Custom Framer PT

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Custom Framer PT

Company: Michaels Stores

Location: Phoenix, AZ, United States

Job Type: PART_TIME

Category: Retail Operations / Sales Support

Date Posted: 2026-03-17

Experience Level: 0-2 years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role focuses on delivering exceptional customer experiences within a retail environment, specifically in the custom framing department.

• Key responsibilities include building strong customer relationships through personalized design consultations and ensuring timely, high-quality production of custom framing orders.

• Success in this position relies on adhering to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), maintaining visual merchandising standards, and contributing to overall store operational efficiency.

• The role involves active participation in sales, production, and customer service functions, requiring a blend of interpersonal skills and technical proficiency with framing equipment.

📝 Enhancement Note: While this role is within a retail context, the "Custom Framer PT" title and emphasis on "creating a memorable framing solution" suggest a specialized function that requires a degree of artistry and attention to detail, akin to a craft-based operational role. The "PT" designation indicates a part-time commitment.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Customer Engagement & Design Consultation:

  • Build and nurture customer relationships by actively listening to their needs and preferences for art and photo framing.
  • Utilize the "Elevated ABC Deliver" program to conduct personalized design consultations, guiding customers through material selection (mats, frames, glass) to create optimal framing solutions.
  • Proactively acknowledge customers upon entry, assist them in locating products, and offer tailored solutions to enhance their shopping experience.

• Sales & Production Execution:

  • Drive sales and production results by effectively selling custom framing services and meeting established targets.
  • Accurately complete framing orders, ensuring high standards of quality and adherence to production timelines for on-time delivery.
  • Operate framing equipment and tools (e.g., glass cutter, heat press) safely and proficiently to execute custom framing designs.

• Store Operations & Merchandising:

  • Maintain the ready-made frame department, SISO (Sales In Store Out) displays, and Directed Replenishment stock levels to ensure visual appeal and product availability.
  • Uphold a safe, clean, and clutter-free store environment by adhering to all Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and Company programs.
  • Participate actively in the truck un-load and stocking processes, ensuring adherence to truck standards and completion within budget.

• Customer Service & Transactional Support:

  • Deliver friendly and efficient customer service, assisting shoppers in finding merchandise and providing product information.
  • Operate the cash register accurately, executing cash handling procedures to established standards.
  • Support and execute Omni channel processes, such as online order fulfillment or customer pickup, as required.

• Teamwork & Compliance:

  • Interact positively and respectfully with colleagues, remaining composed and professional in challenging situations.

  • Promote organizational vision and values, serving as a role model for professional conduct and customer-centricity.

  • Support company shrink and safety programs through diligent adherence to procedures and proactive identification of risks.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities blend direct sales, customer service, and production/operational tasks within a specialized department. The emphasis on "Elevated ABC Deliver" suggests a structured sales methodology that candidates should be prepared to discuss.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Experience:

• 0-2 years of experience in a customer-facing role, preferably within a retail or service environment.

Required Skills:

• Customer Relationship Building: Ability to connect with customers, understand their needs, and provide personalized recommendations.

• Custom Framing Knowledge: Proficiency in understanding framing concepts, matting, glazing, and design aesthetics.

• Sales Acumen: Aptitude for identifying sales opportunities and effectively selling products and services.

• Operational Proficiency: Ability to operate framing equipment, glass cutters, and potentially heat presses safely and efficiently.

• Basic Measuring Skills: Accuracy in taking measurements for custom framing projects.

• Basic Computer Skills: Competency in using point-of-sale (POS) systems and basic computer applications.

• SOP Adherence: Diligence in following Standard Operating Procedures for sales, production, and store operations.

• Cash Handling: Accuracy and trustworthiness in managing financial transactions.

Preferred Skills:

• Retail Sales Experience: Proven track record in retail sales, particularly in consultative selling environments.

• Visual Merchandising: Understanding of how to present products attractively and maintain department standards.

• Problem-Solving: Ability to address customer issues or production challenges effectively.

• Time Management: Skill in prioritizing tasks to meet sales goals and production deadlines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The required skills highlight a combination of "soft skills" for customer interaction and specific "hard skills" related to the framing craft and retail operations. The preference for retail and sales experience indicates a focus on driving revenue.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• While a formal portfolio might not be strictly required for this entry-level role, candidates with prior custom framing experience are encouraged to showcase examples of their work.

• This could include photographs of completed framing projects, highlighting varied styles, materials, and complexities.

Process Documentation:

• Candidates should be prepared to discuss their understanding of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and how they apply them to ensure consistent quality and customer satisfaction.

• An ability to articulate how they would approach a custom framing consultation, from initial customer interaction to order completion, demonstrates process thinking.

• Familiarity with or a willingness to learn systems for order management, inventory tracking, and customer relationship management (CRM) is important.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an entry-level part-time role, the emphasis is less on a formal portfolio and more on demonstrating an understanding of process and a commitment to quality in customer interactions and production. Visual examples of work, if available, would be a strong differentiator.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Benefits:

• Health Insurance: Access to medical, dental, and vision insurance plans (eligibility may vary based on hours worked and tenure).

• Paid Time Off (PTO): Accrual of paid time off, which can be utilized for vacation, sick leave, or personal days.

• Tuition Assistance: Support for continuing education, helping team members pursue further learning and development.

• Employee Discounts: Generous discounts on Michaels products and services, encouraging personal creativity and savings.

• Retirement Savings Plan: Opportunities to save for retirement (e.g., 401(k) plan), often with a company match.

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Confidential counseling and support services for personal and work-related challenges.

Working Hours:

• As a part-time position, expected working hours will vary but are typically between 15-25 hours per week.

• Work hours will include nights, weekends, and potentially early mornings, aligning with retail operational needs. Flexibility in scheduling is often required.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate based on typical part-time retail roles with specialized functions in the Phoenix area. Actual compensation will be determined by the company based on experience, skills, and other factors. The benefits listed are based on the company's provided information and are common for part-time retail positions.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Arts and Crafts Retail

Company Size: Large (10,000+ employees) - Michaels operates over 1,300 stores across North America.

Founded: 1973, headquartered in Irving, Texas.

Team Structure:

• Store-Level Operations: This role is part of a local store team, reporting to a Store Manager or Assistant Store Manager.

• Departmental Focus: You will primarily work within the Custom Framing department, collaborating with fellow framers and sales associates.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Interaction with other store departments (e.g., craft supplies, home decor) and team members during truck unloads, stocking, and general store coverage is expected.

Methodology:

• Customer-Centric Approach: The company emphasizes "fueling the joy of creativity and celebration" through its products and services, with a strong focus on customer experience.

• Process-Driven Operations: Adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) is critical for consistency, safety, and compliance across all store functions.

• Sales & Service Integration: The role combines direct sales responsibilities with customer service, encouraging a consultative approach to selling custom framing solutions.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Michaels operates as a large retail chain with a specific focus on arts, crafts, and custom framing. The culture likely values creativity, customer engagement, and operational efficiency within a structured retail framework.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Entry-Level / Associate

This role serves as an excellent entry point into the retail operations and sales support field, particularly for individuals interested in creative services. It provides foundational experience in customer interaction, sales techniques, production processes, and store operations.

Reporting Structure:

• You will report directly to store leadership, such as the Store Manager or Assistant Store Manager.

Operations Impact:

• Directly impacts store revenue through custom framing sales and customer engagement.

• Contributes to customer satisfaction and loyalty by delivering high-quality products and memorable service experiences.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Development: Opportunity to become proficient in custom framing techniques, design consultation, and retail sales strategies.

• Advancement within Store: Potential to move into roles such as Lead Framer, Sales Associate, Key Holder, or Assistant Manager positions within the store.

• Cross-Departmental Experience: Gain exposure to various aspects of retail operations across different store departments.

• Company-Wide Opportunities: Michaels is a large organization, offering potential for transfers to other stores or corporate roles over time with demonstrated performance and experience.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is designed for individuals starting their careers or seeking part-time work with opportunities for skill development in a creative retail environment. Growth is typically within the store structure, with potential for broader advancement in larger retail organizations.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Public Retail Store Setting

The primary work environment is a busy retail store, with specific duties performed within the Custom Framing department and throughout the sales floor.

Office Location(s):

Workspace Context:

• Customer Interaction: The role requires constant interaction with the public in a climate-controlled retail environment.

• Framing Shop: The framing area is equipped with specialized tools, including a glass cutter and heat press, requiring careful operation.

• Stock Rooms: Some stock rooms may not be climate-controlled.

• Collaborative Environment: You will work alongside other team members, fostering a collaborative atmosphere for customer service and operational tasks.

Work Schedule:

• Work hours include nights, weekends, and early mornings, as dictated by retail demand and store operating hours.

• Flexibility in scheduling is essential to accommodate peak times and operational needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: This is a hands-on, customer-facing role within a dynamic retail setting. The work environment involves both direct customer service and the practical, sometimes physically demanding, tasks associated with custom framing production.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: An application review to assess basic qualifications and experience.

• Phone/Video Interview: A preliminary discussion with an HR representative or hiring manager to gauge interest, availability, and initial fit.

• In-Person Interview: This typically involves meeting with the Store Manager or Assistant Store Manager. You may be asked to:

  • Discuss your customer service philosophy and sales approach.
  • Explain how you would handle a custom framing consultation.
  • Demonstrate basic measuring skills or discuss your comfort with tools.
  • Answer behavioral questions related to teamwork, problem-solving, and SOP adherence.

• Practical Assessment (Potential): You might be asked to perform a simple measuring task or discuss how you would approach a specific framing challenge.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• For this role, a formal portfolio is less critical than demonstrating enthusiasm, a willingness to learn, and an understanding of customer service.

• If you have prior framing or design work, be prepared to briefly discuss 1-2 projects that showcase your attention to detail and creative problem-solving. Focus on the customer's needs and how you met them.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be ready to discuss how you would handle common retail scenarios, such as an unhappy customer, a busy period with multiple customers needing assistance, or a situation where you need to find a specific item for a customer.

• Prepare to talk about your understanding of safety protocols in a retail and workshop environment.

• Think about how you would prioritize tasks when faced with multiple demands (e.g., assisting a customer, completing a framing order, stocking shelves).

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is geared towards assessing customer service skills, operational aptitude, and cultural fit for a retail environment. While technical framing skills are important, the ability to learn and provide excellent customer service is paramount.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Custom Framing Equipment:

  • Mat Cutters: Manual or automated machines for cutting mat boards to precise specifications.
  • Frame Moulding Cutters/Mitre Saws: Tools for accurately cutting frame mouldings at precise angles (e.g., 45 degrees) for seamless corners.
  • V-Nailers/Gunnable Points: Equipment used to secure the frame corners after assembly.
  • Glass Cutters: Specialized tools for cutting glass or acrylic glazing to size.
  • Heat Press/Mounting Equipment: Used for heat-activated mounting or laminating processes.

• Measuring Tools: Tape measures, rulers, and potentially specialized measuring devices for framing.

• Basic Computer Skills: Proficiency with standard office software for potential administrative tasks or training modules.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Point of Sale (POS) System: Used for processing sales transactions, managing customer orders, and potentially tracking inventory.

• Inventory Management Systems: Software or procedures for tracking stock levels of moulding, mats, glass, and hardware.

CRM & Automation:

• Customer Relationship Management (CRM) System: Michaels likely uses a system to track customer orders, preferences, and contact information to facilitate repeat business and personalized service.

• Order Management Systems: Software to manage the lifecycle of custom framing orders from placement to completion.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency with specialized framing equipment is essential. Familiarity with retail POS systems and potentially a CRM is expected. The company will likely provide training on their specific systems.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Creativity & Passion: A shared enthusiasm for arts, crafts, and helping customers bring their creative visions to life.

• Customer Focus: Prioritizing customer satisfaction through attentive service, helpful guidance, and high-quality product delivery.

• Teamwork & Collaboration: Working together to support store goals, assist colleagues, and ensure a positive shopping experience for everyone.

• Accountability & Quality: Taking ownership of tasks, maintaining high standards in production and service, and adhering to company procedures.

• Continuous Improvement: A willingness to learn new techniques, adapt to new processes, and contribute to a more efficient and enjoyable store environment.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Support: Team members are expected to assist across departments as needed, especially during busy periods or for tasks like truck unloads and stocking.

• Open Communication: Encouraging open dialogue to resolve issues, share ideas, and provide feedback constructively.

• Shared Goals: Working collectively towards store sales targets, operational efficiency, and maintaining a welcoming atmosphere for customers and team members.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture at Michaels likely balances a creative and customer-centric approach with the operational discipline required of a large retail organization. Collaboration and a shared commitment to quality are key.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Creativity with Efficiency: Juggling the artistic demands of custom framing with the need for speed and volume in a retail setting.

• Managing Customer Expectations: Effectively communicating the process, timelines, and costs associated with custom framing to ensure customer satisfaction.

• Physical Demands: The role involves standing for extended periods, lifting heavy items, and repetitive motions associated with framing work.

• Staying Current: Keeping up with new framing techniques, materials, and design trends while also adapting to evolving company SOPs and technology.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Framing Skill Enhancement: Opportunities to refine technical skills in mat cutting, framing assembly, and design consultation.

• Sales & Customer Service Training: Development in consultative selling, relationship building, and conflict resolution.

• Product Knowledge: Deepening understanding of various art materials, preservation techniques, and design aesthetics.

• Retail Operations Exposure: Learning about inventory management, visual merchandising, and point-of-sale systems.

• Potential for Leadership: With experience and performance, opportunities to take on more responsibility within the store, such as lead framer or supervisory roles.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents opportunities to develop specialized craft skills within a retail context, alongside transferable skills in customer service and sales. The challenges are typical of hands-on retail positions in a specialized department.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Be prepared to discuss your approach to customer service, particularly in a consultative sales context. How do you build rapport and understand a customer's needs?

• Describe your understanding of quality control in a production or service environment. How do you ensure a product meets high standards?

• How do you prioritize tasks when faced with multiple demands, such as serving a customer, completing an order, and stocking shelves?

Company & Culture Questions:

• Why are you interested in working for Michaels, and specifically in the Custom Framing department?

• What do you know about Michaels' commitment to creativity and customer experience?

• How do you contribute to a positive team environment?

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• If you have examples of framing work, be ready to briefly explain:

  • The customer's initial need or vision.
  • The materials you selected and why.
  • Any challenges you encountered and how you overcame them.
  • The final outcome and customer satisfaction.

• Focus on demonstrating your problem-solving skills and attention to detail, rather than just the aesthetic of the piece.

📝 Enhancement Note: Prepare to articulate your customer service philosophy, demonstrate an understanding of operational processes, and express enthusiasm for the creative aspects of the role. Practical, scenario-based answers are often preferred.

📌 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 any relevant customer service, sales, or hands-on production experience. Use keywords from the job description such as "customer engagement," "sales," "production," "framing," and "SOP adherence."

• Portfolio Preparation (Optional but Recommended): If you have examples of custom framing projects, prepare high-quality photos or a brief description of your work to discuss during an interview. Focus on projects that showcase design sense and problem-solving.

• Interview Practice: Practice answering common retail interview questions, focusing on behavioral examples that demonstrate your skills in customer service, teamwork, and problem-solving. Be ready to discuss your interest in Michaels and the custom framing craft.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Michaels' mission, values, and product offerings. Understand their commitment to creativity and customer experience.

⚠️ 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.

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