Framer-1

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Framer

Company: Michaels Stores

Location: Birmingham-5271 Hwy 280 S, Birmingham, AL, United States

Job Type: Part-Time

Category: Retail Operations / GTM Support

Date Posted: March 4, 2026

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, specifically in the custom framing department.

• Key responsibilities include building customer relationships, driving sales through personalized solutions, and ensuring high-quality production of custom framing orders.

• The position requires adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for operational efficiency, compliance, and safety within the store.

• It involves hands-on operation of framing equipment and maintaining visual merchandising standards for the framing department and other assigned areas.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the job title is "Framer," the description indicates a broader retail operational role with a specialization in custom framing. This suggests a need for customer-facing skills, sales acumen, and operational execution within a specific department, rather than solely a production-focused role. The "Elevated ABC Deliver" mention points to a structured sales and customer engagement methodology.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Build and nurture customer relationships by providing elevated service and creating memorable custom framing solutions that meet customer needs and artistic visions.

• Drive sales and production results by effectively selling custom framing products and services, meeting or exceeding departmental targets.

• Complete custom framing orders with a high degree of quality, accuracy, and adherence to specified timelines.

• Maintain the ready-made frame department, SISO (Single Item, Single Order), and Directed Replenishment areas to ensure visual standards and product availability.

• Deliver friendly and engaging customer service, assisting shoppers in locating products, providing solutions, and ensuring a well-merchandised and in-stock store environment.

• Operate the cash register and execute all cash handling procedures according to established company standards for accuracy and security.

• Support loss prevention (shrink) and safety programs by adhering to all company policies and procedures, ensuring a safe and secure work environment for customers and team members.

• Participate actively in truck un-loading and stocking processes, ensuring adherence to truck standards and completion within budget.

• Assist with Omni-channel processes, which may include fulfilling online orders, processing returns, or facilitating customer pick-ups.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities emphasize a blend of direct customer interaction, sales execution, and operational tasks. The mention of "Elevated ABC Deliver" indicates a structured approach to customer engagement that candidates should be prepared to discuss, likely involving building rapport, understanding needs, and presenting solutions.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: High school diploma or equivalent preferred; formal training in design or art is a plus but not required.

Experience: 0-2 years of experience in a customer-facing or operational role.

Required Skills:

• Basic computer proficiency for order entry, POS systems, and internal communication.

• Basic measuring skills with a high degree of accuracy for custom framing specifications.

• Ability to safely and effectively operate framing equipment, including a glass cutter and potentially other specialized tools.

• Strong customer service orientation with a friendly and approachable demeanor.

• Ability to build rapport and understand customer needs to recommend appropriate framing solutions.

• Capacity to work effectively in a fast-paced retail environment, managing multiple tasks simultaneously.

Preferred Skills:

• Previous retail experience, particularly in sales or customer service roles.

• Proven experience in selling products and/or services to customers, with a track record of meeting sales targets.

• Familiarity with visual merchandising principles for retail displays.

• Experience with custom framing or art installation is a significant advantage.

• Basic knowledge of art materials and preservation techniques.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Minimum Type of experience" and "Preferred Type of experience" sections from the original description are incorporated here. The emphasis on "basic" skills suggests an entry-level role, with a clear path for developing expertise within Michaels.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• While a formal portfolio is not explicitly required for this entry-level role, candidates who have examples of custom framing projects they have completed (personal or professional) may find them beneficial to showcase their skills.

• Demonstrating an understanding of how to document customer requirements and translate them into production-ready specifications will be valuable.

Process Documentation:

• Candidates should be prepared to discuss their understanding of adhering to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for all framing and customer service tasks.

• An ability to follow established workflows for order creation, production, and customer delivery is crucial.

• Understanding the importance of accurate documentation for custom orders to ensure quality and customer satisfaction.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an entry-level retail role like this, a formal process portfolio is unlikely. However, the ability to discuss past experiences related to following procedures, managing order details, and customer interaction documentation will be key. The focus is on process adherence rather than creating new processes.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

As this is a part-time, entry-level retail position in Birmingham, Alabama, the hourly wage is expected to be in the range of $12.00 - $16.00 per hour. This estimate is based on typical retail associate wages in the Birmingham metropolitan area for roles requiring some specialized skills (like custom framing) and customer interaction, considering the company's size and industry.

• Methodology: Research was conducted using aggregated salary data for retail sales associates and specialized service roles in Birmingham, AL, factoring in the specific responsibilities of operating framing equipment and providing custom solutions. National averages for similar roles at large retail chains were also considered.

Benefits:

• Health Insurance (Medical, Dental, and Vision) - Eligibility may vary based on hours worked and tenure.

• Paid Time Off (PTO) - Accrual typically based on hours worked.

• Tuition Assistance - Program details and eligibility apply.

• Generous Employee Discounts on Michaels products.

Working Hours:

• This is a Part-Time position. Actual hours will vary based on business needs and scheduling, but may require availability during evenings, weekends, and early mornings, as stated in the work environment section. The role may involve up to 40 hours per week during peak seasons, but typically less for a standard part-time schedule.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary is estimated based on industry standards for similar roles in the specified location. Benefits are listed as provided in the original text, with a note on potential eligibility nuances for part-time employees.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Retail (Arts and Crafts, Home Decor, Custom Framing)

Company Size: Large (Over 10,000 employees across North America)

Founded: 1973

Team Structure:

• This role is part of the store-level team, reporting to a Store Manager or Assistant Manager, with direct supervision from a Framing Department Lead or Manager.

• Collaboration expected with fellow sales associates, cashiers, and potentially other department specialists within the store.

Methodology:

• Focus on adhering to established Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for consistent execution of tasks and customer service.

• Emphasis on visual merchandising and maintaining store standards to create an appealing shopping environment.

• Sales-driven approach, encouraging associates to build relationships and offer solutions to drive revenue.

• Commitment to safety and loss prevention protocols.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The company context is derived from the provided description, highlighting Michaels' position as a leading arts and crafts retailer with a strong emphasis on customer experience and operational consistency. The "purpose" statement about fueling creativity is a key cultural indicator.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Entry-Level / Associate

This position is an entry-level role within Michaels' retail operations, focused on a specific department (Custom Framing). It provides foundational experience in customer service, sales, and operational execution within a retail setting.

Reporting Structure:

The Framer typically reports to the Store Manager or Assistant Store Manager, with direct day-to-day guidance from a Framing Department Manager or Lead.

Operations Impact:

The Framer directly impacts store revenue through custom framing sales and customer satisfaction by providing excellent service and high-quality products. Their efficiency in production and adherence to standards contributes to the overall operational effectiveness of the store.

Growth Opportunities:

• Sales & Service Development: Opportunity to hone sales techniques, product knowledge, and customer relationship management skills.

• Framing Expertise: Develop specialized skills in custom framing design, production, and equipment operation.

• Advancement within Store: Potential to move into roles such as Lead Framer, Sales Associate, Key Holder, or Assistant Manager positions with demonstrated performance and additional training.

• Cross-Departmental Learning: Gain exposure to other areas of retail operations within the store.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth analysis focuses on the typical progression within a large retail organization for an entry-level position, emphasizing skill development and internal advancement opportunities.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Public Retail Store Setting

This is a hands-on role within a busy retail store environment. The primary workspace includes the sales floor and the custom framing shop.

Office Location(s):

The specific store location is: 5271 Hwy 280 S, Birmingham, AL. This is a traditional retail storefront accessible to the public.

Workspace Context:

• The framing shop contains specialized equipment like a glass cutter and heat press, requiring careful operation and adherence to safety protocols.

• The work environment is climate-controlled in public areas, but some stock rooms may not be.

• Occasional outdoor work may be required for tasks like retrieving shopping carts or during truck unloads.

Work Schedule:

• Work hours include nights, weekends, and early mornings. Flexibility in scheduling is essential to meet the demands of a retail environment and customer traffic.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment description is directly drawn from the "Physical Requirements" and "Work Environment" sections of the original job description, highlighting the demands and conditions of the role.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

1. Application Submission: Submit your resume and any requested information through the Michaels Careers portal.

2. Initial Screening: A recruiter or hiring manager may conduct a brief phone or video screening to assess basic qualifications and interest.

3. In-Person Interview: If selected, you will likely have an in-person interview at the store. This will involve meeting with the store management team.

4. Skills Assessment: You may be asked to demonstrate basic measuring skills or discuss your approach to customer service and problem-solving.

5. Final Decision: Based on the interview and assessment, a job offer will be extended.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• For this role, a formal portfolio is not typically required. However, if you have any personal projects or examples of custom framing you've done, be prepared to discuss them conceptually.

• Focus on articulating your understanding of customer needs and how you would translate those into framing solutions.

Challenge Preparation:

• Customer Service Scenarios: Prepare to discuss how you would handle common customer service situations, such as an unhappy customer, a complex design request, or a tight deadline.

• Sales Approach: Be ready to explain how you would approach selling custom framing solutions, focusing on understanding the customer's artwork and budget.

• Operational Awareness: Discuss your understanding of the importance of following procedures, maintaining a clean workspace, and working safely with equipment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is inferred based on standard retail hiring practices for this type of role. The focus is on practical demonstration and behavioral questions rather than a formal portfolio review.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Custom Framing Equipment: Proficiency or ability to learn to operate specialized framing machinery, including but not limited to:

  • Glass cutters
  • Mat cutters (manual or automated)
  • Framing saws/cutters
  • Heat presses / Vacuum presses (for mounting and assembly)
  • Staplers and joining equipment

• Point of Sale (POS) System: For processing transactions, managing orders, and customer data entry.

• Measuring Tools: Tape measures, rulers, calipers for precise measurements.

• Basic Computer Skills: For order management software, internal communication, and potentially design software if applicable.

Analytics & Reporting:

CRM & Automation:

• The POS system may have basic CRM functionalities for tracking customer purchase history and contact information.

• Adherence to company SOPs represents the "automation" of processes to ensure consistency and efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: The tools listed are specific to a custom framing department within a retail setting, based on the job description's requirements for operating equipment and managing orders.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Creativity & Passion: A core value of Michaels, encouraging associates to embrace and foster creativity in themselves and customers.

• Customer Focus: Prioritizing customer needs and experiences to build loyalty and drive sales through personalized service and solutions.

• Quality & Craftsmanship: A commitment to delivering high-quality custom framing products that meet or exceed customer expectations.

• Teamwork & Respect: Fostering a positive and inclusive work environment where team members support each other and treat everyone with respect.

• Efficiency & Compliance: Adhering to company processes, SOPs, and safety standards to ensure smooth operations and a secure workplace.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional within Store: Working collaboratively with other store associates to ensure seamless customer service across all departments and to support overall store operations (e.g., stocking, cashiering).

• Customer-Centric Collaboration: Partnering with customers to understand their vision for custom framing projects, offering expert advice and design recommendations.

• Process Adherence: Collaborating by following established procedures and contributing to a culture of continuous improvement within operational guidelines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The values are inferred from the company's stated purpose and typical retail operational priorities, emphasizing creativity, customer service, and operational integrity.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Sales & Production: Effectively managing time to provide excellent customer consultations and sales while also completing framing orders accurately and on time.

• Handling Diverse Customer Needs: Meeting the unique artistic visions and budget constraints of a wide range of customers.

• Technical Skill Development: Learning to operate specialized framing equipment safely and efficiently, requiring precision and attention to detail.

• Physical Demands: Managing the physical requirements of the job, including standing for long periods and lifting heavy items.

• Adapting to Retail Fluctuations: Managing workflow during peak seasons, busy weekends, and promotional periods.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Framing Skills Certification: Potential to gain specialized knowledge and skills in custom framing techniques, design, and material selection.

• Sales Training: Opportunities to enhance selling skills, consultative selling, and upselling techniques for custom services.

• Customer Service Excellence: Developing advanced customer service and conflict resolution skills.

• Retail Operations Fundamentals: Gaining a solid understanding of core retail operations, including inventory management, visual merchandising, and POS systems.

• Internal Advancement: Clear pathways for promotion to lead roles or management positions within Michaels stores.

📝 Enhancement Note: Challenges are framed around the core responsibilities and physical demands of the role. Growth opportunities focus on skill acquisition and career progression within the retail environment.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Tell me about a time you helped a customer find the perfect solution for their needs." (Focus on consultative selling and problem-solving)

• "How do you ensure accuracy and quality in your work, especially when dealing with detailed tasks?" (Highlight attention to detail and adherence to standards)

• "Describe your experience with operating machinery or tools. How do you ensure safety?" (Demonstrate mechanical aptitude and safety awareness)

• "How would you handle a situation where a customer is unhappy with a product or service?" (Showcase customer service and conflict resolution skills)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about working at Michaels, specifically in the Custom Framing department?" (Research Michaels' brand, products, and values)

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

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Since a formal portfolio isn't required, prepare to discuss your relevant skills and experiences using concrete examples.

• If you have personal framing projects, be ready to briefly describe the project, the materials used, and the customer's (or your own) satisfaction.

• Focus on articulating your understanding of the framing process, from consultation to final product, and your commitment to quality.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview questions are tailored to assess the key skills and responsibilities outlined in the job description, focusing on customer interaction, technical aptitude, and operational awareness.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the Michaels Careers portal via the provided URL.

• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume highlights any customer service, sales, or hands-on technical experience. Quantify achievements where possible (e.g., "Increased framing sales by X%," "Handled X customer inquiries per day").

• Prepare for Customer Scenarios: Think about specific examples of how you've provided excellent customer service, solved problems, or worked with detailed tasks.

• Research Michaels: Familiarize yourself with Michaels' products, services (especially custom framing), and company values. Understand their mission to "fuel the joy of creativity."

• Practice Interview Questions: Review the suggested interview questions and prepare concise, STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) responses, particularly for behavioral questions.

⚠️ 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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