Part-time Framer
📍 Job Overview
Job Title: Part-time Framer Company: Michaels Stores Location: San Diego, California, United States Job Type: PART_TIME Category: Retail Operations / Custom Framing Date Posted: August 17, 2025 Experience Level: Entry-Level (0-2 years) Remote Status: On-site
🚀 Role Summary
- Focus on building strong customer relationships and delivering exceptional custom framing solutions to drive sales.
- Responsible for the end-to-end process of custom framing orders, ensuring high quality and timely completion.
- Maintain visual merchandising standards and inventory accuracy within the framing department and other assigned store areas.
- Execute operational tasks including cash handling, customer assistance, and supporting omnichannel fulfillment.
- Adhere strictly to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company programs to ensure compliance and operational efficiency.
📝 Enhancement Note: This role, while in a retail setting, emphasizes specialized skills in custom framing and direct customer engagement for sales and service, indicating a blend of customer-facing and operational responsibilities within a creative services context. The need for quality and timeliness in framing orders suggests a focus on process execution within a specific department.
📈 Primary Responsibilities
- Actively engage with customers to understand their framing needs, providing expert advice and personalized design solutions using Elevated ABC Deliver methodology.
- Accurately measure artwork and select appropriate framing materials, ensuring adherence to quality standards for all custom framing orders.
- Execute framing orders efficiently and with a high degree of craftsmanship, meeting production deadlines and customer expectations.
- Maintain the visual presentation and stock levels of the ready-made frame department, including SISO (Sales in Store Only) and Directed Replenishment processes.
- Provide friendly and proactive customer service, assisting shoppers in locating products and offering solutions to enhance their store experience.
- Operate the point-of-sale (POS) system accurately, managing cash handling, processing transactions, and supporting omnichannel initiatives like BOPIS (Buy Online, Pickup In Store).
- Ensure a safe, clean, and clutter-free store environment by adhering to safety protocols and housekeeping standards.
- Participate in truck unloading and stocking activities, ensuring adherence to truck standards and efficient inventory management.
- Uphold company values by interacting respectfully, maintaining a positive attitude, and serving as a role model for customer service and teamwork.
📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a dual focus on sales-driven customer engagement and meticulous execution of framing services. The mention of "Elevated ABC Deliver" suggests a structured sales approach, while "high degree of quality and on time" points to process adherence and performance metrics critical in operations.
🎓 Skills & Qualifications
Education: High school diploma or equivalent is typically expected for retail roles, though not explicitly stated. A background or interest in art, design, or visual merchandising may be beneficial. Experience: 0-2 years of experience in a retail or customer-facing role is preferred, with specific experience in custom framing or a related craft being a significant advantage.
Required Skills:
- Basic computer proficiency for POS systems and potential order management software.
- Fundamental measuring skills for accurate artwork and frame sizing.
- Ability to operate framing equipment, including a glass cutter, safely and effectively.
- Strong customer service skills with a friendly and helpful demeanor.
- Basic cash handling and transaction processing abilities.
- Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced retail environment.
- Adaptability to learn new processes and operate specialized equipment.
Preferred Skills:
- Prior retail sales experience, particularly in custom framing or art services.
- Proven ability to sell products and services directly to customers, exceeding sales targets.
- Familiarity with visual merchandising principles to maintain department presentation.
- Experience with inventory management and stock replenishment processes.
- Basic understanding of art and design principles to assist customers with framing choices.
📝 Enhancement Note: The requirements emphasize foundational skills for retail operations and customer interaction, with a specific technical skillset for framing. The preference for sales experience directly relates to the role's objective of driving custom framing sales.
📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements
Portfolio Essentials:
- While a formal "portfolio" might not be required for this entry-level role, candidates are encouraged to showcase examples of their work if available, particularly custom framing projects.
- Demonstrations of understanding of process flow for custom orders, from initial customer consultation to order completion.
- Evidence of attention to detail in completed projects or descriptions of how quality is maintained.
- Examples of customer interaction that highlight problem-solving and relationship-building skills.
Process Documentation:
- Candidates should be prepared to discuss their understanding of workflow processes in a retail or service environment.
- Ability to articulate how they would approach custom framing orders, from customer consultation to final delivery, emphasizing efficiency and quality.
- Understanding of how to maintain an organized workspace and manage inventory within a specific department.
📝 Enhancement Note: For this specific role, the "portfolio" would likely translate to a discussion of past experiences and practical demonstrations of framing skills or customer service successes, rather than a formal documented portfolio. The focus is on the candidate's ability to describe process execution and quality adherence.
💵 Compensation & Benefits
Salary Range: $18.25 - $21.40 per hour. This range is competitive for part-time retail positions, especially those requiring specialized skills like custom framing, in the San Diego area.
Benefits:
- Health Insurance: Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage options, providing comprehensive well-being support.
- Paid Time Off (PTO): Accrued time off for rest and personal needs, crucial for part-time roles.
- Tuition Assistance: Support for educational development, aligning with employee growth and skill enhancement.
- Employee Discounts: Generous discounts on Michaels products, encouraging personal creativity and cost savings.
- Other Benefits: Access to a broad range of additional benefits as detailed on mikbenefits.com.
Working Hours: This is a part-time position, with an estimated 20 hours per week. Specific hours will vary and may include nights, weekends, and early mornings to meet store operational needs and customer traffic.
📝 Enhancement Note: The provided salary range is specific and competitive for a part-time role requiring specialized skills in a high-cost-of-living area like San Diego. The benefits package is robust for part-time employees, indicating a commitment to team member well-being and development.
🎯 Team & Company Context
🏢 Company Culture
Industry: Arts and Crafts Retail. Michaels is the largest specialty arts and crafts retail chain in North America, providing a wide range of supplies and services for creative endeavors. Company Size: Over 1,300 stores in North America, indicating a large, established retail operation with significant operational scale. Founded: 1973. With decades of history, Michaels has a well-established brand identity and operational framework.
Team Structure:
- Will likely work within a store team structure, reporting to a Store Manager or Assistant Store Manager.
- The framing department often operates semi-autonomously within the store, requiring close collaboration with other department associates (e.g., sales floor, cashiers).
- Cross-functional collaboration is essential for assisting customers across different store areas and supporting omnichannel services.
Methodology:
- Data-driven approaches are likely used for sales tracking, inventory management, and customer engagement strategies.
- Focus on process optimization to ensure efficient order fulfillment and customer satisfaction within the framing department.
- Emphasis on automation where applicable, such as POS systems and inventory tracking, to streamline operations.
Company Website: www.michaels.com
📝 Enhancement Note: Michaels' culture is centered around creativity and customer engagement. The operations within the framing department likely balance creative service with efficient process execution, typical of specialized retail services.
📈 Career & Growth Analysis
Operations Career Level: This is an entry-level, part-time position. It serves as a foundational role within the retail operations of a Michaels store, specifically within the custom framing service area. Reporting Structure: Reports directly to store management (Store Manager or Assistant Store Manager), with potential day-to-day guidance from a lead framer or department specialist if present. Operations Impact: Directly impacts store revenue through custom framing sales and customer satisfaction by providing quality service and products. Efficient operations in the framing department contribute to overall store profitability and customer loyalty.
Growth Opportunities:
- Skill Development: Opportunity to become a highly skilled custom framer, mastering techniques and design principles.
- Retail Advancement: Potential to move into other roles within the store, such as Sales Associate, Key Holder, or potentially Assistant Management positions, based on performance and available opportunities.
- Cross-Training: Possibility of cross-training in other store operational areas, broadening retail experience.
- Specialization: Deepen expertise in custom framing, becoming a go-to resource for complex projects.
📝 Enhancement Note: While entry-level, this role provides a clear path for skill development in a specialized area of retail operations. Growth is typically oriented towards broader store management or deeper specialization within a department.
🌐 Work Environment
Office Type: Public retail store setting. The work environment is customer-facing and dynamic. Office Location(s): San Diego, Clairemont Mesa Blvd. Specific details about the store layout and proximity to other amenities would be available upon visiting.
Workspace Context:
- The primary workspace is the custom framing counter and back shop area within the retail store.
- This area contains specialized equipment like glass cutters and heat presses, requiring careful operation.
- The environment is climate-controlled in public areas, though stock rooms might vary.
- It involves regular interaction with customers and team members, fostering a collaborative and service-oriented atmosphere.
Work Schedule: Part-time, with hours including nights, weekends, and early mornings. Flexibility is key to accommodate store operating hours and customer demand.
📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is typical of a service-oriented retail setting, demanding adaptability to customer flow and operational needs. The framing shop itself presents unique safety and equipment considerations.
📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process
Interview Process:
- Initial Screening: Likely involves an online application and potentially an automated or brief phone screening to assess basic qualifications and availability.
- In-Store Interview: A face-to-face interview at the store location is standard. This will assess customer service skills, basic technical aptitude for framing, and cultural fit.
- Skills Demonstration: Candidates may be asked to demonstrate basic measuring skills or discuss their approach to a framing project.
- Final Assessment: Evaluation based on overall fit, enthusiasm for the brand, and potential to learn and excel in the role.
Portfolio Review Tips:
- If you have previous framing work, bring photos or examples.
- Be prepared to discuss your experience with tools and materials used in framing.
- Highlight customer service interactions where you successfully met client needs or resolved issues.
- Showcase any experience with sales, upselling, or design consultation.
Challenge Preparation:
- Be ready to answer questions about how you handle customer inquiries and requests.
- Prepare to discuss how you ensure accuracy and quality in your work.
- Think about how you would manage multiple tasks and customer demands simultaneously.
- Familiarize yourself with Michaels' commitment to creativity and customer service.
📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will likely focus on practical skills, customer interaction, and aligning with Michaels' creative and service-oriented culture. Demonstrating a proactive approach to learning and problem-solving will be key.
🛠 Tools & Technology Stack
Primary Tools:
- Custom Framing Equipment: Glass cutter, mat cutter, framing tools (e.g., underpinner, staple gun), heat press.
- POS System: For customer transactions, order entry, and payment processing.
- Measuring Tools: Rulers, measuring tapes, calipers for precise measurements.
- Basic Computer Skills: For accessing company systems, training modules, and potentially order management software.
Analytics & Reporting:
- While not directly responsible for complex analytics, an understanding of sales performance metrics and inventory levels is beneficial for departmental success.
- POS system reports will provide basic data on sales volume and product performance.
CRM & Automation:
- The POS system may have basic CRM functionalities for customer tracking and order history.
- Omnichannel processes imply integration with online sales platforms.
📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency with specialized framing equipment and standard retail POS systems is essential. Familiarity with measurement tools and basic computer literacy supports the operational demands of the role.
👥 Team Culture & Values
Operations Values:
- Creativity: Fostering a passion for arts and crafts, encouraging creative solutions for customers.
- Customer Focus: Dedication to providing exceptional service and building lasting customer relationships.
- Quality: Commitment to high standards in product creation and service delivery.
- Teamwork: Collaborating effectively with colleagues to achieve store goals and support a positive work environment.
- Integrity: Upholding company policies, safety standards, and ethical business practices.
Collaboration Style:
- Open communication and mutual support within the store team are expected.
- Willingness to assist colleagues and customers across different store functions.
- Collaborative problem-solving to address customer needs or operational challenges.
📝 Enhancement Note: The culture emphasizes creativity, customer-centricity, and a collaborative team spirit, reflecting Michaels' brand identity as a destination for inspiration and creative expression.
⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities
Challenges:
- Balancing Customer Service and Production: Juggling immediate customer needs at the counter with the demands of completing custom framing orders efficiently and with high quality.
- Pace of Retail: Adapting to the varying demands of a retail environment, including busy periods and unexpected customer requests.
- Technical Skill Acquisition: Learning to operate specialized framing equipment and mastering the nuances of different framing materials and techniques.
- Inventory Management: Maintaining accurate stock levels and ensuring the framing department is well-organized and supplied.
Learning & Development Opportunities:
- Custom Framing Expertise: Developing advanced skills in design, material selection, and framing techniques.
- Sales and Customer Engagement: Enhancing abilities in consultative selling and building customer rapport.
- Retail Operations: Gaining experience in various store functions, from POS operations to inventory management and visual merchandising.
- Product Knowledge: Deepening understanding of art supplies, creative trends, and framing solutions.
📝 Enhancement Note: The role presents opportunities to develop specialized craft skills and customer service expertise within a retail operations context, with potential for broader career growth within the company.
💡 Interview Preparation
Strategy Questions:
- Customer Service: "Describe a time you went above and beyond to help a customer. How did you approach their needs, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on empathy, problem-solving, and customer satisfaction).
- Problem-Solving: "Imagine a customer is unhappy with their custom framing order. How would you handle the situation and find a resolution?" (Emphasize listening, de-escalation, and adherence to company policies).
- Technical Aptitude: "What interests you about custom framing? What do you think are the key elements to creating a high-quality framed piece?" (Showcase enthusiasm and understanding of the craft).
- Teamwork: "How do you contribute to a positive team environment, especially during busy periods?" (Highlight collaboration, support, and a positive attitude).
Company & Culture Questions:
- Research Michaels' mission, values, and current promotions. Be prepared to discuss why you are drawn to their brand and creative focus.
- Understand the importance of customer experience in the arts and crafts retail sector.
Portfolio Presentation Strategy:
- If you have examples of your work (even personal projects), be ready to discuss them.
- Focus on the process: how you approached the project, what materials you used, and what the final result was.
- Quantify achievements where possible (e.g., "I consistently met project deadlines," "I received positive feedback from clients").
📝 Enhancement Note: Prepare to demonstrate both customer service prowess and a genuine interest in the craft of custom framing. Highlighting any experience with sales or detailed, quality-focused work will be advantageous.
📌 Application Steps
To apply for this operations position:
- Submit your application through the provided link on the Michaels careers portal.
- Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight any customer service, sales, or craft-related experience. Use keywords like "customer engagement," "sales support," "customization," "quality control," and "retail operations."
- Portfolio Preparation (if applicable): Gather any visual examples of framing work or detailed descriptions of projects you've completed. Be ready to discuss your process and the quality of your output.
- Interview Practice: Practice answering common retail interview questions, particularly those related to customer service, problem-solving, and teamwork. Prepare to discuss your interest in Michaels and custom framing.
- Research: Familiarize yourself with Michaels' product offerings, especially in the custom framing department, and understand their commitment to creativity and customer experience.
⚠️ 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
Basic computer skills and measuring skills are required. Retail experience and the ability to operate framing equipment are preferred.