Framer FT

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Framer FT

Company: Michaels Stores

Location: Crystal Lake, Illinois, United States

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Retail Operations / Customer Service

Date Posted: 2026-08-09

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

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is primarily focused on customer engagement within a retail environment, specifically within the custom framing department.

• Key responsibilities include driving sales through personalized customer consultations and delivering high-quality custom framing solutions.

• The position also involves essential retail operations tasks such as maintaining store presentation, managing inventory, and ensuring a positive shopping experience.

• Success in this role hinges on building strong customer relationships and effectively utilizing sales and design consultation skills to meet sales and production targets.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the job title "Framer FT" and the description focus heavily on the custom framing aspect, the responsibilities also encompass general retail duties like customer service, merchandising, and stocking. This indicates a hybrid role where specialized framing skills are essential, but broader retail operational competence is also required. The "FT" likely signifies Full-Time employment. The derived location of Crystal Lake, Illinois, is specific, but the raw data also includes a broader "United States of America" and "Illinois," suggesting the primary work location is the store at 5540 Northwest Hwy.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Custom Framing Sales & Design:

  • Engage customers in personalized design consultations to understand their needs and recommend custom framing solutions.
  • Utilize Elevated ABC Deliver methodology to build rapport and drive sales within the framing department.
  • Achieve and exceed personal sales and production targets for custom framing orders.
  • Complete framing orders with a high degree of quality and within established timelines.

• Customer Service & Engagement:

  • Provide friendly and attentive customer service, assisting shoppers in locating products and offering solutions.
  • Create a welcoming, safe, clean, and clutter-free shopping environment.
  • Acknowledge customers promptly and proactively offer assistance.

• Store Operations & Merchandising:

  • Maintain the ready-made frame department, SISO (Shop In Shop Out) displays, and directed replenishment areas.
  • Ensure assigned areas of the store are well-merchandised and adequately stocked.
  • Participate actively in truck unloading and stocking processes, adhering to standard operating procedures.

• Operational Compliance & Efficiency:

  • Adhere to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company programs to ensure compliance and maintain standards.
  • Support company initiatives related to shrink reduction and safety.
  • Operate the cash register and execute cash handling procedures according to company standards.
  • Assist with Omni-channel processes as required.

• Teamwork & Professionalism:

  • Interact positively and respectfully with colleagues, even in challenging situations.

  • Demonstrate commitment to the organization's vision and values, acting as a role model.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities are detailed and clearly outline a dual focus on specialized framing sales and general retail operations. The mention of "Elevated ABC Deliver" suggests a specific sales methodology that candidates should be prepared to discuss. The emphasis on "SOPs" and "compliance" highlights the importance of process adherence in this role.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: No specific educational degree is listed as a requirement, suggesting that practical skills and experience are prioritized over formal academic qualifications.

Experience:

• Required:

  • Basic computer skills for order entry, POS operations, and potentially design software.
  • Basic measuring skills are critical for accurate framing order specifications.
  • Ability to safely and effectively operate framing equipment and a glass cutter.

• Preferred:

  • Previous retail experience, particularly in a sales or customer-facing role.

  • Experience selling products and/or services, demonstrating a proven ability to influence customer purchasing decisions. Required Skills:

• Custom Framing Design & Production

• Customer Relationship Management (CRM) - informal, focused on in-person interaction

• Sales Consultation & Closing Techniques

• Basic Measuring and Calculation

• Operation of Framing Equipment (e.g., mat cutters, frame saws)

• Glass Cutting

• Retail POS System Operation

• Cash Handling Procedures

• Merchandising and Visual Presentation

• Inventory Management (Stocking, Replenishment) Preferred Skills:

• Advanced Framing Techniques

• Knowledge of Art Materials and Preservation

• Retail Sales Experience

• Customer Service Excellence

• Product Knowledge (Art Supplies, Decor)

• Omni-channel Fulfillment Procedures

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Minimum Type of experience" clearly lists operational skills with framing equipment. The "Preferred Type of experience" points towards sales acumen and prior retail exposure, which are crucial for driving framing sales and contributing to overall store performance. The AI-derived experience level of "0-2 years" aligns with these requirements, indicating that this role is suitable for individuals beginning their careers in retail or specialized sales.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• While a formal portfolio might not be strictly required for an on-site retail role, candidates are strongly encouraged to prepare examples that demonstrate their capabilities.

• Visual Design Examples: Showcase any custom framing projects or design concepts you've created, highlighting aesthetic choices, material selection, and problem-solving for unique art pieces.

• Sales Achievement Documentation: If possible, provide examples or describe instances where you successfully met or exceeded sales targets, particularly in a consultative sales environment. Quantifiable results are highly valued.

• Process Understanding: Be prepared to discuss your understanding of standard retail processes, such as customer order fulfillment, inventory management, and point-of-sale operations.

Process Documentation:

• Candidates should be able to articulate their understanding of and adherence to established processes.

• Workflow Design & Optimization: While not expected to design new workflows, be ready to discuss how you would follow existing SOPs for framing orders, from consultation to completion.

• Implementation & Automation: Understand how tools like the POS system and framing equipment are used to efficiently process orders.

• Measurement & Performance Analysis: Be prepared to discuss how sales and production metrics are tracked and how individual performance contributes to team goals.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a retail-focused role like this, a traditional "operations portfolio" might not be expected. However, demonstrating an understanding of key processes and having visual examples of framing work or sales achievements can significantly strengthen an application. The focus will likely be on practical application and adherence to company procedures rather than strategic process design.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $15.25 - $17.90 per hour.

Benefits:

• Health & Wellness:

  • Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage
  • Telemedicine services
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)

• Financial & Retirement:

  • 401(k) with employer match
  • Commuter benefits

• Professional Development:

  • Tuition assistance
  • Adoption assistance

• Perks:

  • Employee discounts on Michaels products

  • Access to partner discount programs Working Hours:

• This is a Full-Time position.

• Work hours include nights, weekends, and early mornings, reflecting the demands of a retail environment.

• The role is on-site, requiring consistent presence at the designated store location.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is provided and falls within typical hourly wages for skilled retail positions in the US. The benefits package is comprehensive for a retail role, including health coverage, retirement savings, and professional development support. The emphasis on "work hours include nights, weekends and early mornings" is a critical detail for candidates to consider regarding work-life balance.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Arts and Crafts Retail. Michaels is a leading retailer in North America for arts, crafts, framing, and décor products, serving a broad consumer base passionate about creativity.

Company Size: Michaels operates over 1,300 stores across the US and Canada, employing a significant number of team members. This large scale means established corporate structures, standardized processes, and opportunities for diverse career paths within the organization.

Founded: Michaels was founded in 1973 and is headquartered in Irving, Texas. Its long history signifies stability and a deep understanding of the arts and crafts market.

Team Structure:

• Store Level: The Framer will be part of a store team comprising a Store Manager, Assistant Store Managers, Team Leads, and fellow Team Members (including Sales Associates, Framers, and potentially seasonal staff).

• Reporting: This role likely reports to a Framing Department Manager or an Assistant Store Manager responsible for the framing department's operations and sales performance.

• Cross-functional Collaboration: Collaboration will primarily occur with other store team members for customer assistance, inventory management, and general store upkeep. There will also be interaction with corporate teams for training, policy updates, and potential system support.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Decisions: While this role is customer-facing, decisions regarding sales, inventory, and operations are informed by company-wide data analytics and performance metrics.

• Process Optimization: Michaels emphasizes adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to ensure consistent quality, customer experience, and operational efficiency across all stores.

• Customer-Centric Approach: The company's purpose is to "fuel the joy of creativity," indicating a strong focus on customer satisfaction and fostering a positive creative experience.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture at Michaels is likely a blend of customer-focused retail service and process-driven operations. Given its size, expect a structured environment with clear expectations for performance and adherence to company standards. The emphasis on creativity and customer experience suggests a dynamic and engaging work environment for those who enjoy interacting with people and supporting their creative endeavors.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is an entry-level to early-career position within retail operations, specifically focused on the specialized area of custom framing. It requires a blend of customer service, sales, and practical skills.

Reporting Structure: The Framer typically reports to a Framing Department Manager or an Assistant Store Manager, who oversee the department's performance, sales targets, and team management.

Operations Impact:

• Revenue Generation: Directly impacts store revenue through custom framing sales and upselling of related products.

• Customer Loyalty: Contributes to customer retention and positive brand perception by providing excellent service and high-quality framing solutions.

• Operational Efficiency: Supports overall store operations by maintaining department standards, managing inventory, and assisting with general retail tasks.

Growth Opportunities:

• Within Framing: Progression to a Framing Department Manager role, overseeing operations, sales, and team members within the framing department.

• Broader Retail Management: Advancement into Assistant Store Manager or Store Manager positions, requiring broader retail operational and leadership skills.

• Specialized Roles: Potential to move into corporate roles within visual merchandising, buying, or training, leveraging retail experience.

• Skill Development: Continuous learning in custom framing techniques, design principles, sales strategies, and retail management.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role serves as a solid foundation for a career in retail operations and sales. The growth path is clear, moving from a specialized individual contributor role to leadership positions within the store or potentially into corporate functions. The emphasis on sales and customer service provides transferable skills valuable across many industries.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The work environment is a public retail store setting. The primary workspace will be within the store's sales floor and the dedicated custom framing shop area.

Office Location(s): The specific store is located at 5540 Northwest Hwy in Crystal Lake, Illinois. This is a customer-facing environment.

Workspace Context:

• Customer Interaction: The role involves constant interaction with customers.

• Framing Shop: The framing shop contains specialized equipment like glass cutters and heat presses, requiring attention to safety protocols and proper equipment operation.

• Store Floor: Responsibilities extend to the general store floor for customer assistance, merchandising, and stocking.

• Tools & Technology: Access to point-of-sale (POS) systems, framing equipment, and potentially design software.

Work Schedule:

• Full-time position.

• Requires flexibility to work nights, weekends, and early mornings, aligning with retail operating hours.

• The work is performed entirely on-site.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is dynamic and fast-paced, typical of a busy retail store. The framing shop requires a specific skill set and adherence to safety procedures, while the store floor demands excellent customer service and operational awareness. Flexibility in scheduling is a key requirement.

📄 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: This will likely involve an interview at the store location with the hiring manager (e.g., Framing Manager or Assistant Store Manager).

• Skills Demonstration: You may be asked to demonstrate basic measuring skills or discuss your approach to customer consultations.

• Role-Playing/Scenario-Based Questions: Be prepared to answer questions about how you would handle specific customer interactions, sales scenarios, or operational challenges.

• Company Culture Fit: Assessment of your alignment with Michaels' values, particularly regarding customer service, creativity, and teamwork.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Visual Examples: If you have examples of custom framing projects you've completed (even personal ones), bring them or have high-quality photos ready to show. Highlight the complexity, materials, and final outcome.

• Sales Scenarios: Be ready to describe a time you successfully sold a product or service, focusing on your approach, how you identified customer needs, and the outcome. Quantify achievements if possible (e.g., "exceeded sales goal by 15%").

• Process Understanding: Discuss your familiarity with retail processes, such as customer order flow, inventory checks, and POS transactions. Show you understand the importance of SOPs.

Challenge Preparation:

• Problem-Solving: Be ready to discuss how you would solve a common retail problem, such as a customer dissatisfied with a framing order or a stock-out situation.

• Sales Pitch: Practice a brief, compelling pitch for custom framing services, highlighting its value to the customer.

• Teamwork Scenario: Prepare an example of how you collaborated effectively with a team to achieve a common goal.

📝 Enhancement Note: While a formal portfolio isn't explicitly requested, candidates should be prepared to showcase their framing aptitude, sales skills, and understanding of retail operations through examples and scenario-based answers. The interview process will likely assess both technical framing skills and soft skills essential for customer-facing retail roles.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Custom Framing Equipment:

  • Mat cutters (e.g., Logan, Fletcher)
  • Frame saws (e.g., Morso, Underpinner)
  • Heat press (for specific finishing techniques)
  • Glass cutters

• Point of Sale (POS) System: For processing transactions, managing customer orders, and potentially accessing inventory data.

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

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not directly managing analytics, the role will utilize sales reports and performance metrics generated by the POS system and company reporting tools to track individual and departmental performance. CRM & Automation:

• Customer Relationship Management (CRM): Primarily managed through in-person interactions and customer order history within the POS system. The "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodology suggests a structured approach to customer engagement.

• Automation: The POS system and framing equipment represent the primary "automation" tools for processing orders efficiently.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency with specialized framing equipment and standard retail POS systems is essential. While advanced analytics tools are unlikely to be used directly, understanding how performance is measured and reported is important. The emphasis on "Elevated ABC Deliver" suggests a structured, repeatable approach to customer interaction that functions as a form of sales process automation.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Creativity & Inspiration: Fostering a passion for arts, crafts, and creative expression.

• Customer Focus: Prioritizing customer needs and delivering exceptional service to fuel their creative joy.

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

• Teamwork & Collaboration: Working together to achieve store goals and support fellow team members.

• Integrity & Respect: Upholding company values and treating everyone with acceptance and respect.

Collaboration Style:

• Customer-Centric: Collaboration often revolves around assisting customers and resolving their needs effectively.

• Process-Oriented: Adherence to SOPs ensures a consistent and efficient workflow, facilitating smooth collaboration on tasks.

• Supportive: Team members are expected to support each other, particularly during busy periods or when assisting with larger tasks like truck unloads.

📝 Enhancement Note: Michaels likely promotes a culture that balances creative expression with operational discipline. Team members are expected to be both customer-engaging and process-compliant. A positive and respectful attitude is emphasized for effective teamwork.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Customization with Efficiency: Meeting diverse customer design preferences while adhering to production timelines and maintaining high quality.

• Sales Pressure: Consistently meeting or exceeding sales targets for custom framing, which can be a discretionary purchase.

• Physical Demands: The role involves standing for long periods, lifting heavy items, and working with tools that require precision and care.

• Adapting to Trends: Staying updated on framing styles, materials, and customer design preferences.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Framing Skills Mastery: Becoming an expert in all aspects of custom framing, including design, material selection, and advanced techniques.

• Sales Acumen: Developing advanced consultative selling skills to increase average order value and customer satisfaction.

• Retail Management Training: Opportunities to learn about store operations, inventory management, visual merchandising, and leadership through potential advancement.

• Product Knowledge: Deepening understanding of art, decor, and craft products to better assist customers.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents opportunities to develop specialized craft skills alongside fundamental retail sales and operations capabilities. Overcoming the challenges involves a combination of technical proficiency, customer engagement, and a commitment to continuous learning.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Sales Approach: "Describe your approach to selling a custom framing solution to a customer who is unsure about the cost or design options." (Focus on understanding needs, highlighting value, offering choices, and building confidence.)

• Problem-Solving: "A customer is unhappy with their completed framing order. How would you handle this situation?" (Emphasize active listening, empathy, understanding the issue, and finding a resolution per company policy.)

• Process Adherence: "How do you ensure accuracy when taking detailed measurements and specifications for custom orders?" (Highlight attention to detail, double-checking, and following established procedures.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "Why are you interested in working at Michaels, specifically in the framing department?" (Connect your passion for creativity, customer service, or craftsmanship to the company's mission.)

• "How do you contribute to a positive team environment?" (Provide examples of collaboration, support, and maintaining a positive attitude.)

• "How do you stay motivated to meet sales goals?" (Discuss your understanding of targets, your drive for achievement, and how you approach customer interactions to drive sales.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Visual Aids: If you've brought any framing examples or photos, be prepared to briefly walk through them, explaining your design choices, materials used, and the impact of the framing on the artwork.

• Sales Stories: Prepare 1-2 concise "STAR" method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) stories that highlight your sales success or excellent customer service.

• Process Walkthrough: Be ready to verbally walk through the steps of taking a custom framing order, from initial customer contact to order completion, demonstrating your understanding of the workflow.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a blend of technical framing skills, strong customer service orientation, sales aptitude, and an understanding of retail operational processes. Being able to articulate your approach to sales and problem-solving will be key.

📌 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 any custom framing experience, sales achievements, customer service skills, and experience with retail operations or equipment. Use keywords from the job description.

• Portfolio Preparation: Gather any visual examples of framing work, photos of projects, or documentation of sales achievements. Be ready to discuss these confidently.

• Interview Practice: Prepare for common retail interview questions, focusing on customer service, sales scenarios, problem-solving, and teamwork. Practice articulating your process for taking custom framing orders.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Michaels' mission, values, and product offerings. Understand the importance of creativity and customer experience in their culture.

⚠️ 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.