Part-time Custom Framer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Part-time Custom Framer Company: Michaels Stores Location: Oceanside, CA (2649 Vista Way) Job Type: PART_TIME Category: Retail Operations / Creative Services Date Posted: August 8, 2025 Experience Level: Entry-Level (0-2 years) Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Focus on building strong customer relationships through personalized custom framing consultations.
• Execute high-quality framing orders accurately and within established timelines.
• Maintain visual merchandising standards for the ready-made frame department and other assigned areas.
• Provide exceptional customer service, assisting shoppers with product location and problem-solving.
• Operate point-of-sale systems and handle cash transactions with accuracy and adherence to company standards.

📝 Enhancement Note: While this role is not a traditional "Revenue Operations" or "Sales Operations" position, its core functions revolve around driving sales through consultative services, managing operational workflows within the framing department, and contributing to overall store performance. The emphasis on customer relationships, order fulfillment, and visual merchandising aligns with operational efficiency and customer experience metrics critical in retail.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Engage customers in consultative framing design sessions, utilizing the "Elevated ABC Deliver" approach to build relationships and understand their creative needs.
• Achieve personal sales and production targets for the custom framing department.
• Meticulously complete custom framing orders, ensuring high quality craftsmanship and on-time delivery according to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
• Maintain and organize the ready-made frame department, including Single Item Single Out (SISO) and Directed Replenishment processes, to ensure a visually appealing and easily shoppable environment.
• Deliver friendly and helpful customer service by assisting shoppers in locating products, answering inquiries, and providing creative solutions.
• Adhere strictly to all Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company programs to ensure compliance and operational excellence.
• Actively support loss prevention (shrink) and safety programs within the store and specifically within the framing area.
• Foster a positive and respectful work environment, serving as a role model for teamwork and commitment to company values.
• Participate efficiently in truck un-loading and stocking processes, ensuring adherence to truck standards and budget constraints.
• Accurately operate the cash register, manage cash handling with precision, and execute financial transactions according to company standards.
• Proactively acknowledge customers, assist with product discovery, and offer relevant solutions to enhance their shopping experience.
• Support and execute Omni-channel processes, such as buy online, pick up in-store (BOPIS) or ship-from-store.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary responsibilities highlight a blend of sales, customer service, and operational execution. The emphasis on "Elevated ABC Deliver" suggests a structured approach to customer engagement, aiming to maximize sales through personalized service. "On time" and "high degree of quality" point to the importance of process adherence and efficiency in order fulfillment.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: High school diploma or equivalent preferred. Experience:

• 0-2 years of experience in a customer-facing role.
• Experience in a retail environment is preferred.
• Prior sales experience, particularly in selling products or services, is a plus.

Required Skills:

• Basic computer proficiency for point-of-sale (POS) and potential inventory management systems.
• Solid measuring skills essential for accurate custom framing order specifications.
• Ability to operate specialized framing equipment, including a glass cutter.
• Strong customer service orientation with a friendly and helpful demeanor.
• Effective communication skills for interacting with customers and team members.
• Basic understanding of product placement and visual merchandising principles.
• Cash handling proficiency and accuracy.

Preferred Skills:

• Previous experience in custom framing or a related craft/art field.
• Proven ability to meet or exceed sales targets.
• Experience with inventory management and stock replenishment.
• Familiarity with visual display techniques.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "0-2 years" experience level suggests this role is suitable for individuals starting their careers or transitioning into retail operations. The required skills are foundational for customer interaction and operational tasks, with framing-specific equipment operation being a key technical requirement.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• While a formal portfolio isn't explicitly required for this entry-level role, candidates who can demonstrate past successes in customer service, sales, or hands-on creative work (e.g., personal projects) will stand out.
• Examples of strong customer interaction or problem-solving scenarios will be beneficial.
• Any experience showcasing attention to detail and quality in work output is valuable.

Process Documentation:

• Candidates are expected to learn and strictly follow established Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for custom framing, including design consultation, order placement, production, and fulfillment.
• Understanding and adherence to visual merchandising guidelines for the framing department is crucial.
• Familiarity with point-of-sale (POS) transaction processes and cash handling protocols is expected.

📝 Enhancement Note: For this specific role, a traditional "operations portfolio" is less critical than demonstrating foundational customer service skills and a willingness to learn and adhere to established processes. Candidates can prepare by thinking about past experiences where they excelled in customer interaction, problem-solving, or meticulous task completion.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $16.75 - $19.70 per hour. Benefits:

• Health insurance (medical, dental, and vision) for eligible team members.
• Paid time off (PTO) accrual.
• Tuition assistance programs to support further education.
• Generous employee discounts on Michaels products and services.
• Other benefits as detailed on mikbenefits.com.

Working Hours: Part-time. While specific hours are not detailed, typical retail hours include nights, weekends, and early mornings, with flexibility expected to cover store operational needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is competitive for part-time retail positions, particularly those requiring specialized skills like custom framing. The benefits package, including health insurance and tuition assistance, is a significant offering for part-time employees in the retail sector. The average working hours are estimated to be around 20 per week, typical for a part-time role.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Arts and Crafts Retail. Michaels is the leading creative destination in North America, operating over 1,300 stores. Company Size: Large (over 1,300 stores, significant employee base). This means established processes and a structured operational environment. Founded: 1973, headquartered in Irving, Texas. Michaels has a long-standing reputation and a clear mission: "to fuel the joy of creativity."

Team Structure:

• The Custom Framer will likely be part of the store's Sales Floor or Creative Department team.
• They will report to a Store Manager, Assistant Store Manager, or a dedicated Framing Department Manager.
• Collaboration is expected with other sales associates, cashiers, and potentially stockroom personnel to ensure smooth store operations.

Methodology:

• Emphasis on customer-centric selling and service, as indicated by "Elevated ABC Deliver."
• Focus on operational efficiency through adherence to SOPs for framing, merchandising, and sales transactions.
• A data-driven approach to sales and performance, with targets for framing orders and customer satisfaction.

Company Website: www.michaels.com

📝 Enhancement Note: Michaels fosters a culture centered around creativity and customer engagement. The large store footprint implies standardized operational procedures that are crucial for consistency across all locations. The framing department is a key service offering, requiring a balance of creative consultation and efficient operational execution.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Entry-Level Retail Associate. This role serves as a foundational position within the retail operations framework, providing exposure to customer service, sales, and operational tasks. Reporting Structure: Reports to store leadership (e.g., Store Manager, Assistant Manager, Framing Manager). Operations Impact: Directly impacts store revenue through custom framing sales and customer satisfaction. Contributes to operational efficiency by maintaining department standards and accurate order fulfillment.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Development: Opportunities to master custom framing techniques, enhance sales consultation skills, and improve customer relationship management.
• Leadership Potential: Potential to advance to lead framer, department specialist, or supervisory roles within the store (e.g., Assistant Manager) with demonstrated performance and initiative.
• Cross-Training: Possibility of cross-training in other store departments, broadening retail operations experience.
• Specialization: Develop expertise in custom framing design and production, a specialized retail skill.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a clear path for individuals interested in retail operations and customer-facing sales. Growth opportunities are tied to mastering the core responsibilities, demonstrating sales acumen, and contributing positively to the store team.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Public retail store setting. The work environment is dynamic, customer-facing, and climate-controlled in public areas. Office Location(s): Oceanside, CA (2649 Vista Way). Workspace Context:

• The primary workspace is the retail sales floor and the dedicated framing area within the store.
• The framing area contains specialized equipment like a glass cutter and heat press, requiring careful operation.
• Some stockroom areas may not be climate controlled.
• Occasional outdoor work may be assigned (e.g., retrieving shopping carts, truck unloading).

Work Schedule: Part-time. Flexibility is expected to cover store hours, including nights, weekends, and early mornings.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is typical for a retail associate, with a focus on customer interaction and team collaboration. Safety protocols for operating framing equipment are paramount.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of application and resume for basic qualifications and retail experience.
• In-Person Interview: Typically involves a conversation with the Store Manager or Assistant Manager to assess customer service skills, problem-solving abilities, and cultural fit.
• Skills Assessment: May include a practical demonstration of measuring skills or a discussion about handling customer scenarios.
• Final Decision: Based on overall fit, experience, and potential contribution to the team.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• While a formal portfolio isn't required, be prepared to discuss specific examples from past roles demonstrating:
  • Excellent customer service interactions.
  • Successful sales or upselling experiences.
  • Instances where attention to detail led to high-quality results.
  • How you handled challenging customer situations or problems.
• If you have personal framing or craft projects, be ready to briefly describe your process and any challenges you overcame.

Challenge Preparation:

• Prepare to answer behavioral questions using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) related to customer service, teamwork, and problem-solving.
• Think about how you would approach a customer consultation for custom framing, focusing on understanding their needs and presenting solutions.
• Be ready to discuss your understanding of retail operations, such as maintaining store appearance and assisting with inventory.

📝 Enhancement Note: For this role, interview preparation should focus on showcasing customer service aptitude, a detail-oriented approach, and a willingness to learn and follow company procedures. Demonstrating enthusiasm for creativity and helping customers achieve their artistic visions will be key.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Point-of-Sale (POS) System: For processing transactions, returns, and managing customer accounts.
• Glass Cutter: Specialized tool for precise glass cutting for framing.
• Heat Press: Equipment used in certain framing processes.
• Framing Equipment: Various tools and machinery for cutting mats, assembling frames, and finishing orders (e.g., mat cutters, assemblers, staple guns).

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not directly managing reports, understanding how sales performance contributes to store metrics is beneficial.
• Basic computer skills for accessing company portals or training modules.

CRM & Automation:

• POS system likely has basic CRM capabilities for customer data and purchase history.
• Limited automation; focus is on manual, skilled execution of framing processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency with a POS system and basic computer skills are essential. The most critical "tools" are the specialized framing equipment and the candidate's manual dexterity and precision in using them.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Creativity: Encouraging and supporting the creative endeavors of customers and team members.
• Customer Focus: Prioritizing customer satisfaction through helpful service and personalized solutions.
• Teamwork: Collaborating effectively with colleagues to achieve store goals and maintain a positive work environment.
• Quality & Detail: Commitment to high standards in framing work and store presentation.
• Integrity: Adhering to company policies and ethical standards in all interactions.

Collaboration Style:

• Close collaboration with other sales associates to ensure seamless customer experiences across departments.
• Working with management to understand sales targets, operational priorities, and receive feedback.
• Cross-functional support during peak times, truck unloads, and general store upkeep.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture emphasizes a supportive environment for creativity, strong customer engagement, and operational diligence. Team members are expected to be adaptable and willing to assist across various store functions.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Sales and Production: Effectively engaging in sales consultations while also managing order production and store duties.
• Customer Expectations: Meeting diverse customer needs and creative visions, sometimes requiring innovative solutions within framing capabilities.
• Pace of Work: Managing customer traffic, order fulfillment, and stocking tasks, especially during peak periods.
• Learning Specialized Skills: Mastering the operation of framing equipment and techniques requires practice and attention to detail.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Framing Mastery: Becoming proficient in all aspects of custom framing, from design consultation to final product assembly.
• Sales Techniques: Developing consultative selling skills to maximize framing order value.
• Product Knowledge: Expanding knowledge of art supplies, framing materials, and design trends.
• Retail Operations: Gaining experience in visual merchandising, inventory management, and customer relationship management within a large retail setting.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents opportunities to develop specialized craft skills alongside foundational retail operations experience. Overcoming the challenges will build resilience, problem-solving abilities, and a strong work ethic.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Customer Service: "Describe a time you went above and beyond to help a customer." "How do you handle a customer who is unsure about their design choice?"
• Sales: "How would you approach selling a custom framing solution to a customer?" "What steps would you take to ensure a sale is completed accurately?"
• Problem-Solving: "Tell me about a time you had to solve a problem with a product or service." "What would you do if a customer was unhappy with their framing order?"
• Teamwork: "How do you contribute to a positive team environment?" "Describe a time you had to work with a difficult colleague."

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Michaels and our commitment to creativity?"
• "Why are you interested in this specific role as a Custom Framer?"
• "How do you align with Michaels' values of customer focus and teamwork?"

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• While no formal portfolio is needed, be ready to articulate specific examples from your past experience that highlight your skills in:
  • Customer Engagement: Describe a memorable customer interaction where you provided excellent service or a creative solution.
  • Detail Orientation: Share an instance where your attention to detail prevented an error or ensured a high-quality outcome.
  • Problem-Solving: Provide a concise example of a challenge you faced and how you resolved it.

📝 Enhancement Note: Prepare specific, quantifiable examples for behavioral questions. Research Michaels' core values and mission to demonstrate cultural alignment. Practice articulating your understanding of the framing process and its importance to the customer.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this part-time custom framer position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Michaels Careers website.
• Portfolio Preparation: While no formal portfolio is required, mentally prepare specific examples from past experiences that showcase your customer service skills, attention to detail, and problem-solving abilities. Think about how you've helped customers achieve their goals.
• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly highlights any customer service, sales, or hands-on/craft experience. Quantify achievements where possible (e.g., "Assisted an average of 20 customers per shift").
• Interview Preparation: Practice answering common retail interview questions, particularly those related to customer interaction, sales approaches, and handling difficult situations. Be ready to discuss your understanding of the framing process and your enthusiasm for art and creativity.
• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Michaels' mission, values, and the role of the framing department within the company. Understand their commitment to fueling creativity.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes insights and industry-standard assumptions to provide a comprehensive overview. Specific details about responsibilities, team structure, and interview processes should be confirmed directly with Michaels during the application or interview stages.