Framer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Framer

Company: Michaels Stores

Location: Kelowna-1500 Banks Rd Unit 100, Canada

Job Type: PART_TIME

Category: Custom Framing / Retail Design

Date Posted: 2025-06-13T00:00:00

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

Remote Status: On-site

🎨 Role Summary

• Engage directly with customers to understand their design needs and create personalized custom framing solutions that enhance their artwork.
• Execute framing orders with precision and attention to detail, ensuring high-quality craftsmanship and timely completion.
• Maintain the organization and presentation of the ready-made frame department and other assigned retail areas, focusing on visual merchandising standards.
• Provide exceptional customer service, assisting shoppers in finding products and offering creative solutions within the retail environment.

🖼️ Primary Responsibilities

• Adhere to Standard Operating Procedures (SOP’s) and Company programs to ensure compliance with applicable laws and requirements; execute Company policies and standards.
• Utilize the "Elevated ABC Deliver" method to build strong customer relationships and design compelling Custom Framing solutions that meet their needs and preferences.
• Achieve sales and production targets by effectively consulting with customers and efficiently completing framing orders.
• Maintain the ready-made frame department and other assigned areas, including managing inventory through SISO (Sell In, Sell Out) and Directed Replenishment processes.
• Deliver friendly and helpful customer service, assisting customers with product location and providing creative design advice for their framing projects.
• Follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and Company programs related to retail operations and customer interactions.
• Support shrink prevention and safety programs to maintain a secure and compliant work environment.
• Interact with colleagues and customers in an accepting and respectful manner, maintaining a positive and respectful attitude in all situations.
• Promote commitment to the organization’s vision and values, serving as a positive role model for others.
• Participate in the truck un-load and stocking processes, ensuring adherence to standards and timely completion within budget.
• Operate the cash register accurately and execute cash handling procedures according to standards.
• Acknowledge customers promptly, assist them in locating products, and provide solutions to their creative and framing needs.
• Assist with Omni channel processes, supporting seamless customer experiences across different retail platforms.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: No specific educational requirements are mentioned, but a background or interest in art, design, or crafting would be beneficial for understanding customer needs and providing creative framing solutions.

Experience: Entry-level experience (0-2 years) is indicated. Previous retail experience and experience selling products or services to customers are preferred, highlighting the importance of customer interaction and sales skills within the design context of this role. A portfolio showcasing creative projects or attention to detail, even from personal endeavors, could be advantageous.

Required Skills:

• Basic computer skills for order processing and inventory management.
• Basic measuring skills for accurate framing design and execution.
• Ability to operate framing equipment and glass cutter safely and effectively.
• Strong customer service skills to build relationships and assist shoppers.
• Ability to follow Standard Operating Procedures and company policies.

Preferred Skills:

• Retail experience, demonstrating familiarity with a customer-facing environment.
• Experience selling products and/or services, particularly in a creative or retail setting.
• Knowledge of art materials, framing techniques, or design principles.

🎨 Portfolio & Creative Requirements

Portfolio Essentials: While a formal design portfolio isn't explicitly required for this entry-level role, demonstrating creativity and attention to detail is key. Candidates could showcase personal projects, examples of handcrafted items, or even before-and-after photos of framing projects they've completed (if applicable) to illustrate their aesthetic sense and technical ability.

Process Documentation: For this role, process documentation would focus less on traditional design thinking frameworks and more on demonstrating a methodical approach to custom framing. This could include explaining how you would consult with a customer, select appropriate materials (matting, frame style, glass), and ensure the final product meets their vision and preserves their artwork. Highlighting your ability to listen to customer needs and translate them into a tangible creative solution is valuable.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $19.10 - $22.20 per hour (CAD). This range is provided in the original job description and reflects the standard hourly wage for this role in the specified location. Based on the cost of living and retail wages in Kelowna, BC, this range appears competitive for an entry-level part-time position in the retail sector with a specialized skill component like framing.

Benefits:

• Health Insurance (Medical, Dental, and Vision): Available for eligible part-time team members.
• Paid Time Off: Accrued based on hours worked, providing flexibility for personal needs.
• Tuition Assistance: Support for continuing education, potentially relevant for those pursuing design or art-related studies.
• Generous Employee Discounts: Significant discounts on Michaels products, beneficial for personal creative projects and understanding product offerings.

Working Hours: This is a part-time position. Specific working hours will vary based on business needs and may include nights, weekends, and early mornings, common in a retail creative environment.

🎯Team & Company Context

🏢 Company & Design Culture

Industry: Retail - Arts and Crafts. Michaels is the leading creative destination in North America, providing a wide range of products for various creative pursuits, including custom framing services.

Company Size: Large (10,001+ employees globally, with 16,982 on LinkedIn). This indicates a well-established company with structured processes and potential for internal movement, even in part-time roles.

Founded: 1973. With a long history, Michaels has a strong foundation in the arts and crafts market.

Team Structure: Within a Michaels store, the framing team typically operates as a dedicated department. Framers report to a Custom Framing Manager or Store Manager. Collaboration with other store team members is essential for providing a seamless customer experience.

Methodology: While not explicitly a design methodology in the traditional sense, the custom framing process at Michaels involves a form of user-centered design. It starts with understanding the customer's artwork and vision (research), followed by selecting materials and designing the frame (ideation), and finally executing the framing (creation) to meet their specific needs (validation).

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

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Design Career Level: This is an entry-level position focused on the practical application of framing techniques and customer service within a retail design context. It's a foundational role for those interested in custom framing or potentially moving into other areas of creative retail.

Reporting Structure: Typically reports to the Custom Framing Manager or Store Manager, providing direct guidance and support within the framing department.

Design Impact: The design impact in this role is direct and tangible. Framers directly influence how a customer's artwork is presented and preserved, contributing to the aesthetic outcome and customer satisfaction. Their creative choices in matting, frame selection, and layout significantly affect the final product.

Growth Opportunities:

• Advancement within the Custom Framing department to roles with more responsibility or specialization.
• Opportunities to learn advanced framing techniques and work with more complex projects.
• Potential to move into leadership roles within the framing department or the broader retail store management.
• Developing expertise in specific areas like conservation framing or specialty materials.

🌐 Work Environment

Studio Type: Retail Store Setting. The work is performed within the public area of a Michaels retail store, primarily in the dedicated Custom Framing department.

Office Location(s): Kelowna-1500 Banks Rd Unit 100, Kelowna, BC, Canada. This is the specific store location for this position.

Design Workspace Context:

• The framing workspace is a dedicated area within the store, equipped with specialized tools and materials for cutting, assembling, and finishing frames.
• It's a hands-on environment requiring attention to detail and precision.
• Interaction is frequent with customers and colleagues within the store.

Work Schedule: Part-time hours, which may include evenings, weekends, and holidays, typical for a retail environment. Flexibility in scheduling may be available depending on business needs and individual availability.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Design Interview Process: For this role, the interview process will likely focus on assessing customer service skills, attention to detail, basic measurement and computer skills, and the ability to learn and follow procedures. Questions may revolve around past retail experience, handling customer interactions, and demonstrating a methodical approach to tasks. While not a traditional design review, be prepared to discuss any personal creative projects or experiences that highlight your aesthetic sense and precision.

Portfolio Review Tips: As mentioned, a formal portfolio isn't required. However, if you have personal projects involving crafting, visual organization, or detailed work, be prepared to discuss them. Highlight your process, attention to detail, and the satisfaction you derive from creating a finished product.

Challenge Preparation: While a formal "design challenge" is unlikely, you might be asked to demonstrate basic measuring skills or discuss how you would approach a hypothetical customer framing request. Focus on articulating a logical step-by-step process and demonstrating a customer-friendly approach.

ATS Keywords: Customer Service, Framing, Custom Framing, Retail, Sales, Cash Handling, Basic Computer Skills, Measuring Skills, Art, Crafts, Creative, Attention to Detail, Communication, Problem-Solving, Teamwork, Visual Merchandising, Inventory Management, Stocking, SOPs, Safety, Quality, Precision, Hands-on, Part-Time, Kelowna, British Columbia, Canada.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Design Tools:

• Framing Equipment: Including mat cutters, glass cutters, frame joiners, and other specialized tools for custom framing. Proficiency will be developed through training.
• Measuring Tools: Rulers, tape measures, and potentially digital measuring devices for precise cuts and assembly.

Collaboration & Handoff:

• Point of Sale (POS) System: Used for processing orders, managing transactions, and potentially accessing customer information.
• Internal Communication Tools: Likely involves in-store communication systems or company-specific platforms for coordinating with colleagues.

Research & Testing:

• Customer Consultation: The primary "research" tool, involving active listening and questioning to understand customer needs and preferences.
• Visual Aids: Utilizing sample frames, mat boards, and glass options to help customers visualize potential framing solutions.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Design Values:

• Customer Focus: Prioritizing understanding customer needs and delivering framing solutions that exceed expectations.
• Quality Craftsmanship: Emphasizing precision, attention to detail, and the creation of durable and aesthetically pleasing frames.
• Creativity: Encouraging innovative approaches to framing design and helping customers explore different options.
• Teamwork: Collaborating with colleagues to ensure a smooth and positive customer experience throughout the store.

Collaboration Style:

• Direct and In-Person: Primarily involves face-to-face interaction with customers and colleagues within the store environment.
• Supportive: Team members likely support each other in completing tasks and handling busy periods.
• Customer-Centric: Collaboration revolves around providing the best possible service and creative solutions to customers.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Design Challenges:

• Balancing customer preferences with practical framing considerations and material availability.
• Handling delicate or unique artwork that requires specialized framing techniques.
• Managing multiple framing orders simultaneously while maintaining quality and timeliness.
• Staying updated on new framing materials, techniques, and design trends.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Hands-on training in various framing techniques and the use of specialized equipment.
• Opportunities to develop expertise in color theory, design principles, and art preservation as they relate to framing.
• Gaining valuable customer service and sales experience in a creative retail environment.

💡 Interview Preparation

Design Process Questions:

• Describe a time you helped someone choose a creative solution for a project. (Focus on listening and problem-solving).
• How would you approach a customer who is unsure about how to frame their artwork? (Highlight your consultation process).
• Explain a time you had to be very precise and detail-oriented in a task. (Relate to measuring and cutting).

Company Culture Questions:

• What interests you about working at Michaels and in the custom framing department? (Show genuine interest in creativity and customer service).
• How do you handle working in a fast-paced environment with direct customer interaction? (Demonstrate composure and positive attitude).
• Describe a time you worked effectively as part of a team to achieve a goal. (Highlight collaboration skills).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy: If you choose to share any personal creative projects, focus on the "why" behind your choices, the process you followed, and the satisfaction of completing the project. Emphasize your attention to detail and ability to work with materials.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this design position:

• Submit your application through this link
• Review the job description carefully, paying attention to the required and preferred skills, particularly those related to measuring and basic computer use.
• Tailor your resume to highlight any retail experience, customer service roles, or instances where you demonstrated attention to detail and precision.
• If you have relevant personal creative projects, consider how you can mention them during the interview to showcase your aptitude for creative work and working with materials.
• Research Michaels and the types of products and services they offer, particularly in the custom framing department, to demonstrate your interest and understanding of the business.