Framer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Framer
Company: Michaels Stores
Location: Anchorage, Alaska, United States
Job Type: PART_TIME
Category: Retail Operations Support / Creative Services
Date Posted: October 15, 2025
Experience Level: 0-2 Years
Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is centered on providing exceptional customer service and creative solutions within a retail environment, specifically focusing on custom framing services.
• Responsibilities include building strong customer relationships, understanding their needs, and translating those into high-quality, timely framing orders.
• The position requires proficient use of framing equipment and adherence to operational standards for store presentation and safety.
• Candidates will engage in sales activities, assist with inventory management, and contribute to a positive shopping experience for all customers.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Framer" title, while specific to a craft, is being categorized under Retail Operations Support and Creative Services due to its customer-facing, sales-driven, and product-creation nature within a retail chain. The emphasis on customer relationships, sales, and operational adherence places it firmly within a broader operations context.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Customer Engagement & Sales:
  • Build and nurture customer relationships by actively listening to their needs and providing personalized framing consultations.
  • Upsell and cross-sell framing products and services to enhance customer solutions and drive sales targets.
  • Guide customers through the selection of frames, mats, and other aesthetic components for their artwork or memorabilia.
  • Execute sales transactions accurately and efficiently using the point-of-sale (POS) system, including cash handling and payment processing.
• Custom Framing Production:
  • Meticulously measure, cut, assemble, and finish custom framing orders according to established Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and quality standards.
  • Operate specialized framing equipment, including mat cutters and potentially heat presses, with precision and adherence to safety protocols.
  • Ensure all framing orders are completed accurately and delivered within the promised timeframe, maintaining a high degree of quality.
• Store Operations & Merchandising:
  • Maintain the visual appeal and organization of the ready-made frame department, ensuring it is well-merchandised and fully stocked.
  • Participate in inventory management tasks, including SISO (Shop In Store Out) and Directed Replenishment, to ensure product availability.
  • Assist with the unloading and stocking of merchandise, adhering to truck-unloading standards and timelines.
  • Uphold a safe, clean, and clutter-free store environment for both customers and team members.
• Team Collaboration & Compliance:
  • Adhere strictly to all company SOPs, programs, and policies to ensure compliance with legal requirements and operational standards.
  • Support and actively participate in shrink and safety programs to minimize loss and maintain a secure workplace.
  • Interact positively and respectfully with colleagues, remaining constructive even during challenging situations.
  • Contribute to a collaborative team environment by assisting with various store duties as assigned, including Omni channel processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The raw description provided a good overview, but this section has been expanded to detail the specific operational aspects of customer interaction, production, merchandising, and compliance that are critical to a retail operations role like this. The emphasis is on execution, quality, and customer satisfaction as key performance indicators.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• High school diploma or equivalent is generally expected for entry-level retail positions.
• Specific vocational training in design, art, or a trade related to craftsmanship may be beneficial but is not typically a strict requirement.

Experience:

• 0-2 years of experience in a customer-facing role, with a focus on sales and service.
• Previous experience in a retail environment is highly preferred.
• Prior experience in custom framing, art services, or a related craft is advantageous.

Required Skills:

• Customer Service Excellence: Demonstrated ability to engage customers, understand their needs, and provide solutions in a friendly and professional manner.
• Basic Measuring & Calculation Skills: Proficiency in accurate measurement and basic arithmetic for framing order specifications.
• Basic Computer Skills: Ability to navigate POS systems, potentially basic data entry, and utilize company-specific software for order management.
• Operational Adherence: Willingness and ability to follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for production, safety, and customer service.
• Teamwork & Positive Attitude: Ability to collaborate effectively with team members and maintain a positive, results-oriented disposition.

Preferred Skills:

• Framing Equipment Operation: Hands-on experience operating framing equipment, mat cutters, and glass cutters.
• Retail Sales Experience: Proven track record of meeting or exceeding sales targets in a retail setting.
• Product Knowledge: Familiarity with different types of art, framing materials, and design principles.
• Visual Merchandising: Understanding of how to present products effectively to attract customers.
• Problem-Solving: Ability to troubleshoot minor issues related to production or customer requests.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Minimum" and "Preferred" experience sections from the raw data have been translated into a more standard "Required" and "Preferred" skills format. Basic computer and measuring skills are essential for operational execution, while retail sales and specific framing experience indicate a higher level of proficiency and potential for immediate contribution.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• While a formal "portfolio" in the traditional sense may not be required for this specific role, candidates are expected to demonstrate their capabilities through:
  • Visual Examples (Optional but Recommended): If available, examples of past framing work, design projects, or creative problem-solving that showcase craftsmanship and aesthetic judgment. This could be a digital presentation or physical samples brought to an interview.
  • Case Studies (Verbal or Written): Prepared examples of how you have successfully:
    • Solved a customer's unique framing challenge.
    • Exceeded sales targets through consultative selling.
    • Improved a process or workflow in a previous role.
    • Handled a difficult customer interaction to a positive resolution.
  • Demonstration of Skills: Ability to articulate and, if possible, demonstrate basic measuring, cutting, or assembly techniques during a practical assessment.

Process Documentation:

• Candidates are not expected to create formal process documentation but should be able to discuss:
  • Their understanding of SOPs and their importance in maintaining consistency and quality.
  • How they would approach learning and adhering to the company's specific framing and operational processes.
  • Their ability to follow step-by-step instructions for production and customer service protocols.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a role like "Framer" which is more hands-on and customer-service oriented at the entry-level, a traditional operations portfolio might not be applicable. However, the spirit of a portfolio—demonstrating capabilities and results—is crucial. This section reinterprets "portfolio" to mean showcasing practical skills, customer interaction examples, and adherence to processes, which are vital for success in this type of role.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on industry standards for part-time retail associates in Anchorage, Alaska, with responsibilities including specialized services like custom framing, the estimated hourly wage is likely to be between $15.00 - $19.00 per hour.
• This estimate considers the cost of living in Anchorage, the part-time nature of the role, and the specialized skill set (framing) required, which often commands a slightly higher rate than general sales associate positions.

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 for vacation, sick leave, or personal days.
• Tuition Assistance: Programs designed to support continuing education and skill development.
• Employee Discounts: Generous discounts on Michaels products and services, encouraging personal creativity and saving.
• Retirement Savings Plan: Opportunities to save for retirement (e.g., 401(k)).
• Team Member Assistance Program (TMAP): Confidential support for personal and work-related challenges.

Working Hours:

• This is a PART_TIME position. Actual hours will vary based on store needs, customer traffic, and scheduling.
• Flexibility is required, including the ability to work nights, weekends, and potentially early mornings, as retail operations demand.
• The role may require approximately 20-30 hours per week, with potential for more during peak seasons.

📝 Enhancement Note: The raw data provided a list of benefits and indicated "PART_TIME" employment. This section expands on those, provides an estimated salary range with justification based on location and role type, and clarifies the typical expectations for part-time working hours in a retail setting. The salary estimate is based on general knowledge of retail wages in higher cost-of-living areas for roles with specialized duties.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Arts and Crafts Retail. Michaels is the largest specialty arts and crafts retail chain in North America. Company Size: Over 1,300 stores across the U.S. and Canada, indicating a large, established retail operation with significant infrastructure. Founded: 1973, with headquarters in Irving, Texas. This long history suggests a stable company with established processes and brand recognition.

Team Structure:

• Store-Level Operations: The Framer will be part of a store team that includes a Store Manager, Assistant Store Managers, Team Leads, and other Sales Associates.
• Reporting: Typically reports to a Framing Manager or a designated Team Lead responsible for the custom framing department, who in turn reports to store management.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Will collaborate with all store team members on daily tasks, customer assistance, inventory, and operational initiatives. Collaboration with the broader Michaels corporate structure for product, marketing, and operational guidance is also implied.

Methodology:

• Customer-Centric Approach: Emphasis on "fueling the joy of creativity" and providing a positive customer experience is central to Michaels' approach.
• Operational Excellence: Adherence to SOPs, safety, and efficiency programs is critical for consistent service delivery across all locations.
• Data-Driven Insights (Indirect): While not directly managing data, the role contributes to sales data, inventory levels, and customer feedback that inform business decisions at higher levels.
• Process Optimization: Continuous efforts to improve customer service, sales techniques, and production efficiency are part of the retail environment.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: This section synthesizes company information from the provided description to contextualize the Framer role. It highlights the scale of Michaels, its mission, and how the store-level operations, including the framing department, fit into the larger organizational strategy. The "Methodology" sub-section infers the operational approach based on stated company values and industry practices.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Entry-Level to Junior Associate. This role represents an entry point into retail operations with a specialized function. It's suitable for individuals starting their careers or seeking to develop skills in customer service, sales, and a craft. Reporting Structure: Reports to a Store Manager, Framing Manager, or Team Lead. This structure provides direct supervision and guidance, crucial for developing the necessary skills and adhering to company protocols. Operations Impact:

• Directly impacts store revenue through custom framing sales and general merchandise sales.
• Contributes to customer satisfaction and loyalty by providing expert advice and high-quality framing solutions.
• Influences the store's operational efficiency through accurate production, effective merchandising, and participation in stock management.
• Upholds the brand image of Michaels as a creative destination through skillful craftsmanship and excellent customer interaction.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Opportunity to become an expert in custom framing, matting, and artwork preservation techniques.
• Sales Advancement: Potential to move into roles with higher sales targets or management responsibilities within the framing department or store.
• Cross-Training: Ability to gain experience in other store functions, such as visual merchandising, inventory management, or specialized departments.
• Leadership Development: With demonstrated performance and initiative, opportunities may arise for Team Lead or Assistant Store Manager positions.
• Transfer Opportunities: Potential to transfer to other Michaels locations or explore roles within the broader Michaels Companies Inc. (e.g., Artistree).

📝 Enhancement Note: This section analyzes the career trajectory and developmental aspects of the Framer role. It positions the role within the broader operations context and highlights how success here can lead to further opportunities within Michaels, connecting the daily tasks to long-term career potential.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Public retail store setting. The primary workspace is the sales floor and the dedicated custom framing area within the store. Office Location(s):

• Store ANCHORAGE-GLENN HWY, AK
• Address: 3090 Mountain View Dr, Ste 130, Anchorage, AK

Workspace Context:

• Customer Interaction Focused: A significant portion of the workday involves direct interaction with customers on the sales floor and in the framing department.
• Craftsmanship Area: The framing shop is equipped with specialized tools and materials, requiring careful organization and adherence to safety protocols due to the presence of glass cutters and heat presses.
• Team Collaboration: The environment is dynamic, requiring constant communication and cooperation with other store team members for efficient operations and customer support.
• Physical Demands: The role involves standing for extended periods, lifting heavy boxes and frames, and reaching for items, necessitating a certain level of physical stamina.

Work Schedule:

• Flexible scheduling is a key aspect, with hours including nights, weekends, and early mornings to accommodate customer traffic and operational needs.
• The environment is climate-controlled in public areas, though stock rooms might have varying conditions. Some outdoor work may be required for tasks like retrieving shopping carts or during truck unloads.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section details the physical and social aspects of the work environment, drawing from the provided description of the store setting, framing shop specifics, and general retail conditions. It emphasizes the blend of customer service, hands-on craft, and team collaboration inherent in the role.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Likely a brief phone or online screening to review basic qualifications and availability.
• In-Person Interview: A more in-depth interview at the store location. This will likely include:
  • Behavioral Questions: Assessing customer service skills, problem-solving abilities, and teamwork (e.g., "Tell me about a time you dealt with a difficult customer," "How do you handle multiple tasks?").
  • Situational Questions: Presenting hypothetical scenarios related to framing, sales, or store operations.
  • Skills Assessment (Potential): A practical demonstration of basic measuring, cutting, or an understanding of framing concepts might be requested.
  • Cultural Fit: Evaluating alignment with Michaels' values of creativity, customer focus, and teamwork.
• Final Steps: Reference checks and a job offer.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Focus on Capability, Not Formal Portfolio: Since a formal portfolio isn't explicitly required, prepare to discuss your relevant skills and experiences.
• Articulate Customer Service Successes: Be ready to share specific examples of how you've helped customers find solutions, resolved issues, and contributed to a positive shopping experience.
• Highlight Craftsmanship/Attention to Detail: If you have any experience with crafts, DIY projects, or precise tasks, be prepared to talk about your attention to detail and ability to follow instructions.
• Demonstrate Problem-Solving: Share instances where you had to think on your feet to help a customer or overcome an operational challenge.
• Visual Aids (Optional): If you have photos of personal projects demonstrating relevant skills (e.g., custom crafts, projects requiring precision), bring them to showcase your aptitude.

Challenge Preparation:

• Customer Scenario: Be prepared for scenarios like: "A customer wants to frame a very unusual item – how would you approach it?" or "How would you handle a customer who is unhappy with the price of a custom frame?"
• Operational Scenarios: Questions about inventory management, maintaining store cleanliness, or handling multiple customer requests simultaneously.
• Sales Approach: Discuss how you would approach a customer to offer framing services, focusing on consultative selling rather than aggressive tactics.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section provides actionable advice for candidates applying for this role. It translates the typical retail interview process into specific expectations for a Framer position, emphasizing how to present relevant skills and experiences even without a formal operations portfolio.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Custom Framing Equipment:
  • Mat Cutters: For precisely cutting mat boards to size and shape.
  • Frame Moulding Cutters: Specialized saws or cutters for precisely cutting frame pieces to length.
  • Assembly Tools: Vises, jointers, staplers, and adhesive applicators for assembling frames.
  • Glass/Plexiglass Cutters: For custom sizing protective glazing.
  • Heat Press (Potentially): For applying adhesives or mounting materials.
• Point-of-Sale (POS) System: For processing customer transactions, managing sales, and potentially accessing customer order history.
• Basic Hand Tools: Measuring tapes, rulers, utility knives, screwdrivers, etc.

Analytics & Reporting:

• POS Reporting: Basic sales reports generated by the POS system, which the Framer might access or contribute to indirectly.
• Inventory Management Systems: Potentially used for checking stock levels of framing materials or directing replenishment.

CRM & Automation:

• Customer Relationship Management (CRM) (Indirect): The POS system may store basic customer contact information and order history, serving a minimal CRM function for repeat customers.
• Order Management Software: Internal systems or POS modules for tracking custom framing orders from placement to completion.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section details the specific tools and technologies a Framer would encounter. It focuses on the specialized equipment in the framing department and the general retail technology like POS systems, which are critical for operational execution and customer transactions.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Creativity & Passion: A core value at Michaels, encouraging employees and customers to explore their creative potential. This translates to an appreciation for craftsmanship and innovative solutions.
• Customer Focus: Prioritizing customer satisfaction and building relationships is paramount. Employees are expected to be helpful, friendly, and solution-oriented.
• Integrity & Respect: Upholding ethical standards, treating all individuals with respect, and fostering an inclusive environment.
• Teamwork & Collaboration: Encouraging mutual support, open communication, and collective effort to achieve store goals.
• Efficiency & Quality: Striving for operational excellence by performing tasks accurately, safely, and in a timely manner, ensuring high-quality output, especially in custom framing.

Collaboration Style:

• Service-Oriented: Team members collaborate to ensure a seamless customer experience, from greeting to checkout and framing consultation.
• Task-Sharing: Willingness to assist colleagues with various duties, including stocking, merchandising, and customer support, to meet daily operational demands.
• Knowledge Exchange: Encouraging sharing of best practices, tips for framing techniques, and sales strategies to improve overall team performance.
• Feedback Culture: Openness to receiving and providing constructive feedback to enhance individual and team performance.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section infers the team culture and values based on Michaels' stated purpose ("fuel the joy of creativity") and typical retail operational norms. It highlights how these values translate into daily work for a Framer and their interactions with colleagues.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Multiple Demands: Juggling customer service on the sales floor, custom framing consultations, production tasks, and general store duties simultaneously.
• Managing Customer Expectations: Effectively communicating timelines, costs, and design possibilities for custom framing to ensure customer satisfaction.
• Maintaining Production Quality & Speed: Consistently delivering high-quality framing work while meeting production deadlines, especially during busy periods.
• Learning Specialized Skills: Mastering the operation of framing equipment and understanding design principles for effective customer solutions.
• Adapting to Retail Fluctuations: Handling busy peak seasons, promotional events, and varying customer traffic patterns.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Framing Expertise: Deepening knowledge of framing techniques, materials, preservation methods, and design trends through on-the-job training and potential workshops.
• Sales & Customer Service Skills: Enhancing consultative selling abilities, negotiation skills, and conflict resolution techniques.
• Operational Proficiency: Gaining experience in inventory management, visual merchandising, and POS system operations.
• Cross-Functional Exposure: Learning about other departments within Michaels and their operational functions.
• Potential for Advancement: As noted in the Career & Growth section, opportunities exist to move into supervisory or management roles within Michaels.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section outlines potential challenges unique to the Framer role and the retail environment, framing them as opportunities for skill development. It connects these challenges to concrete learning and advancement possibilities within Michaels.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Customer Service & Sales Scenarios:
  • "A customer is unsure about the best framing choice for their valuable artwork. How would you guide them?" (Focus on consultative selling, asking questions, understanding value, and offering options.)
  • "How would you handle a situation where a custom framing order is delayed?" (Focus on communication, empathy, offering solutions, and managing expectations.)
  • "Describe your approach to upselling or cross-selling framing services or complementary products." (Focus on identifying needs, offering value, and natural integration.)
• Operational & Technical Questions:
  • "What steps would you take to ensure the accuracy of a custom framing order?" (Focus on attention to detail, double-checking measurements, understanding specifications.)
  • "How would you prioritize tasks if you had a customer waiting for a consultation, an order to finish, and a delivery to stock?" (Focus on time management, prioritization, and communication.)
  • "What safety precautions would you take when operating a mat cutter or glass cutter?" (Focus on awareness of hazards and adherence to safety protocols.)
• Company & Culture Questions:
  • "Why are you interested in working for Michaels and specifically in a framing role?" (Connect to personal creativity, interest in art/crafts, customer service passion.)
  • "How do you contribute to a positive team environment?" (Focus on collaboration, support, and a positive attitude.)
  • "What does 'fueling the joy of creativity' mean to you?" (Reflect on personal connection to creativity and customer experience.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Verbalize Your "Portfolio": Instead of a formal document, prepare to speak eloquently about your experiences.
• STAR Method for Examples: For behavioral questions, use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers about customer interactions, problem-solving, or teamwork.
• Showcase Relevant Skills: Highlight any experience with crafts, DIY projects, precise work, or customer-facing roles where you demonstrated creativity, attention to detail, or problem-solving.
• Visuals (If Applicable): If you bring photos of personal projects, be ready to explain the process, materials used, and the outcome, demonstrating your hands-on capability and aesthetic judgment.

Challenge Preparation:

• Mock Framing Consultation: Be ready to walk through how you'd consult with a customer, what questions you'd ask, and how you'd guide them through choices.
• Measurement & Cutting Demonstration: If asked, be prepared to demonstrate basic measuring accuracy and understanding of cutting techniques (even if hypothetical).
• Problem-Solving Scenarios: Practice thinking through solutions for common retail challenges like stockouts, customer complaints, or workflow bottlenecks.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section provides specific, actionable advice tailored to the Framer role, anticipating the types of questions and practical assessments an applicant might face. It focuses on how to leverage existing skills and experiences to demonstrate suitability for the role, even without a traditional operations background.

📌 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 customer service, sales, crafting, or hands-on experience. Use keywords from the job description such as "customer service," "sales," "detail-oriented," "craftsmanship," and "problem-solving." Quantify achievements where possible (e.g., "Assisted an average of X customers per shift," "Contributed to Y% of store sales").
• Prepare Your "Portfolio" Narrative: Mentally rehearse specific examples using the STAR method for behavioral and situational interview questions. Think about how your past experiences, even if not directly in framing, demonstrate transferable skills like attention to detail, creativity, problem-solving, and customer engagement.
• Research Michaels: Familiarize yourself with Michaels' mission ("fuel the joy of creativity"), product offerings, and company values. Understand the importance of custom framing as a key service.
• Practice Your Introduction: Be ready to clearly articulate why you are interested in the Framer role and how your skills align with the company's needs.

⚠️ 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.

---