Framer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Framer Company: Michaels Stores Location: Clifton-1069 Bloomfied Ave, Clifton, NJ, United States Job Type: PART_TIME Category: Retail Operations / Creative Services Date Posted: 2025-09-11 Experience Level: 0-2 Years Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Customer Engagement & Sales: Focused on building strong customer relationships by providing expert advice and creating memorable custom framing solutions, directly contributing to sales targets and customer satisfaction within a retail environment.
• Production & Quality Assurance: Responsible for the precise and timely completion of custom framing orders, ensuring high-quality standards are met for all finished products, including adherence to design specifications and material integrity.
• Store Operations & Merchandising: Maintains the visual appeal and organization of the ready-made frame department and assigned store areas, supporting inventory management through processes like SISO and Directed Replenishment to ensure product availability for customers.
• Operational Efficiency & Compliance: Adheres to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company programs to ensure compliance, safety, and efficient store operations, including cash handling and assisting with omnichannel fulfillment.
• Teamwork & Positive Environment: Contributes to a positive and respectful work environment by interacting constructively with colleagues and customers, serving as a role model for company values and service standards.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the role is listed as "Framer," the responsibilities clearly indicate a customer-facing sales and service component within a retail setting, underscoring the importance of both creative execution and interpersonal skills. The focus on "building customer relationships" and "personal designer by using Elevated ABC Deliver" suggests a proactive sales approach is expected.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Customer Consultation & Design: Engage with customers to understand their framing needs, providing expert recommendations on matting, framing materials, and design aesthetics to create custom solutions that meet their artistic and budgetary requirements.
• Framing Production & Execution: Operate specialized framing equipment, including glass cutters and heat presses, to accurately cut materials and assemble custom frames with a high degree of precision, quality, and adherence to production timelines.
• Sales & Transaction Processing: Utilize the point-of-sale (POS) system to process customer transactions, handle cash and other payment methods accurately, and support store sales goals through upselling and cross-selling of related products and services.
• Department Maintenance & Merchandising: Maintain the visual presentation of the ready-made frame department, ensuring it is clean, organized, and well-stocked, and assist with inventory management tasks such as receiving shipments, stocking shelves, and managing directed replenishment.
• Omnichannel Support: Assist with fulfilling online orders, including order picking, packaging, and preparation for customer pickup or shipment, ensuring a seamless customer experience across all sales channels.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities emphasize a blend of technical framing skills, direct customer sales, and general retail operations. The phrase "deliver sales and production results" directly links personal performance to both aspects of the role, suggesting that candidates will be evaluated on their ability to drive revenue through framing services and meet production quotas.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: High school diploma or equivalent is typically expected for entry-level retail positions like this. Experience: 0-2 years of experience in a customer-facing role, preferably within a retail or service-oriented environment. Prior experience in custom framing or a related craft is beneficial but not always mandatory.

Required Skills:

• Customer Service Excellence: Proven ability to build rapport with customers, actively listen to their needs, and provide solutions that exceed expectations.
• Basic Computer Proficiency: Ability to use basic computer systems for tasks such as order entry, inventory look-up, and POS operations.
• Measuring & Calculation Skills: Competence in accurate measurement and basic calculation for framing orders, ensuring precise material cuts and project specifications.
• Cash Handling Accuracy: Demonstrated ability to handle cash transactions, process payments, and provide correct change according to store procedures.
• Adaptability & Learning Agility: Willingness and ability to learn new skills, operate framing equipment safely, and adapt to evolving store processes and customer demands.

Preferred Skills:

• Retail Sales Experience: Previous experience in a retail sales environment, particularly in consultative sales or visual merchandising.
• Framing or Craft Knowledge: Familiarity with framing techniques, materials, or the arts and crafts industry can provide a significant advantage.
• Problem-Solving Aptitude: Ability to identify and resolve customer issues or operational challenges effectively and efficiently.
• Visual Merchandising Skills: An eye for detail and the ability to create appealing displays in the framing department.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Minimum Type of experience" explicitly lists "basic computer skills and basic measuring skills" and "ability to operate the framing equipment and glass cutter." This indicates that while prior retail experience is preferred, the core technical and operational proficiencies are essential and will be assessed.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Customer Case Studies: Examples of past customer interactions where you successfully identified needs and provided effective solutions, particularly in a sales or service context. If framing-specific examples are available, they would be highly relevant.
• Sales Performance Metrics: If applicable, quantifiable achievements in sales targets, customer satisfaction scores, or upselling/cross-selling initiatives from previous roles.
• Process Adherence Examples: Demonstrations of how you have followed Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) or company policies in previous roles to ensure compliance and operational consistency.
• Quality Control Examples: Any instances where you ensured the quality and accuracy of your work, particularly in production or assembly tasks.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Understanding: Ability to learn and articulate the custom framing order process, from initial customer consultation through to final product delivery.
• Equipment Operation Proficiency: Understanding the steps involved in operating framing equipment safely and effectively, including setup, use, and basic maintenance.
• Inventory Management Principles: Familiarity with basic inventory tasks such as receiving, stocking, and maintaining product displays.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a role like this, a formal portfolio might not be strictly required, but candidates are strongly encouraged to prepare examples that demonstrate their customer service, sales acumen, problem-solving abilities, and understanding of operational procedures. Being able to talk through how you would handle a specific customer framing request or manage the framing department's presentation will be key.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $15.50 - $18.20 per hour. This range reflects an entry-level to intermediate hourly wage for a part-time retail associate with specialized duties in custom framing.

Benefits:

• Health Insurance: Access to medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage, providing comprehensive health protection for team members.
• Paid Time Off (PTO): Accrued paid time off for vacation, sick days, or personal needs, allowing for work-life balance.
• Tuition Assistance: Support for continuing education and professional development through tuition reimbursement or assistance programs.
• Employee Discounts: Generous discounts on Michaels products and services, offering significant savings for creative individuals and hobbyists.
• Other Benefits: Potential for additional benefits such as retirement savings plans (e.g., 401k), life insurance, and disability coverage, depending on employment status and local regulations.

Working Hours: This is a PART_TIME position. Actual hours will vary based on store needs and scheduling, potentially including nights, weekends, and early mornings. The job description notes a standard 40-hour work week as a reference, but part-time roles will typically be less.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range provided is for the United States market. The benefits listed are explicitly mentioned for both full-time and part-time team members, which is a strong differentiator for the company.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Arts and Crafts Retail. Michaels Stores is North America's largest provider of materials and ideas for arts and crafts. Company Size: Over 1,300 stores in 49 states and Canada, plus online presence. This indicates a large, established retail organization with significant operational scale. Founded: 1973. With a long history, Michaels has a well-established brand identity and operational framework. Headquarters: Irving, Texas.

Team Structure:

• Store-Level Operations: You will be part of a store team, working alongside other sales associates, a store manager, and potentially assistant managers.
• Departmental Focus: You will have a primary responsibility for the Custom Framing department, working closely with other associates who may specialize in different areas of the store.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Collaboration will occur with colleagues across various store functions, including sales floor, customer service, and inventory management, to ensure smooth daily operations.

Methodology:

• Customer-Centric Approach: The company emphasizes "fueling the joy of creativity" and building customer relationships, suggesting a focus on customer experience as a core operational principle.
• Process Standardization: Adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company programs is highlighted, indicating a structured operational environment designed for consistency and efficiency.
• Data-Driven Insights (Implied): While not explicitly detailed for this role, larger retail organizations typically leverage sales data and customer feedback to inform merchandising, staffing, and operational improvements.

Company Website: www.michaels.com

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's purpose ("fuel the joy of creativity") and its position as a "leading creative destination" suggest a culture that values creativity, passion, and customer engagement. The emphasis on "building customer relationships" and "personal designer" points towards a service-oriented culture where employees are encouraged to connect with and assist customers.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This position is primarily an entry-level to early-career role within retail operations, focusing on specialized customer service and production tasks. It serves as a foundational role for understanding store-level operations, customer engagement, and product knowledge within the arts and crafts sector.

Reporting Structure: You will report to the store management team, likely the Store Manager or an Assistant Manager responsible for department oversight. Your day-to-day activities will be guided by store leadership and established operating procedures.

Operations Impact: As a Framer, your impact is directly tied to customer satisfaction and revenue generation through custom framing sales. High-quality service and product delivery contribute to repeat business and positive word-of-mouth, enhancing the store's reputation and overall sales performance. You also support store efficiency by maintaining department standards and assisting with general operational tasks.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Develop deep expertise in custom framing design, materials, and production techniques, becoming a go-to expert within the store.
• Retail Advancement: Potential to advance into roles such as Sales Associate, Key Holder, Lead Associate, or Assistant Store Manager, taking on more responsibility for store operations, team leadership, and sales performance.
• Cross-Departmental Experience: Gain experience in other areas of store operations, such as visual merchandising, inventory management, or cash handling, to build a well-rounded retail skill set.
• Company-Wide Opportunities: With demonstrated performance and a desire to grow, opportunities may exist in corporate roles related to merchandising, training, or operations management within Michaels.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role provides a clear pathway for individuals looking to build a career in retail operations. The emphasis on customer interaction and specialized service delivery means that strong performance can be recognized and lead to increased responsibilities and advancement opportunities within the Michaels organization.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Public retail store setting. The primary workspace will be within a Michaels store, encompassing both the sales floor and the custom framing department/shop. Office Location(s): Clifton-1069 Bloomfied Ave, Clifton, NJ. This is a specific, brick-and-mortar retail location.

Workspace Context:

• Customer Interaction Hub: The work environment is highly interactive, with constant engagement with customers on the sales floor and within the framing area.
• Creative Production Space: The framing shop will contain specialized equipment like glass cutters and heat presses, requiring a focus on safety and precision.
• Dynamic Retail Atmosphere: The environment is fast-paced, especially during peak seasons or promotional periods, demanding adaptability and efficiency from team members.
• Varied Conditions: While public areas are climate-controlled, some stock rooms may not be. Outdoor work might be required for tasks like retrieving shopping carts or unloading trucks.

Work Schedule: Part-time hours. Work hours include nights, weekends, and early mornings, reflecting the operational needs of a retail store that serves customers throughout the week and often into the evening. Flexibility in scheduling is often a requirement for part-time retail roles.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is typical for a retail associate role but with the added dimension of operating specialized equipment in the framing area. Candidates should be comfortable with a dynamic, customer-facing setting that requires both standing for long periods and performing tasks that demand attention to detail and manual dexterity.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Application Review: Your resume and application will be assessed for relevant experience, skills, and alignment with the job requirements.
• Phone Screen/Initial Interview: A brief conversation, often with an HR representative or store manager, to gauge your interest, availability, and basic qualifications. This may include questions about your customer service philosophy and retail experience.
• In-Person Interview: Typically held at the store location. This interview will likely involve behavioral questions designed to assess your problem-solving skills, teamwork abilities, and customer engagement strategies. You may be asked to walk through your resume and provide examples of past experiences.
• Skills Assessment (Potential): You might be asked to demonstrate basic measuring skills or discuss how you would approach a customer framing consultation.
• Final Decision: Based on the overall assessment of your fit for the role, customer service skills, and operational capabilities.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Quantify Achievements: If you have sales or customer service metrics from previous roles, be prepared to share them. Focus on numbers that demonstrate your impact.
• Showcase Problem-Solving: Prepare examples of how you've handled challenging customer situations or resolved operational issues. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result).
• Demonstrate Process Understanding: Be ready to discuss your understanding of SOPs and how you ensure quality and accuracy in your work.
• Articulate Customer Approach: Clearly explain your philosophy on customer service and how you build relationships and provide solutions.

Challenge Preparation:

• Customer Scenario Questions: Anticipate questions like, "How would you handle a customer who is unhappy with their framing order?" or "A customer wants a frame for a very unusual item; how would you guide them?"
• Operational Questions: Be ready to discuss your understanding of key retail operations like cash handling, inventory stocking, and maintaining a clean workspace.
• Teamwork Scenarios: Prepare examples of how you've collaborated effectively with colleagues or contributed to a positive team environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: For this specific role, while a formal "portfolio" isn't usually submitted, candidates should be prepared to discuss their relevant experiences and skills as if they were presenting project examples. Highlighting achievements in customer service, sales, and any hands-on or creative work will be crucial.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Custom Framing Equipment: Proficient operation of specialized tools such as:
  • Glass Cutters: For precise cutting of glass or acrylic for frames.
  • Mat Cutters: For cutting mats to size and shape, often with bevels.
  • Framing Assemblers/Guns: For securing the artwork and backing into the frame.
  • Heat Presses: Used in some framing processes for sealing or mounting.
• Point of Sale (POS) System: For processing customer transactions, managing sales, and potentially inventory look-ups.
• Basic Computer Systems: For general store operations, communication, and potentially online order management.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Inventory Management Software: Likely used for tracking stock levels, managing replenishment, and processing incoming shipments.
• Sales Reporting Tools: Used by management to track sales performance, customer trends, and departmental results.

CRM & Automation:

• Customer Relationship Management (CRM) - Implied: While not explicitly stated, the emphasis on "building customer relationships" and "personal designer" suggests that customer information may be captured or managed in some system to foster repeat business and personalized service.
• Omnichannel Fulfillment Systems: Tools or processes to manage and process online orders for in-store pickup or shipping.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core technical skills revolve around operating the specialized framing equipment. Proficiency with a standard retail POS system is also essential. Familiarity with inventory management systems common in retail environments would be beneficial.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Customer Focus: Prioritizing customer needs and satisfaction, aiming to create positive and memorable experiences through personalized service and creative solutions.
• Creativity & Passion: Encouraging a passion for arts and crafts, and applying creativity to assist customers in their projects and design choices.
• Quality & Craftsmanship: Commitment to high-quality workmanship in custom framing, ensuring products are durable, aesthetically pleasing, and meet customer expectations.
• Teamwork & Respect: Fostering a collaborative and respectful work environment where team members support each other and contribute to a positive store atmosphere.
• Efficiency & Accountability: Adhering to operational procedures, maintaining standards for store presentation and production, and taking ownership of responsibilities.

Collaboration Style:

• Service-Oriented Teamwork: Associates are expected to support each other in serving customers, sharing knowledge, and assisting with tasks to ensure smooth store operations.
• Cross-Functional Support: Willingness to help out in different areas of the store as needed, contributing to overall store success.
• Process Adherence & Improvement: Working within established procedures while being open to feedback and best practices to enhance efficiency and customer experience.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture appears to be centered around creativity, customer engagement, and a supportive team environment. Employees are encouraged to be passionate about their work and to contribute positively to the customer's creative journey.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Sales and Production: Effectively managing customer interactions for sales and consultations while also meeting production deadlines for custom framing orders requires strong time management and multitasking skills.
• Managing Diverse Customer Needs: Catering to a wide range of customer tastes, budgets, and technical requirements for framing can be demanding.
• Physical Demands: The role involves standing for long periods, lifting heavy items, and performing repetitive tasks, which can be physically demanding.
• Staying Current with Trends: Keeping up-to-date with framing styles, materials, and customer preferences in the dynamic arts and crafts market.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Framing Expertise: Develop advanced skills in custom framing design, material selection, and production techniques.
• Sales & Customer Service Training: Enhance consultative selling skills, customer relationship management, and conflict resolution.
• Retail Operations Knowledge: Gain comprehensive understanding of store management, inventory control, visual merchandising, and loss prevention.
• Product Knowledge: Expand knowledge of a wide range of arts and crafts supplies, tools, and techniques.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role presents opportunities to develop specialized skills in a niche area (custom framing) while also building a foundation in broad retail operations and customer service. The challenges are typical of a hands-on retail role but are balanced by the potential for skill development and career progression.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Customer Service Philosophy: "Describe your approach to customer service. How do you build rapport and ensure a positive customer experience, especially when dealing with custom orders?"
• Sales Approach: "How do you approach selling a product or service to a customer? Give an example of a time you successfully upsold or cross-sold."
• Problem-Solving: "Describe a time you faced a difficult customer situation. What was the situation, and how did you resolve it?"
• Process & Quality: "How do you ensure accuracy and quality in your work, especially when following specific procedures or guidelines?"
• Teamwork: "Tell me about a time you worked effectively as part of a team to achieve a common goal."

Company & Culture Questions:

• Motivation for Michaels: "Why are you interested in working for Michaels, and specifically in this Framer role?"
• Understanding of the Brand: "What do you know about Michaels and our commitment to creativity?"
• Work Environment Fit: "How do you handle working in a fast-paced retail environment with diverse customer interactions?"

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• STAR Method: Prepare specific examples using the STAR method for behavioral questions to showcase your skills and accomplishments.
• Quantify Impact: Where possible, use numbers to illustrate your achievements (e.g., "increased framing sales by X%," "maintained a customer satisfaction rating of Y").
• Demonstrate Process Knowledge: Be ready to explain how you would handle a typical customer framing consultation, from initial greeting to order completion, highlighting key steps and considerations.
• Show Enthusiasm for Creativity: Convey a genuine interest in arts, crafts, and helping customers bring their creative visions to life through custom framing.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating strong customer service, sales aptitude, attention to detail, and a willingness to learn and follow procedures. Being able to articulate how you connect with customers and contribute to a positive store environment will be key.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Michaels Careers portal.
• Resume Tailoring: Customize your resume to highlight customer service, sales experience, any relevant creative or hands-on skills, and experience with following procedures or operating equipment. Use keywords from the job description.
• Portfolio Preparation (Verbal): Mentally prepare examples of your customer service interactions, sales successes, and problem-solving scenarios using the STAR method. Be ready to discuss these during an interview.
• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Michaels' products, services (especially custom framing), and company values. Understand their mission to "fuel the joy of creativity."
• Interview Practice: Practice answering common retail and behavioral interview questions, focusing on demonstrating enthusiasm, reliability, and a customer-centric approach.

⚠️ 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.