FT Framer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: FT Framer

Company: Michaels Stores

Location: Store - 650 Desert Blvd N, Suite 5, El Paso-North, TX, United States

Job Type: FULL_TIME

Category: Retail Operations / Custom Framing

Date Posted: May 03, 2026

Experience Level: Entry Level (0-2 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is crucial for driving in-store sales and customer engagement within the custom framing department, directly impacting revenue through personalized customer solutions.

• Responsible for maintaining operational excellence in the framing area, ensuring high-quality custom framing production and timely order fulfillment.

• Acts as a key support for the Framing Manager, assisting with KPI achievement and potentially leading in their absence, highlighting a pathway for growth within store operations.

• Contributes to an exceptional customer shopping experience by ensuring product availability, store cleanliness, and efficient checkout processes, reinforcing brand loyalty.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role, while titled "FT Framer," is deeply embedded in retail operations and customer-facing sales. The operations focus lies in the efficient management of the framing department, from customer consultation and design to production quality and inventory upkeep. It requires a blend of sales acumen, operational execution, and a commitment to customer service within a retail environment.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Customer Engagement & Design: Build strong customer relationships by actively listening to needs, providing expert design consultations, and creating memorable custom framing solutions that align with customer vision and budget.

• Sales & Production Targets: Achieve individual and team sales and production goals for custom framing, driving revenue through effective upselling, cross-selling, and product knowledge.

• Operational Excellence: Adhere to all Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for custom framing production, ensuring high-quality craftsmanship, accurate order completion, and on-time delivery.

• Team Support & Leadership: Act as a resource for other team members, providing training on framing processes, products, and sales techniques. Support the Framing Manager in driving Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and may step into a lead capacity in their absence.

• Store Maintenance & Merchandising: Maintain the ready-made frame department, ensure assigned areas are well-merchandised, in-stock, and clutter-free, contributing to a positive shopping environment.

• Inventory & Stock Management: Participate actively in truck unloading and stocking processes, adhering to truck standards and ensuring efficient replenishment of inventory.

• Customer Service & Checkout: Provide friendly and efficient customer service, assisting shoppers in locating products, processing transactions accurately at the cash register, and adhering to cash handling standards.

• Omni-channel Support: Assist with and support the execution of various omni-channel processes as required, ensuring a seamless customer experience across all touchpoints.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary responsibilities emphasize a dual focus on sales generation through expert framing consultation and the operational execution required to deliver on those sales. The role requires understanding and adherence to SOPs, contributing to team performance, and maintaining store standards, all critical components of effective retail operations.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: High school diploma or equivalent required.

Experience: 0-2 years of experience in a customer-facing retail or sales role.

Required Skills:

• Basic Computer Skills: Proficiency in using POS systems, basic computer applications for order entry, and internal communication tools.

• Measuring Skills: Accurate and precise measurement abilities essential for custom framing orders.

• Equipment Operation: Ability to safely and effectively operate framing equipment, including a glass cutter and heat press.

• Customer Service Excellence: Proven ability to build rapport, understand customer needs, and provide solutions in a retail environment.

• Sales Acumen: Demonstrated ability to sell products and services, upsell, and meet sales targets.

• Adherence to Procedures: Strong ability to follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and Company programs for compliance and quality assurance.

Preferred Skills:

• Retail Experience: Prior experience working in a retail setting, preferably within a custom framing or art-related department.

• Sales Experience: Proven track record of successfully selling products or services, with an emphasis on consultative selling.

• Visual Merchandising: Understanding of merchandising principles to maintain an attractive and organized display of framing products.

• Team Collaboration: Ability to work effectively with a team, assist colleagues, and contribute to a positive work environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the role is entry-level, the "Required Skills" highlight a practical, hands-on operational competency. The emphasis on basic computer and measuring skills, alongside equipment operation, points to the need for individuals who can quickly learn and execute specific operational tasks within the framing department. Preferred skills indicate a desire for candidates who can hit the ground running with existing retail sales experience.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• While a formal portfolio is not typically required for this entry-level retail position, candidates are expected to articulate their ability to manage processes and systems effectively during the interview. This may involve discussing past experiences with:

• Customer Interaction Flows: Ability to describe how they would guide a customer from initial inquiry to a finalized framing order.

• Order Management: Understanding of how to accurately capture order details, process payments, and manage timelines.

• Store Operations: Familiarity with basic retail operations such as inventory management, merchandising, and POS system usage.

• Problem-Solving Scenarios: Examples of how they've resolved customer issues or operational challenges in previous roles.

Process Documentation:

• Candidates should demonstrate an understanding of the importance of following established processes, such as:

• Framing Order Workflow: Ability to explain the steps involved in creating a custom framing order from consultation to completion.

• Customer Service Protocols: Understanding of how to handle customer inquiries, complaints, and feedback according to company guidelines.

• Operational Standards: Knowledge of maintaining store cleanliness, stock levels, and safety procedures.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an entry-level retail role like this, a formal portfolio is unlikely. The focus will be on the candidate's ability to describe their understanding and execution of key processes. Interviewers will be looking for clear articulation of how they would manage customer interactions, handle operational tasks, and follow established procedures, rather than a documented portfolio.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: As this is a retail associate position at Michaels Stores, the salary is typically hourly. Based on industry benchmarks for similar roles in El Paso, TX, and considering the entry-level experience required, the estimated hourly wage range is likely between $12.00 - $16.00 per hour. This range can vary based on specific store performance, local market conditions, and the candidate's demonstrated skills during the interview process.

Benefits:

• Health Insurance: Comprehensive coverage including Medical, Dental, and Vision plans, available for eligible team members.

• Paid Time Off (PTO): Accrued PTO for vacation, personal days, and sick leave.

• Employee Discounts: Generous discounts on Michaels products and services, fostering a connection with the company's offerings.

• Tuition Assistance: Support for continued education and professional development through tuition reimbursement programs.

• Other Benefits: Potential for 401(k) plans, life insurance, and other employee assistance programs, depending on employment status and tenure.

Working Hours: This is a full-time position, typically requiring approximately 40 hours per week. Work schedules will include nights, weekends, and potentially early mornings, reflecting the operational needs of a retail environment. Flexibility in scheduling is expected to cover store operating hours and customer demand.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on general retail associate wages in the specified region and industry standards for entry-level positions. Specific details on benefit eligibility and accrual rates would need to be confirmed with Michaels Stores directly. The working hours reflect typical full-time retail demands.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: The company operates in the Arts and Crafts Retail industry, serving as a primary destination for creative supplies, custom framing, and seasonal décor in North America.

Company Size: Michaels Stores is a large retail corporation with over 1,300 stores across the United States and Canada, employing a significant number of team members. This scale means established operational procedures and a structured environment.

Founded: Founded in 1973 and headquartered in Irving, Texas, Michaels has a long-standing history and a well-defined brand identity centered around creativity and celebration.

Team Structure:

• Store-Level Operations: This role is part of the in-store team, reporting to a Framing Manager or Store Manager. The team is typically composed of various retail associates, department specialists (like the Framer), and management.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: While primarily focused on the framing department, the Framer collaborates with other store associates for general customer service, inventory tasks, and omni-channel fulfillment.

• Reporting Hierarchy: Clear reporting lines exist, with the Framing Manager overseeing departmental performance and daily operations, and the Store Manager responsible for the overall store's success.

Methodology:

• Customer-Centric Approach: Michaels emphasizes a strong customer focus, aiming to create memorable experiences through personalized service and product solutions.

• Process-Driven Operations: The company relies on established Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to ensure consistency in customer service, sales, production, and store management.

• Sales & Performance Focus: There's a clear emphasis on achieving sales targets and key performance indicators (KPIs) across all departments, including custom framing.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Understanding Michaels' position as a large, established retail player is key. The culture likely balances a creative customer-facing element with structured operational processes necessary for managing a vast retail footprint. The team structure is typical of a large retail store, emphasizing clear roles and collaborative efforts to meet store-wide objectives.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This "FT Framer" position represents an entry-level to early-career role within retail operations. It provides foundational experience in customer service, sales, and specialized department management (custom framing). The responsibilities are hands-on and focused on executing established procedures and achieving departmental goals.

Reporting Structure: The Framer typically reports to the Framing Manager, who oversees the custom framing department's sales, production, and operations. In the absence of a Framing Manager, the role may report to the Store Manager or an Assistant Store Manager, highlighting a direct line of communication within the store hierarchy.

Operations Impact: The Framer's role directly impacts store revenue through custom framing sales and contributes to overall customer satisfaction and loyalty. By ensuring high-quality products and excellent service, they enhance the Michaels brand perception and drive repeat business. Efficient operations within the framing department also contribute to profitability by minimizing waste and maximizing throughput.

Growth Opportunities:

• Advancement within Framing: Potential to progress to Framing Manager, overseeing the department's operations, sales strategy, and team development.

• Cross-Departmental Mobility: Opportunities to move into other specialized roles within the store, such as Visual Merchandising or Inventory Management.

• Store Management Track: With demonstrated leadership potential and strong operational performance, there's a path toward Assistant Store Manager and Store Manager positions.

• Skill Development: Continuous learning in custom framing techniques, sales strategies, and retail operations management through on-the-job training and company programs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth potential within Michaels for a Framer is significant, offering clear pathways from an individual contributor role to leadership positions. The emphasis is on developing operational expertise and sales skills within the retail context, which are transferable across various store functions and management levels.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This position is based in a standard retail store environment. The work primarily takes place on the retail floor and within the dedicated custom framing shop area of the store.

Office Location(s): The role is located at a specific Michaels store: Store - 650 Desert Blvd N, Suite 5, El Paso-North, TX. This is a public-facing retail location.

Workspace Context:

• Retail Floor: Involves interacting with customers, maintaining displays, and assisting with general store duties. This area is climate-controlled.

• Framing Shop: A dedicated workspace for custom framing operations, equipped with specialized tools and machinery (e.g., glass cutter, heat press). This area may have specific safety protocols.

• Stock Room: May involve time in stock rooms for inventory management and truck unloading; these areas may not always be climate-controlled.

• Collaborative Environment: The workspace fosters interaction with fellow team members, including other associates, Framing Managers, and Store Management, to ensure seamless operations and customer service.

Work Schedule: The role requires a full-time commitment (approximately 40 hours/week) with a flexible schedule that includes nights, weekends, and early mornings. This aligns with the operational demands of a retail environment that serves customers across extended hours.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is dynamic and fast-paced, characteristic of retail operations. The framing shop is a specialized operational hub within the broader store. Flexibility in work schedule is a key requirement due to the nature of retail customer traffic and operational needs.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Likely involves a brief phone or online application review to assess basic qualifications and interest.

• In-Person Interview: A primary interview, likely with the Framing Manager or Store Manager. This will focus on:

  • Customer Service Skills: Behavioral questions about past customer interactions and problem-solving.
  • Sales Aptitude: Questions assessing your ability to sell, upsell, and understand customer needs for custom framing.
  • Operational Understanding: Discussion of your ability to follow procedures, operate equipment, and manage tasks efficiently.
  • Teamwork & Culture Fit: Assessing your ability to work collaboratively and align with Michaels' values.

• Skills Assessment (Potential): May include a brief demonstration or discussion of measuring skills or ability to operate specific equipment, or a scenario-based question related to framing design.

• Final Interview (Less Common): For some roles, a final interview with a higher-level manager might occur.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• As this is an entry-level retail role, a formal portfolio is not expected. Instead, prepare to discuss:

• Past Customer Service Experiences: Be ready to share specific examples of how you've provided excellent customer service, resolved issues, and built rapport.

• Sales Achievements: Quantify any sales successes or customer satisfaction improvements you've contributed to in previous roles.

• Operational Examples: Describe instances where you successfully followed procedures, managed tasks efficiently, or contributed to team operational goals.

• Framing Interest: Articulate your interest in custom framing and how your skills align with creating visual solutions for customers.

Challenge Preparation:

• While formal "challenges" are unlikely, be prepared for scenario-based questions:

• Customer Scenario: "A customer wants to frame a valuable piece of art but has a limited budget. How would you approach this?" (Assesses sales, problem-solving, and product knowledge).

• Operational Scenario: "How would you ensure the framing department is ready for opening on a busy Saturday morning?" (Assesses organizational skills and SOP adherence).

• Teamwork Scenario: "How would you assist a colleague who is struggling with a complex framing order?" (Assesses collaboration and support).

📝 Enhancement Note: The application process for an entry-level retail role like this emphasizes behavioral and situational questions to gauge practical skills and cultural fit, rather than a formal portfolio review. Candidates should focus on preparing concrete examples from past experiences that demonstrate their capabilities in customer service, sales, and operational execution.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Point of Sale (POS) System: Essential for processing customer transactions, managing sales data, and potentially handling custom order entry. Proficiency in retail POS systems is key.

• Custom Framing Equipment: Includes specialized machinery such as mat cutters, saws, jointers, and heat presses. Safe and precise operation is required.

• Glass Cutter: A fundamental tool for cutting glass or acrylic to size for framing.

• Basic Measuring Tools: Rulers, tape measures, and calipers for precise measurements.

• Computer & Internet Access: For accessing internal company systems, training modules, communication, and potentially design software.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While direct analytics responsibility is minimal, understanding how sales data (from the POS) and production metrics contribute to KPIs is important.

• KPI Dashboards (Internal): May be visible within the store or accessible via internal systems, showing performance against targets for sales, conversion rates, and production efficiency.

CRM & Automation:

• Customer Relationship Management (CRM): The POS system often has CRM functionalities for tracking customer purchases and loyalty program participation (e.g., Michaels Rewards).

• Order Management Systems: Integrated within the POS or separate systems to track custom framing orders from placement to completion.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack for this role is practical and directly tied to the core functions of retail sales and custom framing production. Proficiency with POS systems and familiarity with specialized framing equipment are the most critical technical requirements.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Customer Focus: Prioritizing the customer experience by providing helpful service, creative solutions, and a positive shopping environment.

• Creativity & Passion: Embracing the company's mission to fuel the joy of creativity, both in personal work and in helping customers bring their artistic visions to life.

• Quality & Craftsmanship: Commitment to delivering high-quality custom framing solutions that meet customer expectations and uphold the Michaels brand standard.

• Teamwork & Support: Collaborating effectively with colleagues, sharing knowledge, and supporting each other to achieve store and departmental goals.

• Efficiency & Productivity: Striving for efficient operations in all tasks, from customer interactions and order processing to production and store maintenance.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Interaction: Working alongside fellow sales associates, managers, and potentially other department specialists to ensure smooth store operations and a cohesive customer experience.

• Feedback & Improvement: Openness to receiving and providing constructive feedback to improve processes, customer service, and product quality.

• Shared Responsibility: A culture where team members contribute to maintaining store standards, assisting customers, and achieving collective targets.

📝 Enhancement Note: Michaels likely fosters a culture that blends a passion for creativity and customer engagement with the structured execution required for large-scale retail operations. Teamwork and a focus on quality are paramount, especially within a specialized department like custom framing.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Sales and Production: Effectively managing customer consultations and sales while ensuring timely and high-quality custom framing production can be demanding.

• Customer Expectations: Meeting diverse customer needs and creative visions, sometimes with budget constraints or specific timeline requirements.

• Technical Skill Acquisition: Learning to operate specialized framing equipment safely and proficiently requires attention to detail and practice.

• Fast-Paced Retail Environment: Adapting to the dynamic nature of retail, including peak seasons, unexpected customer volumes, and changing priorities.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Custom Framing Expertise: Deepen knowledge of framing materials, techniques, design principles, and equipment operation.

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

• Operational Process Mastery: Become proficient in all store and department SOPs, inventory management, and POS system utilization.

• Leadership Development: Opportunities to take on more responsibility, train new team members, and potentially advance into supervisory or management roles within the store.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges in this role are typical of a hands-on retail position that requires both interpersonal and technical skills. The growth opportunities are directly linked to mastering these operational and sales functions, with clear pathways for career progression within Michaels.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Customer Scenario: "Describe a time you helped a customer find the perfect solution for a unique need. How did you approach it?" (Focus on active listening, problem-solving, and customer satisfaction).

• Sales Approach: "How would you engage a customer browsing the framing section to understand their needs and offer solutions?" (Demonstrate proactive engagement, consultative selling).

• Operational Execution: "What steps would you take to ensure a custom framing order is accurate and completed on time?" (Highlight attention to detail, process adherence, and time management).

• Teamwork & Support: "How do you handle a situation where a colleague is overwhelmed, and you have capacity to help?" (Show willingness to collaborate and support team goals).

Company & Culture Questions:

• Motivation: "Why are you interested in Michaels and specifically the FT Framer role?" (Connect your passion for creativity, customer service, or art to the company's mission).

• Values Alignment: "How do you embody qualities like creativity, customer focus, or teamwork in your work?" (Provide specific examples).

• Mascot/Slogan Recall: "What is Michaels' purpose or slogan?" (Shows you've researched the company).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Since a formal portfolio isn't required, focus on preparing:

• STAR Method Examples: For behavioral questions, structure your answers using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to showcase your experiences clearly and concisely.

• Framing Interest: Be ready to discuss your personal interest in art, design, or framing, and how you envision contributing to customer projects.

• Operational Awareness: Articulate your understanding of the importance of following procedures, maintaining a clean workspace, and accurate order processing.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation for this role should focus on demonstrating practical skills through real-world examples and articulating a genuine interest in both the creative aspects of framing and the operational demands of retail. The STAR method is highly recommended for structuring responses to behavioral questions.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

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

• Resume Customization: Tailor your resume to highlight relevant retail, customer service, and any sales experience. Emphasize skills like measuring, basic computer use, and equipment operation if applicable. Quantify achievements where possible (e.g., "Exceeded sales targets by X%").

• Prepare STAR Method Examples: For behavioral questions, have 2-3 specific examples ready that demonstrate your customer service, problem-solving, sales, and teamwork abilities.

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

• Practice Articulation: Be ready to clearly and concisely explain your interest in the role, your relevant skills, and how you would contribute to the framing department's success and overall store operations.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.

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