ft framer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: FT Framer

Company: Michaels Stores

Location: Niagara Falls, New York, United States

Job Type: FULL_TIME

Category: Retail Operations / Custom Framing Specialist

Date Posted: 2026-06-02T00:00:00

Experience Level: Entry to Mid-Level (0-2 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Execute custom framing sales and production processes to meet customer needs and company standards.

• Build and maintain strong customer relationships through personalized design consultations and service.

• Ensure operational excellence in store merchandising, inventory management, and point-of-sale (POS) transactions.

• Contribute to a positive and safe retail environment through adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company programs.

• Support omni-channel initiatives and assist with general store operations, including stocking and truck unloads.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is a customer-facing position within a retail environment, specifically focused on the custom framing department. While not a traditional "Revenue Operations" role, it involves direct contribution to revenue through sales and service, requiring an understanding of sales processes, customer relationship management, and operational efficiency within a retail context. The emphasis on "Elevated ABC Deliver" suggests a structured approach to customer engagement and sales, which aligns with operational best practices.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Customer Engagement & Sales:

  • Actively engage customers to understand their framing needs and offer tailored design solutions.
  • Utilize "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodology to build rapport and drive sales of custom framing products and services.
  • Provide expert advice on matting, framing materials, and design aesthetics to enhance customer satisfaction and order value.
  • Achieve personal sales and production targets for the custom framing department.

• Production & Quality Control:

  • Accurately measure artwork and select appropriate materials for custom framing orders.
  • Operate framing equipment, including mat cutters and potentially heat presses, to produce high-quality finished products.
  • Ensure all framing orders are completed on time and to the specified quality standards.
  • Maintain the ready-made frame department and other assigned areas, ensuring visual merchandising standards are met.

• Store Operations & Compliance:

  • Adhere strictly to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company programs to ensure compliance with all applicable laws and requirements.
  • Maintain a safe, clean, and clutter-free store environment, including designated work areas and customer-facing spaces.
  • Support shrink reduction and safety programs through diligent practice and awareness.
  • Participate actively in truck un-load and stocking processes, adhering to established truck standards and timelines.

• Customer Service & Support:

  • Provide friendly and efficient customer service, assisting shoppers in locating products and resolving inquiries.
  • Operate the cash register, executing cash handling procedures accurately and according to standards.
  • Assist with omni-channel processes, ensuring seamless customer experiences across online and in-store channels.

• Team Collaboration & Professionalism:

  • Interact positively and respectfully with colleagues and customers, maintaining a professional demeanor.

  • Promote organizational commitment to vision and values, serving as a role model for positive conduct.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of sales, technical production, and general retail operations. For operations professionals, understanding the process flow from customer consultation to order fulfillment, including quality assurance and inventory management within the framing department, is key. The emphasis on SOPs and compliance underscores the importance of operational discipline.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: High school diploma or equivalent required.

Experience:

• 0-2 years of experience in a customer-facing retail or service role.

• Experience in custom framing or art installation is a strong plus. Required Skills:

• Basic computer skills for system navigation and order entry.

• Proficient basic measuring skills for accurate order specification.

• Ability to operate framing equipment and glass cutting tools safely and effectively.

• Demonstrated ability to handle cash transactions accurately and efficiently.

• Strong customer service skills with an aptitude for building relationships.

• Ability to understand and adhere to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).

• Effective communication and interpersonal skills for customer and team interaction.

• Basic merchandising and stocking capabilities. Preferred Skills:

• Previous retail sales experience, particularly in a consultative or design-oriented environment.

• Experience selling products and/or services directly to customers, with a proven track record.

• Familiarity with art materials, matting techniques, and framing styles.

• Knowledge of inventory management principles within a retail setting.

📝 Enhancement Note: For candidates with operations backgrounds, translating skills in process adherence, data accuracy (measurements), and customer satisfaction metrics into this retail context will be beneficial. Highlight any experience managing workflows, ensuring quality control, or optimizing customer interaction processes.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase examples of successful customer engagement leading to sales, particularly in consultative selling scenarios.

• Demonstrate an understanding of process adherence through case studies or descriptions of how SOPs were followed to ensure quality and compliance.

• If applicable, provide examples of how you've contributed to efficient workflow management or problem-solving within a team or operational context.

• Highlight any experience with inventory management, visual merchandising, or stockroom organization. Process Documentation:

• Candidates are encouraged to describe their approach to learning and implementing new processes, such as the "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodology.

• Be prepared to discuss how you would document or improve a customer service or production process within the framing department.

• Ability to articulate how you would measure the success of a framing order process, from consultation to completion.

📝 Enhancement Note: While a formal "portfolio" might not be standard for an on-site retail role, candidates with operations experience should be prepared to discuss their process-oriented thinking. This could involve preparing a brief document or being ready to walk through how they approach tasks, ensure accuracy, and manage customer interactions in a structured manner, drawing parallels to operations methodologies.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $16.25 - $19.10 per hour

Benefits:

• Health Insurance (Medical, Dental, and Vision)

• Paid Time Off (PTO)

• Tuition Assistance

• Generous Employee Discounts on Michaels products

• Potential for other benefits as outlined by The Michaels Companies Inc.

Working Hours: Full-time position, typically involving approximately 40 hours per week. This includes nights, weekends, and early mornings, as required by retail operational needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range provided is for the US market. For operations roles, understanding the cost of living in Niagara Falls, NY, and comparing this hourly wage to industry benchmarks for retail operations specialists or customer-facing roles with production elements is advisable. The benefits package is comprehensive for a retail environment and includes elements often valued by operations professionals, such as PTO and tuition assistance.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Retail (Arts and Crafts, Custom Framing)

Company Size: Large (Over 1000 employees, operating over 1,300 stores in North America)

Founded: 1973, headquartered in Irving, Texas.

Team Structure:

• This role is part of the in-store retail team, reporting to store management (e.g., Store Manager, Assistant Manager, or Framing Department Manager).

• Collaboration is expected with fellow sales associates, framers, and other store personnel.

• Cross-functional interaction involves supporting various store functions as needed, including sales floor, stockroom, and customer service. Methodology:

• Michaels emphasizes customer-centric operations, focusing on creating memorable experiences ("fuel the joy of creativity").

• The "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodology is central to customer engagement and sales in the framing department.

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

• A data-driven approach is implied through sales targets, inventory management, and potentially performance metrics for the framing department.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Michaels operates as a large, established retail chain. This means established processes, clear reporting structures, and a focus on operational consistency across a wide network of stores. For operations professionals, understanding how a large retail organization standardizes procedures and manages customer experiences at scale is valuable context.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents an entry-level to mid-level position within the retail operations and specialized services sector. It's a hands-on role focused on direct customer interaction and production within a specific department.

Reporting Structure: Reports to store leadership, likely an Assistant Store Manager or a dedicated Framing Department Manager. This structure emphasizes direct supervision and performance management within the store environment.

Operations Impact: Directly impacts store revenue through custom framing sales and customer retention. Efficient operations in the framing department contribute to overall store profitability and customer satisfaction, influencing repeat business and positive reviews.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Development: Opportunity to become a highly skilled custom framer and design consultant, mastering advanced framing techniques and customer service strategies.

• Advancement within Store: Potential to move into roles such as Key Holder, Assistant Manager, or Department Manager within Michaels stores.

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in custom framing, potentially becoming a subject matter expert or trainer for new team members.

• Cross-Departmental Experience: Gain experience in other areas of retail operations, such as visual merchandising, inventory management, or customer service leadership.

📝 Enhancement Note: For individuals transitioning from core operations roles, this position offers a pathway into a customer-facing operational role with tangible sales and production responsibilities. The growth potential lies in mastering retail operations at the store level and potentially moving into leadership positions within the retail chain.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Public retail store setting.

Office Location(s): Store - 7220 Niagara Falls Blvd, Niagara Falls, NY.

Workspace Context:

• The primary workspace is a climate-controlled retail store and a dedicated frame shop.

• The frame shop contains specialized equipment like glass cutters and heat presses, requiring careful operation.

• Some stockroom areas may not be climate-controlled.

• Occasional outdoor work may be required for tasks such as retrieving shopping carts or during truck unloads.

• The environment is dynamic, with constant customer interaction and varied operational tasks.

Work Schedule: The role requires flexibility to work nights, weekends, and early mornings to meet the operational demands of a retail store. This schedule is typical for roles requiring consistent customer availability.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is typical of a retail setting, emphasizing customer interaction and hands-on tasks. For operations professionals accustomed to office environments, adapting to a fast-paced, customer-facing setting with physical demands and varied work hours is a key consideration.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Likely involves a review of the application and potentially a brief phone screen to assess basic qualifications and interest.

• In-Person Interview: Typically conducted at the store location, involving an interview with store management. This may include behavioral questions, situational questions, and an assessment of customer service aptitude.

• Skills Assessment: May involve a practical demonstration or discussion of framing skills, measuring techniques, and customer interaction scenarios.

• Onboarding: If selected, the process includes onboarding, orientation, and training on company policies, systems, and specific job duties.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• While a formal portfolio is unlikely, be prepared to discuss specific examples from past roles that demonstrate your skills in:

  • Customer service and relationship building.
  • Problem-solving and operational efficiency.
  • Adherence to procedures and quality control.
  • Sales achievements and customer satisfaction.

• Highlight any experience with tools, equipment, or processes relevant to the framing or retail environment. Challenge Preparation:

• Be ready to discuss how you would handle common retail scenarios, such as:

  • Dealing with a difficult customer.
  • Managing multiple customer requests simultaneously.
  • Ensuring accuracy in order taking and production.
  • Contributing to a positive team environment.

• Prepare to articulate your understanding of the Michaels brand and the importance of custom framing to their business.

📝 Enhancement Note: For candidates with operations backgrounds, frame your past experiences in terms of process improvement, efficiency, and customer satisfaction. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to answer behavioral questions, focusing on quantifiable outcomes where possible, even if they are not directly related to revenue operations metrics.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• POS System: For processing sales transactions, managing customer accounts, and potentially order entry.

• Framing Equipment: Mat cutters, framing tools, potentially heat presses for specialized applications.

• Glass Cutting Equipment: For custom glass sizing.

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

Analytics & Reporting:

• While direct access to complex analytics tools is unlikely for this role, understanding the importance of sales data, production metrics, and inventory levels is key.

• May involve using internal systems for tracking sales performance and inventory accuracy. CRM & Automation:

• Basic CRM functionality within the POS system for customer account management and order history.

• "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodology can be considered a form of customer engagement process, akin to a simplified CRM strategy.

📝 Enhancement Note: For operations professionals, familiarity with POS systems, inventory management software, and CRM basics is transferable. The key is to demonstrate an ability to learn and effectively utilize the specific tools and technologies employed by Michaels for their framing and retail operations.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Customer Focus: Prioritizing the customer experience and striving to exceed expectations through service and product quality.

• Creativity & Passion: Embracing the "joy of creativity" and contributing to a positive, inspiring environment for customers and team members.

• Integrity & Accountability: Adhering to company policies, maintaining honesty in all dealings, and taking responsibility for actions and outcomes.

• Teamwork & Respect: Collaborating effectively with colleagues, supporting team goals, and fostering a respectful and inclusive workplace.

• Efficiency & Quality: Striving for accuracy and timeliness in production and service delivery, ensuring high-quality outcomes.

Collaboration Style:

• A collaborative approach is essential, working closely with other store associates and management to ensure smooth store operations and excellent customer service.

• Open communication and a willingness to assist teammates are highly valued.

• Participation in team meetings and store initiatives is expected.

📝 Enhancement Note: Michaels emphasizes a people-first culture, focusing on both team member well-being and customer experience. Understanding these values will help candidates align their responses during interviews, demonstrating how their operational approach supports these core principles.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Multiple Demands: Effectively managing customer consultations, production tasks, sales transactions, and general store duties simultaneously.

• Meeting Production Deadlines: Ensuring custom framing orders are completed accurately and on time, especially during peak periods.

• Customer Satisfaction: Handling diverse customer needs and expectations, including resolving complaints or design challenges.

• Physical Demands: Performing physically demanding tasks such as lifting heavy items and standing for extended periods.

• Adapting to New Processes: Quickly learning and implementing new sales techniques, operational procedures, or product knowledge.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Framing Expertise: Develop deep expertise in custom framing techniques, materials, and design principles.

• Sales & Customer Service Skills: Enhance consultative selling abilities and customer relationship management.

• Retail Operations Management: Gain hands-on experience in various aspects of store operations, potentially leading to leadership roles.

• Product Knowledge: Become an expert on Michaels' extensive range of craft and home décor products.

• Continuous Learning: Access to training resources and potential for tuition assistance to further educational or professional development.

📝 Enhancement Note: For operations professionals, framing these challenges as opportunities for process improvement, efficiency gains, and skill development will resonate. For example, a challenge in balancing demands can be framed as an opportunity to optimize workflow and time management.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Customer Service & Sales: "Describe a time you successfully helped a customer find the perfect solution to their needs. How did you approach the consultation?" (Focus on consultative selling, active listening, and solution-oriented approach).

• Problem-Solving: "Imagine a customer is unhappy with a custom framing order. How would you handle the situation to ensure customer satisfaction and adhere to company policy?" (Emphasize empathy, de-escalation, and process for resolution).

• Process Adherence: "How do you ensure accuracy and quality when following specific procedures or instructions?" (Relate to SOPs, attention to detail, and quality control).

• Teamwork: "Tell me about a time you collaborated with a team to achieve a common goal." (Highlight communication, support, and shared responsibility).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Michaels and our custom framing services?" (Research the company's mission, values, and the importance of framing).

• "Why are you interested in this FT Framer role specifically?" (Connect your skills and career goals to the role's responsibilities and opportunities).

• "How do you contribute to a positive and creative work environment?" (Align with Michaels' culture of creativity and customer joy). Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• While no formal portfolio is required, be ready to discuss your experience with:

  • Customer Interaction: Walk through a scenario where you guided a customer through a complex decision-making process.
  • Process Management: Explain how you ensured accuracy in a task that required precise measurements or adherence to steps.
  • Problem Resolution: Detail a situation where you resolved an issue to a customer's satisfaction.
  • Sales Performance: If applicable, discuss how your efforts contributed to sales goals.

📝 Enhancement Note: Prepare specific examples using the STAR method. For operations candidates, translate your experience into the language of retail and customer service. Emphasize your ability to learn quickly, follow procedures, and contribute to a positive customer experience, which are critical operational functions in a retail setting.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this FT Framer position:

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

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight customer service skills, any experience with custom products or detailed work, measuring abilities, and familiarity with retail operations or sales processes. Quantify achievements where possible (e.g., "Contributed to a 10% increase in framing sales by...").

• Prepare for Interview: Research Michaels Stores, their custom framing services, and their company values. Practice answering behavioral and situational questions using the STAR method, focusing on examples that demonstrate your ability to handle customer interactions, follow procedures, and work effectively in a team.

• Understand the Role: Familiarize yourself with the core responsibilities and physical requirements of the FT Framer position. Be ready to discuss how your skills and experience align with these demands.

• Portfolio Discussion: While not a formal portfolio, mentally prepare to discuss specific examples of your work that showcase customer service, problem-solving, and process adherence, as outlined in the interview preparation section.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description is designed to provide a comprehensive overview and strategic insights for operations professionals. While it draws upon industry standards and available data, actual interview processes, specific responsibilities, and company culture details may vary. Always refer to the official job posting and direct communication with the hiring team for the most accurate and up-to-date information.