Framer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Framer

Company: Michaels Stores

Location: Chattanooga, Tennessee, United States

Job Type: Part-Time

Category: Retail Operations / Art & Design Services

Date Posted: April 4, 2026

Experience Level: Entry-Level (0-2 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

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

• It involves direct customer interaction to understand their needs and provide creative framing solutions, acting as a key point of contact for art and memorabilia display.

• The position requires hands-on operation of framing equipment and adherence to operational standards for production and store presentation.

• It contributes to overall store performance by driving sales, maintaining inventory, and ensuring a positive shopping experience for all customers.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the primary function is framing, the role is deeply embedded in retail operations, requiring a blend of sales, customer service, and operational execution within a specific department. The title "Framer" accurately reflects the specialized nature, but the responsibilities extend to broader store operational support.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Customer Engagement & Design Consultation:

  • Build strong customer relationships by understanding their needs and preferences for custom framing projects.
  • Utilize Elevated ABC Deliver methodology to engage customers and guide them through framing options, materials, and design choices.
  • Provide expert advice on matting, framing materials, and display techniques to enhance customer artwork and memorabilia.

• Sales & Production Execution:

  • Achieve and exceed sales and production targets for custom framing orders.
  • Complete framing orders with a high degree of quality, attention to detail, and within established timelines.
  • Operate framing equipment, including mat cutters and potentially heat presses, safely and efficiently.

• Store Operations & Merchandising:

  • Maintain the ready-made frame department, ensuring it is well-organized, visually appealing, and fully stocked.
  • Execute directed replenishment and SISO (Shop In Store Out) processes for assigned areas to ensure product availability.
  • Contribute to a safe, clean, and clutter-free store environment by adhering to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and Company programs.

• Customer Service & Support:

  • Deliver friendly and efficient customer service, assisting customers in locating products and providing solutions.
  • Operate the cash register and execute cash handling procedures according to company standards.
  • Support Omni-channel processes, which may include assisting with online order fulfillment or in-store pickup.

• Team Collaboration & Compliance:

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

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

  • Support shrink and safety programs by following established guidelines and reporting any concerns.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a dual focus: specialized custom framing services and general retail operational support. The emphasis on "Elevated ABC Deliver" suggests a structured approach to sales and customer relationship management within the framing department.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Experience:

• 0-2 years of experience in a customer-facing role, with a focus on sales or service delivery.

Required Skills:

• Customer Service Excellence: Ability to build rapport, actively listen, and provide solutions that meet customer needs.

• Basic Measuring Skills: Precision in taking measurements for framing projects is critical.

• Equipment Operation: Proficiency or ability to learn to operate framing equipment, including mat cutters and potentially other specialized tools.

• Basic Computer Skills: Necessary for POS systems, order entry, and potentially inventory management.

• Merchandising & Presentation: Ability to maintain visually appealing displays and ensure stock availability.

Preferred Skills:

• Retail Sales Experience: Proven track record in selling products and/or services, particularly in a creative or custom-order environment.

• Art & Design Aptitude: A keen eye for aesthetics, color, and design principles to assist customers with framing choices.

• Glass Cutting Proficiency: Experience with safely and accurately cutting glass for framing applications.

• Inventory Management: Familiarity with stock counts, replenishment, and maintaining organized stock areas.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "minimum skills" listed (basic computer and measuring, equipment operation) are fundamental. The "preferred skills" like retail sales and specific framing experience (glass cutting) will significantly differentiate candidates and are crucial for excelling in the sales and production aspects of the role.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• While a formal portfolio isn't explicitly requested for this entry-level role, candidates are encouraged to showcase examples of their eye for design and customer service through their resume and interview responses.

• Highlighting projects where you successfully met customer needs, whether in framing or other service-oriented roles, can serve as a de facto portfolio.

• Demonstrate an understanding of quality control in your work, emphasizing accuracy and timeliness in past responsibilities.

Process Documentation:

• Candidates should be prepared to discuss their understanding of and adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).

• Be ready to explain how you would approach learning and implementing new processes, such as the "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodology for customer engagement.

• Demonstrate an ability to follow established workflows for order completion, from consultation to final production and customer pickup.

📝 Enhancement Note: For this specific role, a traditional "operations portfolio" is less critical than demonstrating a strong foundation in customer service, sales aptitude, and a willingness to learn and adhere to established operational processes and safety protocols. The interview and resume should highlight relevant experiences that showcase these capabilities.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Benefits:

• Health Insurance: Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage options are available.

• Paid Time Off (PTO): Accrued PTO for eligible team members.

• Tuition Assistance: Support for continuing education and skill development.

• Employee Discounts: Generous discounts on Michaels products and services.

• Other Benefits: Potential for short-term disability, life insurance, and retirement savings plans (e.g., 401(k)) may be available depending on employment status and tenure.

Working Hours:

• This is a Part-Time position, with expected hours likely ranging from 15-30 hours per week, depending on business needs and scheduling. Work hours include nights, weekends, and early mornings, reflecting the demands of a retail environment. Flexibility is required to meet operational demands.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate based on typical part-time retail positions with specialized duties in a medium-sized US city. Benefits are generally comprehensive for part-time roles at Michaels, with eligibility criteria applying. The working hours clearly indicate the need for flexibility in scheduling.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Arts and Crafts Retail. Michaels Stores is a leading North American retailer specializing in arts, crafts, framing, and home decor.

Company Size: Large (Over 10,000 employees). Michaels operates over 1,300 stores across the US and Canada, indicating a substantial corporate infrastructure and a vast retail footprint.

Founded: 1973. With decades of operation, Michaels has established a strong brand presence and a deep understanding of its customer base.

Team Structure:

• The Framer typically reports to the Custom Framing Manager or the Store Manager.

• They work closely with other store associates in sales, stock, and customer service roles.

Methodology:

• Customer-Centric Approach: Emphasis on building relationships and providing personalized solutions, as highlighted by "Elevated ABC Deliver."

• Process Adherence: Strong focus on Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for consistency, safety, and compliance across all store functions.

• Teamwork & Efficiency: Participation in truck un-loads, stocking, and supporting various store operations underscores a collaborative and efficient work environment.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Michaels fosters a culture that values creativity, customer engagement, and operational efficiency. The company's long history suggests a stable, established retail environment with clear processes and a focus on employee development within its specialized retail offerings.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is an entry-level to junior-level retail operations role. It serves as a foundational position for individuals interested in retail, customer service, and specialized creative services.

Reporting Structure: The Framer typically reports to a supervisor or manager within the store, such as a Custom Framing Manager or Store Manager. This provides direct oversight and opportunities for immediate feedback and learning.

Operations Impact: The Framer directly impacts store revenue through custom framing sales and contributes to customer satisfaction by providing quality products and excellent service. They are also crucial for maintaining the visual appeal and stock levels of the framing department, which influences the overall shopping experience.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Potential to become a senior framer or specialist within the custom framing department, taking on more complex projects or training new team members.

• Retail Management Path: Advancement opportunities into roles such as Assistant Store Manager, Store Manager, or department management positions within Michaels.

• Cross-Departmental Experience: Opportunity to gain experience in other areas of store operations, merchandising, or inventory management, broadening skill sets for future retail roles.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an individual starting in retail, this role offers a clear path for skill development in customer service, sales, and a specialized craft. The company's size provides ample opportunities for internal mobility and career progression within the broader retail management framework.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Public Retail Store Setting. The work environment is dynamic, customer-facing, and involves direct interaction with the public in a retail store.

Office Location(s): The specific store is located at 600 Northgate Mall Dr, Ste 112, Chattanooga, TN. This is a mall-based retail location, suggesting a potentially busy environment with high foot traffic.

Workspace Context:

• Customer Interaction: The primary workspace is the sales floor and the custom framing counter/area, requiring constant engagement with customers.

• Tools & Technology: Access to POS systems, framing equipment (mat cutters, glass cutters, heat presses), measuring tools, and potentially inventory management software.

• Team Interaction: Opportunities for collaboration with fellow store associates, sharing knowledge, and supporting each other during busy periods. The framing shop itself may have specialized tools and a dedicated workspace.

Work Schedule: The role requires flexibility to work nights, weekends, and potentially early mornings, aligning with typical retail operating hours. This schedule can offer a varied work week but requires adaptability.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is hands-on and customer-focused, typical of a retail setting. The framing shop area will have specialized tools and materials, requiring adherence to safety protocols. The mall location implies a consistent flow of potential customers.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Likely an application review followed by a brief phone or video screening to assess basic qualifications and interest.

• In-Person Interview: A one-on-one interview with the Store Manager or Custom Framing Manager. This will focus on customer service skills, problem-solving abilities, and understanding of retail operations. Expect behavioral questions.

• Skills Assessment (Informal): You may be asked to demonstrate basic measuring skills or discuss how you would handle a customer scenario.

• Final Interview/Onboarding: If successful, a final discussion and onboarding process.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Resume Focus: Since a formal portfolio isn't required, ensure your resume clearly highlights customer service achievements, any sales successes, experience with tools or equipment, and examples of problem-solving.

• Behavioral Examples: Prepare specific examples (using the STAR method: Situation, Task, Action, Result) for questions about customer interactions, handling difficult situations, teamwork, and meeting goals.

• Demonstrate Enthusiasm: Show genuine interest in Michaels, the art of framing, and helping customers bring their creative visions to life.

• Showcase Relevant Skills: If you have any personal projects or experience related to crafts, art, or DIY, mention them to demonstrate a passion for the creative space.

Challenge Preparation:

• Customer Scenario Questions: Be ready to role-play or describe how you would handle common customer requests or complaints related to custom framing.

• Problem-Solving: Prepare for questions about how you would troubleshoot a production issue or resolve a customer dispute regarding a framing order.

• Teamwork Scenarios: Think about instances where you collaborated with colleagues to achieve a common goal or supported team members during busy periods.

📝 Enhancement Note: The application process is standard for retail roles, emphasizing practical skills and customer interaction. The "portfolio" aspect will be demonstrated through your resume's content and your ability to articulate relevant experiences and problem-solving skills during the interview.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Custom Framing Equipment: Mat cutters, glass cutters, heat presses, framing tools (e.g., saws, staplers, jointers), measuring tapes, rulers.

• Point of Sale (POS) System: For processing transactions, managing sales, and potentially customer order entry.

• Computer/Tablet: For accessing training materials, company systems, and potentially online order management.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While the Framer might not directly use complex analytics tools, they will interact with sales reports and inventory data generated by the POS and inventory systems.

CRM & Automation:

• Customer Relationship Management (CRM): The "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodology implies a CRM-like approach to customer interactions, focusing on building relationships and tracking customer preferences.

• Inventory Management Systems: Used for tracking stock levels of frames, mats, glass, and hardware, facilitating replenishment and preventing stock-outs.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency with specialized framing tools and standard retail POS systems is essential. Familiarity with inventory tracking and a customer-centric sales approach are key technological and methodological requirements.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Creativity & Inspiration: Michaels values fostering the joy of creativity and celebrating life's moments. Framers are key to helping customers realize these creative visions.

• Customer Focus: Prioritizing customer needs, building relationships, and providing solutions is paramount.

• Teamwork & Collaboration: Working together to achieve store goals, support colleagues, and ensure a positive environment for both customers and employees.

• Integrity & Accountability: Adhering to company policies, SOPs, and maintaining a safe, secure, and ethical workplace.

• Efficiency & Execution: Completing tasks accurately and on time, from production to stocking and customer service.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Support: Framers are expected to support other departments and vice-versa, especially during peak times or for Omni-channel fulfillment.

• Process-Oriented Communication: Clear communication regarding order status, material needs, and customer feedback is vital for smooth operations.

• Learning & Development: An environment where team members can share knowledge about framing techniques, customer service best practices, and operational efficiencies.

📝 Enhancement Note: Michaels emphasizes a culture that blends creative passion with structured retail operations. Team members are expected to be both collaborative and self-motivated, contributing to a positive and productive store environment.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Specialization with General Retail Duties: Juggling the demands of custom framing production and customer consultation with general store tasks like stocking, cleaning, and cashiering.

• Managing Customer Expectations: Working with customers who may have highly specific or budget-constrained visions for their framing projects.

• Pace of Retail: Adapting to busy periods, seasonal rushes, and the need for quick, efficient service while maintaining quality.

• Learning New Techniques/Materials: Staying updated on new framing styles, materials, and equipment as they are introduced.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Framing Craft Mastery: Developing advanced skills in custom framing, design, and material selection.

• Sales & Customer Engagement: Enhancing skills in consultative selling and building lasting customer relationships through the "Elevated ABC Deliver" program.

• Retail Operations Exposure: Gaining experience in merchandising, inventory management, and POS operations.

• Potential for Leadership: Opportunities to grow into supervisory or management roles within the store.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role offers a great entry point into specialized retail services. The challenges are typical of a retail environment but are offset by clear opportunities for skill enhancement and career advancement within the Michaels organization.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Customer Service Scenarios: "Describe a time you went above and beyond to help a customer." "How would you handle a customer who is unhappy with their framing quote?"

• Sales Aptitude: "What are your strategies for selling a higher-end framing option?" "How do you approach building rapport with a new customer?"

• Problem-Solving: "Imagine a framing project is behind schedule. What steps would you take?" "How would you ensure accuracy when taking measurements for a custom frame?"

• Teamwork: "Tell me about a time you worked effectively as part of a team." "How would you assist a colleague during a busy period, even if it's outside your primary duties?"

Company & Culture Questions:

• Motivation: "Why are you interested in working for Michaels?" "What do you know about our custom framing services?"

• Values Alignment: "How do you align with our company values of creativity and customer focus?"

• Work Environment: "What are your expectations for a work environment?" "How do you handle working under pressure?"

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Resume as Portfolio: Your resume is your primary tool. Ensure it clearly lists relevant skills, experiences, and quantifiable achievements.

• STAR Method: Be ready to use the STAR method to answer behavioral questions, providing concrete examples of your past performance.

• Enthusiasm for Creativity: Convey a passion for art, crafts, and helping customers create beautiful things.

• Operational Awareness: Demonstrate an understanding of retail operations, including the importance of accuracy, efficiency, and customer service.

📝 Enhancement Note: Prepare specific examples that showcase your customer service, sales potential, problem-solving abilities, and your understanding of retail operations. Showing genuine enthusiasm for creativity and the Michaels brand will be a significant advantage.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Michaels Stores careers portal.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight customer service experience, any sales achievements, familiarity with tools or equipment, and a strong work ethic. Use keywords from the job description.

• Prepare Behavioral Examples: Have specific stories ready (using the STAR method) that demonstrate your skills in customer interaction, problem-solving, teamwork, and handling retail challenges.

• 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 Responses: Rehearse answers to common interview questions, focusing on showcasing your enthusiasm, skills, and fit for the role and company 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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