Framer
📍 Job Overview
Job Title: Framer Company: Michaels Stores Location: Syracuse-3471 Erie Blvd E, Syracuse, New York, United States Job Type: PART_TIME Category: Retail Operations / Creative Services Date Posted: October 08, 2025 Experience Level: 0-2 Years Remote Status: On-site
🚀 Role Summary
- Responsible for creating custom framing solutions and building strong customer relationships through personalized design consultations.
- Executes framing orders with a focus on high quality, timely delivery, and adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
- Contributes to maintaining an organized, safe, and well-merchandised store environment, including the ready-made frame department.
- Operates the cash register, handles transactions accurately, and supports overall store operations, including inventory management and truck unloads.
📝 Enhancement Note: This role is situated within a retail environment, focusing on a specialized service (custom framing). While not a traditional "Revenue Operations" role, the emphasis on sales, customer relationships, and operational efficiency within the framing department aligns with core operations principles of driving revenue through service excellence and process adherence.
📈 Primary Responsibilities
- Engage customers in personalized design consultations to understand their framing needs and recommend suitable solutions, utilizing the "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodology to drive sales and production.
- Accurately measure, cut, assemble, and finish custom framing orders according to established quality standards and deadlines.
- Maintain the visual presentation and stock levels of the ready-made frame department, ensuring it is appealing and well-organized for customer browsing.
- Conduct regular checks and maintenance of assigned areas, including SISO (Single Item, Single Order) and Directed Replenishment processes, to ensure product availability and store readiness.
- Provide friendly and efficient customer service, assisting shoppers with locating products, answering inquiries, and offering solutions to enhance their shopping experience.
- Adhere strictly to all Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), company policies, and safety programs to ensure compliance, minimize risk, and maintain operational integrity.
- Participate actively in the truck un-load and stocking processes, ensuring adherence to truck standards and efficient inventory management.
- Operate the cash register proficiently, executing cash handling procedures with accuracy and integrity, supporting shrink prevention initiatives.
- Foster a collaborative and respectful team environment, projecting a positive attitude and serving as a role model for organizational values and customer service standards.
- Support Omni-channel processes, which may include assisting with online order fulfillment, in-store pickup, or other customer-facing digital initiatives.
📝 Enhancement Note: The core responsibilities highlight a blend of customer-facing sales, skilled production (framing), and general retail operations. The "Elevated ABC Deliver" and "SISO" references point to specific internal methodologies that candidates should familiarize themselves with if possible. The role requires hands-on execution and direct customer interaction.
🎓 Skills & Qualifications
Education: High school diploma or equivalent required. Experience: 0-2 years of experience in a customer-facing or production role.
Required Skills:
- Basic computer skills for operating point-of-sale systems and potentially basic design software.
- Fundamental measuring skills for accurate material assessment and cutting.
- 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 engaging demeanor.
- Proficient cash handling and transaction processing abilities.
- Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment, demonstrating teamwork and positive interaction.
- Effective problem-solving skills to address customer needs and operational challenges.
- Good time management and organizational skills to handle multiple tasks and deadlines.
- High attention to detail to ensure quality in framing and order accuracy.
- Ability to maintain a positive and respectful attitude, even in challenging situations.
- Awareness and adherence to safety protocols and programs.
- Clear and effective communication skills for customer interactions and team collaboration.
- Basic understanding of merchandising principles to maintain store appearance.
Preferred Skills:
- Previous retail experience, ideally in a specialty or custom service environment.
- Proven experience in selling products and/or services, with a consultative approach.
- Familiarity with art, design, or custom framing concepts.
📝 Enhancement Note: The required skills are foundational, indicating that comprehensive training will be provided. The preference for retail sales experience suggests that the ability to influence customer purchasing decisions and build rapport is highly valued. For operations candidates, framing this experience within a service-oriented retail context is key.
📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements
Portfolio Essentials:
- While a formal portfolio is not explicitly required for this entry-level role, candidates are encouraged to showcase examples of their work ethic, problem-solving abilities, and customer service successes through their resume and interview responses.
- Highlight any instances where you improved a process, enhanced customer satisfaction, or contributed to team efficiency in previous roles.
- Demonstrate an understanding of how systems (like POS or basic computer applications) support operational workflows.
- Quantify achievements where possible, such as increased sales, improved turnaround times, or positive customer feedback.
Process Documentation:
- Candidates should be prepared to discuss their understanding of following Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company programs.
- The ability to learn and adapt to new processes and equipment quickly is essential, particularly concerning framing techniques and safety protocols.
- Discussing how one would approach learning a new operational process or system would be beneficial.
📝 Enhancement Note: For an entry-level role like Framer, a traditional "operations portfolio" focused on system implementation or complex process optimization is not expected. Instead, the focus should be on demonstrating foundational operational competencies like adherence to procedures, customer service excellence, and a proactive approach to learning and problem-solving.
💵 Compensation & Benefits
Salary Range: $15.75 - $18.50 per hour.
Benefits:
- Health Insurance (Medical, Dental, and Vision)
- Paid Time Off (PTO)
- Tuition Assistance
- Generous Employee Discounts on Michaels products and services.
- Potential for additional benefits as outlined by The Michaels Companies Inc.
Working Hours: This is a PART_TIME position. Specific hours will vary and may include nights, weekends, and early mornings, based on store operational needs and scheduling.
📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range provided is competitive for a part-time retail associate role in the US, especially considering the specialized framing skill. The benefits package, including health insurance and tuition assistance, is robust for a part-time position, indicating Michaels' commitment to employee well-being and development.
🎯 Team & Company Context
🏢 Company Culture
Industry: Arts and Crafts Retail. Michaels is the leading creative destination in North America. Company Size: Large (over 1,300 stores in the US and Canada). Founded: 1973. Headquartered in Irving, Texas.
Team Structure:
- This role is part of a store-level team, reporting to store leadership (e.g., Store Manager, Assistant Store Manager, Framing Department Manager).
- Collaboration is key, involving interactions with fellow sales associates, framers, and potentially visual merchandisers.
- The focus is on collective achievement of store sales targets, customer satisfaction, and operational standards.
Methodology:
- Emphasis on customer engagement through structured sales approaches ("Elevated ABC Deliver").
- Adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for consistent execution of tasks and policies.
- A commitment to maintaining store standards for visual merchandising, stock, and cleanliness.
- Focus on safety and shrink prevention as integral parts of daily operations.
Company Website: https://www.michaels.com/
📝 Enhancement Note: Michaels positions itself as a "creative destination," fostering a culture that values creativity, customer engagement, and community. The emphasis on SOPs and structured sales methodologies indicates a need for disciplined execution within a creative framework.
📈 Career & Growth Analysis
Operations Career Level: Entry-Level Retail Associate with specialized framing duties. This role serves as a foundational position within the retail operations structure. Reporting Structure: Reports to store management, with direct supervision from department leads or shift supervisors. The role involves cross-functional interaction with other store team members. Operations Impact: Directly impacts store revenue through custom framing sales and customer retention. Contributes to operational efficiency by maintaining department standards and supporting overall store functions. Ensures customer satisfaction through quality service and product delivery.
Growth Opportunities:
- Skill Development: Opportunity to become a skilled custom framer, mastering various techniques and materials.
- Retail Advancement: Potential to move into roles such as Key Holder, Assistant Manager, or Store Manager within Michaels.
- Specialization: Opportunities to deepen expertise in specific areas of the store, potentially including visual merchandising or inventory management.
- Cross-Training: Exposure to various aspects of retail operations, building a broad skill set.
📝 Enhancement Note: For an operations-minded individual, this role offers a strong foundation in customer-facing operations, sales execution, and adherence to retail processes. Growth paths are clearly defined within the retail management hierarchy and through skill specialization.
🌐 Work Environment
Office Type: Public retail store setting. Office Location(s): Syracuse-3471 Erie Blvd E, Syracuse, NY. The work environment is a climate-controlled retail space with a dedicated frame shop area. Some stock rooms may not be climate-controlled, and outdoor work may be required for truck unloads.
Workspace Context:
- The workspace includes a public retail floor for customer interaction and a specialized frame shop equipped with tools like a glass cutter and heat press.
- Collaboration with team members is frequent, requiring effective communication and teamwork.
- Access to operations tools and technology includes the point-of-sale (POS) system and basic computer applications.
Work Schedule: This is a PART_TIME position with varied hours, including potential nights, weekends, and early mornings. Flexibility in scheduling is often a requirement in retail operations.
📝 Enhancement Note: The environment demands adaptability, as it involves direct customer interaction, hands-on production, and adherence to retail operational rhythms, including potentially non-standard work hours.
📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process
Interview Process:
- Initial Screening: May involve an online application and screening questionnaire.
- In-Person Interview: Typically with the hiring manager (e.g., Store Manager or Framing Department Manager). This will likely involve behavioral questions focused on customer service, problem-solving, teamwork, and past experiences.
- Skills Assessment: May include a practical demonstration or discussion about operating framing equipment, measuring, or handling customer scenarios.
- Final Interview: Potentially a brief follow-up with store leadership.
Portfolio Review Tips:
- While a formal portfolio isn't standard, prepare to discuss specific examples of:
- How you've provided excellent customer service or resolved customer issues.
- Instances where you demonstrated strong attention to detail or quality in your work.
- Experiences where you worked effectively as part of a team.
- Situations where you managed multiple tasks or met deadlines.
- Be ready to articulate your understanding of following procedures and safety guidelines.
Challenge Preparation:
- Be prepared for situational questions like: "How would you handle a customer who is unhappy with their framing order?" or "How do you prioritize tasks when the store is busy?"
- Demonstrate enthusiasm for the creative aspect of framing and a willingness to learn new skills.
- Highlight your reliability, punctuality, and eagerness to contribute to a positive store environment.
📝 Enhancement Note: For this role, interview preparation should focus on behavioral competencies, customer service skills, and demonstrating a strong work ethic rather than technical operations documentation.
🛠 Tools & Technology Stack
Primary Tools:
- Point-of-Sale (POS) System: For processing transactions, managing sales, and potentially inventory lookups.
- Basic Computer Applications: For internal communication, training modules, or basic data entry.
- Framing Equipment: Glass cutter, mat cutter, framing tools (e.g., jointers, choppers), heat press. Proficiency or ability to learn these is key.
Analytics & Reporting:
- While not directly managing analytics, understanding how sales data, customer feedback, and production metrics contribute to store performance is beneficial.
- Basic awareness of inventory levels and stock management.
CRM & Automation:
- The "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodology may involve structured customer interaction tracking or sales process guidance.
- No complex CRM or automation tools are typically used at this level, but efficiency in task completion is paramount.
📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency with basic computer systems and POS is expected. The primary "technology" involves specialized framing tools, requiring hands-on skill development and safety awareness.
👥 Team Culture & Values
Operations Values:
- Customer Focus: Prioritizing customer needs and delivering exceptional service in all interactions.
- Creativity: Embracing and promoting creativity, especially within the framing services.
- Teamwork: Collaborating effectively with colleagues to achieve shared goals and maintain a positive work environment.
- Integrity: Upholding company policies, ethical standards, and accurate cash handling.
- Efficiency: Striving for accuracy and timeliness in production and service delivery.
- Safety: Maintaining a safe working environment for oneself and others.
Collaboration Style:
- Open communication and mutual support among team members.
- Willingness to assist colleagues with tasks and customer needs.
- Respectful interaction and a positive, can-do attitude.
📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture emphasizes creativity, customer delight, and teamwork. Operations professionals here would need to balance structured procedures with a passion for the creative product and excellent service delivery.
⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities
Challenges:
- Balancing Production and Customer Service: Effectively managing time between creating custom framing orders and assisting customers on the sales floor.
- Learning Specialized Skills: Mastering the intricacies of custom framing, including material selection, design principles, and equipment operation.
- Handling Customer Expectations: Meeting diverse customer needs and expectations for custom artwork preservation and aesthetic appeal.
- Maintaining Store Standards: Consistently upholding visual merchandising, stock, and cleanliness standards in a busy retail environment.
- Adapting to Retail Pace: Thriving in a dynamic retail setting with varying customer traffic throughout the day and week.
Learning & Development Opportunities:
- Comprehensive Training: Michaels provides training on framing techniques, equipment operation, customer service, and sales strategies.
- Mentorship: Opportunities to learn from experienced framers and store leadership.
- Product Knowledge: Deepening expertise in art materials, framing supplies, and design trends.
- Career Pathing: Clear pathways for advancement within the retail store structure.
📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents opportunities to develop specialized craft skills alongside fundamental retail operations experience. Challenges are common in customer-facing roles and require strong interpersonal and time-management abilities.
💡 Interview Preparation
Strategy Questions:
- Be ready to discuss how you would approach a customer requesting a custom framing solution for a valuable piece of art. Focus on your consultative sales approach and problem-solving skills.
- Prepare to explain how you manage your time when faced with multiple customer requests simultaneously and a deadline for a framing order. Highlight your organizational skills and ability to prioritize.
- Discuss your understanding of why following Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and safety guidelines is crucial in a retail and production environment.
Company & Culture Questions:
- Research Michaels' mission and values ("Fuel the joy of creativity"). Be prepared to express how your personal values align with these.
- Consider how you contribute to a positive team dynamic and customer experience in a retail setting.
- Be ready to discuss your interest in the creative aspect of custom framing and art.
Portfolio Presentation Strategy:
- Since a formal portfolio isn't required, prepare to verbally present "mini case studies" from your past experiences that demonstrate:
- A time you went above and beyond for a customer.
- An instance where you paid close attention to detail to ensure quality.
- A situation where you worked effectively as part of a team to achieve a goal.
- Clearly articulate the situation, your action, and the positive result (STAR method).
📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation for this role should emphasize behavioral and situational questions, demonstrating customer service aptitude, technical learning capability, and alignment with Michaels' creative and team-oriented culture.
📌 Application Steps
To apply for this operations position:
- Submit your application through the Michaels Careers Portal.
- Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight customer service experience, any mention of sales success, attention to detail, ability to follow instructions, and any experience with tools or production. Use keywords like "customer engagement," "sales support," "quality control," "process adherence," and "team collaboration."
- Practice Behavioral Responses: Prepare specific examples using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for common interview questions related to customer service, teamwork, problem-solving, and handling pressure.
- Research Company Values: Familiarize yourself with Michaels' mission and values to articulate your fit during the interview. Understand their focus on creativity and customer experience.
- Prepare Questions: Have thoughtful questions ready to ask the interviewer about the team, daily responsibilities, training processes, and opportunities for growth within the framing department or store operations.
⚠️ 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 a positive attitude are preferred.