Framer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Framer

Company: Michaels Stores

Location: Kingston, Ontario, Canada

Job Type: Part-time

Category: Retail Operations / Customer Service

Date Posted: August 28, 2026

Experience Level: Entry-level (0-2 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Deliver exceptional customer experiences by providing expert custom framing solutions and building strong customer relationships.

• Drive sales and production targets through personalized design consultations and effective product knowledge.

• Maintain operational excellence by adhering to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company programs.

• Ensure a safe, clean, and well-merchandised retail environment, contributing to overall store presentation and customer satisfaction.

• Support omni-channel processes and contribute to efficient truck un-load and stocking procedures.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Framer," the responsibilities extend into broader retail operations, including customer service, sales, merchandising, and inventory management. The role requires a blend of technical framing skills and customer-facing sales acumen, indicative of a customer-centric retail environment focused on value-added services.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Engage customers proactively, build rapport using the Elevated ABC Deliver methodology, and understand their framing needs to create memorable solutions.

• Execute custom framing orders with a high degree of quality, ensuring timely completion and adherence to design specifications.

• Manage and maintain the ready-made frame department, as well as other assigned areas, including SISO (Shop In, Ship Out) and Directed Replenishment.

• Provide friendly and efficient customer service, assisting customers with product location, offering solutions, and ensuring a positive shopping experience.

• Adhere strictly to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company programs to ensure compliance, safety, and operational efficiency.

• Actively participate in shrink and safety programs, contributing to a secure and risk-free store environment.

• Operate the cash register accurately, execute cash handling procedures to company standards, and process transactions efficiently.

• Assist with omni-channel fulfillment processes to meet customer needs across various shopping channels.

• Participate in truck un-load and stocking activities, ensuring adherence to truck standards and completion within budget.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a focus on customer relationship building ("Elevated ABC Deliver") and personalized service, suggesting that sales and customer satisfaction are key performance indicators for this role, beyond just the technical framing tasks.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While no specific degree is listed, a strong foundation in basic math and measurement skills is essential.

Experience:

• 0-2 years of experience in a customer-facing role is expected, with preference for retail environments.

• Demonstrated ability to learn and apply new skills quickly, particularly in technical areas like framing equipment operation. Required Skills:

• Basic computer skills for system navigation and transaction processing.

• Basic measuring skills for accurate framing and product handling.

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

• Proficiency in cash handling and operating a cash register.

• Strong customer service orientation and interpersonal communication skills.

• Ability to maintain a clean, organized, and well-merchandised store environment. Preferred Skills:

• Previous retail experience, particularly in a sales-focused capacity.

• Experience in selling products and/or services, demonstrating an aptitude for consultative selling.

• Familiarity with custom framing processes or an interest in learning them.

• Ability to work effectively within a team environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Minimum Type of experience" and "Preferred Type of experience" sections strongly suggest that practical, hands-on skills and a customer-centric mindset are prioritized over formal education. The preference for retail and sales experience indicates a focus on revenue generation and customer engagement.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Documentation showcasing successful customer engagement strategies and resulting sales outcomes.

• Examples of maintaining organized and visually appealing retail displays, demonstrating merchandising skills.

• Evidence of accurate transaction processing and cash handling, highlighting attention to detail.

• Case studies or examples of problem-solving within a retail or customer service context. Process Documentation:

• Understanding and adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for all core tasks.

• Ability to follow established guidelines for custom framing order fulfillment, ensuring quality and timeliness.

• Documentation of experience with inventory management, including receiving, stocking, and replenishment processes.

• Familiarity with safety protocols and the ability to maintain a safe working environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: As this is an entry-level retail position, a formal "portfolio" in the traditional sense might not be expected. However, candidates should be prepared to discuss specific examples from past experiences that demonstrate the required skills and responsibilities, particularly in customer service, sales, and operational tasks.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $17.85 - $20.75 CAD per hour. This range is provided based on the explicit information in the job description for Kingston, Ontario, Canada.

Benefits:

• Health insurance (medical, dental, and vision)

• Paid time off (PTO)

• Tuition assistance programs

• Generous employee discounts on Michaels products

• Other benefits as detailed on mikbenefits.com

Working Hours: Part-time employment. Work hours include nights, weekends, and early mornings.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is competitive for part-time retail roles in Canada, particularly for positions involving specialized skills like custom framing. The benefits package is robust, reflecting Michaels' commitment to employee well-being for both full-time and part-time staff.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

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

Company Size: Operates over 1,300 stores in 49 states and Canada, indicating a large, established retail presence.

Founded: 1973, with headquarters in Irving, Texas. This long history suggests a stable and experienced organization with well-defined operational processes.

Team Structure:

• The Framer will be part of a store-level team, working alongside fellow sales associates, a store manager, and potentially assistant managers or department leads.

• Reporting structure will likely be to a designated department lead or the store manager.

• Cross-functional collaboration will involve interacting with all store personnel to ensure smooth daily operations, customer assistance, and efficient task completion. Methodology:

• Emphasis on customer-centric sales and service, driven by methodologies like "Elevated ABC Deliver" for relationship building.

• Adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for consistent execution of tasks and compliance.

• Focus on visual merchandising and store presentation to enhance the customer shopping experience.

• Structured processes for inventory management, including receiving, stocking, and replenishment.

Company Website: www.michaels.com and www.michaels.ca

📝 Enhancement Note: Michaels operates in a competitive retail landscape where customer experience and product specialization (like custom framing) are key differentiators. The company culture likely emphasizes creativity, customer engagement, and a supportive team environment within a structured operational framework.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents an entry-level position within retail operations, focusing on specialized in-store services (custom framing) and general retail support. It's a foundational role for individuals starting their careers in retail or customer service.

Reporting Structure: Typically reports to a Store Manager or a designated Department Lead within the store. The structure is hierarchical, common in large retail organizations.

Operations Impact: Directly impacts customer satisfaction through personalized service and quality custom framing. Contributes to store revenue through sales and efficient operations. Supports overall brand image by maintaining store standards and providing positive customer interactions.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Development: Opportunity to become proficient in custom framing techniques, customer consultation, and sales.

• Advancement: Potential to move into roles like Senior Framer, Department Lead, or Assistant Store Manager within Michaels.

• Cross-Training: Possibility to gain experience in other store departments, such as merchandising or operations support.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Framer" role is a stepping stone within Michaels' retail operations. While it requires specific technical skills, the emphasis on customer service and sales provides a solid foundation for career progression within the company's retail management track.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Public retail store setting.

Office Location(s): Kingston, Ontario, Canada (specifically 656 Gardiners Rd). The store environment is climate-controlled for public areas, with potential for less controlled stock rooms.

Workspace Context:

• Primarily a customer-facing environment within the retail store, including the framing shop area.

• Involves direct interaction with customers and team members.

• Access to framing equipment, a glass cutter, and a heat press within the frame shop.

• May involve some outdoor work for retrieving shopping carts or during truck unloads.

• Stock rooms may require physical effort for stocking and inventory management.

Work Schedule: Part-time. The schedule includes nights, weekends, and early mornings, requiring flexibility to meet store operational needs and customer traffic.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is dynamic and fast-paced, typical of a retail setting. It requires adaptability to customer demands, operational needs, and varying work hours. The frame shop itself is a specialized workspace with specific equipment.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Application review to assess basic qualifications, experience, and alignment with required skills.

• In-Person Interview: Likely includes a discussion about customer service philosophy, sales aptitude, and problem-solving scenarios. This may involve a practical demonstration or discussion of framing skills.

• Store Tour/Observation: Potential for candidates to observe or participate briefly in store operations to assess fit and understanding of the environment.

• Reference Checks: Verification of past employment and performance.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• While a formal portfolio might not be required, candidates should prepare to discuss specific examples from past roles that demonstrate:

  • Successful customer interactions and problem resolutions.
  • Any experience with sales or consultative selling.
  • Examples of maintaining organization or merchandising standards.
  • How they handle pressure or busy periods.

• Be ready to articulate how your skills align with the "Elevated ABC Deliver" approach and general customer service best practices. Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared to answer questions about how you would handle common customer service scenarios, such as dealing with a difficult customer or helping a customer find a specific product.

• Think about how you would approach a customer to offer framing solutions.

• Understand the importance of accuracy and quality in custom framing work.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will likely focus on assessing customer service aptitude, sales potential, and the ability to learn and perform technical framing tasks. Candidates should emphasize their interpersonal skills and willingness to be trained on specific equipment and processes.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Framing Equipment: Proficiency or ability to learn to operate specialized framing machinery.

• Glass Cutter: Essential tool for custom framing.

• Heat Press: May be used in certain framing applications.

• Cash Register/POS System: For processing sales transactions.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Basic understanding of sales metrics and how individual performance contributes to store goals.

• Familiarity with inventory tracking systems for replenishment and stock management. CRM & Automation:

• While not a direct CRM role, understanding the customer relationship aspect of "Elevated ABC Deliver" is key.

• Familiarity with omni-channel fulfillment systems for processing online orders for in-store pickup or shipment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary tools are physical equipment and point-of-sale systems. While advanced software proficiency isn't explicitly stated as a requirement, comfort with basic computer systems and an aptitude for learning new equipment are crucial.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

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

• Creativity & Passion: Aligning with Michaels' core mission of fueling creativity and celebrating life's moments.

• Teamwork & Collaboration: Working effectively with colleagues to achieve store goals and provide a seamless customer experience.

• Quality & Craftsmanship: Commitment to producing high-quality custom framing solutions.

• Efficiency & Compliance: Adhering to SOPs and company programs to ensure smooth operations and safety.

Collaboration Style:

• Open communication and mutual support among store team members.

• Willingness to assist colleagues with customer service, stocking, and operational tasks.

• Active participation in team meetings and store initiatives.

• A positive and respectful approach to interactions, even during challenging situations.

📝 Enhancement Note: Michaels emphasizes a culture that is both creative and customer-driven. The values promote a supportive team environment where individuals are encouraged to contribute to a positive customer experience and operational excellence.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Multiple Responsibilities: Juggling customer service, sales consultations, framing production, and general store upkeep simultaneously.

• Learning Technical Skills: Mastering the operation of framing equipment and glass cutters safely and efficiently.

• Managing Customer Expectations: Meeting diverse customer needs and preferences for custom framing.

• Working Under Pressure: Handling busy periods, tight deadlines for custom orders, and peak retail seasons.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Framing Certification/Training: Opportunities to develop advanced framing skills and potentially achieve certifications.

• Sales Training: Enhancing consultative selling techniques and product knowledge.

• Retail Management Path: Potential to develop leadership skills for advancement into management roles within Michaels.

• Product Knowledge Expansion: Deepening understanding of art, materials, and design principles relevant to framing.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role offers a clear path for developing specialized retail skills in custom framing and sales, alongside general retail operational competencies. The challenges are typical for a customer-facing role in a specialty retail environment, offering ample learning opportunities.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you helped a customer find a solution to a problem." (Assesses problem-solving and customer service skills)

• "How would you approach a customer who seems unsure about what they need?" (Evaluates proactive engagement and consultative approach)

• "What does 'quality' mean to you in the context of custom framing?" (Gauges understanding of craftsmanship and attention to detail)

• "How do you stay organized when managing multiple tasks and deadlines?" (Assesses time management and prioritization skills) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Michaels and our custom framing services?" (Tests research and interest in the company)

• "How do you contribute to a positive team environment?" (Evaluates teamwork and interpersonal skills)

• "Why are you interested in this specific Framer role?" (Assesses motivation and alignment with the position) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Be ready to share specific examples from your past work experience that highlight your customer service, sales, and organizational skills.

• For any framing or technical skills, be prepared to describe your experience, learning process, and commitment to quality.

• Articulate how your skills and work ethic align with Michaels' values and the "Elevated ABC Deliver" approach.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interviewers will likely focus on your ability to connect with customers, your aptitude for learning technical skills, and your overall fit within the Michaels team culture. Prepare concrete examples to illustrate your capabilities.

📌 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, and any practical skills (measuring, computer use, equipment operation). Quantify achievements where possible (e.g., "Assisted an average of 50 customers per day").

• Portfolio Preparation: While not a formal portfolio, gather specific examples from past roles that demonstrate your ability to build customer relationships, solve problems, maintain organization, and handle transactions accurately.

• Interview Practice: Rehearse answers to common interview questions focusing on customer service, sales, and teamwork. Be prepared to discuss your understanding of the Framer role and your enthusiasm for Michaels.

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

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