Customer Service - Framer F/T

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Customer Service - Framer (Part-Time)

Company: Michaels Stores

Location: Meridian, Mississippi, United States

Job Type: Part-Time

Category: Retail Operations / Customer Service

Date Posted: 2026-02-20

Experience Level: Entry Level (0-2 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is focused on providing exceptional customer service within a retail environment, with a specialized emphasis on custom framing solutions.

• Responsibilities include building customer relationships, understanding their needs for art and decor, and translating those needs into high-quality, custom-designed framing projects.

• The position also involves maintaining store presentation, assisting customers with general shopping needs, and supporting daily retail operations.

• This role requires a blend of direct customer interaction, creative problem-solving, and operational efficiency within a fast-paced retail setting.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title suggests "Framer," the description emphasizes customer service and relationship building as primary drivers. The "F/T" in the title appears to be a typo, as the employment_type is listed as PART_TIME. The role is a hybrid of customer-facing sales (framing solutions) and general retail support.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Customer Engagement & Custom Framing Sales:

  • Proactively engage customers to understand their custom framing needs for artwork, photographs, and memorabilia.
  • Utilize design principles and product knowledge to consult with customers, offering personalized framing solutions.
  • Drive sales by effectively communicating the value and features of custom framing options.
  • Adhere to and execute the Elevated ABC Deliver methodology to build strong customer relationships and meet sales targets.

• Order Fulfillment & Quality Control:

  • Accurately measure, cut, assemble, and finish custom framing orders according to customer specifications and quality standards.
  • Ensure all framing orders are completed on time and meet the high-quality expectations of Michaels.
  • Operate and maintain framing equipment, including saws, mat cutters, and assembly tools, safely and efficiently.

• Store Operations & Merchandising:

  • Maintain the visual presentation and organization of the ready-made frame department, including SISO (Shop In Shop Out) and Directed Replenishment areas.
  • Ensure assigned store areas are clean, safe, clutter-free, and well-merchandised to enhance the customer shopping experience.
  • Assist with inventory management tasks, including truck unloads, stocking, and replenishment, adhering to established standards.

• Customer Service & Support:

  • Provide friendly and efficient customer service, assisting shoppers in locating products and offering solutions to their needs.
  • Operate the cash register, process transactions accurately, and adhere to all cash handling procedures and standards.
  • Support Omni-channel processes, such as online order fulfillment or in-store pickup, as required.

• Teamwork & Store Standards:

  • Adhere to all Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company programs to ensure compliance and operational excellence.

  • Support shrink and safety initiatives, fostering a secure and accident-free environment.

  • Interact positively and respectfully with colleagues, promoting a collaborative and supportive team atmosphere.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a dual focus on specialized custom framing sales and general retail operations. The emphasis on "Elevated ABC Deliver" suggests a structured sales and customer engagement process.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: High school diploma or equivalent is typically expected for entry-level retail roles. Specific degrees are generally not required for this position, but a background in art, design, or a related field could be advantageous for the framing aspect.

Experience:

• 0-2 years of experience in customer-facing roles.

• Experience in retail environments is preferred, with a focus on sales, customer service, and visual merchandising.

Required Skills:

• Customer Service Excellence: Ability to build rapport, actively listen to customer needs, and provide solutions with a positive attitude.

• Basic Computer Skills: Proficiency in using point-of-sale (POS) systems, basic data entry, and potentially digital design tools.

• Basic Measuring Skills: Accurate measurement and calculation abilities for custom framing orders.

• Equipment Operation: Ability to safely operate framing equipment, including mat cutters and potentially saws or other assembly tools.

• Cash Handling: Competency in operating a cash register and managing financial transactions accurately.

• Problem-Solving: Capacity to identify customer needs and devise creative solutions, particularly within framing design.

• Teamwork & Collaboration: Ability to work effectively with colleagues and contribute to a positive store environment.

• Communication Skills: Clear and concise verbal communication for customer interactions and internal team coordination.

Preferred Skills:

• Retail Sales Experience: Proven ability to sell products and/or services, with a focus on consultative selling.

• Custom Framing Experience: Hands-on experience with various framing techniques, materials, and equipment.

• Design Acumen: A good eye for aesthetics, color, and composition, beneficial for custom framing consultations.

• Inventory Management: Familiarity with stocking, merchandising, and inventory control processes.

• Omni-channel Fulfillment: Experience with processes related to online orders, ship-from-store, or in-store pickup.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Minimum Type of experience" and "Preferred Type of experience" sections directly inform the required and preferred skills. The AI-derived experience level of "0-2" aligns with these requirements, indicating an entry-level to junior role.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• While a formal portfolio is not explicitly required for this entry-level role, candidates with prior framing experience may benefit from showcasing examples of their work.

• This could include photographs of completed custom framing projects, demonstrating a range of styles, materials, and complexities.

Process Documentation:

• Candidates should be prepared to discuss their understanding of and experience with Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for customer service, sales, and operational tasks.

• Familiarity with process optimization, even at a basic level (e.g., suggesting ways to improve workflow in a framing area or checkout process), can be beneficial.

• Be ready to explain how you would follow established processes for order taking, production, and customer issue resolution.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an entry-level retail position, a formal process portfolio is unlikely. The focus here is on demonstrating an understanding of and adherence to established processes and potentially showing initiative in process improvement.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

As this is a part-time, entry-level retail position in Meridian, Mississippi, the hourly wage is expected to be at or slightly above the state minimum wage, likely ranging from $10.00 to $14.00 per hour. This estimate is based on typical retail compensation for similar roles in the region, considering the specialized framing skill requirement which may command a slight premium over a standard cashier role.

Benefits:

• Health Insurance: Medical, dental, and vision insurance are offered, with eligibility likely dependent on hours worked and tenure.

• Paid Time Off (PTO): Accrued PTO is available for eligible employees, providing flexibility for personal needs.

• Tuition Assistance: Michaels offers educational support programs to help team members pursue further learning and development.

• Employee Discounts: A significant employee discount on Michaels products is a key benefit for creatives and crafters.

• Other Potential Benefits: May include 401(k) options (with potential company match for eligible employees), employee assistance programs, and opportunities for advancement.

Working Hours:

• This is a part-time position. Scheduled hours will vary based on business needs and may include evenings, weekends, and early mornings, as indicated in the "Work Environment" section.

• While the "Working Hours" field is not explicitly defined, part-time roles typically range from 15-30 hours per week.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary estimate is based on regional data for entry-level retail positions and the specific skills required for framing. Benefits information is derived directly from the provided company description.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Arts and Crafts Retail. Michaels is a leading North American retailer of arts, crafts, and home décor products, serving a broad customer base from hobbyists to professional artists.

Company Size: Michaels operates over 1,300 stores in North America. This indicates a large, established retail organization with a significant workforce.

Founded: Michaels was founded in 1973, giving it a long history and deep roots in the retail sector.

Team Structure:

• Store Level: This role is part of a store team, typically comprising a Store Manager, Assistant Store Manager(s), Team Leads, and Sales Associates/Specialists (like this Framer role).

• Reporting: The Framer/Customer Service Associate will likely report directly to a Team Lead or Assistant Store Manager responsible for floor operations and customer service.

• Cross-functional Collaboration: Close collaboration is expected with other store team members, including those in other departments (e.g., general merchandise, seasonal) and potentially with the visual merchandising team for store presentation.

Methodology:

• Customer-Centric Approach: A strong emphasis on building customer relationships and providing solutions, as evidenced by the "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodology.

• Process Adherence: Reliance on Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for consistent execution of tasks and compliance.

• Data-Driven Insights (Store Level): While not a corporate role, store associates are expected to contribute to sales targets and potentially provide feedback on customer trends or inventory needs that inform operational decisions.

• Efficiency & Productivity: Focus on efficient task completion, including order fulfillment, stocking, and customer service, to meet store performance metrics.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The company context is derived from the provided description, highlighting Michaels' position in the retail market and its operational structure at the store level.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is an entry-level position within the retail operations and customer service sphere. It provides foundational experience in direct customer interaction, sales, and operational tasks within a retail setting.

Reporting Structure: The Framer/Customer Service Associate typically reports to a store supervisor, such as a Team Lead or Assistant Store Manager, who oversees daily operations and staff performance.

Operations Impact: This role directly impacts store revenue through custom framing sales and general merchandise sales. It also influences customer satisfaction and loyalty by providing positive shopping experiences and efficient service. Effective framing consultations and order fulfillment contribute to repeat business and positive word-of-mouth.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Develop expertise in custom framing, becoming a go-to resource for complex projects.

• Sales Proficiency: Enhance consultative selling skills, leading to increased sales performance and potential for commission or bonuses in roles that offer them.

• Retail Leadership: Progress to roles like Team Lead, Assistant Store Manager, or Store Manager, taking on greater responsibility for team management, store performance, and operational oversight.

• Cross-Departmental Skills: Gain experience in other store areas, broadening skill sets and opening doors to diverse retail opportunities.

• Company Advancement: Opportunities may exist at the corporate level for individuals who excel in store operations and demonstrate strong leadership potential.

📝 Enhancement Note: Growth paths are typical for retail environments, focusing on developing specialized skills, sales acumen, and moving into management roles.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Public retail store setting. This is a customer-facing environment where team members work directly with the public.

Office Location(s): The specific store is located at 131 S Frontage Rd in Meridian, Mississippi. Michaels has a widespread presence across the US and Canada.

Workspace Context:

• Customer Interaction: The primary workspace is the retail floor and the custom framing area, involving constant interaction with customers.

• Tools & Technology: Access to POS systems, framing equipment (saws, cutters, assembly tools), potentially a heat press, and basic computer systems for operational tasks.

• Team Interaction: Opportunities for collaboration with fellow store associates and supervisors, particularly during busy periods, stocking, or customer assistance.

• Environment: Most public areas are climate-controlled. Some stock rooms may not be climate-controlled, and outdoor work may be required for tasks like retrieving shopping carts or unloading trucks. The frame shop environment involves tools that require careful handling.

Work Schedule: Work hours include nights, weekends, and early mornings to accommodate customer traffic and store operating hours. Flexibility is key for part-time roles in retail.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is typical for a retail store, emphasizing customer interaction, the use of specialized tools, and flexible scheduling.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: May involve an online application and potentially a brief phone screen to assess basic qualifications and interest.

• In-Store Interview: Typically conducted by the Store Manager or Assistant Store Manager. This will likely involve:

  • Behavioral Questions: Assessing customer service skills, problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and attitude (e.g., "Tell me about a time you dealt with a difficult customer," "How do you handle working under pressure?").
  • Situational Questions: Presenting scenarios related to customer interactions, framing challenges, or store operations (e.g., "A customer wants a frame for a very large piece of art; what are your first steps?").
  • Skills Assessment: Discussion of your experience with measuring, basic computer skills, and any framing equipment knowledge.
  • Store Tour & Observation: You may be asked to walk the store, demonstrating customer engagement and product awareness.

• Final Interview: Potentially a follow-up interview if you are a strong candidate, to confirm fit and discuss details.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• For Framing Experience: If you have prior framing work, be prepared to discuss your process, materials used, and the challenges of specific projects. High-quality photos on a phone or tablet can be effective.

• For Customer Service/Sales: Highlight achievements using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to showcase your impact on customer satisfaction, sales figures, or operational improvements. Quantify results whenever possible (e.g., "Increased framing sales by X% by implementing Y strategy").

• For Operational Skills: Discuss your experience with POS systems, inventory management, and adherence to SOPs.

Challenge Preparation:

• Customer Scenarios: Practice responding to common customer requests or complaints related to custom orders, product availability, or service issues.

• Sales Pitch Practice: Be ready to "sell" a framing solution for a hypothetical piece of art, demonstrating your consultative approach.

• Process Understanding: Be prepared to explain how you would ensure accuracy in order taking and production for custom framing.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is tailored to a retail, customer-facing role, focusing on behavioral and situational assessments relevant to sales and service.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Point of Sale (POS) System: For processing transactions, managing sales, and potentially customer order entry. Proficiency with a modern retail POS is essential.

• Custom Framing Equipment:

  • Mat Cutters: For precise cutting of mat boards.
  • Frame Moulding Saws: For cutting frame lengths to size.
  • Assembly Tools: Such as joiners, glue guns, and hardware for assembling frames.
  • Glass Cutter: For cutting glass or acrylic to size.
  • Heat Press: Potentially used for specific mounting or finishing techniques.

• Measuring Tools: Tape measures, rulers, calipers for accurate dimensions.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Basic POS Reporting: Access to sales data, transaction history, and potentially inventory levels via the POS system.

• Inventory Management Systems: To track stock levels, manage replenishment, and assist with truck unloads.

CRM & Automation:

• Customer Relationship Management (CRM) aspects: The "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodology implies a CRM-like approach to building and managing customer relationships, likely integrated within the POS or a separate store-level system.

• Order Management System: To track custom framing orders from placement through completion.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is specific to a retail environment with a specialized custom framing department, emphasizing POS systems and specialized equipment.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Customer Focus: Prioritizing customer needs and satisfaction, aiming to create memorable experiences.

• Creativity & Passion: Fostering an environment that celebrates creativity and supports customers' artistic endeavors.

• Teamwork & Support: Encouraging collaboration, mutual support, and a positive working atmosphere among team members.

• Integrity & Accountability: Upholding company standards, owning responsibilities, and ensuring honest transactions and operations.

• Efficiency & Quality: Balancing speed of service with the meticulous quality required for custom framing.

Collaboration Style:

• Customer-Centric: All team members are expected to work together to assist customers, whether it's finding a product, processing a sale, or handling a custom order.

• Task-Oriented: Team members collaborate to complete daily tasks such as stocking, merchandising, and maintaining store cleanliness.

• Knowledge Sharing: Associates are encouraged to share product knowledge and best practices, particularly regarding framing solutions and customer service techniques.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture and values are inferred from Michaels' brand identity as a creative retailer and the general expectations of a customer-facing store team.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Multiple Demands: Juggling customer service on the floor, consultative framing sales, and back-end production tasks can be demanding.

• Achieving Sales Targets: Meeting custom framing sales goals requires effective consultative selling skills and product knowledge.

• Time Management: Efficiently managing time to complete framing orders accurately and on schedule while also attending to other store duties.

• Handling Diverse Customer Needs: Catering to a wide range of customer expectations, from quick purchases to elaborate custom framing projects.

• Learning Specialized Skills: Mastering the operation of framing equipment and understanding design principles for custom framing.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Framing Expertise: Develop deep knowledge of materials, design, and production techniques for custom framing.

• Sales & Consultative Skills: Refine abilities in needs assessment, solution selling, and closing sales.

• Retail Operations Breadth: Gain experience in visual merchandising, inventory management, and POS operations.

• Customer Service Acumen: Enhance skills in conflict resolution, customer retention, and building loyalty.

• Career Progression: Path to leadership roles within the store or opportunities in other departments.

📝 Enhancement Note: Challenges and growth opportunities are typical for a retail associate role with a specialized function like custom framing.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Customer Service & Sales Focus:

  • "Describe your approach to helping a customer who isn't sure what they want for their custom frame." (Focus on consultative selling, asking probing questions.)
  • "How would you handle a situation where a customer is unhappy with their custom framing order after it's completed?" (Emphasize problem-solving, empathy, and following company policy.)
  • "What are your strategies for upselling or cross-selling framing services or related products?" (Highlight benefit-driven selling.)

• Operational & Technical Questions:

  • "What experience do you have with measuring tools or operating machinery like a saw or cutter?" (Be honest about your skill level and willingness to learn.)
  • "How do you ensure accuracy when taking detailed orders or performing measurements?" (Focus on attention to detail, double-checking.)
  • "Can you describe your understanding of inventory management or merchandising tasks?" (Show awareness of store operations.)

• Teamwork & Culture Fit:

  • "How do you contribute to a positive team environment?" (Emphasize collaboration, support, and a positive attitude.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• Research Michaels' mission ("fuel the joy of creativity and celebration"). Be prepared to express your enthusiasm for arts, crafts, and helping customers bring their creative visions to life.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Framing Examples: If you have photos of your framing work, be ready to briefly describe the project, materials used, and the customer's goal.

• Customer Service/Sales Achievements: Use the STAR method to describe specific instances where you exceeded customer expectations, drove sales, or improved a process. Quantify your results whenever possible.

• Resume Walkthrough: Be prepared to walk through your resume, highlighting relevant experience and skills for this specific role.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation focuses on assessing customer service skills, sales aptitude, operational awareness, and cultural fit for a creative retail environment.

📌 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 experience, any sales achievements, and any mention of creative skills, crafting, or experience with tools and measuring. Use keywords found in the job description (e.g., "customer service," "framing," "sales," "merchandising," "cash handling").

• Portfolio Preparation (Optional but Recommended): If you have prior custom framing experience, gather photos of your work. For other experience, prepare specific examples using the STAR method to showcase achievements in customer service, sales, or operational efficiency.

• Interview Practice: Rehearse answers to common retail interview questions, focusing on behavioral and situational scenarios related to customer interaction, problem-solving, and teamwork. Practice articulating your understanding of custom framing and your ability to learn new skills.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Michaels' brand, mission, and values. Understand their product offerings and target customer base. Be ready to articulate why you are a good fit for their creative culture.

⚠️ 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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