Framer at Michaels Stores

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Framer

Company: Michaels Stores

Location: Store - 315 Paul Huff Pkwy NW, Cleveland, TN

Job Type: PART_TIME

Category: Framing / Retail Design

Date Posted: June 13, 2025

Experience Level: Entry Level (0-2 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🎨 Role Summary

Create custom framing solutions that enhance and preserve customer artwork, applying design principles for optimal visual appeal.
Engage customers through personalized design consultations, understanding their aesthetic preferences and project needs to deliver tailored framing options.
Execute framing orders with precision and craftsmanship, ensuring high-quality standards and attention to detail in every piece.
Contribute to the visual merchandising and organization of the ready-made frame department, maintaining an inspiring and accessible environment for creative projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the original job title is "Framer," the responsibilities clearly involve design consultation, material selection, and craftsmanship focused on enhancing artwork. This aligns more closely with a specialized retail design role focused on framing and visual presentation rather than traditional graphic or product design. The "Category" has been updated to reflect this specialization with a focus on Framing and Retail Design.

🖼️ Primary Responsibilities

Conduct personalized design consultations with customers, utilizing design principles to recommend appropriate framing materials, mats, and styles that complement their artwork and home decor.
Accurately measure artwork and calculate material requirements for custom framing projects, ensuring precise cuts and optimal use of resources.
Assemble custom frames using a variety of tools and techniques, demonstrating strong craftsmanship and adherence to quality standards.
Maintain the presentation and organization of the custom framing workshop and ready-made frame department, ensuring a clean, safe, and inspiring workspace.
Process framing orders efficiently, adhering to production schedules and communicating timelines clearly to customers.
Provide friendly and helpful customer service throughout the framing process, from initial consultation to order pickup, ensuring a positive customer experience.
Operate cash register and handle transactions accurately, following company cash handling procedures.
Assist with general store operations, including stocking merchandise, maintaining store cleanliness, and supporting omnichannel processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The original description listed "Major Activities" that included general retail tasks. These have been refined and expanded into "Primary Responsibilities" with a specific focus on the hands-on and customer-facing design aspects of the framing role, incorporating design-specific keywords like "design principles," "material selection," and "craftsmanship."

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: A high school diploma or equivalent is typically required. While not explicitly stated, foundational knowledge in art, design, or visual arts can be beneficial for understanding color theory, composition, and aesthetic principles relevant to framing.

Experience: Basic computer and measuring skills are required. Ability to operate framing equipment and a glass cutter is essential. Previous retail experience and experience in sales or customer service are preferred and highly relevant for the customer-facing design consultation aspect of the role. A portfolio showcasing any personal creative projects, even if not professional framing, could demonstrate relevant skills like attention to detail and aesthetic sensibility.

Required Skills:

Basic computer proficiency for order processing and inventory management.
Accurate measuring skills for precise framing cuts and material calculations.
Ability to operate framing equipment safely and effectively, including mat cutters and glass cutters.
Strong attention to detail in executing framing assembly and ensuring quality finishes.

Preferred Skills:

Retail sales experience with a focus on customer engagement and product recommendations.
Experience in a customer-facing role, demonstrating strong interpersonal and communication skills.
Basic understanding of design principles, such as color theory, composition, and visual balance, as they apply to framing.

📝 Enhancement Note: The skills and qualifications have been expanded to include preferred design-related skills like understanding design principles, which are crucial for providing effective framing consultations. The education section includes a note about the potential benefit of an art/design background, aligning with the creative nature of the role. Experience requirements have been tied specifically to the practical aspects of framing and customer interaction.

🎨 Portfolio & Creative Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

While a formal design portfolio might not be a strict requirement for this role, candidates are encouraged to showcase any personal creative projects that demonstrate attention to detail, craftsmanship, and aesthetic sensibility. This could include examples of personal artwork, DIY framing projects, or other crafts.
Highlight any projects where you had to make design decisions related to color, composition, or material selection.
If you have any experience with photography or presenting visual work, include examples that showcase your ability to present objects effectively.
Any examples of working with tools or demonstrating manual dexterity could be relevant.

Process Documentation:

For any creative projects you showcase, briefly describe your process, including how you approached the initial idea, made material choices, and executed the project.
Explain any challenges you encountered and how you problem-solved them during the creative process.
Discuss how you considered the final presentation or display of your work.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the nature of the role, a traditional design portfolio focused on digital interfaces or branding is not expected. This section provides guidance on how candidates can present relevant creative skills and experience, focusing on craftsmanship, attention to detail, and problem-solving through personal projects or related hobbies. The process documentation guidance is tailored to demonstrating a thoughtful approach to creative tasks.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on industry data for retail positions with specialized skills in the Cleveland, TN area and considering the part-time nature of the role, the estimated hourly wage for a Framer at Michaels could range from approximately $10.50 to $15.00 per hour. This estimate is based on publicly available salary data for similar retail roles with craft or framing components in the region. Actual compensation may vary based on experience and specific store location within the area.

Benefits:

Health Insurance (Medical, Dental, and Vision) - Available for eligible part-time team members.
Paid Time Off - Accrual based on hours worked.
Tuition Assistance - Opportunities for educational support.
Generous Employee Discounts - Significant discounts on store merchandise, encouraging creativity and personal projects.

Working Hours: This is a part-time position with working hours that may include nights, weekends, and early mornings, aligning with retail store operating hours. Flexibility in scheduling is often a characteristic of part-time retail roles.

📝 Enhancement Note: The original posting did not include salary information. An estimated range has been provided based on typical retail wages in the Cleveland, TN area for positions requiring some specialized skills, considering the part-time status. The benefits listed in the original description have been presented in a structured list with brief explanations relevant to a potential employee.

🎯Team & Company Context

🏢 Company & Design Culture

Industry: Retail - Specializing in Arts and Crafts Supplies, Custom Framing, and Home Decor. Michaels is a leader in the creative market, providing materials and services for a wide range of creative pursuits, including visual arts and design-related projects.

Company Size: Large, with over 10,001+ employees across more than 1,300 stores in North America. As a large retail chain, Michaels has established processes and training programs, offering a structured environment for employees.

Founded: 1973. With a long history, Michaels has built a strong brand reputation and extensive operational expertise in the arts and crafts retail sector.

Team Structure:

Framers typically work within a specific department in the store, often alongside other framing specialists.
They report to a store manager or a designated department manager.
Collaboration is essential with other store team members to assist customers and maintain overall store operations.

Methodology:

The framing process follows established procedures and quality standards to ensure consistency across locations.
Customer consultations involve understanding individual needs and applying product knowledge to suggest creative solutions.
Emphasis is placed on providing a positive customer experience throughout the design and production phases of the framing order.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Company information from the provided data has been expanded upon to provide context relevant to a potential employee, particularly focusing on the company's industry position, size, and how the framing role fits within the broader retail and creative environment. Assumptions about team structure and methodology are based on typical retail store operations and the nature of a specialized department like framing.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Design Career Level: This position is best described as an Entry-Level / Specialized Retail Design role. It focuses on applying design principles and technical skills within the specific context of custom framing in a retail environment.

Reporting Structure: The Framer likely reports to a Store Manager or a Framing Department Manager. This structure provides direct guidance and support within the store team.

Design Impact: While not traditional digital product design, the Framer role has a direct impact on the aesthetic presentation and preservation of customer artwork. The quality of design consultation and craftsmanship directly influences customer satisfaction and the perceived value of the framed piece.

Growth Opportunities:

Potential for advancement to a Lead Framer or Framing Department Manager role within the store, involving more complex projects and team oversight.
Opportunities to deepen expertise in various framing techniques, materials, and conservation methods through ongoing training and hands-on experience.
Skill development in sales, customer service, and visual merchandising, which are transferable skills applicable within Michaels or other retail environments.

📝 Enhancement Note: The career analysis has been framed within the context of a retail environment with a specialized design function. Growth opportunities are identified within the typical retail store hierarchy and through the development of specialized framing and customer service skills.

🌐 Work Environment

Studio Type: Retail Store Environment with a dedicated Custom Framing workshop. The store setting is public and climate-controlled, while the framing workshop is a specialized area equipped for framing tasks.

Office Location(s): Store - 315 Paul Huff Pkwy NW, Cleveland, TN. This is a specific retail store location. Accessibility would depend on local public transportation options and parking availability.

Design Workspace Context:

The framing workshop is equipped with specialized tools (mat cutters, glass cutters, heat press) necessary for custom framing.
The workspace requires careful organization and adherence to safety protocols due to the use of sharp tools and glass.
Collaboration with other framers and store staff occurs within the store environment.

Work Schedule: Part-time with variable hours, including nights and weekends, typical for retail operations. The schedule is designed to meet customer demand during peak shopping times.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment description provides details specific to a retail store with a framing department, highlighting the tools and safety considerations unique to this type of role. The schedule information reflects the part-time, retail-specific nature of the position.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Design Interview Process:

Initial application review focusing on basic skills (computer, measuring) and any relevant retail or customer service experience.
Potential phone screening to assess communication skills and availability.
In-person interview(s) with the Store Manager or Framing Department Manager. Be prepared to discuss your experience with tools, customer interactions, and ability to follow procedures.
A practical assessment of measuring or basic tool handling skills might be part of the interview process.

Portfolio Review Tips:

As mentioned, a formal design portfolio is not required, but be prepared to discuss any personal creative projects or hobbies that demonstrate relevant skills like attention to detail, craftsmanship, or aesthetic judgment.
If you have examples of framed pieces you've done (even for yourself), be ready to discuss your process and material choices.
Focus on showcasing your ability to work carefully and precisely.

Challenge Preparation:

Be prepared for potential questions or a small exercise related to measuring accurately or demonstrating basic manual dexterity.
Think about how you would handle a customer who is unsure about framing options and how you would guide them through the design process.

ATS Keywords: Framing, Custom Framing, Retail, Customer Service, Sales, Measuring, Craftsmanship, Matting, Glass Cutting, Frame Assembly, Art, Design Consultation, Visual Merchandising, Stocking, Cash Handling, Part-Time, Store Operations, Creative, Detail-Oriented.

📝 Enhancement Note: The application process and interview preparation advice are tailored to the retail and hands-on nature of the Framer role, focusing on practical skills and customer interaction rather than traditional design critiques or complex portfolio presentations. The ATS keywords are relevant to both retail and the specific skills required for framing.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Design Tools:

Mat Cutter: Used for precise cutting of mat boards for framing. Skill level expectation: Basic to proficient operation.
Glass Cutter: Essential for accurately cutting glass to fit frames. Skill level expectation: Basic to proficient operation with emphasis on safety.
Heat Press: Used for mounting artwork to backing boards. Skill level expectation: Basic operation.
Measuring Tools: Rulers, tape measures, and specialized framing rulers for accurate dimensions. Skill level expectation: Proficient and accurate usage.

Collaboration & Handoff:

In-person communication with customers for design consultations.
Communication with other framing specialists and store staff regarding order status and customer needs.
Utilizing internal store systems for order entry and tracking.

Research & Testing:

Understanding different types of framing materials (mats, glass, frames) and their properties to advise customers.
Staying updated on framing trends and techniques (likely through internal training).

📝 Enhancement Note: This section focuses on the physical tools and equipment used in a framing workshop, as these are the primary "tools" for this role. Digital design tools are not applicable here. Collaboration and research are framed within the context of customer interaction and material knowledge.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Design Values:

Fueling the joy of creativity: Encouraging customers and employees to engage in creative projects, including framing.
Customer-centric approach: Prioritizing customer needs and providing personalized solutions for their framing projects.
Quality and Craftsmanship: Emphasizing the importance of high-quality work in every framing order.
Teamwork and Collaboration: Working together with colleagues to provide a positive store experience and support the framing department.

Collaboration Style:

Direct and in-person collaboration with customers during the design consultation process.
Collaborative work environment within the framing workshop, assisting colleagues with tasks and sharing knowledge.
Communication and coordination with other store departments to ensure smooth operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: Design values and collaboration style are interpreted within the retail and creative context of Michaels, focusing on the company's stated purpose and the nature of customer interaction and teamwork in a store environment.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Design Challenges:

Balancing customer aesthetic preferences with practical framing considerations (e.g., budget, artwork type). Mitigation strategy: Effective communication and offering a range of options.
Working with delicate or unusually sized artwork, requiring careful handling and specialized techniques. Preparation: Attention to detail and following established procedures for handling fragile items.
Managing multiple framing orders simultaneously while maintaining quality and meeting deadlines. Adaptation: Strong organizational skills and efficient workflow management.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

On-the-job training in framing techniques, materials, and equipment operation.
Opportunities to learn about different art mediums and their specific framing requirements.
Skill development in sales and customer service, enhancing the ability to provide effective design consultations.

📝 Enhancement Note: Challenges are identified based on the practical aspects of working in a framing workshop and interacting with customers on creative projects. Growth opportunities are linked to gaining expertise in framing and related retail skills.

💡 Interview Preparation

Design Process Questions:

Describe your approach to helping a customer choose the right frame and mat for a piece of artwork. (Preparation: Think about how you would assess their needs, discuss options, and apply basic design principles.)
How would you handle a situation where a customer's desired framing option is not suitable for their artwork or budget? (Preparation: Focus on problem-solving, offering alternatives, and maintaining positive customer relations.)
Discuss any experience you have with tools or hands-on projects that demonstrate your ability to work carefully and precisely. (Preparation: Be ready to provide specific examples from hobbies or past jobs.)

Company Culture Questions:

What interests you about working at Michaels and specifically in the framing department? (Preparation: Research Michaels' focus on creativity and be prepared to discuss your own interest in arts, crafts, or design.)
How do you approach providing excellent customer service, particularly when assisting someone with a creative project? (Preparation: Think about how you would engage with customers, listen to their needs, and provide helpful guidance.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

As discussed, a formal portfolio is not expected. However, be prepared to verbally describe any personal creative projects or experiences that showcase relevant skills like attention to detail, craftsmanship, or working with tools.
If you have any physical examples of personal creative work (that are easy to bring), consider asking if you can share them.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation advice is tailored to the specific requirements of the Framer role, focusing on practical skills, customer interaction, and problem-solving within a retail and creative context.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this design position:

Submit your application through this link
Review the job description carefully, paying close attention to the required and preferred skills related to measuring, tools, and customer interaction.
Tailor your resume to highlight any relevant experience, including retail, customer service, experience with tools, or participation in arts and crafts. Use keywords from the ATS Keywords list.
Prepare to discuss any personal creative projects or hobbies that demonstrate your attention to detail and manual dexterity during the interview process.
Research Michaels and understand their focus on creativity and customer service to prepare for company culture questions.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and design industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.

Framer