Preferred Skills:

• Previous retail sales experience, particularly in consultative selling environments.

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

• Familiarity with visual merchandising principles.

• Experience with omni-channel retail processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirements emphasize practical, hands-on skills and a customer-first attitude. While formal education in framing isn't mandated, the ability to learn and execute technical processes is key. The preference for retail sales experience underscores the importance of driving revenue through consultative selling of framing services.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Documentation of successful customer engagement strategies, showcasing how relationships were built and needs were met.

• Examples of completed framing projects, demonstrating quality of work, attention to detail, and creative problem-solving for diverse customer needs.

• Evidence of order accuracy and timely completion, highlighting efficient workflow management and production capabilities.

Process Documentation:

• Ability to follow and document adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for framing, sales, and store operations.

• Understanding of workflow for custom framing orders, from initial consultation to final product delivery.

• Familiarity with basic inventory management processes for framing materials and ready-made frames.

📝 Enhancement Note: While a formal "portfolio" in the traditional sense might not be expected for an entry-level role, candidates are implicitly expected to demonstrate their capabilities through their resume and interview responses. Highlighting specific examples of customer interactions, problem-solving in a retail setting, and any tangible framing or crafting projects would be beneficial. The emphasis is on practical application and process adherence.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $15.25 - $17.90 per hour

Benefits:

• Health Insurance (Medical, Dental, and Vision) for eligible team members.

• Paid Time Off (PTO) for eligible team members.

• Tuition Assistance programs to support ongoing education and skill development.

• Generous employee discounts on Michaels products and services.

• Potential for participation in other company-sponsored benefits programs.

Working Hours: Part-time, with potential for varied shifts including nights, weekends, and early mornings, as required by retail operational needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided salary range is specific to the role and location, reflecting entry-level retail compensation. The benefits package, including health insurance, PTO, tuition assistance, and employee discounts, is a significant draw for part-time retail employees, offering tangible value beyond hourly wages.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Arts and Crafts Retail

Company Size: Large (over 10,000 employees globally)

Founded: 1973. Michaels has a long-standing history as a leading retailer in the arts and crafts sector, with a mission to "fuel the joy of creativity and celebration."

Team Structure:

• The Framer will be part of the store's operational team, reporting to store leadership (e.g., Store Manager, Assistant Store Manager, or Framing Department Manager if applicable).

• Collaboration will be frequent with fellow store associates across various departments (e.g., sales floor, stockroom, customer service).

Methodology:

• Emphasis on adhering to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for consistent service and operational execution.

• Customer-centric approach, prioritizing relationship building and problem-solving to meet client needs.

• Focus on sales and production targets within the custom framing department.

• Commitment to maintaining a safe, clean, and well-organized retail environment.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Michaels cultivates a culture centered around creativity, customer service, and operational efficiency within a large retail footprint. The company's long history and established brand presence suggest a structured operational environment with clear processes and performance expectations.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is an entry-level, part-time position within the retail operations framework, focusing on specialized service delivery (custom framing) and general store support.

Reporting Structure: The Framer typically reports to a Store Manager, Assistant Store Manager, or a designated Department Lead within the store.

Operations Impact: Directly impacts customer satisfaction, sales revenue for the framing department, and overall store operational efficiency through accurate order fulfillment and customer engagement.

Growth Opportunities:

• Advancement within the store to roles such as Lead Framer, Key Holder, or Assistant Manager.

• Opportunities to develop broader retail operational skills across different store departments.

• Potential for cross-training in other areas of store operations.

• Development of specialized skills in custom framing design and fabrication.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an entry-level role, growth typically involves mastering the core responsibilities and demonstrating reliability and customer service excellence. Advancement pathways within Michaels stores are common, offering a clear progression for dedicated individuals.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Public retail store setting.

Office Location(s): Skokie, Illinois, with the specific address being 7055 Central Ave. The work environment is a climate-controlled retail space.

Workspace Context:

• The primary workspace includes the retail sales floor and the dedicated framing shop area.

• The framing shop contains specialized equipment like glass cutters and heat presses.

• Opportunities for collaboration with other team members are constant in a busy retail setting.

• Access to necessary tools and technology includes POS systems and framing equipment.

Work Schedule: Part-time hours, flexible to include nights, weekends, and early mornings. This schedule allows for operations processes to be managed across extended store hours.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is dynamic and customer-facing. Employees must be comfortable working in a retail setting, managing various tasks, and interacting with a diverse customer base throughout different times of the day and week.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

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

• In-Person Interview: A more in-depth interview at the store, focusing on customer service skills, problem-solving abilities, and understanding of the Framer role. This may include a practical demonstration or discussion of framing skills.

• Skills Assessment: Candidates may be asked to demonstrate basic measuring skills or discuss how they would handle common customer scenarios.

• Final Interview/Offer: Decision made based on overall fit, skills, and alignment with company values.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• While a formal portfolio may not be required, be prepared to discuss specific examples of:
  • Customer service interactions where you went above and beyond.
  • Problem-solving scenarios in a retail or work context.
  • Any personal or professional projects involving crafting, design, or precise execution.
  • Your understanding of quality and attention to detail.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be ready to answer situational questions about handling difficult customers, managing multiple tasks, and working under pressure.

• Prepare to discuss your understanding of the framing process and your willingness to learn the technical aspects.

• Demonstrate your enthusiasm for creativity and helping customers bring their visions to life.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will likely be hands-on and practical, reflecting the nature of the role. Candidates should emphasize their customer service aptitude, willingness to learn technical skills, and any relevant creative or detail-oriented experience.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Framing Equipment: Mat cutters, saws, assembly tools, glass cutters, heat presses. Proficiency will be trained, but a willingness to learn is key.

• Point-of-Sale (POS) System: For processing transactions, managing sales, and potentially basic inventory lookups.

• Measuring Tools: Tape measures, rulers, calipers for accurate order specifications.

Analytics & Reporting:

CRM & Automation:

• While not directly managing a CRM, customer interactions are key to building relationships, which is a form of customer relationship management.

• Omni-channel processes (e.g., BOPIS) involve system interactions for order fulfillment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is primarily practical and operational, focused on the tools needed for framing fabrication and retail transaction processing. Training will be provided for specialized equipment and POS systems.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Creativity: Encouraging a passion for arts, crafts, and personal expression.

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

• Quality: Committing to high standards in product creation and store presentation.

• Teamwork: Collaborating effectively with colleagues to achieve store goals and support a positive work environment.

• Integrity: Upholding company policies, safety standards, and ethical business practices.

Collaboration Style:

• The team operates in a fast-paced retail environment requiring constant communication and mutual support.

• Collaboration is essential for managing customer flow, fulfilling orders, and maintaining store standards.

• An open-door policy for seeking assistance from supervisors and colleagues is encouraged.

📝 Enhancement Note: Michaels emphasizes a culture that values creativity, customer satisfaction, and teamwork. The company promotes an inclusive environment where individuals can contribute their unique talents.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Multiple Responsibilities: Juggling customer consultations, framing production, sales transactions, and general store duties.

• Learning Technical Skills: Mastering the operation of framing equipment and understanding material properties.

• Managing Customer Expectations: Meeting diverse customer needs for custom framing, from simple to complex projects.

• Physical Demands: Standing for long periods, lifting heavy items, and working with sharp tools.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• On-the-job training for all framing equipment and processes.

• Development of consultative sales skills and customer relationship management.

• Opportunities to learn about different art mediums and framing techniques.

• Potential to grow into leadership roles within the retail store environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role offers a solid introduction to retail operations and specialized craft services. Challenges are typical for a hands-on retail position, with ample opportunity for skill development and career progression within the Michaels organization.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Customer Service: "Describe a time you helped a customer find the perfect solution to their needs." "How would you handle a customer who is unhappy with their framing choice?"

• Problem-Solving: "Imagine a customer needs a frame for an unusually shaped piece of art. How would you approach this?" "What would you do if you discovered a mistake in a framing order you were working on?"

• Teamwork: "How do you contribute to a positive team environment?" "Describe a situation where you had to work with a colleague to achieve a common goal."

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about working at Michaels?"

• "What does 'creativity' mean to you?"

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Be ready to talk about any experience you have with art, crafting, design, or detailed work.

• If you have photos of projects you've completed (even personal ones), be prepared to discuss the process, materials used, and challenges overcome.

• Highlight your understanding of quality and attention to detail, using specific examples.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interviews will likely focus on behavioral questions, assessing your customer service aptitude, problem-solving skills, and willingness to learn. Demonstrating enthusiasm for the creative aspect of the role and a commitment to quality will be beneficial.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

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

• Tailor your resume to highlight any customer service experience, retail background, or hands-on/crafting skills, using keywords from the job description (e.g., customer service, sales, framing, attention to detail, problem-solving).

• Prepare specific examples for potential interview questions related to customer interactions, problem-solving, and teamwork.

• Research Michaels Stores' mission, values, and commitment to creativity to demonstrate genuine interest during the interview.

• Be ready to discuss your understanding of the Framer role and your enthusiasm for learning the technical aspects of custom framing.

⚠️ 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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