Custom Framer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Custom Framer Company: Michaels Stores Location: Holly Springs, North Carolina Job Type: PART_TIME Category: Retail Operations / Customer Service Date Posted: 2025-09-24 Experience Level: Entry Level (0-2 years) Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Provide exceptional customer service by building relationships and offering tailored custom framing solutions to meet artistic and decorative needs.
• Execute custom framing orders with a focus on high-quality craftsmanship and timely delivery, adhering to established Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
• Manage and maintain the ready-made frame department and other assigned retail areas, ensuring visual merchandising standards and stock replenishment are met.
• Operate point-of-sale systems, handle cash transactions accurately, and support omnichannel processes to enhance the customer shopping experience.
• Contribute to a safe, clean, and well-organized store environment, actively participating in operational tasks such as truck unloads and stocking.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the job title is "Custom Framer," the responsibilities extend beyond just framing. The role integrates customer service, sales, retail operations, and inventory management, aligning it with broader retail operations functions. The emphasis on building relationships and providing solutions suggests a consultative sales approach within the framing department.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Engage customers by building rapport, understanding their needs, and providing expert consultation on custom framing solutions using the "Elevated ABC Deliver" approach to drive sales and production.
• Accurately measure artwork and select appropriate framing materials (mats, frames, glass, backing) to create custom solutions that meet customer expectations and quality standards.
• Operate specialized framing equipment, including mat cutters, framing tools, and potentially heat presses or glass cutters, safely and efficiently.
• Complete custom framing orders within designated timelines, ensuring high-quality construction and presentation, and manage order fulfillment processes.
• Maintain the visual presentation and stock levels of the ready-made frame department, including executing SISO (Shop In-Store Only) and Directed Replenishment tasks.
• Assist customers with locating products, answering inquiries, and providing solutions to enhance their shopping experience within the retail environment.
• Process customer transactions accurately at the cash register, adhering to all cash handling and payment processing procedures.
• Support and participate in inventory management processes, including truck unloads, stocking shelves, and maintaining organized backstock areas, adhering to company SOPs.
• Uphold safety and loss prevention programs by following established procedures and maintaining a secure work environment.
• Collaborate effectively with team members, demonstrating respect, positivity, and a commitment to organizational values and goals.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of technical framing skills, customer-facing sales and service, and fundamental retail operations. The mention of "Elevated ABC Deliver" suggests a specific customer engagement methodology that candidates should research. "SISO" and "Directed Replenishment" are key retail operational terms indicating a focus on inventory accuracy and sales-driven stocking.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• High school diploma or equivalent is generally expected for entry-level retail roles, though not explicitly stated.

Experience:

• 0-2 years of experience in a retail or customer-facing role is preferred, with a focus on sales and service.
• Demonstrated ability to learn and operate specialized equipment and tools.

Required Skills:

• Basic computer skills for point-of-sale systems and potential inventory management software.
• Basic measuring skills to accurately assess artwork dimensions and framing requirements.
• Ability to operate framing equipment and a glass cutter safely and effectively.
• Strong customer service aptitude, with a focus on building relationships and providing solutions.
• Proficiency in cash handling and point-of-sale operations.
• Ability to work collaboratively within a team environment and communicate effectively.

Preferred Skills:

• Prior retail sales experience, particularly in consultative selling or custom product environments.
• Experience in selling products or services directly to customers, demonstrating persuasive and solution-oriented communication.
• Familiarity with art, design principles, or framing techniques would be advantageous.
• Experience with visual merchandising and maintaining store appearance standards.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "minimum type of experience" focuses on foundational technical skills for framing, while "preferred experience" leans towards customer interaction and sales. Candidates with even limited experience in customer service or sales can leverage this section. Highlighting any experience with custom orders or consultative sales will be beneficial.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• While a formal portfolio is not typically required for this entry-level role, candidates can demonstrate their understanding of process through examples of past work or projects.
• Showcase examples of customer interaction where you identified needs and provided effective solutions, demonstrating a consultative approach.
• If applicable, present any projects involving custom creation, assembly, or detailed work that required precision and adherence to specifications.
• Highlight instances where you managed inventory, organized workspaces, or improved efficiency in a previous role.

Process Documentation:

• Understanding and adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) is critical for this role.
• Ability to follow documented processes for framing order creation, production, and completion.
• Experience in maintaining organized workspaces and executing stock management processes according to company guidelines.
• Familiarity with cash handling protocols and point-of-sale transaction workflows.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an entry-level role like this, a formal portfolio isn't expected. However, candidates should be prepared to discuss their understanding of following processes and procedures. Referencing SOPs and demonstrating a commitment to quality and organization in their responses will be key.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on industry standards for part-time retail associates in Holly Springs, NC, with framing responsibilities, the estimated hourly wage would typically fall between $11.00 - $15.00 per hour. This range can vary based on specific experience and performance during the interview process.

Benefits:

• Health Insurance (Medical, Dental, and Vision) for eligible team members.
• Paid Time Off (PTO) accrual, providing flexibility for personal needs.
• Tuition Assistance programs to support ongoing education and skill development.
• Generous Employee Discounts on Michaels products and services, fostering a connection to the creative offerings.
• Access to other benefits as detailed on mikbenefits.com.

Working Hours:

• This is a PART_TIME position. Actual hours will vary based on business needs and scheduling, potentially including nights, weekends, and early mornings, as stated in the work environment section. The job description mentions "working hours include nights, weekends and early mornings," implying flexibility is needed.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided data states "40" for ai_working_hours, which is unusual for a PART_TIME role. This is likely a data artifact. The description explicitly states PART_TIME, so the compensation and hours should reflect that. A typical part-time retail role would not guarantee 40 hours. The salary estimate is based on typical retail associate wages in the specified region.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Arts and Crafts Retail. Michaels is the leading creative destination in North America, offering a wide range of supplies for various art, craft, and home decor projects. Company Size: Over 1,300 stores in the US and Canada, indicating a large, established retail organization. This size means structured operational processes and potential for diverse team interactions. Founded: 1973. With a long history, Michaels has established brand recognition and a strong presence in the creative retail market.

Team Structure:

• The Custom Framer will likely be part of a store-level team, reporting to a Store Manager or Assistant Store Manager, with potential direct supervision from a Framing Department Manager or lead.
• Collaboration will occur with fellow sales associates, cashiers, and other specialized roles within the store.
• Cross-functional interaction is expected with customers, and potentially with corporate support for operational or HR matters.

Methodology:

• Emphasis on customer relationship building and consultative sales ("Elevated ABC Deliver").
• Adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for all tasks, from framing to operations.
• Focus on visual merchandising and maintaining store standards for an appealing shopping environment.
• Data-driven approaches are implied through sales targets and inventory management.

Company Website: www.michaels.com

📝 Enhancement Note: Michaels' "purpose is to fuel the joy of creativity." This suggests a culture that values creativity, passion, and customer engagement. The company's size implies established operational frameworks and opportunities for learning standardized processes.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Entry-Level Retail Associate. This role serves as a foundational position within the retail operations of a Michaels store, focusing on specialized department execution (Custom Framing) and general store support. Reporting Structure: The Custom Framer typically reports to a Store Manager or an Assistant Store Manager, with direct oversight for framing operations likely coming from a department lead or manager. Operations Impact: The role directly impacts store revenue through custom framing sales and contributes to overall store efficiency by maintaining departments and assisting customers. Positive customer experiences in the framing department can lead to repeat business and customer loyalty, influencing the store's financial performance.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Develop advanced framing techniques, design consultation skills, and proficiency with specialized equipment.
• Retail Leadership: Progress to roles such as Assistant Store Manager, Store Manager, or Department Manager, overseeing broader operational areas and leading teams.
• Cross-Functional Experience: Gain exposure to other retail operations functions like visual merchandising, inventory control, or customer engagement strategies across different departments.
• Corporate Opportunities: With extensive experience and demonstrated success, potential pathways may exist into corporate roles related to visual merchandising, product development, or training for the retail division.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a clear entry point into retail operations with a specialized skill set. Growth typically involves mastering the craft of framing, excelling in customer service and sales, and then moving into broader management responsibilities within the retail store environment.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Public retail store setting. The primary work environment is a customer-facing store floor, with dedicated space for the custom framing department. Office Location(s): Holly Springs, North Carolina. Specific store location: 164 Grand Hill Place.

Workspace Context:

• The store environment is climate-controlled for customer areas. Some stock rooms may not be climate-controlled.
• The framing shop itself is a specialized workspace that contains tools like glass cutters and heat presses, requiring careful attention to safety protocols.
• Opportunities for team interaction occur throughout the store, particularly with colleagues in customer service and sales roles.
• Occasional outdoor work may be required for tasks like retrieving shopping carts or during truck unloads.

Work Schedule:

• Part-time with varied hours, including nights, weekends, and early mornings, as dictated by store operating hours and business needs. Flexibility in scheduling is essential.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is dynamic and customer-centric. Candidates should be comfortable with a fast-paced retail setting, potentially varying temperatures in back-of-house areas, and the specific safety requirements of a framing workshop.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Likely involves an online application and potentially a brief phone or video screening to assess basic qualifications and interest.
• In-Person Interview: Expect an interview at the store location to discuss experience, customer service philosophy, and framing aptitude. This may involve a practical demonstration or discussion of framing scenarios.
• Skills Assessment: You may be asked about your understanding of basic computer and measuring skills, and how you would handle specific customer interactions or framing challenges.
• Team Interaction: You might meet with the Store Manager or Framing Department lead to assess cultural fit and working style.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• While a formal portfolio isn't required, be prepared to discuss your experience with custom work, problem-solving, and customer service.
• Prepare examples of how you've successfully advised customers, resolved issues, or managed projects with specific requirements.
• If you have any visual examples of custom work you've done (even personal projects), be ready to describe them and the process involved.
• Frame your experience in terms of customer satisfaction, quality execution, and efficiency.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be ready to discuss how you would handle a customer who is unsure about their framing choice, or a situation where a framing order needs to be expedited.
• Think about how you would ensure quality and accuracy in every framing order.
• Prepare to talk about your understanding of retail operations, including maintaining a clean workspace and assisting with stocking.
• Brush up on basic math for measuring and pricing.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will likely focus on assessing customer service skills, basic technical aptitude for framing, and the ability to follow operational procedures. Emphasizing a customer-centric approach and a willingness to learn will be crucial.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Custom Framing Equipment: Mat cutters, framing tools (e.g., underpinner, staple gun), glass cutters, matting boards, framing mouldings, and various mounting/finishing supplies.
• Point-of-Sale (POS) System: For processing transactions, managing customer accounts, and potentially tracking framing orders.
• Measuring Tools: Tape measures, rulers, calipers for precise artwork and mat measurements.
• Basic Computer Skills: For system navigation, potentially email, and basic data entry or look-up.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not directly responsible for complex analytics, understanding sales performance metrics for the framing department and general store KPIs would be beneficial.
• Familiarity with inventory management systems for stock replenishment.

CRM & Automation:

• Likely utilizes a CRM component within the POS system for customer relationship management and tracking custom orders.
• Basic automation might be present in inventory replenishment systems.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency with specialized framing equipment is a core requirement. Familiarity with retail POS systems is also essential. While advanced analytics tools are not expected, an understanding of how sales and inventory data drive store operations is valuable.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Customer Focus: Prioritizing customer satisfaction and building relationships to provide creative solutions.
• Quality & Craftsmanship: Commitment to producing high-quality custom framing work.
• Teamwork & Respect: Collaborating positively with colleagues and fostering a respectful environment.
• Efficiency & Organization: Maintaining a clean, orderly workspace and adhering to operational processes.
• Creativity: Encouraging and supporting the creative endeavors of customers.

Collaboration Style:

• Expect a collaborative environment where team members support each other in serving customers and managing store operations.
• Open communication regarding customer needs, order status, and operational tasks is expected.
• A willingness to assist in different areas of the store as needed, contributing to the overall team's success.

📝 Enhancement Note: Michaels emphasizes that they are "here for all Team Members and all customers to create, innovate and be better together." This suggests a culture that values inclusivity, collaboration, and a shared passion for creativity.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Multiple Demands: Juggling customer service on the sales floor, custom framing consultations, production work, and general store operational tasks.
• Customer Expectations: Meeting diverse customer needs and artistic visions within framing, requiring creative problem-solving.
• Technical Skill Development: Mastering the operation of framing equipment and techniques for high-quality output.
• Pace of Retail: Adapting to the dynamic nature of retail, including busy periods, varied customer traffic, and evolving business needs.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Framing Expertise: Deepen knowledge of framing materials, design principles, and advanced finishing techniques through on-the-job training.
• Customer Service & Sales Skills: Enhance consultative selling abilities and customer relationship management through practical application and potential store training programs.
• Retail Operations Knowledge: Gain a comprehensive understanding of store operations, inventory management, visual merchandising, and point-of-sale systems.
• Industry Trends: Exposure to art, craft, and home decor trends that influence framing choices and customer preferences.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role presents opportunities to develop specialized artistic and technical skills alongside fundamental retail operations competencies. Overcoming the challenge of balancing diverse responsibilities is key to success and growth.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Customer Service: "Describe a time you went above and beyond to help a customer. How did you identify their needs and provide a solution?"
• Problem Solving: "Imagine a customer is unsure about which frame style best suits their artwork. How would you guide them through the decision-making process?"
• Operations: "How do you ensure accuracy and quality when working on a detailed project with specific requirements? How would you maintain organization in the framing area?"
• Teamwork: "Describe a situation where you had to work with a team to achieve a common goal. What was your role?"

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Michaels and our commitment to creativity?"
• "How do you embody our value of 'fueling the joy of creativity' in your interactions?"
• "What are your expectations regarding teamwork and collaboration in a retail environment?"

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• If discussing past projects, focus on the customer's need, your proposed solution, the process you followed, and the successful outcome.
• Highlight your attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and customer-centric approach.
• Emphasize any experience with custom orders, precise measurements, or quality control.

📝 Enhancement Note: Prepare to discuss your customer service philosophy, your ability to follow processes, and your interest in creative arts. Be ready to showcase your problem-solving skills and how you would contribute to a positive team environment.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Michaels Careers website.
• Resume Tailoring: Customize your resume to highlight any experience in customer service, sales, working with custom products, or detailed craftwork. Quantify achievements where possible (e.g., "Assisted an average of X customers per shift").
• Prepare for Framing Specifics: Be ready to discuss your understanding of basic framing concepts or your willingness to learn the technical aspects of framing equipment and materials.
• Showcase Operational Aptitude: Emphasize your ability to follow instructions, maintain organization, handle cash accurately, and work as part of a team.
• Research Michaels: Familiarize yourself with Michaels' mission, values, and product offerings to demonstrate genuine interest and cultural alignment.

⚠️ 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.