Framer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Framer

Company: Michaels Stores

Location: Charlotte, North Carolina, United States

Job Type: PART_TIME

Category: Retail Operations / Customer Service

Date Posted: May 01, 2026

Experience Level: 0-2 years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is centered on driving sales and customer engagement within the custom framing department, focusing on personalized design consultations and high-quality order fulfillment.

• Responsibilities include maintaining operational excellence in the framing area and throughout the retail store, ensuring a positive customer experience from initial interaction to final product delivery.

• Key performance indicators will likely involve sales targets for custom framing, production efficiency, and adherence to customer service standards.

• The position demands a blend of creative consultation, technical execution of framing services, and general retail operations support.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Framer," the core responsibilities and AI-derived skills (Customer Service, Sales, Merchandising) indicate this role is heavily customer-facing and sales-driven, with framing as the specialized product/service. The "PART_TIME" designation suggests flexibility is a key aspect of the role.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Customer Consultation & Sales:

  • Engage customers in personalized design consultations to understand their framing needs for art and other items.
  • Utilize elevated sales techniques (e.g., "Elevated ABC Deliver") to build rapport, identify customer needs, and recommend appropriate custom framing solutions to meet sales and production targets.
  • Acknowledge customers promptly, assist them in locating products, and provide solutions that enhance their shopping experience.

• Custom Framing Production:

  • Complete custom framing orders with a high degree of quality, accuracy, and adherence to established timelines.
  • Operate framing equipment, including the framing station, glass cutter, and heat press, safely and efficiently.
  • Ensure all framing projects meet company quality standards and customer expectations.

• Store Operations & Merchandising:

  • Maintain the ready-made frame department, including SISO (Ship-in-Store-Out) and Directed Replenishment processes, ensuring optimal product presentation.
  • Uphold a safe, clean, and clutter-free environment throughout the store, with a particular focus on the framing area.
  • Participate actively in truck un-loading and stocking processes, adhering to established standards and budgets.
  • Support company shrink and safety programs, reporting any concerns or incidents.

• Customer Service & Support:

  • Deliver friendly and helpful customer service, assisting shoppers in finding products and resolving inquiries.
  • Support Omni channel processes, such as buy online, pick up in-store (BOPIS) or ship-from-store, as required.
  • Operate the cash register and execute cash handling procedures according to company standards.

• Team Collaboration & Compliance:

  • Interact positively and respectfully with colleagues, promoting a collaborative team environment and serving as a role model.

  • Adhere strictly to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company programs to ensure compliance with applicable laws and requirements.

  • Perform other duties as assigned to support store operations and team objectives.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a dual focus: specialized framing expertise and general retail support. The emphasis on "Elevated ABC Deliver" and "personal designer" suggests a customer-centric sales approach is paramount.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• While no specific degree is mandated, a foundational understanding of creative arts, design principles, or visual display would be beneficial.

Experience:

• 0-2 years of experience in a customer-facing role is required, with a strong emphasis on sales and service.

• Experience in a retail environment is preferred.

Required Skills:

• Customer Service Excellence: Proven ability to build customer relationships, provide exceptional service, and create memorable shopping experiences.

• Custom Framing Proficiency: Ability to operate framing equipment, including glass cutters and heat presses, and execute framing orders with precision.

• Basic Technical Skills: Competence in basic computer operations for POS systems and potentially order management.

• Sales Acumen: Skill in consultative selling, identifying customer needs, and recommending solutions to drive sales and achieve targets.

• Merchandising & Presentation: Understanding of visual merchandising principles to maintain attractive and well-stocked departments.

• Cash Handling: Proficiency in operating a cash register and accurately managing financial transactions.

• Measuring & Accuracy: Basic measuring skills to ensure precise order fulfillment in framing.

• Communication & Interpersonal Skills: Ability to interact positively and respectfully with customers and colleagues.

• Safety Awareness: Understanding and adherence to safety protocols in a retail and workshop environment.

Preferred Skills:

• Retail Sales Experience: Direct experience in retail sales, especially in a specialized department like custom framing or art supplies.

• Design Consultation: Experience in advising customers on design choices, aesthetics, and product selection.

• Inventory Management: Familiarity with inventory processes such as SISO and Directed Replenishment.

• Omni Channel Operations: Experience supporting integrated online and in-store customer fulfillment processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "0-2 years" experience level suggests that while prior framing experience isn't strictly required, a strong aptitude for customer service and a willingness to learn technical framing skills are key. The AI-derived skills list is comprehensive and aligns well with the job description.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• While a formal portfolio might not be strictly required for this entry-level role, candidates are encouraged to prepare examples that demonstrate their capabilities in key areas.

• Customer Interaction Examples: Be ready to discuss specific instances where you built customer relationships, resolved issues, or went above and beyond to provide excellent service.

• Sales Achievement Examples: Prepare to share instances where you successfully met or exceeded sales targets, perhaps through consultative selling or upselling techniques.

• Problem-Solving Scenarios: Have examples of how you handled challenging customer situations or operational issues in a retail or service environment.

• Visual/Creative Aptitude: If you have any personal projects or experience showcasing an eye for design or creative problem-solving (e.g., personal art projects, DIY crafts), these can be helpful to mention.

Process Documentation:

• Candidates are not expected to provide formal process documentation. However, they should be able to articulate their understanding of and willingness to follow established procedures.

• SOP Adherence: Demonstrate an understanding of the importance of following Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for consistency, quality, and compliance.

• Workflow Understanding: Be prepared to discuss how you would approach a typical framing order, from customer consultation to completion, highlighting key steps and quality checks.

• Efficiency Mindset: Show an awareness of how efficient work practices contribute to overall store performance and customer satisfaction.

📝 Enhancement Note: For this specific role, a formal portfolio is less critical than demonstrating core competencies through interview discussions and scenario-based questions. The focus is on process adherence and customer-centric execution rather than formal process mapping.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• As a part-time position within a national retail chain like Michaels, the salary for a Framer typically falls within the range of $12.00 to $17.00 per hour, depending on location, experience, and specific store needs.

• In Charlotte, North Carolina, an hourly rate in the $13.00 - $16.00 range is a reasonable estimate, aligning with local cost of living and retail industry benchmarks for entry-level to intermediate roles with specialized skills.

• Research Methodology: This estimate is based on general retail wage data for North Carolina, entry-level hourly positions in similar retail environments, and the specific responsibilities outlined for the Framer role, which includes specialized skills beyond basic customer service.

Benefits:

• Health Insurance: Medical, dental, and vision insurance plans are available, contributing to overall well-being.

• Paid Time Off (PTO): Accrued PTO for rest, personal needs, and work-life balance.

• Tuition Assistance: Support for continued education, helping team members grow professionally.

• Employee Discounts: Generous discounts on Michaels products, fostering a connection to creativity and savings.

• Other Benefits: While not explicitly detailed, typical retail benefits may include 401(k) plans (often with a company match for eligible employees), employee assistance programs, and potential for advancement.

Working Hours:

• This is a PART_TIME position. Actual hours will vary based on business needs, but typically range from 15 to 30 hours per week.

• The role requires flexibility to work nights, weekends, and early mornings, as indicated in the work environment section.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate based on industry averages for part-time retail roles with specialized skills in the specified region. Specific details on benefits eligibility and retirement plans would need to be confirmed with Michaels Stores.

🎯 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: Michaels operates over 1,300 stores across the US and Canada, indicating a large, established retail operation with significant employee numbers. This scale means structured processes and clear operational guidelines.

Founded: Michaels was founded in 1973, giving it a long history and deep roots in the retail arts and crafts sector. This longevity suggests a stable company with established operational methodologies and a strong brand presence.

Team Structure:

• Store-Level Team: The Framer will be part of a local store team, likely reporting to a Store Manager or Assistant Store Manager, with direct oversight from a Framing Department Lead or Manager if applicable.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Collaboration will occur with fellow sales associates, cashiers, and potentially stock associates. The role also interfaces with customers daily, requiring effective communication and service delivery.

• Specialized Department: The framing department functions as a specialized service within the broader retail environment, requiring coordination between sales, design consultation, and production.

Methodology:

• Customer-Centric Approach: Michaels emphasizes "fueling the joy of creativity and celebration," indicating a focus on customer experience and product inspiration.

• Operational Efficiency: Adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) is a key theme, ensuring consistent execution across all stores for sales, production, and safety.

• Data-Driven Insights (Store Level): While not explicitly detailed for this role, store-level operations likely involve tracking sales performance, inventory levels, and customer feedback to optimize operations.

• Teamwork & Support: The company culture promotes mutual support and positive interactions among team members, contributing to a collaborative work environment.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's mission and long history suggest a culture that values creativity, customer engagement, and operational consistency. The large store footprint implies structured training and established processes for roles like Framer.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is an entry-level to early-career position within the retail operations and customer service spectrum. It provides foundational experience in customer interaction, sales, specialized product knowledge (framing), and daily store operations.

Reporting Structure: The Framer typically reports to a Store Manager or Assistant Store Manager, with potential direct supervision from a designated department lead for framing. This structure offers clear lines of communication and guidance.

Operations Impact: The Framer directly impacts store revenue through custom framing sales and contributes to overall customer satisfaction by providing expert service and quality products. Efficient operations in the framing department also support store presentation and inventory management.

Growth Opportunities:

• Within Framing Specialization: Advancement to Lead Framer or Framing Department Manager, involving increased responsibility for sales, production, training, and inventory management within the framing department.

• Cross-Training in Other Departments: Opportunities to gain experience in other store functions like visual merchandising, inventory control, or customer service management.

• Retail Management Track: Progression to Assistant Store Manager or Store Manager roles, requiring broader operational, leadership, and P&L management skills.

• Specialized Training: Potential for advanced training in framing techniques, design, or sales strategies, enhancing expertise and marketability.

• Corporate Opportunities: For high performers with demonstrated leadership and operational acumen, there may be opportunities in corporate roles related to merchandising, operations, or training.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth path from Framer is typical for retail, starting with specialized skills and progressing to broader operational and management responsibilities. Demonstrating sales success, operational efficiency, and strong customer service is key to advancing.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Public retail store setting. The work environment is dynamic, customer-facing, and includes both customer-accessible areas and a dedicated framing workshop.

Office Location(s): Charlotte, North Carolina (specifically Stonecrest, Rea Road location). This is a typical suburban retail location.

Workspace Context:

• Customer Interaction Zone: The primary workspace involves direct interaction with customers, requiring a friendly, approachable, and professional demeanor.

• Framing Workshop: A dedicated area within the store where framing tasks are performed. This area contains specialized equipment like framing stations, glass cutters, and heat presses, necessitating adherence to safety protocols.

• Store Floor: Involvement in maintaining other areas of the store, including merchandising, stocking, and customer assistance on the sales floor.

• Climate Control: Most public areas of the store are climate-controlled. Some stock rooms may not be climate-controlled, and outdoor work may be required for tasks like retrieving shopping carts or unloading trucks.

Work Schedule:

• The position is PART_TIME, with hours varying based on business needs.

• Flexibility is required, including the ability to work nights, weekends, and early mornings. This is typical for retail roles to cover peak shopping periods and operational needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is hands-on and fast-paced, requiring adaptability to different tasks and customer interactions throughout the day. The presence of specialized equipment in the framing shop necessitates a focus on safety and precision.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Likely a brief phone or online screening to assess basic qualifications, availability, and interest.

• In-Person Interview: Typically involves meeting with the Store Manager or Assistant Store Manager. This interview will focus on:

  • Behavioral Questions: Assessing customer service skills, problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and handling difficult situations (e.g., "Tell me about a time you dealt with a difficult customer").
  • Situational Questions: Gauging how you would handle specific scenarios related to framing, sales, and store operations (e.g., "A customer wants a frame for a valuable piece of art; how would you approach this?").
  • Skills Assessment: Discussing your comfort level with basic computer skills, measuring, and operating equipment.
  • Motivation & Fit: Understanding your interest in Michaels, the Framer role, and your overall fit with the company culture.

• Skills Demonstration (Potential): You may be asked to demonstrate basic measuring skills or discuss your understanding of framing concepts. A hands-on demonstration of equipment operation might occur for candidates with prior experience.

• Final Steps: Reference checks and offer extension.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Focus on Relevant Experience: If you have any visual projects, design work, or examples of customer sales successes (even from non-framing roles), have them ready to discuss.

• Highlight Customer Service: Be prepared to share specific examples of how you've provided excellent customer service, built relationships, or resolved issues.

• Demonstrate Sales Aptitude: Discuss any instances where you successfully influenced a customer's purchase decision or met sales goals.

• Showcase Problem-Solving: Prepare to talk about how you've overcome challenges, whether operational or customer-related.

• Articulate Understanding: Even without formal experience, be able to explain your understanding of the framing process and your enthusiasm for learning it.

Challenge Preparation:

• Scenario-Based Challenges: Be ready for hypothetical situations related to customer inquiries, sales objections, or operational tasks. Practice articulating your thought process clearly.

• Customer Service Scenarios: Prepare responses for situations involving customer complaints, complex requests, or the need to upsell.

• Operational Scenarios: Think about how you would ensure store safety, manage inventory tasks, or handle a busy period in the framing shop.

📝 Enhancement Note: For this role, the "portfolio" is more about your ability to articulate your experience, skills, and potential through conversation rather than a curated document. Focus on concrete examples and demonstrating enthusiasm for learning.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• POS System: Advanced Point of Sale (POS) systems for processing transactions, managing customer orders, and potentially inventory lookup. Experience with retail POS software is beneficial.

• Custom Framing Software/Equipment:

  • Framing Station: Workstation for assembling frames.
  • Glass Cutter: Tool for precisely cutting glass or acrylic to size.
  • Heat Press: Used for mounting or applying finishes.
  • Miter Saw/Blade Chopper: For cutting frame molding to size.
  • Mat Cutter: For cutting mats to fit artwork.
  • Measuring Tools: Tape measures, rulers, calipers for precise measurements.

• Basic Computer Skills: Proficiency in using computers for basic tasks, potentially including order entry, email, and internal communication platforms.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While the Framer may not directly use advanced analytics tools, they will interact with systems that generate data.

• Sales Tracking: POS systems will track individual and department sales performance, which the Framer contributes to.

• Inventory Management Systems: Used for managing stock levels of framing supplies and ready-made frames (e.g., SISO, Directed Replenishment).

CRM & Automation:

• Customer Relationship Management (CRM): The POS system likely has CRM functionalities to track customer purchase history, preferences, and contact information for future marketing or personalized service.

• Order Management Systems: Systems for tracking custom framing orders from placement to completion.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary "tools" are physical equipment and POS systems. Candidates are expected to have basic computer literacy and the ability to learn specialized framing equipment. Familiarity with retail POS systems is a significant plus.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Customer Focus: Prioritizing customer satisfaction and building lasting relationships through excellent service and personalized solutions.

• Creativity & Inspiration: Fostering an environment that celebrates creative expression and helps customers bring their artistic visions to life.

• Quality & Craftsmanship: Commitment to high standards in custom framing, ensuring durable and aesthetically pleasing finished products.

• Teamwork & Support: Working collaboratively with colleagues to achieve store goals and support a positive work environment.

• Efficiency & Process Adherence: Following established procedures (SOPs) to ensure consistent operations, safety, and compliance.

• Integrity & Respect: Upholding ethical standards and treating all customers and team members with respect.

Collaboration Style:

• Customer-Centric Collaboration: Working together to ensure a seamless customer experience, especially when a customer interacts with both the sales floor and the framing department.

• Supportive Team Environment: Assisting colleagues with tasks, sharing knowledge, and contributing to a shared sense of responsibility for store success.

• Process-Oriented Communication: Clear communication regarding order status, customer needs, and operational updates to ensure smooth workflow.

• Feedback Exchange: Openness to receiving and providing constructive feedback to improve individual performance and team effectiveness.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture emphasizes both the creative aspect of Michaels and the operational discipline required in a retail setting. Teamwork and a customer-first mentality are central to daily operations.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Sales and Production: Effectively managing time to engage customers for sales consultations while also meeting production deadlines for framing orders.

• Handling Diverse Customer Needs: Catering to a wide range of artistic styles, budgets, and framing requirements, from simple projects to complex, high-value art.

• Maintaining Quality Standards: Consistently delivering high-quality framing work, especially under pressure or during busy periods.

• Learning Specialized Equipment: Mastering the operation and maintenance of various framing tools and machinery safely and efficiently.

• Adapting to Retail Demands: Navigating the fast-paced retail environment, including peak seasons, stocking tasks, and general store duties alongside framing responsibilities.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Framing Skills Mastery: Gaining expertise in various framing techniques, matting styles, glass types, and mounting methods.

• Sales and Customer Service Enhancement: Developing consultative selling skills, clienteling techniques, and advanced customer service strategies.

• Operational Proficiency: Learning about inventory management, visual merchandising, Omni channel processes, and loss prevention within a retail context.

• Product Knowledge Expansion: Deepening understanding of art conservation, different media, and framing best practices.

• Potential for Advancement: Opportunities to move into leadership roles within the store or specialized roles within the framing department.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role offers a solid foundation in retail operations and specialized craft skills. Challenges are typical for a hands-on retail position, with opportunities for skill development and career progression.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Customer Service Approach: "How would you approach a customer who is unsure about their framing needs?" or "Describe a time you went above and beyond to help a customer."

  • Preparation: Focus on active listening, asking clarifying questions, understanding customer goals, and offering personalized solutions. Have examples of great customer service ready.

• Sales & Consultation: "Imagine a customer wants to frame a child's drawing versus a valuable painting. How would your approach differ?"

  • Preparation: Emphasize understanding the value and significance of the item being framed, tailoring recommendations to budget and preservation needs, and upselling relevant products (e.g., UV-protective glass, archival materials).

• Problem-Solving & Operational Scenarios: "What would you do if a framing order was delayed or if a customer was unhappy with the finished product?" or "How would you ensure the framing area remains clean and organized during a busy shift?"

  • Preparation: Focus on clear communication, de-escalation techniques, problem resolution, and adherence to SOPs for maintaining store standards and safety.

Company & Culture Questions:

• "Why are you interested in working at Michaels, and specifically in this Framer role?"

  • Preparation: Research Michaels' mission, values, and products. Connect your interest to creativity, customer service, and the specific skills of framing.

• "How do you handle working as part of a team, especially during busy periods?"

  • Preparation: Highlight your ability to collaborate, support colleagues, and maintain a positive attitude under pressure.

• "What do you know about our custom framing services?"

  • Preparation: Briefly review the framing section on the Michaels website to understand the breadth of services offered.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Verbal Portfolio: Since a physical portfolio is unlikely, be prepared to "walk through" your past experiences using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for behavioral questions.

• Highlight Relevant Skills: Emphasize customer service, sales, problem-solving, and any hands-on or creative skills you possess.

• Demonstrate Enthusiasm for Framing: Express your eagerness to learn the craft and contribute to the framing department's success.

• Showcase Operational Awareness: Discuss your understanding of retail operations, safety, and the importance of following procedures.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating strong customer service, sales potential, willingness to learn, and an understanding of retail operations within a creative environment.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

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

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight customer service, sales experience, any retail background, and any experience with tools or hands-on work. Use keywords from the job description such as "customer service," "sales," "merchandising," "cash handling," and "teamwork."

• Portfolio Preparation (Verbal): Mentally prepare specific examples of your customer service successes, sales achievements, problem-solving skills, and any creative or hands-on experience you have. Be ready to discuss these using the STAR method.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Michaels' mission, values, products (especially custom framing), and recent company news. Understand their commitment to creativity and customer experience.

• Interview Practice: Practice answering common retail interview questions, focusing on behavioral and situational scenarios related to customer interaction, sales, and operational duties. Be prepared to articulate your enthusiasm for learning the framing craft.

⚠️ 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.