Framer PT

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Framer PT

Company: Michaels Stores

Location: Ellicott City, Maryland, United States

Job Type: Part time

Category: Retail Operations / Customer Service

Date Posted: 2026-07-28

Experience Level: 0-2 Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Focus on building strong customer relationships through personalized framing consultations and solutions.

• Drive sales and production targets within the custom framing department.

• Maintain operational standards for store appearance, including merchandising and stock management.

• Support various store functions, including cash handling, stocking, and omni-channel processes.

• Uphold company policies and safety standards to ensure a positive and secure work environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: While this role is primarily customer-facing and production-oriented, it contains elements of operational efficiency and process adherence crucial for retail environments. The "Framer PT" title suggests a focus on the specific craft of framing, but the responsibilities extend to broader store operations.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Engage customers to understand their framing needs, offering expert advice and creating memorable custom framing solutions using the "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodology.

• Achieve and exceed sales and production goals for the custom framing department.

• Accurately and efficiently complete framing orders, ensuring high-quality craftsmanship and timely delivery.

• Maintain the visual presentation and stock levels of the ready-made frame department, as well as other assigned areas.

• Provide exceptional customer service by assisting shoppers, locating products, and ensuring a well-merchandised and stocked sales floor.

• Adhere strictly to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company programs to ensure compliance and consistent execution of company policies.

• Actively participate in and support shrink and safety programs to minimize loss and ensure a safe workplace for all.

• Foster positive and respectful interactions with colleagues and customers, acting as a role model for the organization's values and vision.

• Assist with truck unloading and stocking processes, ensuring adherence to company standards and efficient inventory management.

• Operate the cash register accurately and execute all cash handling procedures according to established standards.

• Proactively acknowledge customers, assist with product location, and offer solutions to meet their needs.

• Support and execute omni-channel processes, including buy online, pick up in-store (BOPIS) and ship-from-store (SFS) initiatives.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of specialized framing skills, direct sales, and general retail operations. The emphasis on "Elevated ABC Deliver" suggests a structured sales and customer engagement process that candidates should be prepared to discuss.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: High school diploma or equivalent is typically expected for this role. Specific degrees are not usually required, but a background in art, design, or a related field can be beneficial.

Experience: 0-2 years of experience in a retail or customer-facing role. Experience with custom framing or art services is a plus.

Required Skills:

• Basic computer proficiency for POS systems and order management.

• Fundamental measuring skills for accurate order specification.

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

• Strong customer service orientation with a passion for helping customers.

• Basic understanding of merchandising principles.

• Ability to perform physical tasks including standing, bending, lifting, and carrying. Preferred Skills:

• Previous retail experience, particularly in a specialty or custom services environment.

• Proven experience in selling products and/or services directly to customers.

• Familiarity with design principles and aesthetics.

• Experience with heat press operation.

• Knowledge of inventory management and stocking procedures.

• Familiarity with omni-channel retail processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "0-2" experience level indicates that this role is suitable for entry-level candidates. The required skills are foundational for retail and specific to the framing craft, while preferred skills point towards candidates 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 relevant projects or experiences that demonstrate:

  • Design Aptitude: Examples of creative solutions or aesthetic considerations in past projects.
  • Customer Solution Examples: Instances where you identified a customer need and provided a tailored solution.
  • Process Adherence: How you followed guidelines or procedures to ensure quality and consistency in previous roles.

• Showcase any personal projects or experiences that involve crafting, art, or design, demonstrating a passion for creative work. Process Documentation:

• Understanding of and ability to follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for custom framing, sales transactions, and store operations.

• Ability to learn and implement company-specific sales and customer engagement processes (e.g., "Elevated ABC Deliver").

• Documentation of personal workflows for managing orders, ensuring quality, and meeting deadlines, if applicable from previous experience.

📝 Enhancement Note: For this type of role, a traditional "operations portfolio" is unlikely. However, candidates can demonstrate their understanding of process and their ability to execute by referencing past experiences in their resume and during interviews, focusing on how they ensured quality and customer satisfaction.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $16.25 - $19.10 per hour.

This range reflects the company's compensation structure for this part-time position in the Ellicott City, MD area, considering the experience level and responsibilities. The specific rate within this range will be determined by factors such as candidate experience, skills, and performance during the interview process.

Benefits:

• 401(k) with employer match

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

• Medical coverage (eligibility may vary based on hours worked)

• Dental coverage (eligibility may vary based on hours worked)

• Vision coverage (eligibility may vary based on hours worked)

• 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 the exact number of hours will vary based on business needs, the role may require availability for nights, weekends, and early mornings, aligning with typical retail operating hours. The stated "working_hours": 40 suggests this could be a full-time equivalent in terms of total hours for planning purposes, but the job type is explicitly part-time, implying flexibility and variable scheduling.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is provided and is competitive for part-time retail positions with specialized skills in the Maryland area. The benefits listed are comprehensive for a retail organization, with some eligibility criteria noted for health-related benefits, common for part-time roles.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Retail (Arts and Crafts, Framing Services). Michaels operates as a leading specialty retailer in North America, with a strong focus on DIY crafting, home décor, and personalized art services. This industry context means a customer-centric approach and an understanding of creative trends are important.

Company Size: Over 1,300 stores across North America. This large retail footprint indicates established operational processes, standardized training, and a significant customer base.

Founded: 1973. With decades of experience, Michaels has a well-established brand presence and a deep understanding of its market.

Team Structure:

• The immediate team would likely consist of fellow sales associates, a framing specialist (if applicable), and a store manager or assistant manager.

• This role operates within a store-level hierarchy, with direct reporting to store leadership.

• Collaboration is key with other departments within the store, such as the general sales floor, customer service desk, and stockroom personnel. Methodology:

• Emphasis on customer relationship building and solution-oriented sales ("Elevated ABC Deliver").

• Adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for consistent service delivery and operational efficiency.

• Focus on visual merchandising and maintaining a clean, inviting store environment.

• Integration of omni-channel fulfillment processes.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Michaels' culture is rooted in creativity, community, and customer service. For a Framer, this translates to a role where aesthetic understanding, customer interaction, and operational execution are equally valued. The company's size means structured training and clear performance expectations are in place.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is an entry-level, part-time position focused on specialized retail production and customer service (Framer PT). It serves as a foundational role within the retail operations of a Michaels store.

Reporting Structure: The Framer PT typically reports directly to the Store Manager or an Assistant Manager, who oversees daily store operations and staff performance.

Operations Impact: While not a strategic operations role, the Framer PT directly impacts store revenue through custom framing sales and customer retention. Efficient production and quality service contribute to overall customer satisfaction and repeat business, which are key operational metrics.

Growth Opportunities:

• Within Framing: Potential to advance to a lead framer or specialist role, taking on more complex projects or training new team members.

• Retail Management: Progression into roles such as Key Holder, Assistant Store Manager, or Store Manager, requiring broader operational and leadership skills.

• Cross-Departmental: Opportunities to gain experience in other store departments, such as visual merchandising, inventory management, or e-commerce fulfillment, leading to broader retail operations expertise.

• Skill Development: Continuous learning in custom framing techniques, design trends, and advanced customer service strategies.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a clear path for individuals looking to start or grow a career in retail operations, starting with specialized skills and progressing into broader management responsibilities. The emphasis on customer service and sales provides a strong foundation for future retail leadership roles.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Public retail store setting. The work environment is customer-facing, dynamic, and involves direct interaction with the public.

Office Location(s): Ellicott City, Maryland. The specific store location at 4360 Montgomery Rd.

Workspace Context:

• The primary workspace includes the sales floor (for customer interaction and merchandising) and the custom framing area/shop.

• The framing shop contains specialized equipment like glass cutters and potentially a heat press, requiring attention to safety protocols.

• Some stock rooms may not be climate-controlled, and outdoor work may be required for tasks like retrieving shopping carts or during truck unloading.

• The environment is generally climate-controlled in public areas.

Work Schedule: This is a part-time role. Work hours will vary based on business needs and may include nights, weekends, and early mornings. Flexibility in scheduling is essential to cover store operating hours and customer demand.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is typical for a retail setting, emphasizing customer interaction and hands-on production. Candidates should be prepared for a fast-paced, sometimes physically demanding, and schedule-flexible role.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

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

• In-Person Interview: Typically conducted by the Store Manager or Assistant Manager. This will focus on customer service philosophy, problem-solving skills, and fit with the team and company culture.

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

• Operational Acumen: Questions about your understanding of retail operations, merchandising, and adherence to procedures.

• Cultural Fit: Assessment of your ability to work collaboratively and represent Michaels' brand values.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• While a formal portfolio isn't expected, prepare to discuss specific examples from your past experiences that highlight:

  • Customer Service Successes: How you've gone above and beyond for customers.
  • Problem-Solving Scenarios: How you've handled challenging customer requests or operational issues.
  • Creative Projects: Any personal or professional projects that showcase design sense or craftsmanship.
  • Process Following: Examples of how you've adhered to guidelines and SOPs.

• Be ready to talk about your understanding of custom framing and why you're interested in the craft. Challenge Preparation:

• Customer Scenario: Be prepared for a role-play where you need to consult with a "customer" about their framing needs. Focus on active listening, asking clarifying questions, and offering solutions.

• Operational Question: You might be asked how you would handle a situation like a stock shortage, a customer complaint, or a rush order. Emphasize problem-solving and adherence to store policies.

• Product Knowledge: While not expected to be an expert initially, showing enthusiasm for learning about Michaels' products and framing options will be beneficial.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for this role will likely be direct and practical, focusing on assessing customer service aptitude, basic skills, and alignment with the company's customer-centric and operational standards.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Point of Sale (POS) System: For processing sales transactions, managing customer orders, and handling payments. Proficiency in a similar retail POS system is beneficial.

• Custom Framing Equipment: Standard framing tools, including mat cutters, saws, and potentially specialized equipment like a heat press.

• Glass Cutter: Essential tool for custom glass sizing.

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

Analytics & Reporting:

• While direct use of complex analytics tools is unlikely for this role, understanding how sales data, order volume, and production efficiency contribute to store performance is valuable.

• Basic reporting on sales figures and order status may be required for internal communication. CRM & Automation:

• Customer Database/Order Management System: Used to track customer orders, preferences, and contact information. Familiarity with CRM concepts for building customer relationships is a plus.

• Inventory Management Systems: For tracking stock levels of frames, mats, and supplies.

• Omni-channel Support Tools: Systems used to manage online orders for in-store pickup or shipping.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is standard for a retail environment with a specialized service department. The emphasis is on practical tools for sales, production, and customer management, rather than complex data analytics platforms.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Creativity & Passion: Michaels values a passion for art, craft, and creative expression, which translates into a desire to help customers bring their visions to life.

• Customer Focus: A strong commitment to providing excellent customer service, building relationships, and ensuring customer satisfaction through personalized solutions.

• Teamwork & Collaboration: Working effectively with colleagues to achieve store goals, support each other, and maintain a positive work environment.

• Integrity & Accountability: Adhering to company policies, executing responsibilities with honesty, and taking ownership of tasks and customer interactions.

• Efficiency & Quality: Striving for both speed and accuracy in production and service delivery, ensuring high-quality custom framing and operational execution.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Working seamlessly with other store associates to ensure customers receive a cohesive experience, from initial browsing to final purchase and potential omni-channel pickup.

• Process Review: Openness to feedback and adherence to established procedures to maintain consistency and quality across the team.

• Knowledge Sharing: Willingness to share best practices in framing techniques, customer service, and operational efficiency with team members.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture at Michaels emphasizes a supportive and creative atmosphere where teamwork and customer satisfaction are paramount. Candidates who align with these values and can collaborate effectively will thrive.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Production and Customer Service: Managing multiple custom framing orders with varying deadlines while simultaneously attending to walk-in customers and providing excellent service.

• Handling Diverse Customer Needs: Meeting the unique creative visions and budget constraints of a wide range of customers for their framing projects.

• Maintaining Quality Standards: Consistently producing high-quality custom frames that meet both customer expectations and company standards, especially during busy periods.

• Adapting to Retail Demands: Flexibility to handle varied work hours, tasks outside of framing (e.g., stocking, customer assistance on the floor), and evolving store needs.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Framing Expertise: Deepen knowledge of framing materials, techniques, design principles, and advanced production methods.

• Sales & Customer Engagement: Develop advanced consultative selling skills and techniques for building customer loyalty.

• Operational Proficiency: Gain broader experience in retail operations, including visual merchandising, inventory control, and omni-channel fulfillment.

• Team Leadership: Potential to develop leadership skills through informal mentoring or by taking on additional responsibilities.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents opportunities to develop specialized craft skills alongside core retail operational competencies, offering a well-rounded entry into the retail sector.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to balance multiple competing priorities. How did you manage your time?" (Focus on prioritization, time management, and task completion).

• "How would you approach a customer who is unsure about their framing design options?" (Highlight active listening, asking clarifying questions, offering suggestions, and guiding them to a solution).

• "Imagine a customer needs a custom frame by tomorrow, but our standard turnaround is three days. How would you handle this situation?" (Emphasize checking feasibility, communicating clearly with the customer and management, and exploring potential solutions). Company & Culture Questions:

• "Why are you interested in a framing role at Michaels?" (Connect your passion for art/craft/design with the company's mission and your desire to help customers).

• "What does excellent customer service mean to you?" (Focus on creating positive experiences, exceeding expectations, and building relationships).

• "How do you stay up-to-date with design trends or creative techniques?" (Show your proactive learning and interest in the field). Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Even without a formal portfolio, be prepared to verbally walk through:

  • A successful customer interaction: Detail a situation where you provided a great solution or resolved a customer issue.
  • A project you're proud of: Discuss a personal or professional project that demonstrates your attention to detail, creativity, or problem-solving skills.
  • Your understanding of the framing process: Briefly outline how you would approach a typical custom framing order from consultation to completion.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation for this role should focus on demonstrating strong customer service skills, a proactive attitude, an understanding of basic operational tasks, and a genuine interest in custom framing and creative solutions.

📌 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 relevant customer service, sales, or hands-on craft/design experience. Use keywords from the job description such as "customer service," "sales," "custom framing," "measuring skills," and "operational standards."

• Prepare for Scenarios: Think of specific examples from your past experiences that demonstrate your ability to handle customer interactions, solve problems, and follow procedures.

• Research Michaels: Familiarize yourself with Michaels' products, services (especially custom framing), and company values. Understand their mission and how this role contributes to it.

• Practice Your "Elevator Pitch": Be ready to briefly and enthusiastically explain why you're a great fit for this role, emphasizing your customer-centric approach and eagerness to learn.

⚠️ 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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