Custom Framer
π Job Overview
Job Title: Custom Framer
Company: Michaels Stores
Location: Frisco, TX (5255 Eldorado Pkwy)
Job Type: Part-Time
Category: Retail Operations / Creative Services
Date Posted: October 5, 2025
Experience Level: Entry-Level to Junior (0-2 years)
Remote Status: On-site
π Role Summary
- Customer Engagement & Sales: Drive sales and build lasting customer relationships by offering personalized custom framing solutions and assisting with product discovery.
- Creative Solutions Provider: Utilize design skills and product knowledge to guide customers in selecting the perfect framing for their artwork and cherished items.
- Operational Excellence: Ensure efficient and high-quality completion of framing orders, adhering to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and production timelines.
- In-Store Merchandising & Operations: Maintain the visual appeal and organization of the custom framing department, ready-made frames, and other assigned store areas to enhance the customer shopping experience.
π Enhancement Note: While the primary focus is on customer interaction and creative framing solutions, the role also encompasses essential retail operations tasks such as inventory management, cash handling, and maintaining store standards. The "Elevated ABC Deliver" mentioned in the description likely refers to a specific customer service and sales methodology employed by Michaels to foster relationships and drive sales through personalized consultations.
π Primary Responsibilities
- Customer Consultation & Design:
- Engage customers proactively to understand their framing needs and aesthetic preferences for artwork, photos, and memorabilia.
- Utilize design principles and product knowledge to create compelling and high-quality custom framing proposals.
- Build strong customer relationships through attentive service and personalized recommendations, aiming to exceed expectations.
- Sales & Order Management:
- Meet or exceed personal sales and production goals for custom framing orders.
- Accurately process customer orders, including product selection, measurements, and pricing, utilizing point-of-sale (POS) systems.
- Ensure timely completion and delivery of all framing orders, maintaining a high standard of craftsmanship.
- Production & Quality Control:
- Operate framing equipment, including glass cutters and heat presses, safely and efficiently.
- Execute framing tasks with precision and attention to detail, ensuring the final product meets Michaels' quality standards.
- Maintain the cleanliness and organization of the framing work area and equipment.
- Store Operations & Merchandising:
- Manage the ready-made frame department, ensuring it is well-organized, stocked, and visually appealing.
- Support inventory management through accurate receiving, stocking, and replenishment processes, including participation in truck unloads.
- Assist with Omni-channel processes, such as buy online, pick up in-store (BOPIS) or ship-from-store.
- Customer Service & Store Standards:
- Provide friendly and helpful customer service throughout the store, assisting with product location and general inquiries.
- Maintain a safe, clean, and clutter-free environment for customers and team members.
- Adhere to all Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company policies, including shrink and safety programs.
π Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of sales, creative design, and operational execution. The emphasis on "Elevated ABC Deliver" suggests a structured approach to customer interaction that likely involves "Acknowledge, Build, Connect" or a similar framework focused on relationship building and consultative selling within the framing context.
π Skills & Qualifications
Education:
- High School Diploma or equivalent required.
Experience:
- 0-2 years of experience in a customer-facing role, with a focus on sales or creative services.
- Experience in a retail environment is highly preferred.
Required Skills:
- Customer Service Excellence: Ability to engage customers, understand their needs, and provide solutions with a positive and respectful attitude.
- Basic Measuring & Math Skills: Proficiency in taking accurate measurements and performing basic calculations for order processing.
- Basic Computer Proficiency: Familiarity with using computers for order entry, POS systems, and basic communication.
- Operational Adherence: Willingness and ability to follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company policies.
- Teamwork & Collaboration: Ability to work effectively with team members to achieve store goals.
- Problem-Solving: Capacity to address customer inquiries and operational challenges effectively.
Preferred Skills:
- Retail Sales Experience: Proven ability to sell products or services and meet sales targets.
- Framing Equipment Operation: Prior experience operating framing equipment, glass cutters, or heat presses.
- Design Acumen: An eye for aesthetics and an understanding of design principles relevant to framing and art presentation.
- Art & Craft Knowledge: Familiarity with art supplies, framing techniques, or creative projects.
π Enhancement Note: While formal education beyond high school is not explicitly required, the emphasis on "basic measuring skills" and the ability to operate equipment suggests a need for practical aptitude and a willingness to learn technical skills. The preference for retail sales experience indicates that candidates with a proven track record of driving revenue will be highly valued.
π Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements
Portfolio Essentials:
- While a formal portfolio isn't explicitly requested, candidates are encouraged to highlight any past projects or experiences that demonstrate their creative problem-solving, design sensibility, or customer solution-oriented approach. This could include examples of personal art projects, custom creations, or successful customer service interactions where they went above and beyond.
- Be prepared to discuss how you would approach a customer consultation for a custom framing project, showcasing your thought process for understanding needs and proposing solutions.
Process Documentation:
- Understanding and adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) are critical. Candidates should be ready to discuss their ability to learn and consistently apply established workflows for order taking, production, and customer service.
- Familiarity with or ability to quickly learn POS systems for order entry, payment processing, and inventory lookups.
π Enhancement Note: Since this is a primarily on-site, customer-facing role with an emphasis on practical skills, a formal design portfolio is likely secondary to demonstrated customer service ability and a willingness to learn specific framing processes and equipment. The interview will likely focus on behavioral questions related to problem-solving, customer interaction, and process adherence.
π΅ Compensation & Benefits
Salary Range:
- Based on the Part-Time nature of the role, entry-level experience, and retail industry standards for similar positions in the Frisco, TX area, the estimated hourly wage is expected to be between $13.00 - $17.00 per hour. This range can vary based on experience, specific skills demonstrated, and internal equity.
Benefits:
- Health Insurance: Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage options are available.
- Paid Time Off (PTO): Accrued paid time off for eligible team members.
- Tuition Assistance: Support for continuing education and skill development.
- Employee Discounts: Generous discounts on Michaels products and services.
- Other Benefits: Additional benefits may be available, as detailed on mikbenefits.com.
Working Hours:
- This is a Part-Time position. Specific hours will vary based on store needs and scheduling, which may include evenings, weekends, and early mornings. The role is on-site, requiring consistent physical presence during scheduled shifts.
π Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate based on current market data for similar entry-level retail positions in the Frisco, Texas area. Michaels typically offers a comprehensive benefits package for both full-time and part-time employees, with specific details available through their benefits portal.
π― Team & Company Context
π’ Company Culture
Industry: Arts and Crafts Retail. Michaels is the leading creative destination in North America, offering a wide range of art supplies, craft materials, home dΓ©cor, seasonal items, and custom framing services. Company Size: Large (Over 1,300 stores across North America). This indicates a structured corporate environment with established processes and a significant customer base. Founded: 1973, headquartered in Irving, Texas. Michaels has a long-standing history and a well-established brand presence.
Team Structure:
- Store-Level Operations: The Custom Framer will be part of a store team managed by store leadership (Store Manager, Assistant Store Manager).
- Departmental Focus: The role operates primarily within the Custom Framing department, requiring collaboration with other in-store associates.
- Cross-Functional Collaboration: While the primary interactions are within the store, there will be collaboration with other departments for general customer assistance, inventory management (e.g., receiving, stocking), and Omni-channel fulfillment.
Methodology:
- Customer-Centric Approach: Michaels emphasizes a customer-first philosophy, focusing on building relationships and providing solutions.
- Process-Driven Operations: Adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) is key for consistency, efficiency, and compliance across all stores.
- Data-Informed Decisions: While this role is hands-on, store-level operations are influenced by sales data, inventory levels, and performance metrics tracked by the company.
Company Website: https://www.michaels.com/
π Enhancement Note: Michaels' culture is built around creativity and community. For a Custom Framer, this translates to an environment where creativity is valued, customer interactions are central, and a collaborative spirit among store associates is encouraged to meet operational goals.
π Career & Growth Analysis
Operations Career Level: This role is positioned at the entry-level to junior stage within the retail operations and creative services spectrum. It's an excellent starting point for individuals interested in developing skills in customer service, sales, and hands-on creative production.
Reporting Structure: The Custom Framer typically reports to the Store Manager or an Assistant Store Manager, who oversees all store operations and personnel. Direct supervision will be provided for training and performance management.
Operations Impact: The Custom Framer directly impacts store revenue through sales of custom framing services and indirect impact through excellent customer service that encourages repeat business and positive word-of-mouth. Their ability to create compelling framing solutions and maintain department standards contributes to the overall customer experience and store profitability.
Growth Opportunities:
- Skill Development: Opportunity to become proficient in various framing techniques, material selection, and customer consultation.
- Advancement within Store: Potential to move into roles like Visual Merchandiser, Key Holder, or Assistant Store Manager within Michaels retail locations.
- Specialization: For those with a strong creative aptitude, there might be opportunities for further specialization within framing or related creative departments over time.
- Cross-Training: Possibility to gain experience in other store departments, broadening retail operational knowledge.
π Enhancement Note: Growth in this role is typically within the retail store hierarchy or through developing specialized craft and framing expertise. The company's emphasis on "fueling the joy of creativity" suggests that fostering passion and skill in creative areas is a key aspect of employee development.
π Work Environment
Office Type: This is a retail store environment. The primary workspace will be the sales floor and the dedicated Custom Framing department, which includes a production area with specialized equipment. Office Location(s): Frisco, TX (5255 Eldorado Pkwy).
Workspace Context:
- Customer Interaction Hub: The framing department serves as a key point of customer interaction, requiring a balance between providing focused consultations and managing ongoing production tasks.
- Tools & Equipment: Access to framing machinery (glass cutters, heat presses), POS systems, and general retail store facilities. The framing area may involve working with sharp tools and machinery.
- Team Collaboration: Opportunities to collaborate with fellow store associates for customer assistance, inventory, and overall store upkeep. The environment requires adaptability to fluctuating customer traffic and team needs.
Work Schedule:
- Part-time schedule with varying hours, including nights, weekends, and potentially early mornings. Flexibility in scheduling is often a requirement for retail roles to meet business demands.
π Enhancement Note: The work environment is dynamic, requiring the ability to multitask between customer-facing sales and hands-on production. The framing shop itself may present unique environmental considerations due to the nature of the tools and materials used.
π Application & Portfolio Review Process
Interview Process:
- Initial Screening: May involve a brief phone or video call to assess basic qualifications and interest.
- In-Person Interview: Typically includes a one-on-one interview with the Store Manager or an Assistant Store Manager. This will likely cover behavioral questions, customer service scenarios, and an assessment of your understanding of the role and company.
- Skills Assessment: You may be asked to demonstrate basic measuring skills or discuss your approach to a framing consultation scenario.
- Store Tour/Observation: You might be given a brief tour of the store and framing department.
Portfolio Review Tips:
- Showcase Relevant Skills: Since a formal portfolio isn't required, be prepared to verbally highlight experiences that demonstrate your customer service skills, problem-solving abilities, and any creative or hands-on project experience.
- Framing Consultation Scenarios: Practice articulating how you would guide a customer through the framing process β from understanding their vision to suggesting materials and finalizing the order. Think about how you'd handle common customer objections or questions.
- Highlight Retail Acumen: If you have previous retail experience, be ready to discuss your contributions to sales, customer satisfaction, and store operations.
Challenge Preparation:
- Customer Service Scenarios: Prepare for questions like "How would you handle a dissatisfied customer?" or "Describe a time you went above and beyond for a customer."
- Problem-Solving Questions: Be ready to discuss how you would address a situation where a customer is unsure about framing options or how you would manage multiple tasks during a busy period.
- Company Knowledge: Research Michaels' mission, values, and product offerings. Understand their commitment to creativity and customer service.
π Enhancement Note: The interview process will likely focus on assessing your "soft skills" β customer service, communication, problem-solving, and a positive attitude β as well as your practical aptitude for the role's technical and creative aspects. Demonstrating enthusiasm for art, crafts, and helping customers realize their creative visions will be beneficial.
π Tools & Technology Stack
Primary Tools:
- Point-of-Sale (POS) System: For processing sales, managing customer orders, and handling cash transactions.
- Measuring Tools: Rulers, tape measures, calipers for accurate framing measurements.
- Framing Equipment:
- Glass Cutter: For precise cutting of glass or acrylic.
- Heat Press: Used in some framing processes for mounting or finishing.
- Mat Cutters: For creating custom mats for artwork.
- Frame Assembly Tools: Saws, joiners, staplers, and other tools for assembling frames.
- Computer/Tablet: For accessing order systems, company information, and potentially design software.
Analytics & Reporting:
- While the Custom Framer may not directly use advanced analytics tools, they will work within a system that tracks sales performance, order volume, and production efficiency at the store level. Understanding how their performance contributes to these metrics is important.
CRM & Automation:
- The POS system likely has basic CRM functionalities for tracking customer purchase history and contact information to facilitate repeat business and loyalty.
π Enhancement Note: Proficiency with basic computer skills and an ability to quickly learn new software and equipment are essential. The role requires hands-on operation of specialized framing tools, so a willingness to learn and a focus on safety are paramount.
π₯ Team Culture & Values
Operations Values:
- Creativity: A core value at Michaels, encouraging innovation and artistic expression in customer solutions and personal work.
- Customer Focus: Prioritizing customer satisfaction through helpful service, personalized consultations, and quality product delivery.
- Teamwork: Working collaboratively with colleagues to achieve store objectives, support each other, and create a positive work environment.
- Integrity: Upholding company standards, ethical practices, and honest communication in all interactions.
- Passion for Craft: A genuine interest in arts, crafts, and the creative process is often shared among team members.
Collaboration Style:
- Service-Oriented: Associates are expected to support each other in serving customers, whether it's helping locate items, processing transactions, or assisting with framing consultations.
- Process Adherence: Collaboration often involves ensuring that all team members are following company SOPs for a consistent and efficient operation.
- Knowledge Sharing: Team members are encouraged to share product knowledge, sales techniques, and operational tips to improve overall store performance.
π Enhancement Note: Michaels aims to foster a culture where creativity is celebrated and employees feel empowered to help customers bring their creative visions to life. This translates to a work environment that values helpfulness, collaboration, and a shared passion for the arts and crafts.
β‘ Challenges & Growth Opportunities
Challenges:
- Balancing Sales and Production: Effectively managing customer consultations, order taking, and timely production within a single role can be demanding.
- Customer Expectations: Meeting diverse customer needs and aesthetic preferences, some of which may be complex or require creative problem-solving.
- Learning Curve for Equipment: Mastering the operation and maintenance of specialized framing equipment safely and efficiently.
- Pace of Retail: Adapting to busy periods, fluctuating customer traffic, and the need to multitask effectively.
Learning & Development Opportunities:
- Framing Expertise: Deepen knowledge of framing materials, techniques, design principles, and art conservation.
- Sales & Customer Service: Enhance consultative selling skills and customer relationship management.
- Product Knowledge: Expand understanding of Michaels' extensive product lines beyond framing.
- Operational Skills: Gain experience in inventory management, visual merchandising, and store operations.
- Potential Certifications: Opportunity to pursue further training or certifications related to framing or fine art handling.
π Enhancement Note: The challenges in this role are typical of hands-on, customer-facing retail positions, requiring adaptability and strong interpersonal skills. The growth opportunities focus on developing specialized craft skills and advancing within the retail operational structure.
π‘ Interview Preparation
Strategy Questions:
- Customer Approach: "How would you greet a customer entering the framing department?" "Describe your process for understanding a customer's vision for their artwork."
- Problem-Solving: "A customer is unhappy with a framing choice; how would you handle it?" "How would you manage your time if you had multiple framing orders due and a customer needed immediate assistance?"
- Sales & Consultation: "What steps would you take to upsell a customer on premium framing materials?" "How would you explain the difference between various glass options to a customer?"
Company & Culture Questions:
- "Why are you interested in working for Michaels?"
- "What does 'fueling the joy of creativity' mean to you?"
- "How do you handle working as part of a team?"
- "Describe your experience with customer service in a retail setting."
Portfolio Presentation Strategy:
- Verbal Case Studies: Be ready to describe specific instances where you successfully helped a customer with a creative project or solved a challenging customer service issue.
- Framing Consultation Walkthrough: Articulate your step-by-step approach to helping a customer select a frame for a hypothetical piece of art (e.g., a valuable painting, a child's drawing, a family photo). Discuss material selection, matting, glass types, and final presentation.
- Highlighting Practical Skills: If you have any experience with tools or crafts, be prepared to discuss your comfort level and willingness to learn the specific equipment used in framing.
π Enhancement Note: Focus on demonstrating your passion for creativity, your ability to connect with customers, and your commitment to quality and process. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for behavioral questions.
π Application Steps
To apply for this Custom Framer position:
- Submit your application through the provided link on the Michaels Careers portal.
- Resume Customization: Tailor your resume to highlight customer service, sales experience, any creative/craft experience, and your ability to learn new skills and follow procedures. Quantify achievements where possible (e.g., "Increased framing sales by X% through consultative selling").
- Prepare Your Narrative: Be ready to verbally walk through your resume and any relevant project experience that showcases your suitability for this role.
- Research Michaels: Familiarize yourself with Michaels' mission, values, product offerings, and their emphasis on creativity and customer experience.
- Practice Interview Responses: Prepare answers to common interview questions related to customer service, sales, problem-solving, and teamwork. Consider how you would approach a framing consultation.
β οΈ 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.
Application Requirements
Basic computer and measuring skills are required, along with the ability to operate framing equipment. Retail experience and the ability to provide friendly customer service are preferred.