Custom Framer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Custom Framer Company: Michaels Stores Location: Princeton, New Jersey, United States Job Type: PART_TIME Category: Retail Operations / Sales Date Posted: October 13, 2025 Experience Level: Entry-Level (0-2 years) Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Drive customer engagement and build lasting relationships by delivering exceptional custom framing solutions and personalized design advice.
• Ensure operational efficiency and adherence to company standards through meticulous order fulfillment and maintaining a well-organized, safe, and visually appealing retail environment.
• Execute sales targets and production goals by leveraging elevated selling techniques and providing a comprehensive customer experience, from initial consultation to final product delivery.
• Contribute to overall store success by actively participating in inventory management, visual merchandising, and omni-channel processes, ensuring a seamless shopping experience for every customer.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a customer-facing, sales-oriented position within a retail environment, focusing on specialized custom framing services. While not a traditional "Revenue Operations" or "Sales Operations" role in the B2B SaaS sense, it requires operational execution at the store level to drive revenue and customer satisfaction. The emphasis on sales, customer relationships, and operational adherence aligns with the core principles of efficient Go-To-Market (GTM) execution.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Customer Relationship Management & Sales:
  • Proactively engage with customers to understand their framing needs and preferences, acting as a trusted design consultant.
  • Utilize elevated selling techniques and the "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodology to build rapport, identify opportunities, and close custom framing sales.
  • Provide expert advice on frame selection, matting, glass options, and design principles to create memorable and high-quality framing solutions.
  • Achieve and exceed personal sales and production targets for custom framing orders.
• Order Fulfillment & Quality Assurance:
  • Accurately measure, cut, assemble, and finish custom framing orders according to standard operating procedures (SOPs) and quality standards.
  • Ensure all framing orders are completed on time and meet the highest quality benchmarks, minimizing errors and rework.
  • Operate and maintain framing equipment, including glass cutters and heat presses, safely and efficiently.
• Store Operations & Merchandising:
  • Maintain the ready-made frame department, including Single Item, Single Order (SISO) and directed replenishment processes, ensuring product availability and visual appeal.
  • Uphold store presentation standards by maintaining a safe, clean, and clutter-free environment in both the sales floor and the framing area.
  • Assist with truck unloads and stocking processes, adhering to truck standards and ensuring efficient inventory management.
• Customer Service & Omni-Channel Support:
  • Deliver friendly and helpful customer service, assisting shoppers in locating products and providing solutions to their creative needs.
  • Operate the cash register, execute cash handling procedures accurately, and process various payment types.
  • Support omni-channel processes, such as buy online, pick up in-store (BOPIS) or ship-from-store, ensuring a cohesive customer journey.
• Compliance & Safety:
  • Adhere to all Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company programs to ensure compliance with applicable laws and requirements.
  • Actively participate in and support shrink and safety programs, maintaining a secure and accident-free work environment.
  • Interact positively and respectfully with colleagues and management, promoting organizational values and serving as a role model.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of direct sales, skilled craftsmanship, and general retail operations. For an operations-focused candidate, the ability to document and optimize the framing order process, improve production efficiency, and contribute to inventory accuracy would be key areas to focus on in their portfolio.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• High school diploma or equivalent is typically expected for entry-level retail positions.

Experience:

• 0-2 years of experience in a customer-facing role, preferably within a retail or service environment.
• Demonstrated ability to learn and apply new skills, particularly in crafting or technical areas.

Required Skills:

• Customer Service Excellence: Proven ability to engage customers, understand their needs, and provide solutions that exceed expectations.
• Basic Computer Proficiency: Ability to perform basic computer tasks, likely related to point-of-sale (POS) systems, order entry, or inventory lookup.
• Measuring & Calculation Skills: Fundamental ability to measure accurately and perform basic calculations for framing projects.
• Operational Adherence: Willingness and ability to follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company guidelines for sales, production, and safety.
• Teamwork & Collaboration: Ability to work effectively with colleagues to achieve common goals and support store operations.
• Positive Attitude & Professionalism: Maintaining a respectful, positive, and encouraging demeanor, even in challenging situations.
• Safety Awareness: Commitment to following safety protocols to ensure a secure work environment for oneself and others.

Preferred Skills:

• Retail Sales Experience: Prior experience in a retail sales environment, with a track record of meeting sales targets.
• Product/Service Sales Experience: Experience in selling tangible products or specialized services, demonstrating an understanding of consultative selling.
• Artistic Aptitude/Interest: A genuine interest in art, design, and creative projects, which can enhance customer consultations and framing recommendations.
• Experience with Framing Equipment: Familiarity with operating machinery or tools used in custom framing.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the required skills are foundational, candidates with a background in operations would excel by framing their experience in terms of process efficiency, data accuracy, and customer journey optimization, even within a retail context. Highlighting any experience with workflow improvements or quality control would be beneficial.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Process Improvement Case Studies: Showcase instances where you identified an operational inefficiency (e.g., in order taking, production flow, inventory management) and implemented a solution that led to tangible improvements in speed, accuracy, or customer satisfaction.
• Metrics & Outcome Documentation: For each case study, clearly articulate the key performance indicators (KPIs) used to measure success and present the quantifiable results achieved (e.g., reduction in order errors by X%, increase in production throughput by Y%, improvement in customer feedback scores).
• System Application Examples: If applicable, provide examples of how you utilized specific systems (POS, inventory management, CRM if a retail version exists) to streamline processes, manage data, or enhance customer interactions within a sales or operational context.
• ROI Demonstration: For any process improvement initiatives, attempt to quantify the return on investment (ROI) in terms of cost savings, increased revenue, or improved operational efficiency.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Demonstrate an understanding of workflow design principles and how to map out existing processes, identify bottlenecks, and propose optimized workflows for tasks related to custom framing, order processing, or inventory management.
• Implementation & Automation: If possible, describe experiences in implementing new processes or leveraging tools/technology to automate manual tasks, thereby increasing efficiency and reducing the potential for human error.
• Measurement & Performance Analysis: Illustrate the ability to define, track, and analyze relevant operational metrics to monitor process performance, identify areas for continuous improvement, and report on outcomes to stakeholders.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a role like Custom Framer, a traditional "operations portfolio" might be less formal. However, candidates with operations backgrounds should frame their achievements using this structure. Focus on projects that demonstrate analytical thinking, problem-solving, and a results-oriented approach to operational tasks, even if they were informal improvements within a retail setting.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $16.50 - $19.40 per hour

Benefits:

• Health Insurance: Comprehensive coverage including medical, dental, and vision plans.
• Paid Time Off (PTO): Accrued time off for vacation, personal days, or sick leave.
• Tuition Assistance: Support for continuing education and professional development.
• Employee Discounts: Generous discounts on Michaels products and services.
• Other Benefits: May include retirement savings plans (e.g., 401k), employee assistance programs, and other perks as detailed by the company.

Working Hours:

• This is a PART_TIME position. Specific hours will vary and may include nights, weekends, and early mornings, as indicated by the retail operational needs of the store. Standard full-time hours are typically 40 per week, but part-time roles will be less.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is competitive for entry-level retail positions in the Princeton, New Jersey area. New Jersey generally has a higher cost of living and corresponding wage expectations compared to national averages. The benefits package is robust for a part-time retail role, particularly the tuition assistance and health insurance, which are valuable for ongoing professional development and well-being.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Retail (Arts and Crafts, Home Decor, Custom Framing) Company Size: Large (Michaels Stores operates over 1,300 stores in North America, employing thousands of individuals). Founded: 1973, with headquarters in Irving, Texas.

Team Structure:

• Store-Level Operations: This role is part of a local store team, typically including a Store Manager, Assistant Store Manager(s), Team Leads, and various specialized associates (e.g., Custom Framer, Cashiers, Sales Associates).
• Reporting Structure: The Custom Framer likely reports directly to a Store Manager or Assistant Store Manager, with potential oversight from a Custom Framing Manager or Lead if such a role exists at the specific location.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Collaboration is essential with all store associates to ensure seamless customer service, efficient operations, and effective inventory management across departments. The framing department works closely with sales associates who may refer customers for custom framing services.

Methodology:

• Customer-Centric Approach: Michaels emphasizes a customer-first approach, focusing on inspiring creativity and providing solutions for customers' artistic and crafting needs.
• Operational Excellence: Adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company programs is critical for consistent execution, quality control, and compliance across all stores.
• Data-Driven Insights (Store Level): While not as complex as in corporate operations, store-level decision-making is informed by sales data, inventory turnover, customer feedback, and performance against store targets.
• Process Optimization: Continuous efforts are made to streamline store operations, from stocking and merchandising to customer service and order fulfillment, to enhance efficiency and the customer experience.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Michaels positions itself as a "creative destination" with a purpose to "fuel the joy of creativity." This suggests a culture that values creativity, community, and customer inspiration. For an operations-minded individual, understanding how these values translate into daily store operations, customer interactions, and process execution is key.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents an entry-level position within a retail operations framework. It provides foundational experience in customer service, sales, product knowledge, and operational execution at the store level.

Reporting Structure: The Custom Framer typically reports to store management (e.g., Store Manager, Assistant Manager), who are responsible for overseeing daily operations, performance, and team development.

Operations Impact: While not directly managing large-scale revenue operations, the Custom Framer's impact is significant at the store level:

• Revenue Generation: Direct sales of custom framing services contribute directly to store revenue.
• Customer Loyalty: High-quality framing and excellent service can foster repeat business and customer loyalty, indirectly supporting ongoing sales across the store.
• Operational Efficiency: Efficient order processing and quality production minimize waste, reduce errors, and improve overall store productivity.
• Brand Representation: The Framer is a key representative of the Michaels brand, influencing customer perception of quality and service.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Develop advanced framing techniques, design consultation skills, and expertise in various framing materials and preservation methods.
• Retail Leadership: Potential to advance into roles such as Team Lead, Assistant Store Manager, or Store Manager, overseeing broader store operations and team management.
• Cross-Departmental Expertise: Gain experience in other store departments, leading to a more comprehensive understanding of retail operations and potentially transitioning into roles focused on visual merchandising, inventory management, or customer experience.
• Corporate Opportunities: With significant experience and demonstrated operational acumen, there could be opportunities within Michaels' corporate structure in areas like Merchandising, Operations Support, or Training, though this would likely require further education or specialized experience.

📝 Enhancement Note: For individuals with an operations background, this role can be a stepping stone to understanding the front-line execution of GTM strategies. Highlighting any contributions to process improvements or cross-functional collaboration within the store can demonstrate potential for higher-level operations roles.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Public Retail Store Setting. This role operates within a Michaels retail store, interacting directly with customers in a public-facing environment.

Office Location(s): The specific store is located at 300 Nassau Park Blvd, Princeton, New Jersey. This is a typical retail location, accessible to customers.

Workspace Context:

• Sales Floor Interaction: Significant time will be spent on the retail sales floor, assisting customers, maintaining displays, and managing inventory.
• Framing Department: A dedicated workspace within the store will be used for custom framing consultations, design, and production. This area will contain specialized equipment.
• Collaborative Environment: The work environment is highly collaborative, requiring constant interaction with fellow team members to support customer needs and operational tasks.
• Tools & Technology: Access to point-of-sale (POS) systems, basic computer terminals, and specialized framing equipment (e.g., glass cutter, mat cutter, heat press, potentially design software).

Work Schedule:

• The schedule is part-time and flexible, requiring availability for nights, weekends, and potentially early mornings to meet the operational demands of a retail environment. The specific hours will be determined based on store needs and employee availability.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is dynamic and customer-focused. For operations professionals, this setting offers a practical understanding of how customer-facing operations impact revenue and brand perception, contrasting with more analytical or strategic corporate operations roles.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Likely a brief phone or online screening to assess basic qualifications, availability, and interest.
• In-Person Interview: This will be the primary interview stage, conducted at the store. Expect a combination of behavioral and situational questions.
  • Behavioral Questions: Focus on past experiences related to customer service, teamwork, problem-solving, and handling challenging situations (e.g., "Tell me about a time you dealt with a difficult customer," "How do you prioritize tasks when multiple customers need assistance?").
  • Situational Questions: Present hypothetical scenarios to gauge problem-solving skills and decision-making abilities (e.g., "A customer is unhappy with their framing order; what steps would you take?").
  • Skills Assessment: May involve a demonstration of basic measuring skills or a discussion about your understanding of the framing process.
• Potential Second Interview: Depending on the store's management structure, there might be a brief follow-up with a higher-level manager.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Focus on Transferable Skills: Even without a formal operations portfolio, prepare to discuss projects or experiences that demonstrate your ability to manage processes, improve efficiency, or solve problems. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers.
• Quantify Achievements: Whenever possible, use numbers to illustrate the impact of your actions (e.g., "Reduced customer wait times by X% by implementing a new queue system," "Improved accuracy of inventory counts by Y% through a new checking process").
• Showcase Operational Mindset: Frame your experiences in terms of efficiency, accuracy, customer satisfaction, and contribution to business goals. For instance, if you improved stockroom organization, explain how it led to faster product retrieval and reduced errors.
• Demonstrate Problem-Solving: Be ready to walk through a specific problem you encountered and the steps you took to resolve it, highlighting your analytical and decision-making process.

Challenge Preparation:

• Customer Scenario Role-Play: Be prepared for a brief role-play where you might simulate a customer interaction, such as handling an inquiry about custom framing or resolving a complaint.
• Task Prioritization: You might be asked how you would prioritize tasks if faced with multiple customer requests, order deadlines, and stocking duties simultaneously. Your answer should reflect an understanding of urgency and importance.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates with a strong operations background should leverage their experience by framing retail responsibilities through an operational lens. Emphasize any experience with process documentation, efficiency improvements, or data analysis, even if it was in a different context.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Point of Sale (POS) System: For processing transactions, managing customer orders, and potentially basic inventory lookup.
• Custom Framing Software/Equipment: Specialized tools for design, measurement, cutting (e.g., mat cutters, glass cutters), and assembly of frames. This may include design software for visualizing frame options.
• Basic Computer Systems: For accessing internal company portals, training modules, or communication.

Analytics & Reporting:

• POS Reporting: Basic sales reports generated from the POS system to track individual and store performance.
• Inventory Management Systems: Tools for tracking stock levels, managing reorders, and potentially conducting cycle counts or physical inventories.

CRM & Automation:

• Customer Relationship Management (CRM) - Store Level: Potentially a basic CRM integrated with the POS system to track customer purchase history, contact information, and framing preferences, facilitating personalized service and repeat business.
• Internal Communication Tools: Company-specific platforms for team communication, task assignment, and policy dissemination.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency with POS systems and specialized retail equipment is key. For candidates with operations experience, highlighting any experience with inventory management software, CRM systems (even basic ones), or process automation tools will be highly relevant.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Customer Focus: Prioritizing the customer experience and striving to meet their creative needs with enthusiasm and expertise.
• Creativity & Inspiration: Fostering an environment that encourages creativity, both for customers and team members, and actively participating in the "joy of creativity."
• Quality & Craftsmanship: A commitment to delivering high-quality custom framing solutions that meet customer expectations and company standards.
• Efficiency & Productivity: Striving for operational efficiency in all tasks, from customer service to order fulfillment, to maximize productivity and support store goals.
• Teamwork & Support: Working collaboratively with colleagues, offering assistance, and contributing to a positive and supportive team dynamic.
• Accountability: Taking ownership of responsibilities, from individual sales targets to maintaining store standards, and demonstrating reliability.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Interaction: Regular collaboration with all store associates is essential to ensure a seamless customer experience, from initial sales inquiries to order pick-up.
• Feedback Exchange: An open environment for sharing feedback on processes, customer interactions, and operational challenges to drive continuous improvement.
• Knowledge Sharing: Team members are encouraged to share best practices, product knowledge, and operational tips to enhance overall team performance.
• Customer-Centric Problem Solving: A collaborative approach to resolving customer issues, ensuring that the customer's needs are met while adhering to company policies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's stated values ("fuel the joy of creativity," "best place for all things creative") suggest a culture that blends passion for the arts with the practicalities of retail operations. Candidates should demonstrate how their operational skills support these creative and customer-centric values.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Multiple Demands: Juggling customer interactions on the sales floor, custom framing consultations, production tasks, and general store operational duties simultaneously.
• Maintaining Quality at Speed: Ensuring high-quality framing work while meeting production deadlines in a fast-paced retail environment.
• Managing Customer Expectations: Effectively communicating timelines, costs, and capabilities to customers to ensure satisfaction with custom framing projects.
• Adapting to Seasonal Peaks: Handling increased customer traffic and order volumes during peak retail seasons (holidays, back-to-school) while maintaining service levels.
• Continuous Learning: Keeping up-to-date with new framing materials, design trends, and company SOPs.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Framing Craftsmanship: Deepen expertise in custom framing techniques, materials, and design principles through on-the-job training and potential workshops.
• Sales & Customer Engagement: Develop advanced consultative selling skills and techniques for building customer loyalty and driving sales in a creative retail setting.
• Operational Process Improvement: Identify opportunities to contribute to more efficient store operations, potentially by suggesting improvements to workflow, inventory management, or customer service processes.
• Retail Management Skills: For those aspiring to leadership, opportunities exist to learn about team management, merchandising, inventory control, and financial performance through mentorship and potential advancement.
• Industry Exposure: Gain firsthand experience in the arts and crafts retail sector, understanding consumer trends and product lifecycles.

📝 Enhancement Note: Operations professionals can frame these challenges as opportunities to apply their problem-solving and process optimization skills. For example, balancing demands can be tackled with better task prioritization and workflow management.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Operations & Process Focus:
  • "Describe a time you had to manage multiple tasks with competing deadlines. How did you prioritize, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on your prioritization and time management methods).
  • "How would you ensure accuracy and quality when fulfilling a custom framing order, considering potential distractions in a retail environment?" (Highlight your attention to detail and process adherence).
  • "If you noticed an inefficiency in how framing orders are processed or tracked, what steps would you take to address it?" (Demonstrate initiative and a problem-solving mindset, even if you can't implement changes immediately).
• Customer & Sales Focus:
  • "How would you approach a customer who is unsure about their framing choices for a valuable piece of art?" (Showcase consultative selling and customer-centric problem-solving).
  • "Describe a situation where you had to handle an unhappy customer regarding a product or service. What was your approach, and what was the resolution?" (Emphasize empathy, active listening, and constructive problem-solving).
  • "How do you approach upselling or cross-selling in a retail environment, particularly for custom services like framing?" (Focus on identifying customer needs and offering relevant solutions).
• Team & Culture Focus:
  • "What does 'teamwork' mean to you in a retail setting, and how do you contribute to a positive team environment?" (Highlight collaboration and support for colleagues).
  • "How do you stay motivated and maintain a positive attitude during busy or challenging shifts?" (Show your resilience and commitment).

Company & Culture Questions:

• Research Michaels: Understand their mission ("fuel the joy of creativity"), product offerings, and target customer. Be prepared to articulate why you are interested in working for Michaels specifically.
• Values Alignment: Think about how your own work ethic and values align with Michaels' emphasis on creativity, customer service, and community.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Focus on Transferable Skills: If you have no formal portfolio, prepare to verbally present 1-2 key projects or experiences that demonstrate your operational skills. Use the STAR method.
• Quantify Your Impact: For any past roles, highlight achievements with numbers (e.g., "Implemented a new filing system that reduced retrieval time by 20%," "Contributed to a project that increased customer satisfaction scores by 15%").
• Problem-Solution-Result: Structure your examples around a problem you identified, the solution you proposed or implemented, and the positive results achieved.
• Tailor to the Role: Emphasize how your skills in organization, efficiency, problem-solving, and customer focus are directly applicable to the Custom Framer role.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interviewers will look for candidates who can not only perform the technical aspects of framing but also embody the customer-centric and creative spirit of Michaels while applying a disciplined, operations-minded approach to their daily tasks.

📌 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 customer service, sales experience, any craft or technical skills, and any experience in operational roles (e.g., inventory management, process improvement, efficiency gains). Use keywords from the job description.
• Portfolio Preparation (Verbal/Written): Prepare to discuss specific examples of your problem-solving abilities, process improvement contributions, and customer service successes. If you have a formal portfolio, ensure it clearly showcases your operational projects with quantifiable results.
• Interview Practice: Rehearse answers to common retail and behavioral interview questions, focusing on demonstrating your customer engagement skills, operational discipline, and ability to work in a team-oriented environment. Practice articulating your achievements using the STAR method.
• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Michaels' brand, products, and mission. Understand the importance of the custom framing department to the overall store experience and revenue.

⚠️ 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.