framer

Michaels Stores
Full-timeBluffton, United States

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Framer

Company: Michaels Stores

Location: Bluffton, South Carolina, United States

Job Type: PART_TIME

Category: Retail Operations / Custom Framing Specialist

Date Posted: April 21, 2026

Experience Level: Entry Level (0-2 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

  • This is a hands-on, customer-facing role focused on providing custom framing solutions and ensuring an exceptional in-store shopping experience.

  • Responsibilities include direct customer engagement, sales of custom framing services, and maintaining visual merchandising standards within the store.

  • The role involves operational tasks such as processing transactions, managing inventory, and assisting with store upkeep and product stocking.

  • Requires proficiency in basic technical skills related to framing equipment and a commitment to adhering to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and safety protocols.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the job title is "Framer," the description clearly indicates a broader retail associate role with a specialization in custom framing. The focus is on customer service, sales, and general store operations, with framing expertise being a key component. This is not a pure operations or GTM strategy role, but rather a customer-facing retail position.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

  • Customer Engagement & Sales:

    • Build strong customer relationships by understanding their needs and recommending personalized custom framing solutions.
    • Utilize Elevated ABC Deliver methodology to engage customers and drive sales of custom framing services.
    • Actively assist customers in locating products and provide solutions to meet their creative needs.
  • Custom Framing Execution:

    • Accurately complete custom framing orders to high quality standards and within specified timelines.
    • Operate framing equipment, including glass cutters and heat presses, safely and efficiently.
  • Store Operations & Merchandising:

    • Maintain the ready-made frame department, including in-store, special order (SISO) items, and directed replenishment.
    • Ensure a safe, clean, and clutter-free store environment for customers.
    • Support shrink and safety programs through adherence to company policies and procedures.
    • Participate actively in truck un-load and stocking processes, ensuring adherence to truck standards and budget.
  • Point of Sale & Transaction Management:

    • Operate the cash register and execute cash handling procedures according to company standards.
    • Assist with Omni-channel processes, including online order fulfillment and customer support.
  • Team Collaboration & Adherence:

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

    • Interact positively and respectfully with colleagues, promoting a collaborative and supportive work environment.

    • Serve as a role model by projecting a positive image and demonstrating commitment to the organization's vision and values.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities are heavily weighted towards direct customer interaction and sales within a retail environment, with a specific emphasis on the custom framing service. Operational duties are supportive of the core retail function.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: No specific educational degree is listed as a requirement.

Experience:

  • Minimum of 0-2 years of experience in a retail or customer-facing role.

  • Demonstrated ability to build customer relationships and provide solutions.

Required Skills:

  • Basic computer skills for POS and potential system navigation.

  • Basic measuring skills for accurate framing order specifications.

  • Ability to operate framing equipment and glass cutters safely and effectively.

  • Strong customer service and interpersonal communication skills.

  • Ability to work effectively in a team environment.

Preferred Skills:

  • Previous retail experience, particularly in a specialty or custom service environment.

  • Proven experience in selling products and/or services to customers.

  • Familiarity with art and framing materials.

  • Experience with heat presses.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirements are entry-level, focusing on foundational customer service and operational skills. The ability to learn and operate specific equipment is crucial. Preference is given to candidates with direct sales and retail experience.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

  • While a formal portfolio is not explicitly requested, candidates are encouraged to showcase their ability to translate customer needs into tangible framing solutions. This can be demonstrated through examples of past projects or a strong understanding of design principles in the interview.

  • Evidence of understanding and executing sales processes that lead to successful order completion.

Process Documentation:

  • Understanding and adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for sales, production, and customer service.

  • Ability to follow established guidelines for order processing, quality control, and on-time delivery.

  • Familiarity with safety protocols related to equipment operation and store maintenance.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the entry-level nature of the role and its primary focus on in-store retail operations, a traditional operations portfolio is not expected. Instead, the emphasis will be on demonstrating practical skills, customer service abilities, and an understanding of company processes through interview and practical assessments.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Based on the Part-Time employment type, entry-level experience, and location (Bluffton, SC), the estimated hourly wage for a Framer position at Michaels Stores would typically range from $12.00 to $16.00 per hour. This estimate is derived from research on similar retail associate roles in the region, considering the specific responsibilities of custom framing and sales.

Benefits:

  • Health insurance (medical, dental, and vision) - Note: Typically offered to full-time employees, but may have eligibility requirements for part-time.

  • Paid time off (PTO) - Note: Accrual rates may vary based on hours worked.

  • Tuition assistance program.

  • Generous employee discounts on Michaels products and services.

Working Hours:

  • This is a PART_TIME position.

  • Working hours will include nights, weekends, and early mornings.

  • Flexibility to work various shifts is required.

  • The role involves standing for long periods and requires physical stamina.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary is estimated based on regional retail benchmarks for entry-level positions with specialized duties. Benefits listed are standard for Michaels, with a caveat that eligibility for part-time employees may vary.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Arts and Crafts Retail. Michaels is the leading specialty retailer of arts and crafts supplies in North America.

Company Size: Michaels operates over 1,300 stores across the United States and Canada, indicating a large, established retail organization.

Founded: Founded in 1973, Michaels has a long-standing history and significant market presence.

Team Structure:

  • The role is part of a store-level team, likely reporting to a Store Manager or Assistant Store Manager.

  • The framing specialist will work alongside other retail associates, potentially including department leads or specialists in other areas.

Methodology:

  • Focus on customer-centric service, aiming to build relationships and provide tailored solutions.

  • Emphasis on sales performance and achieving individual and store targets.

  • Adherence to established Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for consistency and quality.

  • Commitment to maintaining visual merchandising standards and store presentation.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture is rooted in creativity, customer service, and a commitment to providing a positive shopping experience. For this role, it translates to a blend of artistic consultation and retail execution.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This position is an entry-level, customer-facing role within the retail operations of Michaels Stores. It focuses on executing specific tasks related to customer service, sales, and custom framing production.

Reporting Structure: The Framer will report to store leadership, such as the Store Manager or an Assistant Store Manager, who oversees daily retail operations and team performance.

Operations Impact: While not a strategic operations role, the Framer's impact is on direct customer satisfaction, sales conversion for custom framing services, and the overall presentation and efficiency of the store's framing department and general retail floor. Positive customer experiences contribute to repeat business and brand loyalty.

Growth Opportunities:

  • Skill Development: Opportunity to become an expert in custom framing design, materials, and production techniques. Develop advanced sales and customer relationship management skills.

  • Advancement within Store: Potential to move into roles like Key Holder, Assistant Manager, or Store Manager, with increased responsibility for store operations, team leadership, and strategic execution.

  • Specialization: Develop deep expertise in custom framing, potentially leading to specialized roles within larger Michaels operations or training capacities.

  • Cross-functional Experience: Gain broad experience in various retail functions, including merchandising, inventory management, and POS operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: Growth opportunities are primarily within the retail store management track or developing specialized expertise within the framing service. This is a foundational role with clear pathways for advancement within the Michaels retail operational structure.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Public retail store setting.

Office Location(s): Bluffton-30 Malphrus Rd Ste 107, Bluffton, SC. The store environment is a customer-facing retail space.

Workspace Context:

  • The primary workspace is the retail floor and the dedicated custom framing area within the store.

  • The frame shop includes specialized equipment such as a glass cutter and heat press, requiring careful operation.

  • Work involves direct interaction with the public in a potentially fast-paced environment.

Work Schedule:

  • This is a PART_TIME position.

  • Work hours include nights, weekends, and early mornings.

  • The role requires standing for extended periods and involves physical demands like lifting, bending, and reaching.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is typical of a specialty retail store, with a focus on customer interaction and the physical demands of handling products and operating equipment. Flexibility in scheduling is a key requirement.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

  • Initial Screening: Likely a review of the application and resume, focusing on relevant retail and customer service experience.

  • In-Store Interview: This will likely involve meeting with the Store Manager or Assistant Manager. It will focus on assessing customer service skills, sales aptitude, and understanding of the company's brand and values.

  • Practical Assessment: Candidates may be asked to demonstrate basic measuring skills or discuss their approach to a customer framing consultation. A walkthrough of the store and framing area may occur.

  • Behavioral Questions: Expect questions about handling difficult customers, teamwork, and problem-solving scenarios relevant to a retail environment.

Portfolio Review Tips:

  • For this role, a formal portfolio is not typically required. However, be prepared to discuss:
    • Past customer service successes and how you built relationships.
    • Any experience selling products or services and how you approached it.
    • Examples of creative problem-solving or handling challenging customer requests.

Challenge Preparation:

  • Be ready to discuss how you would approach a customer consultation for a custom framing order, from understanding their needs to recommending materials and pricing.

  • Prepare examples of how you have handled customer complaints or difficult situations in previous roles.

  • Understand the importance of accuracy and quality in custom work and how you ensure it.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will be geared towards assessing practical skills, customer interaction abilities, and cultural fit for a retail environment, rather than deep operational strategy.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

  • Point of Sale (POS) System: For processing transactions, managing customer orders, and potentially accessing customer history.

  • Custom Framing Software/Systems: Used for designing frames, calculating pricing, and generating order specifications. This would include digital measuring tools and potentially design visualization software.

  • Framing Equipment: Includes tools for cutting glass, matting, assembling frames, and potentially heat presses for sealing.

  • Basic Computer Skills: For general tasks, email communication, and potentially internal training modules.

Analytics & Reporting:

CRM & Automation:

  • The POS system likely integrates with a CRM to track customer purchases and preferences for custom framing services.

  • Basic automation features may be present in order management systems to facilitate production workflows.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is focused on retail operations and specialized custom framing tools, rather than complex business intelligence or GTM automation platforms.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

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

  • Creativity & Passion: Embracing the joy of creativity and helping customers bring their artistic visions to life through custom framing.

  • Quality & Craftsmanship: Commitment to delivering high-quality framing solutions that meet or exceed customer expectations.

  • Teamwork & Respect: Fostering a positive and collaborative work environment where all team members are valued and respected.

  • Efficiency & Accuracy: Ensuring accurate order processing and timely production while adhering to company standards.

Collaboration Style:

  • Cross-functional collaboration with all store team members to ensure a seamless customer experience across all departments.

  • Open communication and willingness to assist colleagues with tasks, including stocking, customer service, and operational duties.

  • A culture that encourages learning from one another, especially regarding framing techniques and customer engagement strategies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture emphasizes creativity, customer centricity, and a collaborative spirit within the retail store environment.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

  • Balancing Sales and Production: Effectively engaging customers to drive sales while ensuring custom framing orders are produced accurately and on time.

  • Customer Expectations: Managing diverse customer expectations for custom framing projects, from simple to complex artistic visions.

  • Physical Demands: The role requires standing for long periods, lifting, and operating specialized equipment, which can be physically demanding.

  • Learning Curve: Mastering the operation of framing equipment, understanding material options, and developing consultative sales skills for custom framing.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

  • Framing Expertise: Deepen knowledge of framing design principles, materials (mats, glass, frames), and advanced production techniques.

  • Sales & Customer Service Skills: Enhance consultative selling abilities, customer relationship management, and conflict resolution.

  • Retail Operations Knowledge: Gain hands-on experience in merchandising, inventory management, POS operations, and general store management principles.

  • Career Progression: Potential to advance into leadership roles within Michaels stores, including management positions.

📝 Enhancement Note: Challenges are inherent to a customer-facing retail role with specialized duties. Growth opportunities are focused on skill development within framing and sales, and advancement within the retail store hierarchy.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

  • "How would you approach a customer who is unsure about the best framing option for their artwork?" (Focus on consultative selling, understanding needs, and offering solutions)

  • "Describe a time you successfully helped a customer find exactly what they were looking for." (Highlight customer service, problem-solving, and product knowledge)

  • "How do you ensure accuracy and quality when completing a custom order?" (Emphasize attention to detail, adherence to SOPs, and quality checks)

Company & Culture Questions:

  • "What interests you about working for Michaels, specifically in a custom framing role?" (Connect your passion for creativity or customer service to Michaels' mission)

  • "How do you contribute to a positive team environment?" (Discuss teamwork, respect, and willingness to help others)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

  • Since a formal portfolio isn't required, prepare to discuss specific examples from your past:
    • Customer Service Scenarios: Detail how you've handled challenging customers, resolved issues, or gone above and beyond.
    • Sales Achievements: If you have sales experience, be ready to quantify your successes or describe your sales approach.
    • Problem-Solving Examples: Share instances where you had to think on your feet to solve a customer's problem or improve a process.
    • Art/Design Interest: If applicable, articulate your appreciation for art and design and how it informs your approach to framing.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating strong interpersonal skills, a customer-centric mindset, a willingness to learn specialized skills, and an alignment with Michaels' creative and service-oriented culture.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Framer position:

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

  • Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight any customer service, sales, retail, or hands-on experience. Use keywords like "customer engagement," "custom framing," "sales," "merchandising," and "cash handling."

  • Portfolio Preparation (Discussion-Based): Prepare specific examples to discuss during the interview that showcase your customer service skills, problem-solving abilities, any sales successes, and your understanding of quality and accuracy in custom work.

  • Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Michaels' mission, values, and product offerings, particularly their custom framing services. Understand their commitment to creativity and customer satisfaction.

  • Interview Practice: Practice answering common retail interview questions, focusing on your ability to connect with customers, handle operational tasks, and work effectively in a team.

⚠️ 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.

Application Requirements

Candidates must possess basic computer and measuring skills, along with the ability to operate framing equipment and glass cutters. Previous retail experience and experience selling products or services to customers are preferred.