Framer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Framer
Company: Michaels Stores
Location: Encinitas, CA
Job Type: Part-Time
Category: Retail Operations / Custom Services
Date Posted: August 13, 2025
Experience Level: Entry-Level (0-2 years)
Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role focuses on providing exceptional customer service within a retail environment, specifically in the custom framing department.
• Key responsibilities include building customer relationships, understanding their creative needs, and translating those into tangible framing solutions.
• The position requires hands-on work with framing equipment and materials, ensuring high-quality output and timely order completion.
• It also involves general store operations tasks, such as maintaining visual merchandising standards and supporting sales initiatives.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the input data does not directly map to Revenue Operations, Sales Operations, or GTM roles, this position is enhanced to reflect the retail operations context, focusing on customer-facing processes, sales support, and in-store operational efficiency. The core of the role involves managing a specific service (framing) within a retail operational framework, which includes customer engagement, order fulfillment, and maintaining operational standards.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Act as a primary point of contact for customers seeking custom framing solutions, building rapport and understanding their project requirements through consultative selling.
• Utilize design consultation skills to guide customers in selecting appropriate framing materials, mats, and finishes that align with their artwork and aesthetic preferences, thereby driving sales of custom framing services.
• Accurately measure artwork and custom framing components, and operate framing equipment (e.g., mat cutters, framing tools, heat presses) to produce high-quality custom frames according to established specifications and customer orders.
• Ensure all framing orders are completed accurately, meet quality standards, and are delivered within the promised timeframe, contributing to customer satisfaction and repeat business.
• Maintain the visual presentation and stock levels of the ready-made frame department, including adherence to planograms, product replenishment, and in-store displays to enhance the shopping experience.
• Support general store operations by assisting customers with product location, answering inquiries, and ensuring a clean, safe, and well-organized shopping environment, contributing to overall store operational efficiency.
• Process customer transactions accurately and efficiently using the Point of Sale (POS) system, including handling cash, credit, and other payment methods according to company cash handling procedures.
• Participate in inventory management processes, including truck un-loads, stocking merchandise, and maintaining accurate inventory records, ensuring efficient stock flow and minimizing shrink.
• Engage in Omni-channel processes, such as assisting with online order pickups or in-store returns, to provide a seamless customer experience across all sales channels.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities have been expanded to emphasize the customer-facing sales and service aspects of the Framer role within a retail operational context. This includes framing the role as a consultative sales position and highlighting the operational tasks that contribute to store efficiency and customer satisfaction.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: High School Diploma or equivalent required.
Experience: 0-2 years of experience in a customer-facing role, preferably within a retail or service-oriented environment.

Required Skills:

• Customer Service Excellence: Proven ability to engage with customers, understand their needs, and provide helpful solutions, creating a positive shopping experience.
• Basic Computer Proficiency: Ability to use basic computer systems for point-of-sale operations, inventory lookups, and communication.
• Measuring & Calculation Skills: Competency in taking accurate measurements and performing basic calculations for custom framing orders.
• Product Knowledge Acquisition: Willingness and ability to learn about various framing materials, styles, and techniques to effectively advise customers.
• Operational Standard Adherence: Ability to follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for sales, production, safety, and store maintenance.
• Team Collaboration: Ability to work cooperatively with team members to achieve store goals and maintain a positive work environment.
• Problem-Solving Aptitude: Capacity to identify and address customer needs or operational issues effectively.

Preferred Skills:

• Custom Framing Experience: Prior hands-on experience with custom framing processes, mat cutting, and frame assembly.
• Retail Sales Experience: Demonstrated success in selling products or services, with an understanding of consultative selling techniques.
• POS System Proficiency: Familiarity with Point of Sale (POS) systems for transaction processing.
• Visual Merchandising Acumen: Ability to contribute to maintaining attractive and organized product displays.

📝 Enhancement Note: The skills have been categorized into required and preferred, with an emphasis on customer interaction, operational execution, and the specific technical skills needed for framing. The experience level is set at entry-level, reflecting the "0-2" years provided in the input.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• While a formal portfolio is not typically required for this entry-level retail role, candidates with prior framing or design experience may showcase examples of custom framing projects, highlighting creativity and attention to detail.
• Candidates should be prepared to discuss their approach to customer consultation and problem-solving within a service context.
• Demonstrating an understanding of how to maintain operational standards and contribute to team goals is beneficial.

Process Documentation:

• Candidates are expected to understand and adhere to established Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for framing, sales, and store operations.
• Familiarity with or demonstrated ability to quickly learn processes for custom order creation, production, and fulfillment is essential.
• An understanding of how to manage inventory, process transactions, and maintain store presentation standards is also key.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section acknowledges that a traditional operations portfolio is unlikely for an entry-level retail role. Instead, it reframes the expectation towards demonstrating practical skills and understanding of operational processes through discussion and examples of past work or customer interactions.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $17.75 - $20.90 per hour.
This range is based on the provided "Total Base Pay Range for this Position" and is typical for part-time retail associate roles with specialized duties in the specified geographic area.

Benefits:

• Health Insurance: Medical, dental, and vision insurance options are available, contributing to overall team member well-being.
• Paid Time Off (PTO): Accrued paid time off for rest and personal needs.
• Tuition Assistance: Support for continuing education and skill development.
• Employee Discounts: Generous discounts on Michaels products and services, encouraging creative pursuits.
• Other Benefits: Access to additional benefits as detailed by the company, supporting a holistic employee experience.

Working Hours: This is a part-time position. While the specific number of hours may vary, the role is expected to support store operating hours, which can include nights, weekends, and early mornings. The company provides benefits for both full-time and part-time team members.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is directly extracted. Benefits are detailed based on the provided list, with context on how they support team members. Working hours are clarified as part-time, with an acknowledgment of the varied schedule common in retail.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Arts and Crafts Retail. Michaels Stores is a leading omni-channel retailer in North America, dedicated to providing a comprehensive selection of arts, crafts, and home décor products and services. Company Size: Over 1,300 stores in 49 states and Canada, plus online operations. This indicates a large, established retail organization with a significant operational footprint. Founded: 1973. Michaels has a long history in the retail sector, suggesting a mature operational framework and established brand presence.

Team Structure:

• The Framer will likely be part of a store-level team, reporting to a Store Manager or Assistant Store Manager, with direct supervision likely from a Framing Department Specialist or a Lead Sales Associate.
• Collaboration will occur with fellow sales associates, cashiers, and potentially stock associates to ensure smooth store operations and excellent customer service.
• Cross-functional interaction is primarily within the store environment, focusing on customer experience and sales support.

Methodology:

• Operations within Michaels stores emphasize customer-centricity, with processes designed to enhance the shopping experience and drive sales.
• Efficiency in stock management, visual merchandising, and transaction processing are key operational drivers.
• The framing department specifically requires a blend of creative consultation, precise execution of craft processes, and adherence to quality standards.

Company Website: www.michaels.com

📝 Enhancement Note: This section contextualizes the role within Michaels' broader retail operations, highlighting its industry leadership, scale, and customer-focused culture. The team structure is inferred based on typical retail store organization.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This position is an entry-level, part-time role focused on direct customer interaction and specialized service delivery within a retail setting. It represents a foundational position in retail operations, offering exposure to sales, customer service, and operational tasks.

Reporting Structure: The Framer typically reports to store management (e.g., Store Manager, Assistant Manager) and may receive direct guidance from department leads or supervisors responsible for custom framing.

Operations Impact: The Framer directly impacts store revenue through custom framing sales and contributes to customer loyalty by providing expert advice and quality service. Efficient handling of framing orders and maintaining the department's presentation also supports overall store operational efficiency and profitability.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Development: Opportunity to become a skilled custom framer, mastering techniques and developing expertise in design consultation.
• Retail Advancement: Potential to move into other sales associate roles, lead associate positions, or supervisory roles within the store.
• Cross-Training: Possibility to gain experience in other store functions, such as visual merchandising, inventory management, or cash handling.
• Specialization: Deepen expertise in custom framing, potentially becoming a go-to specialist within the store.

📝 Enhancement Note: This analysis frames the Framer role as a stepping stone within retail operations, highlighting the transferable skills and potential career progression pathways available within a large retail organization like Michaels.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Public retail store setting. The work environment is customer-facing, dynamic, and fast-paced.

Office Location(s): The specific store is located at 335 N El Camino Real, Encinitas, CA. This location serves the local community and is part of Michaels' extensive retail network.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace includes the main retail floor, where customer interaction and product display occur, as well as a dedicated framing shop area.
• The framing shop is equipped with specialized tools and machinery, including glass cutters and heat presses, which require careful operation and adherence to safety protocols.
• Team members will experience a collaborative environment, working alongside colleagues to support customer needs and achieve daily operational goals.

Work Schedule: This is a part-time role. Work hours will be scheduled based on business needs and may include evenings, weekends, and holidays, as is common in the retail sector. Flexibility in availability is often a requirement.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is described from a retail operations perspective, emphasizing the customer-facing nature, specific tools used in the framing department, and the typical scheduling demands of retail.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Application review to assess basic qualifications and relevant experience.
• In-Person Interview: Typically conducted by the Store Manager or Assistant Manager. This will likely involve questions about customer service experience, problem-solving abilities, availability, and interest in custom framing.
• Skills Assessment (Informal): May include a brief discussion about handling customer inquiries, demonstrating basic measuring skills, or discussing an approach to a framing design challenge.
• Onboarding: If selected, candidates will undergo onboarding and training on company policies, safety procedures, POS systems, and custom framing processes.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• For this role, a formal portfolio is not expected. However, candidates can prepare by thinking about specific examples of:
  • A time they went above and beyond for a customer.
  • A challenging customer service situation they resolved.
  • Their approach to learning new skills or processes.
  • Any personal projects or experience with crafts or design that demonstrate creativity.
• Be ready to discuss your understanding of the framing process and your interest in developing expertise in this area.

Challenge Preparation:

• Candidates may be asked hypothetical questions about customer interactions (e.g., "How would you help a customer choose a frame for a valuable piece of art?").
• Be prepared to discuss your availability and how it aligns with the store's operational needs.
• Familiarize yourself with Michaels' products and services, particularly custom framing, to demonstrate genuine interest.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section outlines a typical retail interview process for an entry-level role, emphasizing customer service, problem-solving, and practical skills relevant to the position. It also clarifies the unlikelihood of a formal portfolio for this role.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Point of Sale (POS) System: For processing customer transactions, managing sales, and potentially looking up inventory.
• Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Elements: While not a formal CRM system, building customer relationships and understanding preferences is a key aspect of the role.
• Custom Framing Equipment:
  • Mat Cutters: For precise cutting of mat boards.
  • Frame Moulding Cutters/Saws: For cutting frame pieces to size.
  • V-Nailers/Staplers: For joining frame corners.
  • Heat Presses: For applying heat-activated adhesives or finishes.
  • Glass Cutters: For custom sizing of glass or acrylic.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Basic reporting on sales performance and order fulfillment metrics may be accessible through the POS system or store management tools.

CRM & Automation:

• While advanced automation tools are not directly used by the Framer, understanding the company's reliance on efficient operational processes and customer data management is beneficial.

📝 Enhancement Note: The tools listed are specific to a retail environment and the custom framing department, focusing on transaction processing and the specialized equipment required for the core function of the role.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Customer Focus: Prioritizing customer needs and satisfaction is paramount, driving service interactions and operational decisions.
• Creativity: Encouraging and supporting creative expression, both for customers and team members, is central to Michaels' mission.
• Quality: Delivering high-quality products and services, particularly in custom framing, is a key performance indicator.
• Teamwork: Collaborating effectively with colleagues to achieve store goals and maintain a positive work environment.
• Efficiency: Adhering to operational procedures to ensure smooth transactions, accurate order fulfillment, and well-maintained store presentation.

Collaboration Style:

• A collaborative style is expected, with team members supporting each other to assist customers, manage workload, and maintain store standards.
• Open communication regarding customer needs, stock levels, and operational challenges is encouraged.
• Feedback exchange on processes and customer interactions helps to refine service delivery.

📝 Enhancement Note: The team culture and values are inferred from the company's stated purpose and the nature of a retail customer-facing role, highlighting aspects like customer centricity, quality, and teamwork.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Multiple Priorities: Effectively managing customer consultations, order production, and general store tasks simultaneously.
• Meeting Customer Expectations: Ensuring customer satisfaction with custom framing designs and quality, especially for unique or high-value items.
• Learning Specialized Skills: Mastering the operation of framing equipment and developing proficiency in design consultation.
• Seasonal Fluctuations: Adapting to varying customer traffic and demand throughout the year, particularly during peak holiday seasons.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Framing Skills Training: Comprehensive training on all aspects of custom framing, from design to production.
• Customer Service & Sales Training: Development of consultative selling techniques and advanced customer engagement strategies.
• Product Knowledge: Continuous learning about new framing materials, techniques, and industry trends.
• Potential for Advancement: Opportunities to grow within the retail store structure or gain broader experience in other operational areas.

📝 Enhancement Note: Challenges are framed around the core responsibilities of the role, such as balancing tasks and customer expectations. Growth opportunities focus on skill acquisition specific to framing and general retail career development.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Customer Service: "Describe a time you helped a customer solve a problem or find the perfect product." "How would you handle a situation where a customer is unhappy with a custom framing order?"
• Sales & Consultation: "How do you approach helping a customer select a frame for a special piece of art?" "What steps would you take to ensure a customer feels confident in their framing choice?"
• Operational Skills: "What is your understanding of the importance of accurate measurements in custom work?" "How do you manage your time when you have multiple tasks to complete?"

Company & Culture Questions:

• "Why are you interested in working at Michaels?" "What do you know about our custom framing services?" "How do you contribute to a positive team environment?"
• Prepare to discuss your understanding of Michaels' commitment to creativity and customer service.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Since a formal portfolio isn't required, focus on preparing specific, concise examples (using the STAR method: Situation, Task, Action, Result) for behavioral interview questions.
• Be ready to articulate your interest in custom framing and your ability to learn new skills quickly.
• If you have any personal projects or examples of your creative work, be prepared to briefly describe them if asked, showcasing your passion and aptitude.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation advice is tailored to a retail customer service role, focusing on behavioral questions, situational judgment, and demonstrating enthusiasm for the specific department and company.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Michaels Careers portal.
• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume highlights any customer service, retail, sales, or hands-on craft/design experience. Quantify achievements where possible (e.g., "Assisted X customers daily," "Improved department presentation").
• Portfolio Preparation (Informal): Mentally prepare specific examples of customer interactions, problem-solving scenarios, and any creative or crafting projects you've undertaken. Be ready to verbally share these during an interview.
• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Michaels' mission, values, and their custom framing services. Understand their commitment to "fueling the joy of creativity."
• Interview Practice: Practice answering common retail interview questions focusing on customer service, teamwork, and initiative. Be ready to discuss your availability and enthusiasm for the role.

⚠️ 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.