Framer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Framer
Company: Michaels Stores
Location: Phoenix, Arizona, United States
Job Type: PART_TIME
Category: Retail Operations / Customer Service
Date Posted: 2025-12-15
Experience Level: Entry Level / 0-2 Years
Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is focused on direct customer engagement within a retail environment, emphasizing the creation and sale of custom framing solutions.
• It involves building strong customer relationships through personalized service and expert product knowledge, directly impacting sales performance.
• Responsibilities include maintaining operational standards, ensuring a safe and organized workspace, and supporting overall store objectives.
• This position requires hands-on execution of framing services, from order taking to production, ensuring quality and timely delivery.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Framer" and the core task is framing, the role is deeply integrated into retail operations, requiring a blend of sales, customer service, and production skills. The operations aspect lies in managing the framing service as a distinct operational unit within the retail store, ensuring efficiency, quality control, and customer satisfaction.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Customer Engagement & Sales:
  • Build and nurture customer relationships by providing an elevated design experience for custom framing solutions.
  • Actively engage customers to understand their needs and recommend appropriate framing options, driving sales and exceeding production targets.
  • Utilize sales techniques and product knowledge to offer complementary products and services, enhancing the overall customer value.
• Framing Production & Quality Control:
  • Accurately complete custom framing orders, adhering to high standards of quality and ensuring timely delivery to meet customer expectations.
  • Operate specialized framing equipment, including glass cutters and heat presses, with precision and adherence to safety protocols.
  • Maintain the ready-made frame department, including SISO (Ship-from-Store) and Directed Replenishment, ensuring optimal product presentation and stock levels.
• Store Operations & Maintenance:
  • Uphold Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and Company programs to ensure compliance with all applicable laws and requirements.
  • Maintain a safe, clean, and clutter-free store environment, contributing to an optimal shopping experience for customers.
  • Participate actively in the truck un-load and stocking processes, ensuring adherence to truck standards and efficient inventory management.
• Customer Service & Support:
  • Deliver friendly and efficient customer service, assisting shoppers in locating products and providing solutions to their needs.
  • Operate the cash register and execute cash handling procedures according to established standards.
  • Support Omni-channel processes, such as Buy Online, Pick Up In-Store (BOPIS), and Ship-from-Store, ensuring seamless customer experiences.
• Teamwork & Safety:
  • Interact positively and respectfully with colleagues, promoting a collaborative and supportive work environment.
  • Act as a role model by projecting a positive image and committing to the organization's vision and values.
  • Support and adhere to all company shrink and safety programs, contributing to a secure and loss-preventative workplace.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a dual focus on sales-driven customer interaction and hands-on operational execution within the framing department. The emphasis on SOPs, safety, and inventory management points to a structured operational framework within the retail setting.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• No specific educational degree is mandated, aligning with an entry-level or early-career focus. However, foundational literacy and numeracy are essential for understanding instructions, performing measurements, and handling transactions.

Experience:

• Required: A minimum of 0-2 years of experience is expected, with a strong emphasis on practical skills. This includes basic computer proficiency for potential system interactions, and fundamental measuring skills critical for accurate framing. The ability to operate framing equipment and a glass cutter is a non-negotiable requirement.
• Preferred: Previous retail experience is highly desirable, as it indicates familiarity with customer-facing environments and store operations. Experience in selling products and/or services directly to customers is also preferred, suggesting a stronger aptitude for the sales aspect of the role.

Required Skills:

• Customer Service Excellence: Ability to engage customers, understand their needs, and provide solutions with a positive and helpful demeanor.
• Custom Framing Expertise: Proficiency in taking framing orders, understanding design principles, and operating framing equipment safely and effectively.
• Sales Acumen: Capacity to drive sales through product knowledge, upselling, and building customer relationships.
• Basic Technical Skills: Competence in using basic computer applications and operating specialized framing tools.
• Attention to Detail: Meticulousness in order processing, measurements, and production to ensure high-quality output.
• Cash Handling Proficiency: Ability to accurately process transactions and manage cash according to company standards.

Preferred Skills:

• Retail Operations Knowledge: Familiarity with store operations, inventory management, and visual merchandising standards.
• Product Knowledge (Art & Framing): Deeper understanding of art materials, framing techniques, and design aesthetics.
• Problem-Solving: Aptitude for resolving customer issues or production challenges effectively.
• Time Management: Skill in prioritizing tasks, managing multiple orders, and meeting deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Team Collaboration: Ability to work effectively with colleagues to achieve store goals.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications emphasize practical, hands-on skills over formal education, typical for entry-level retail positions. The preference for retail and sales experience directly supports the dual nature of the role – operational execution of framing and sales-driven customer interaction.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Customer Interaction Case Studies: While a formal portfolio isn't explicitly requested, candidates should be prepared to discuss specific examples of successful customer interactions, particularly those involving problem-solving or exceeding expectations in a service or sales context.
• Framing Project Examples (Conceptual): Candidates can prepare to describe conceptual framing projects, highlighting their approach to understanding customer needs, selecting materials, and envisioning the final product. This demonstrates design thinking and customer-centricity.
• Process Adherence Examples: Be ready to provide instances where you followed established procedures (SOPs) to ensure consistency, quality, and safety in a previous role.
• Sales Achievement Examples: Highlight any instances where you successfully met or exceeded sales targets, or contributed to team sales goals.

Process Documentation:

• Candidates are not expected to document processes, but should demonstrate an understanding of the importance of following Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for consistent service delivery and operational efficiency.
• This includes understanding how to accurately take framing orders, use equipment according to guidelines, and manage inventory flow within the department.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the role's nature, a formal operations portfolio is unlikely. The focus will be on demonstrating practical experience and understanding of operational processes through discussion and examples during interviews. The "portfolio" will be built from the candidate's ability to articulate their experience in customer service, sales, and operational execution.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on current market data for entry-level Part-Time Framer positions in Phoenix, Arizona, the estimated hourly wage typically ranges from $13.00 to $17.00 per hour. This range can vary based on specific experience, performance during the interview process, and the store's specific needs.

Benefits:

• Health Insurance: Medical, dental, and vision coverage options are available, providing comprehensive healthcare support.
• Paid Time Off (PTO): Accrued paid time off for personal use, vacation, or sick leave.
• Tuition Assistance: Programs designed to support educational development and career growth.
• Employee Discounts: Generous discounts on Michaels products, fostering a connection with the brand and its offerings.
• Additional Benefits: May include retirement savings plans (e.g., 401k), employee assistance programs, and opportunities for advancement within the company.

Working Hours:

• This is a PART_TIME position. Actual hours will vary based on business needs, employee availability, and scheduling. The role requires flexibility to work nights, weekends, and early mornings, as outlined in the job description, to cover store operating hours and customer demand in the framing department. While the standard full-time work week is 40 hours, part-time schedules will be less, but require adaptability to operational demands.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary is estimated based on typical retail part-time roles in the Phoenix area and industry benchmarks for similar positions. Benefits are sourced from the provided company description, highlighting their commitment to team member well-being. Working hours are defined by the PART_TIME employment type and the operational needs of a retail environment, emphasizing flexibility.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Retail (Arts and Crafts Supplies)
Company Size: Large Enterprise (Michaels operates over 1,300 stores across North America, employing tens of thousands of individuals.)
Founded: 1973, headquartered in Irving, Texas.

Team Structure:

• The Framer will be part of a store-level team, reporting to store management (e.g., Store Manager, Assistant Manager, or Framing Department Manager, if applicable).
• Collaboration is expected with fellow store associates across various departments (e.g., sales floor, cashiers, stock team) to ensure smooth store operations and excellent customer service.
• The framing department operates as a specialized unit within the larger retail environment, requiring coordination with other store functions for inventory, customer flow, and operational support.

Methodology:

• Customer-Centric Approach: The core methodology revolves around prioritizing customer needs and delivering solutions, particularly within the custom framing service. This includes personalized consultations and high-quality product delivery.
• Process-Driven Operations: Adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) is emphasized for consistency, safety, and efficiency in all aspects of store and framing department operations.
• Data-Informed Decisions (Store Level): While not directly managing complex data analytics, associates are expected to contribute to store performance by meeting sales targets, managing inventory, and adhering to operational guidelines that contribute to overall business metrics.
• Team Collaboration: The company promotes a culture where team members support each other to achieve collective goals, emphasizing shared responsibility for store success.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture is rooted in creativity, customer service, and operational efficiency within a large retail framework. The team structure is hierarchical within a store setting, emphasizing collaboration among associates to meet business objectives. The methodology is a blend of customer-centric sales and strict adherence to operational processes.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents an entry-level position within retail operations, specifically focusing on a specialized service department (Custom Framing). It's an excellent starting point for individuals interested in customer-facing roles, sales, and hands-on production within a retail environment.

Reporting Structure: The Framer typically reports to the Store Manager or an Assistant Manager. In larger stores, there might be a dedicated Framing Department Manager or Lead who oversees this role. This structure provides direct supervision and guidance on daily tasks and performance.

Operations Impact: The Framer's impact on operations is primarily through:

• Revenue Generation: Directly contributing to store sales through custom framing orders and potentially cross-selling other products.
• Customer Satisfaction: Ensuring a positive experience with the framing service leads to repeat business and positive word-of-mouth, enhancing the company's reputation.
• Operational Efficiency: Accurate order processing, adherence to production timelines, and proper equipment maintenance contribute to the smooth functioning of the framing department and the store as a whole.
• Inventory Management: Proper handling and upkeep of framing materials and ready-made frames help minimize waste and ensure product availability.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Development: Opportunity to become a highly skilled framer, mastering various techniques, materials, and design principles.
• Sales Proficiency: Develop strong sales and customer relationship management skills, crucial for advancing in retail.
• Leadership Potential: Potential to move into a Lead Framer, Department Manager, or Assistant Store Manager role, taking on more responsibility for team supervision, sales targets, and operational oversight.
• Cross-Training: Possibility of cross-training in other store departments, broadening retail experience and opening up more career paths within Michaels.
• Management Track: With consistent performance and demonstrated leadership, there's a pathway toward store management positions.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a foundational step in a retail career, offering practical experience in sales, customer service, and specialized production. Growth is typically vertical within store management or horizontal into other retail functions, supported by the company's structure and commitment to internal development.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Public Retail Store Setting. The work environment is primarily within a customer-facing retail store, specifically within the dedicated framing department area.

Office Location(s): Phoenix-4727 E Cactus Rd, Phoenix, Arizona. This specific store location serves the local community.

Workspace Context:

• Customer Interaction Focused: A significant portion of the work involves direct interaction with customers in the sales floor and framing consultation areas.
• Production Area: The framing shop itself is a workspace equipped with specialized tools (e.g., glass cutter, heat press) and materials. This area requires organization, cleanliness, and adherence to safety protocols.
• Collaborative Atmosphere: Associates work together in a dynamic retail environment, requiring teamwork for tasks like truck unloading, stocking, and customer support.
• Tools & Technology: Access to point-of-sale (POS) systems for transactions, basic computer systems for potential order entry or inventory lookup, and specialized framing equipment.

Work Schedule: The schedule will be part-time and requires flexibility. This includes working nights, weekends, and early mornings. The pace can be variable, with busy periods requiring efficient multitasking and calmer periods allowing for detailed work on framing projects and store upkeep.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is a typical busy retail store, demanding a balance between customer interaction, hands-on production, and team collaboration. Flexibility in scheduling is key due to the nature of retail operations and customer demand.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Likely a brief phone or online screening to assess basic qualifications and interest.
• In-Person Interview: This will be the primary interview stage, likely conducted by the Store Manager or Assistant Manager. It will focus on:
  • Customer Service Skills: Behavioral questions assessing how you handle customer interactions, resolve issues, and build rapport. Be prepared to share examples.
  • Sales Aptitude: Questions about your experience in sales, how you approach selling, and your understanding of driving revenue.
  • Operational Understanding: Discussion about your ability to follow procedures (SOPs), manage your time, and work in a team.
  • Framing Interest/Aptitude: Questions about your interest in framing and any relevant experience or skills (e.g., artistic ability, attention to detail).
• Skills Assessment: You may be asked to demonstrate basic measuring skills or discuss how you would approach a framing consultation.
• Final Steps: Reference checks and offer of employment.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• No Formal Portfolio Required: As this is an entry-level retail role, a formal portfolio is generally not expected.
• Prepare Anecdotal Evidence: Instead of a portfolio, be ready to discuss specific examples from past experiences that demonstrate:
  • Customer Service Successes: A time you went above and beyond for a customer.
  • Sales Achievements: A time you successfully upsold a product or met a sales target.
  • Problem-Solving Scenarios: A challenge you faced and how you resolved it.
  • Teamwork Examples: How you collaborated with colleagues to achieve a goal.
  • Attention to Detail: Instances where your meticulousness prevented errors.
• Articulate Your Process: Be prepared to walk through how you would handle a typical framing customer interaction, from greeting to order completion.

Challenge Preparation:

• Role-Playing: Be ready for potential role-playing scenarios where you might simulate a customer interaction or a sales pitch.
• Situational Questions: Prepare for questions like, "How would you handle a customer who is unhappy with their framing order?" or "How would you prioritize tasks if you had multiple framing orders and customers waiting?"

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is designed to assess practical skills, customer service orientation, sales potential, and operational awareness. Candidates should focus on articulating their experiences through concrete examples rather than preparing a formal portfolio.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Point-of-Sale (POS) System: Used for processing customer transactions, managing sales, and potentially looking up product information. Proficiency in basic POS operations is expected.
• Basic Computer Systems: For potential order entry, inventory lookup, or accessing company resources. Familiarity with standard operating systems (Windows) and web browsers is beneficial.
• Framing Equipment: This includes specialized tools such as:
  • Glass Cutter: For precise cutting of glass or acrylic.
  • Mat Cutters: For cutting custom mats for artwork.
  • Frame Moulding Cutters/Miter Saws: For cutting frame components.
  • Heat Press: For specific framing applications or assembly.
  • Measuring Tools: Tape measures, rulers, and potentially digital measuring devices.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While the Framer won't be directly managing complex analytics, they will contribute to store-level reporting through:
  • Sales Data: Transaction data recorded through the POS system contributes to daily, weekly, and monthly sales reports.
  • Inventory Levels: Accuracy in tracking and managing framing materials impacts inventory reports and stock availability.
• Dashboard/Reporting Tools: Associates may access basic reports or dashboards via the POS or internal systems to view sales performance or task completion.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM (Customer Relationship Management): While not a formal CRM role, the emphasis on "building customer relationships" and "Elevated ABC Deliver" suggests a customer-centric approach supported by store systems. Customer preferences or order history might be logged through the POS or related systems.
• Automation: The use of framing equipment and potentially POS system features (like automated inventory alerts) represents basic forms of operational automation.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is a blend of standard retail systems (POS) and specialized production equipment. The emphasis is on practical application and adherence to operating procedures for these tools.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Creativity & Passion: Michaels celebrates creativity and encourages team members to share their passion for arts and crafts. This translates to enthusiasm in helping customers find their perfect framing solution.
• Customer Focus: A strong emphasis on providing exceptional customer service, building relationships, and ensuring customer satisfaction is paramount. This means actively listening, offering solutions, and creating a welcoming experience.
• Teamwork & Collaboration: The company values a supportive team environment where members assist each other to achieve store goals. This involves open communication and a willingness to help colleagues.
• Integrity & Respect: Upholding honest business practices and treating all individuals with respect is a core value, fostering a positive and inclusive workplace.
• Efficiency & Quality: While creativity is key, operational efficiency and maintaining high quality in products and services are also valued, ensuring customer trust and repeat business.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Associates are expected to collaborate across departments within the store. For example, the Framer might work with stock associates to ensure framing supplies are replenished or with cashiers to manage customer flow during peak times.
• Process Alignment: Collaboration involves ensuring that all team members understand and follow SOPs, contributing to a consistent and reliable store operation.
• Shared Goal Orientation: The team works towards common objectives, such as meeting sales targets, achieving customer satisfaction scores, and maintaining store appearance standards. Feedback exchange is encouraged to continuously improve processes and customer experiences.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture is built around fostering creativity, prioritizing the customer, and operating efficiently as a team. Collaboration is essential for seamless store operations and achieving shared business objectives within a supportive and respectful environment.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Sales and Production: Effectively managing time to engage customers for sales consultations while also completing framing orders accurately and on time can be a significant challenge in a busy store.
• Customer Expectations Management: Handling diverse customer needs, artistic visions, and budget constraints requires skillful communication and problem-solving to ensure satisfaction.
• Physical Demands: The role involves standing for long periods, lifting heavy items, and working with tools, which can be physically demanding.
• Adapting to Retail Pace: The dynamic nature of retail, with fluctuating customer traffic and evolving promotions, requires adaptability and resilience.
• Learning Specialized Skills: Mastering the intricacies of custom framing, including design principles and equipment operation, requires dedicated learning and practice.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Framing Mastery: Opportunity to develop advanced skills in custom framing, becoming an expert in design, materials, and techniques.
• Sales & Customer Service Excellence: Continuous development in sales strategies, consultative selling, and building lasting customer relationships.
• Retail Operations Understanding: Gaining comprehensive knowledge of how a retail store operates, from inventory management to visual merchandising and customer flow.
• Potential for Advancement: Pathways to supervisory roles (Lead Framer, Department Manager, Assistant Store Manager) offer opportunities for leadership development and increased responsibility.
• Industry Exposure: Understanding trends in art, decor, and framing to better serve customer needs and drive sales.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are typical for a hybrid sales/production role in retail, focusing on time management, customer interaction, and physical demands. Growth opportunities are geared towards skill specialization and progression within the retail management hierarchy.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Customer Interaction Scenarios: "Describe a time you had to handle a difficult customer. How did you resolve the situation?" "How would you approach a customer who is unsure about their framing needs?" Focus on demonstrating empathy, active listening, and problem-solving.
• Sales Approach: "How do you approach selling a product or service?" "What makes a good sales associate in a retail environment?" Prepare to discuss consultative selling and understanding customer needs rather than high-pressure tactics.
• Operational Process Awareness: "How do you ensure accuracy when taking detailed orders?" "What steps would you take to maintain a clean and safe workspace?" Emphasize attention to detail and adherence to SOPs.

Company & Culture Questions:

• Motivation: "Why are you interested in working for Michaels?" "What do you know about our company?" Research Michaels' mission, values, and product offerings. Connect your interest to creativity, customer service, and community.
• Team Fit: "How do you contribute to a team environment?" "What are your strengths and weaknesses when working with others?" Highlight your collaborative spirit and positive attitude.
• Operational Contribution: "How do you see yourself contributing to the success of the framing department and the store?" Focus on your ability to drive sales, ensure quality, and provide excellent customer service.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Anecdotal Evidence is Key: Since a formal portfolio isn't required, prepare to "present" your experience through compelling stories.
• STAR Method: Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers to behavioral questions. This helps provide clear, concise, and impactful examples of your skills and experiences.
• Quantify Achievements: Whenever possible, use numbers to illustrate your successes (e.g., "I consistently met my sales targets by X%," or "I helped reduce framing errors by Y%").
• Demonstrate Enthusiasm: Show genuine interest in custom framing, art, and helping customers bring their creative visions to life.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on articulating past experiences using the STAR method, demonstrating a customer-centric and sales-oriented mindset, and showing an understanding of operational responsibilities within a retail setting.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Michaels Careers website.
• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight relevant customer service, sales, and any hands-on production or technical skills. Use keywords from the job description, such as "customer service," "sales," "framing," "attention to detail," and "cash handling."
• Prepare STAR Method Examples: Before interviewing, compile 3-5 specific examples using the STAR method that showcase your customer service, problem-solving, sales, and teamwork abilities.
• Research Michaels: Familiarize yourself with Michaels' brand, values, and product offerings. Understand their commitment to creativity and customer experience.
• Practice Framing Consultation: Mentally walk through how you would consult with a customer about framing their artwork, considering materials, design, and budget. Be ready to articulate this process.

⚠️ 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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