Framer PT

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Framer PT

Company: Michaels Stores

Location: Ajax, Ontario, Canada

Job Type: PART_TIME

Category: Retail Operations / Custom Framing

Date Posted: 2025-09-12

Experience Level: Entry Level (0-2 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Provide exceptional customer service and sales support within a retail environment, focusing on custom framing solutions.

• Execute operational tasks including order fulfillment, inventory management, and maintaining visual merchandising standards for the framing department.

• Operate specialized framing equipment and tools safely and efficiently to produce high-quality custom framing orders.

• Contribute to overall store operations, including cash handling, customer assistance, and maintaining a clean and safe shopping environment.

• Support the company's commitment to a positive and engaging customer experience, aiming to build lasting relationships and drive sales.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the provided description is for a "Framer PT" role, it falls under the broader umbrella of retail operations with a specific specialization in custom framing. The emphasis on customer relationships, sales, and operational tasks positions it as an entry-level role within the retail operations sector, requiring a blend of customer-facing skills and hands-on operational execution.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Build and nurture customer relationships by providing expert consultation and design recommendations for custom framing projects, utilizing Elevated ABC Deliver methodologies to enhance the customer experience.

• Drive sales by effectively presenting framing options, materials, and pricing to meet customer needs and achieve individual and store sales targets.

• Accurately complete custom framing orders, ensuring high-quality craftsmanship, adherence to design specifications, and timely completion to meet customer expectations.

• Maintain the visual presentation and stock levels of the ready-made frame department, alongside managing in-store order (SISO) and directed replenishment processes.

• Deliver friendly and proactive customer service, assisting shoppers in locating merchandise, answering inquiries, and ensuring a well-organized and inviting store environment.

• Adhere to all Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company programs to ensure compliance with legal requirements, safety standards, and operational policies.

• Support company-wide shrink prevention and safety initiatives by following established protocols and reporting any potential issues.

• Operate the cash register efficiently and accurately, handling all cash transactions, returns, and exchanges in accordance with company cash handling standards.

• Assist with the seamless execution of omnichannel processes, including buy online, pick up in-store (BOPIS) and ship-from-store orders.

• Participate actively in truck un-loading and stocking processes, ensuring adherence to truck standards and completion within designated timeframes and budgets.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of sales, customer service, and operational execution. The mention of "Elevated ABC Deliver" suggests a structured approach to customer engagement and sales, crucial for understanding the sales process within this role.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Experience:

Required Skills:

• Customer Service Excellence: Ability to engage positively with customers, understand their needs, and provide solutions that foster satisfaction and loyalty.

• Basic Computer Skills: Proficiency in using point-of-sale (POS) systems, basic data entry, and potentially customer relationship management (CRM) software for order tracking.

• Basic Measuring Skills: Accurate measurement capabilities are essential for custom framing orders, requiring attention to detail and precision.

• Operational Equipment Proficiency: Ability to learn and operate framing equipment, including specialized machinery and a glass cutter, safely and efficiently.

• Product Knowledge Acquisition: Willingness and ability to quickly learn about different framing materials, matting options, and artistic presentation techniques.

Preferred Skills:

• Retail Sales Experience: Proven ability to drive sales, upsell products, and meet sales targets in a retail setting.

• Custom Framing Expertise: Previous hands-on experience with custom framing techniques, materials, and design principles.

• Visual Merchandising: Understanding of how to arrange products effectively to enhance customer appeal and drive sales.

• Cash Handling Proficiency: Demonstrated accuracy and reliability in managing financial transactions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "0-2" experience level indicates a focus on foundational skills and trainability. The preference for retail sales experience highlights the sales-driven aspect of the role, even within a specialized service like custom framing.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Customer Interaction Case Studies: Examples demonstrating how you have successfully engaged customers, understood their needs, and provided solutions, particularly in a sales or service context.

• Sales Achievement Examples: Documentation of any sales targets met or exceeded, or instances where you effectively upsold or cross-sold products or services.

• Operational Task Examples: While specific operational outputs might not be portfolio items, demonstrating understanding of process adherence through examples of following procedures accurately is valuable.

• Problem-Solving Scenarios: Instances where you encountered and resolved customer issues or operational challenges within a retail setting.

Process Documentation:

• Order Fulfillment Process: Understanding of how to accurately process customer orders from consultation to completion, ensuring quality and timeliness.

• Inventory Management Awareness: Familiarity with stock replenishment and maintaining product organization within a retail space.

• Safety Protocol Adherence: Demonstrated understanding of and commitment to following safety procedures for equipment operation and general workplace safety.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an entry-level role like this, a formal "portfolio" might not be strictly required in the traditional sense. However, candidates are expected to articulate their past experiences and skills through their resume and during interviews, showcasing relevant achievements and capabilities. The emphasis is on demonstrating a foundational understanding of customer service, sales processes, and operational diligence.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Based on current market data for part-time retail positions in Ajax, Ontario, Canada, the hourly wage for a Framer PT role is estimated to be between CAD $16.00 and CAD $20.00 per hour. This range can vary based on experience, specific store performance, and the company's compensation structure.

Benefits:

• Health Insurance: Access to medical, dental, and vision coverage, providing comprehensive health support for team members.

• Paid Time Off (PTO): Accrual of paid time off for vacation, personal days, or sick leave, offering flexibility and work-life balance.

• Tuition Assistance: Support for continuing education and professional development, helping team members advance their skills and careers.

• Employee Discounts: Generous discounts on Michaels products and services, allowing team members to engage with their creativity and save on crafting supplies.

• Other Benefits: Potential for additional benefits such as employee assistance programs, retirement savings plans (e.g., RRSP matching in Canada), and opportunities for performance-based incentives.

Working Hours:

• This is a part-time position, with typical hours varying based on store needs and employee availability. While the job description doesn't specify exact hours, retail roles often require flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays. The "40" mentioned in the input data might refer to a standard full-time week, but for a part-time role, it's more likely to be between 15-30 hours per week.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on general retail part-time roles in the specified Canadian region. Benefits are listed as provided in the company description, emphasizing their value for part-time employees.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Arts and Crafts Retail. Michaels is a dominant player in North America, offering a wide range of creative products, custom framing services, and instructional workshops.

Company Size: Large (over 1,300 stores in North America). This indicates a well-established corporate structure with standardized processes and significant market presence. For operations professionals, this means opportunities for structured training, clear career paths, and exposure to large-scale retail operations.

Founded: 1973. With a long history, Michaels has a deep understanding of the creative consumer market and has evolved its operational strategies over decades.

Team Structure:

• Store-Level Operations: The Framer PT will be part of a store team that typically includes a Store Manager, Assistant Store Manager, Key Holders, Sales Associates, and specialized roles like Framers.

• Reporting Structure: This role likely reports directly to a Framing Manager or a designated Floor Supervisor/Manager responsible for the custom framing department and overall store operations.

• Cross-functional Collaboration: Collaboration is expected with other store associates for customer assistance, inventory management, and general store upkeep. Interaction with customers is a primary function.

Methodology:

• Customer-Centric Approach: The company emphasizes "fueling the joy of creativity" and building customer relationships, suggesting a strong focus on customer experience in all operations.

• Process Standardization: As a large retail chain, Michaels likely employs standardized operational procedures for sales, framing, inventory, and safety, ensuring consistency across all locations.

• Sales and Performance Driven: While creative, the role is also performance-oriented, with expectations for sales contributions and efficient order completion.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's large size and long history imply a robust operational framework. The "fuel the joy of creativity" mission statement suggests a culture that values creativity, customer engagement, and a positive work environment, which are key aspects for operations professionals to understand.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Entry-Level Retail Operations Specialist. This role serves as a foundational position within the retail operations framework, focusing on specialized service delivery (custom framing) and general store upkeep.

Reporting Structure: The Framer PT reports to a store-level management team (e.g., Framing Manager, Assistant Store Manager, or Store Manager). This provides direct oversight and opportunities for immediate feedback and coaching on operational execution and customer service.

Operations Impact: The Framer PT directly impacts customer satisfaction through quality framing services and sales interactions. Efficient order processing and accurate craftsmanship contribute to repeat business and positive brand perception. By maintaining store standards, they also influence the overall shopping experience for all customers.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization Advancement: Potential to become a Lead Framer or Framing Manager, taking on more responsibility for design, customer consultation, and team supervision within the framing department.

• Cross-Functional Retail Roles: Opportunities to transition into other store operations roles, such as Visual Merchandising, Inventory Management, or Key Holder positions, broadening operational experience.

• Management Track: With demonstrated performance and leadership potential, there are pathways to Assistant Store Manager and Store Manager roles, leading to broader operational and people management responsibilities.

• Skill Development: Continuous learning in framing techniques, design principles, and customer relationship management, supported by company training programs and potential tuition assistance.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as an entry point into retail operations. The growth opportunities are clearly defined within the store environment, emphasizing skill development in both specialized framing operations and broader retail management.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Public Retail Store Setting. The work environment is dynamic and customer-facing, located within a Michaels retail store.

Office Location(s): Ajax, Ontario, Canada, specifically at 100 Kingston Rd E, Unit L10. This location is within a commercial area, likely accessible by public transport and with available parking.

Workspace Context:

• Customer Interaction Zone: A significant portion of the work involves direct interaction with customers in the sales floor and the custom framing design area.

• Framing Shop Area: This is a specialized workspace equipped with framing equipment, tools, and materials. It requires careful attention to safety and organization due to the presence of tools like glass cutters and heat presses.

• Stock Room: May include some stock room duties, which might not always be climate-controlled, requiring adaptability to different environmental conditions.

• Retail Floor: Maintaining the readiness and visual appeal of the framing department and other assigned areas on the retail floor.

Work Schedule:

• Part-time hours, requiring flexibility to work various shifts, including evenings, weekends, and potentially holidays, to meet customer demand and store operational needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is characterized by a blend of customer interaction, specialized craft work, and general retail upkeep. Understanding the specific needs of the framing shop area, including safety protocols and equipment operation, is crucial.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and application to assess basic qualifications, experience, and alignment with the role's requirements.

• In-Person Interview: Typically includes a one-on-one interview with a store manager or framing supervisor. This will cover your customer service philosophy, sales aptitude, problem-solving skills, and understanding of the framing process. You may be asked to demonstrate basic measuring skills or discuss your approach to customer interactions.

• Skills Assessment (Potential): You might be asked to perform a practical task related to measuring, cutting, or assembling a simple frame, or to role-play a customer interaction.

• Cultural Fit Assessment: Evaluation of your attitude, teamwork capabilities, and alignment with Michaels' values and culture, particularly regarding creativity, customer focus, and safety.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Resume Highlights: Ensure your resume clearly lists any relevant retail, customer service, or craft-related experience. Quantify achievements where possible (e.g., "Increased framing sales by X%").

• Behavioral Examples: Be prepared to share specific examples of how you've handled customer inquiries, resolved issues, worked in a team, and managed tasks efficiently. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result).

• Framing Interest: Express genuine interest in custom framing and design. If you have personal projects or examples of your own framing work, be ready to discuss them, even if not formally presented.

• Operational Awareness: Demonstrate an understanding of the importance of safety, accuracy, and following procedures in an operational role.

Challenge Preparation:

• Customer Service Scenarios: Prepare for questions about how you would handle a demanding customer, a complex framing request, or a situation where a product is out of stock.

• Sales Approach: Be ready to discuss how you would approach a customer to offer framing services and what your sales strategy would be to close a sale.

• Problem-Solving: Think about times you've had to troubleshoot a process or resolve a customer complaint.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an entry-level role, the "portfolio" is less about formal documents and more about how candidates articulate their experiences and potential during the interview process. Demonstrating enthusiasm for the craft and a strong customer service orientation is key.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Custom Framing Equipment:

  • Mat Cutters: Various types of mat cutters (e.g., Logan, Fletcher) for precise cutting of mat boards.
  • Glass Cutters: Specialized tools for cutting glass or acrylic to size.
  • Frame Moulding Cutters/Miter Saws: Equipment for accurately cutting frame mouldings at specific angles (e.g., 45 degrees) for joined corners.
  • Heat Presses/Cramers: Tools used for mounting artwork or applying protective coatings.
  • Staplers/Nail Guns: Equipment for securing frames and artwork.

• Measuring Tools:

  • Tape Measures: Standard measuring tapes for accurate dimension recording.
  • Rulers/Calipers: For precise measurements of artwork and frame components.

• Point of Sale (POS) System: Michaels' proprietary system for processing sales, managing customer orders, and handling inventory.

• Basic Computer Skills: Use of computers for order entry, inventory lookups, and potentially internal communication.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Inventory Management Software: Used for tracking stock levels of moulding, mat boards, and other framing supplies.

• Sales Reporting Tools: Integrated within the POS system to track individual and store sales performance.

CRM & Automation:

• Customer Relationship Management (CRM) System: Likely used within the POS or a separate system to manage customer order history, preferences, and contact information.

• Order Management System: Tracks the status of custom framing orders from creation to completion.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong understanding of the specialized tools used in custom framing is essential. The ability to learn and operate these tools safely and effectively is a core requirement for this role. Proficiency with POS systems is also critical for daily operations.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Customer Focus: Prioritizing customer satisfaction through excellent service, creative solutions, and a positive shopping experience.

• Creativity & Inspiration: Encouraging a passion for arts and crafts, fostering an environment where creativity is celebrated and supported.

• Quality & Craftsmanship: Commitment to producing high-quality custom framing that meets customer expectations and upholds the brand's reputation.

• Teamwork & Collaboration: Working effectively with fellow team members to achieve store goals, provide seamless customer service, and maintain an organized workspace.

• Integrity & Respect: Operating with honesty, fairness, and respect towards customers, colleagues, and the company.

• Efficiency & Accuracy: Performing operational tasks, including order processing and measurements, with precision and attention to detail.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Teamwork: Associates are expected to support each other across different departments and tasks to ensure smooth store operations and excellent customer service.

• Direct Communication: Open communication with supervisors and colleagues to address customer needs, operational challenges, and share information about product availability or promotions.

• Shared Responsibility: A collective approach to maintaining store appearance, inventory levels, and customer satisfaction, where everyone contributes to the store's success.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's mission to "fuel the joy of creativity" permeates the culture, suggesting an environment that is generally positive, supportive, and focused on the customer's creative journey. Understanding these values will help candidates align their responses during interviews.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Sales and Service: Effectively transitioning between providing detailed design consultations and efficiently handling transactional tasks like order processing and cash handling.

• Managing Customer Expectations: Dealing with diverse customer needs and expectations for custom framing, which can range from simple requests to highly intricate artistic visions.

• Time Management: Juggling multiple responsibilities, including customer interactions, order fulfillment, operational tasks, and maintaining store presentation, especially during peak times.

• Learning Specialized Skills: Mastering the operation of various framing tools and understanding the nuances of different materials and design techniques requires a learning curve.

• Seasonal Demand Fluctuations: Adapting to varying customer traffic and demand throughout the year, particularly during holidays and major gifting seasons.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Framing Techniques Mastery: Hands-on training and practice to become proficient in all aspects of custom framing, from cutting and assembly to mounting and finishing.

• Design Principles Education: Learning about color theory, composition, and aesthetic principles relevant to art presentation and framing design.

• Customer Relationship Building: Developing skills in consultative selling and building rapport with customers to enhance their creative experience.

• Retail Operations Exposure: Gaining experience in various areas of retail operations, including inventory management, visual merchandising, and point-of-sale systems.

• Career Advancement: Opportunities for promotion within the store, moving towards leadership roles in framing or general store management.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are typical for specialized retail roles that require both technical skill and strong interpersonal abilities. The growth opportunities are clearly tied to developing expertise in framing and progressing within the retail management structure.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Customer Service Philosophy: "How do you approach helping a customer who is unsure about their framing choices?" or "Describe a time you went above and beyond for a customer." Prepare to discuss your customer-centric approach and how you build rapport.

• Sales Aptitude: "How would you encourage a customer to choose a premium framing option?" or "What is your strategy for upselling or cross-selling related products?" Think about how to present value and meet customer needs through sales.

• Problem-Solving in Operations: "Imagine a customer's order is delayed. How would you handle this situation?" or "What would you do if you made a mistake on a customer's order?" Focus on proactive communication and resolution.

• Interest in Framing: "What interests you about custom framing?" or "Have you ever framed anything yourself? Tell me about it." Show genuine enthusiasm for the craft and design.

Company & Culture Questions:

• Company Values: "What does 'fueling the joy of creativity' mean to you?" or "How do you think your role contributes to the company's mission?" Research Michaels' values and mission statement.

• Teamwork: "Describe your ideal team environment." or "How do you handle disagreements with colleagues?" Prepare examples of your collaborative skills.

• Operational Awareness: "What is the importance of following safety procedures in a retail environment?" or "How do you ensure accuracy when performing tasks like measuring?"

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Resume Walkthrough: Be ready to concisely walk through your resume, highlighting relevant experiences and achievements, especially those related to customer service, sales, or hands-on tasks.

• Behavioral Examples: Have 2-3 strong STAR method examples ready that showcase your customer service, problem-solving, or teamwork skills.

• Passion for Craft: If you have personal projects or a portfolio of your own creative work or framing efforts, be prepared to briefly mention or show them if appropriate, demonstrating your interest and aptitude.

• Enthusiasm: Convey genuine excitement for the role, the company, and the opportunity to develop skills in custom framing.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a blend of customer service skills, sales potential, operational diligence, and a genuine interest in the creative aspects of the role. Practical examples and enthusiasm are key differentiators.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided Workday application link.

• Resume Customization: Tailor your resume to highlight customer service, sales experience, any experience with tools or hands-on tasks, and your ability to learn new processes quickly. Use keywords from the job description.

• Prepare Behavioral Examples: Craft 2-3 specific examples using the STAR method that demonstrate your customer service skills, problem-solving abilities, and teamwork experience.

• Research Michaels: Familiarize yourself with Michaels' mission, values, and the importance of custom framing within their retail strategy. Understand their commitment to customer experience.

• Practice Interview Responses: Rehearse answers to common interview questions, focusing on demonstrating enthusiasm, a strong work ethic, and a customer-centric approach. Be ready to discuss your interest in framing.

⚠️ 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.