Framer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Framer

Company: Michaels Stores

Location: Brentwood, California, United States

Job Type: Part time

Category: Retail Operations / Customer Service / Art & Design

Date Posted: July 31, 2026

Experience Level: Entry Level (0-2 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Execute custom framing solutions with a focus on building strong customer relationships and delivering exceptional service.

• Drive sales and production targets by effectively presenting and selling framing products and services.

• Maintain visual merchandising standards for the ready-made frame department and other assigned areas, ensuring a well-stocked and appealing store.

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

• Support inventory management through accurate stocking, replenishment, and participation in truck un-load processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned within a retail operations context, emphasizing customer interaction, sales, and in-store operational efficiency. The "Framer" title indicates a specialization in custom framing services, requiring both artistic/design sensibility and operational execution. The "Part time" employment type suggests flexibility in scheduling, potentially appealing to individuals seeking supplementary income or a structured work environment with defined responsibilities.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Build and nurture customer relationships through personalized design consultations, offering creative and effective custom framing solutions.

• Actively engage customers to understand their needs and guide them through the selection of appropriate framing materials, matting, and display options.

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

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

• Provide friendly and efficient customer service, assisting shoppers in locating products and offering solutions to their creative needs.

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

• Participate actively in the truck un-load and stocking processes, ensuring adherence to truck standards and efficient inventory management.

• Support company-wide shrink and safety programs through diligent adherence to procedures and proactive identification of potential risks.

• Interact positively and respectfully with colleagues and customers, promoting a collaborative and inclusive work environment.

• Assist with Omni channel processes, such as buy online, pick up in-store (BOPIS) or ship-from-store, to enhance the customer shopping experience.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of sales, customer service, operational execution, and visual merchandising. The emphasis on "Elevated ABC Deliver" suggests a specific customer engagement methodology focused on building rapport and delivering value beyond a transactional sale, common in consultative retail environments. The inclusion of Omni channel support indicates the need for adaptability to evolving retail fulfillment models.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: High school diploma or equivalent required.

Experience: 0-2 years of experience in a retail or customer-facing role.

Required Skills:

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

• Fundamental measuring skills for accurate order specification.

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

• Basic understanding of visual merchandising principles to maintain department appearance.

• Competency in cash handling and operating a cash register.

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills for customer engagement.

• Ability to adhere to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company policies. Preferred Skills:

• Prior retail experience in a similar environment.

• Proven experience selling products and/or services to customers, demonstrating persuasive and consultative selling techniques.

• Familiarity with custom framing processes, materials, and design principles.

• Experience with inventory management and stocking procedures.

• Basic knowledge of safety protocols in a retail or workshop setting.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications are geared towards an entry-level position, with a focus on foundational skills and a willingness to learn. The "0-2 years" experience level suggests that candidates with some customer-facing experience, even if not directly in framing, will be considered. The preferred skills indicate a desire for individuals who can quickly contribute to sales and operational efficiency.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• While a formal portfolio is not explicitly required for this entry-level role, candidates are encouraged to highlight any past projects or experiences that demonstrate creativity, attention to detail, or problem-solving skills relevant to custom design or production.

• Examples could include personal art projects, DIY framing efforts, or any visual displays created in previous roles.

• Any experience showcasing proficiency with basic design software or tools may be beneficial. Process Documentation:

• Understanding and adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for all aspects of the job, from customer interaction to order fulfillment and safety.

• Documented ability to follow workflow instructions for custom framing order processing, ensuring accuracy and efficiency.

• Familiarity with processes related to inventory management, including receiving, stocking, and replenishment.

• Demonstrated ability to follow cash handling and transaction processing procedures accurately.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an entry-level retail position like this, a formal process and systems portfolio is unlikely to be a strict requirement. However, the emphasis should be on the candidate's ability to learn and adhere to established processes and SOPs. The hiring manager will likely assess this through behavioral questions and by verifying previous work experience where process adherence was important.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on regional data for similar part-time retail positions in Brentwood, California, an estimated hourly wage range of $16.00 - $19.00 USD is typical. This range can vary based on experience, specific store performance, and local market conditions.

Benefits:

• 401(k) with employer match

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

• Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage (eligibility may vary based on hours worked and tenure)

• Telemedicine services

• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)

• Commuter benefits

• Tuition assistance

• Adoption assistance

• Various voluntary insurance options

• Employee discounts on Michaels products

Working Hours: This is a part-time position. While specific hours will vary based on store needs and scheduling, typical part-time roles may involve 15-30 hours per week. Work hours include nights, weekends, and early mornings, as required by retail operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on current market data for entry-level, part-time retail roles in the specified geographic area, considering the cost of living and typical compensation structures. The benefits listed are comprehensive for a retail employer and provide significant value beyond hourly wages, especially for eligible part-time employees. The working hours are typical for a part-time retail role, requiring flexibility.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Arts and Crafts Retail. Michaels is the leading specialty retailer of arts and crafts supplies in North America.

Company Size: Large (over 10,000 employees, with over 1,300 stores). This size implies structured corporate support, established operational processes, and a significant market presence.

Founded: 1973. With a long history, Michaels has a well-established brand identity and a deep understanding of its customer base and market.

Team Structure:

• The Framer will be part of a store-level team, likely reporting to a Store Manager or Assistant Store Manager, with direct supervision from a Framing Department lead or designated senior associate.

• Collaboration is expected with other sales associates, cashiers, and potentially stock associates to ensure smooth store operations.

• Cross-functional interaction will primarily occur within the store environment, focusing on customer service, sales, and operational tasks. Methodology:

• Data-driven decision-making is likely implemented at a corporate level, with store-level execution focused on sales targets, customer satisfaction metrics, and operational efficiency as defined by SOPs.

• Workflow planning and optimization are guided by corporate directives and store management, emphasizing adherence to established processes for framing, merchandising, and customer service.

• Automation and efficiency practices are likely integrated through POS systems, inventory management software, and potentially digital tools for customer engagement.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture at Michaels is centered around creativity, customer engagement, and operational excellence within the arts and crafts retail sector. The large company size suggests a robust operational framework, while the long history indicates stability and brand recognition. The team structure is typical for a retail environment, emphasizing collaboration among store associates.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is at the entry-level or associate level within retail operations. It provides foundational experience in customer service, sales, and in-store operational execution. The focus is on mastering specific job functions and contributing to team goals.

Reporting Structure: The Framer reports to store management, likely a Store Manager or Assistant Manager, with direct day-to-day guidance from a Framing Specialist or Department Manager. This structure ensures clear direction and accountability within the store's operational hierarchy.

Operations Impact: The Framer's impact is directly visible in customer satisfaction through quality framing services and positive interactions, contributing to store sales performance and customer loyalty. Efficient operations in the framing department and throughout the store also contribute to overall profitability and brand reputation.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Development: Opportunity to develop specialized skills in custom framing design, material selection, and production techniques, becoming an expert in the framing department.

• Sales Proficiency: Enhance sales techniques through customer interaction and product knowledge, potentially leading to roles with higher sales targets or commission structures.

• Operational Expertise: Gain comprehensive experience in retail operations, including merchandising, inventory management, POS systems, and customer service, which are transferable to various retail environments.

• Leadership Potential: With demonstrated performance and commitment, opportunities may arise for advancement into roles such as Framing Specialist, Department Lead, Key Holder, or Assistant Manager positions within Michaels stores.

📝 Enhancement Note: The career path for a Framer at Michaels is designed to build foundational retail skills, with clear opportunities for specialization and advancement within the company's operational structure. The role serves as a strong entry point into the retail industry, offering practical experience and a pathway to leadership roles.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Public retail store setting. The primary workspace is the sales floor and the dedicated framing area within the store.

Office Location(s): The specific store location is Brentwood, California. This is a customer-facing environment requiring interaction with the public.

Workspace Context:

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

• The sales floor requires constant movement and engagement with customers, necessitating standing for extended periods.

• Stock rooms may not always be climate-controlled, and some outdoor work might be required for tasks like retrieving shopping carts or during truck unloads.

• This environment fosters collaboration among team members to manage store flow, customer needs, and operational tasks efficiently.

Work Schedule: The work schedule includes nights, weekends, and early mornings, reflecting the operational demands of a retail environment. Flexibility in scheduling is essential to meet customer service needs and operational requirements.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is dynamic and customer-centric, typical of a retail setting. It demands physical stamina and the ability to adapt to various tasks and conditions, from the specialized framing area to the general sales floor and stockroom. The varied work hours underscore the need for flexibility and commitment.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Typically involves an online application and potentially a brief phone or video screening to assess basic qualifications and interest.

• In-Person Interview: Expect a face-to-face interview at the store. This will likely involve behavioral questions assessing customer service skills, problem-solving abilities, and fit with the company culture.

• Skills Assessment: You may be asked to demonstrate basic measuring skills or discuss how you would handle specific customer scenarios. For the framing aspect, discussing your understanding of materials or design principles might be part of the conversation.

• Store Walkthrough: You might be given a brief tour of the store and framing area, with opportunities to ask questions.

• Offer: If successful, a job offer will be extended, contingent on background checks and other pre-employment requirements.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• For this entry-level role, a formal portfolio is not expected. Instead, be prepared to discuss any relevant projects or experiences that showcase your creativity, attention to detail, or ability to work with hands-on tasks.

• If you have personal artwork, DIY projects, or examples of visual displays you've created, be ready to describe them and the process involved.

• Highlight any experiences where you've had to solve problems creatively or pay close attention to detail, as these are crucial for custom framing. Challenge Preparation:

• Customer Service Scenarios: Prepare to discuss how you would handle common customer requests, complaints, or situations where a customer needs assistance finding a product or making a decision.

• Problem-Solving: Be ready to describe a time you encountered a challenge at work or in your personal life and how you overcame it. Focus on your thought process and the steps you took.

• Teamwork: Prepare examples of how you've worked effectively as part of a team to achieve a common goal.

• Motivation for the Role: Clearly articulate why you are interested in the Framer position specifically, and how your skills and interests align with Michaels' mission of fueling creativity.

📝 Enhancement Note: The application and interview process for this role is designed to assess practical skills, customer service aptitude, and cultural fit. Candidates should focus on demonstrating enthusiasm, a willingness to learn, and a genuine interest in creativity and customer engagement.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Custom Framing Equipment: Glass cutter, mat cutters, framing tools (e.g., staple guns, jointers), heat press. Proficiency will be trained, but a willingness to learn and operate them safely is key.

• Point of Sale (POS) System: For processing transactions, managing customer orders, and potentially looking up product information. Familiarity with retail POS systems is beneficial.

• Basic Computer Skills: For accessing company information, training modules, and potentially email or internal communication systems.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not directly managing analytics, understanding sales performance and key performance indicators (KPIs) for the framing department (e.g., sales volume, average order value, completion time) is important for success. CRM & Automation:

• Customer Relationship Management (CRM): The POS system likely has basic CRM functionalities for tracking customer orders and contact information. The focus is on building relationships through in-person interaction.

• Inventory Management Software: Used for tracking stock levels of ready-made frames, mat boards, and framing supplies. Processes like Directed Replenishment and SISO are managed through these systems.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack for this role is primarily focused on the practical tools of the trade (framing equipment, POS) and basic computer literacy. The emphasis is on hands-on operation and adherence to established system processes rather than complex data analysis or system administration.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Creativity: Michaels champions creativity and innovation, encouraging associates to help customers bring their artistic visions to life.

• Customer Focus: A strong emphasis on delivering exceptional customer service, building relationships, and ensuring a positive shopping experience.

• Teamwork: Collaboration is essential for smooth store operations, sharing responsibilities, and supporting colleagues to meet store goals.

• Integrity: Adhering to company policies, ethical practices, and maintaining a safe and respectful work environment.

• Accountability: Taking ownership of tasks, responsibilities, and contributing to the overall success of the store and team.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Associates are expected to work together seamlessly, supporting different departments as needed to ensure customer needs are met and operational tasks are completed efficiently.

• Process Adherence & Feedback: While following established processes is key, a culture that encourages feedback for continuous improvement is beneficial. Associates are encouraged to voice suggestions that can enhance efficiency or customer experience.

• Knowledge Sharing: Team members are encouraged to share product knowledge, sales tips, and operational best practices to collectively enhance team performance and customer service.

📝 Enhancement Note: The team culture at Michaels is built around fostering creativity, prioritizing customer satisfaction, and operating collaboratively. These values are integrated into daily tasks, influencing how associates interact with customers and each other to achieve store objectives.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Multiple Responsibilities: Juggling customer service, sales consultations, custom framing production, and general store tasks simultaneously can be demanding.

• Meeting Sales Targets: Achieving individual and team sales goals for custom framing requires effective sales techniques and product knowledge.

• Physical Demands: The role involves standing for extended periods, lifting heavy items, and working with specialized equipment, which can be physically taxing.

• Adapting to Trends: Staying updated on current art and framing trends to better advise customers and maintain product relevance.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Framing Expertise: Deepen knowledge of framing techniques, materials, and design aesthetics through on-the-job training and potential workshops.

• Sales & Customer Service Skills: Develop advanced consultative selling and customer relationship management skills through direct customer interaction and sales training.

• Retail Operations: Gain a comprehensive understanding of retail operations, including visual merchandising, inventory control, loss prevention, and POS system management.

• Career Advancement: Potential to move into roles such as Framing Specialist, Key Holder, or Assistant Store Manager, with opportunities for leadership development and management training.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges in this role are typical of a hands-on retail position, requiring adaptability and a strong work ethic. The growth opportunities are significant for individuals who excel in customer service, sales, and operational execution, offering a clear path for career progression within Michaels.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to help a customer make a difficult decision. How did you guide them?" (Focus on consultative selling and customer-centric approach.)

• "How would you handle a situation where a customer is unhappy with a custom framing order?" (Emphasize problem-solving, empathy, and adherence to company resolution policies.)

• "Imagine a customer wants a framing solution that you believe is not ideal for their artwork. How would you advise them?" (Showcase your ability to balance customer desires with professional recommendations and product knowledge.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Michaels, and why are you interested in working here?" (Research Michaels' mission, values, and commitment to creativity.)

• "How do you define excellent customer service in a retail environment?" (Align your answer with Michaels' focus on building relationships and providing creative solutions.)

• "How do you stay motivated when performing repetitive tasks or during slower periods?" (Discuss your work ethic, proactive approach to tasks, and commitment to store standards.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Since a formal portfolio isn't required, be ready to discuss your experiences using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for behavioral questions.

• Prepare specific examples from previous jobs, volunteer work, or personal projects that demonstrate:

  • Your creativity and attention to detail.
  • Your ability to work with tools or perform hands-on tasks.
  • Your customer service or sales successes.
  • Your ability to follow instructions and work as part of a team.

• Be enthusiastic when discussing any creative projects you've undertaken, highlighting your passion for art and design.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a strong customer service orientation, a creative mindset, and a practical understanding of retail operations. Highlighting transferable skills and a genuine interest in the arts and crafts industry will be key.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

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

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight any experience in customer service, sales, visual merchandising, or hands-on production roles. Quantify achievements where possible (e.g., "Increased custom framing sales by X%").

• Portfolio Preparation (Informal): Prepare to discuss specific examples from your past that showcase creativity, attention to detail, problem-solving, and customer interaction skills. Think about personal projects, previous retail experiences, or any artistic endeavors.

• Interview Practice: Rehearse answers to common retail interview questions, focusing on behavioral scenarios related to customer service, sales, and teamwork. Practice articulating your interest in Michaels and the Framer role.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Michaels' mission, values, and product offerings. Understand their commitment to creativity and customer experience, and be ready to discuss how you align with these.

⚠️ 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.