Part Time Framer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Part Time Framer Company: Michaels Stores Location: Bloomington-4240 W 78th St, Edina, Minnesota, United States Job Type: PART_TIME Category: Retail Operations / Visual Merchandising Date Posted: August 20, 2025 Experience Level: Entry Level (0-2 years) Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role focuses on providing exceptional customer service within a retail environment, specifically in the custom framing department.
• Key responsibilities include building customer relationships, understanding their creative needs, and delivering high-quality custom framing solutions.
• The position requires proficiency in basic computer skills, measuring, and operating specialized framing equipment to ensure accurate and timely order fulfillment.
• A crucial aspect of this role involves maintaining the visual presentation of the ready-made frame department and contributing to overall store operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Framer," the responsibilities clearly indicate a customer-facing retail role with a specialization in custom framing, rather than a pure manufacturing or production position. The "Part Time" nature suggests a focus on customer engagement during peak hours and supporting the core sales team.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Cultivate strong customer relationships by acting as a personal designer, utilizing elevated delivery methods to understand and fulfill framing needs.
• Achieve sales and production targets for the custom framing department through effective customer engagement and solution presentation.
• Execute custom framing orders with a high degree of quality, precision, and adherence to delivery timelines.
• Maintain the visual merchandising standards and inventory integrity of the ready-made frame department, including adherence to SISO (Sourced In, Sold Out) and Directed Replenishment processes.
• Deliver friendly and efficient customer service, assisting shoppers in locating products and providing comprehensive solutions.
• Operate the cash register and execute cash handling procedures with accuracy and adherence to company standards.
• Support loss prevention (shrink) and safety programs by following all Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company policies.
• Engage positively and respectfully with colleagues, promoting organizational values and serving as a role model for customer interaction.
• Participate in truck unloading and stocking processes, ensuring adherence to truck standards and budget compliance.
• Assist with the execution of Omni-channel processes, such as buy online, pick up in-store (BOPIS) or ship-from-store.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of sales, customer service, and operational tasks. The emphasis on "Elevated ABC Deliver" and "personal designer" suggests a consultative sales approach within the framing services.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: High school diploma or equivalent is typically expected for entry-level retail positions. Experience: 0-2 years of experience in a customer-facing role, preferably within a retail environment. Experience in sales or consultative selling is a strong asset.

Required Skills:

• Proven ability to build and maintain positive customer relationships.
• Basic computer proficiency for order processing and system navigation.
• Accurate measuring skills essential for custom framing specifications.
• Ability to operate framing equipment and glass cutting tools safely and effectively.
• Strong customer service orientation with a friendly and helpful demeanor.
• Cash handling proficiency and accuracy.
• Ability to work effectively in a team environment.

Preferred Skills:

• Previous retail experience, particularly in a specialty retail environment.
• Proven experience in selling products and/or services directly to customers.
• Familiarity with visual merchandising principles for retail displays.
• Basic understanding of art or design principles can be beneficial.

📝 Enhancement Note: The required skills are foundational for a customer-facing role, with a specific emphasis on the technical aspects of framing. Preferred skills indicate a desire for candidates who can hit the ground running in terms of sales performance and store presentation.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• While a formal portfolio isn't typically required for this entry-level role, candidates are encouraged to showcase examples of their customer service approach or problem-solving skills.
• Demonstrating an understanding of sales processes and how to effectively present solutions to customer needs would be beneficial.
• Any experience with visual merchandising or display creation can be highlighted.

Process Documentation:

• Candidates should be prepared to discuss their understanding of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and how they ensure adherence to company policies and programs.
• An ability to articulate how they would approach learning and executing new processes, such as Omni-channel fulfillment or inventory management, is valuable.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the entry-level nature and focus on customer interaction, a formal portfolio is unlikely to be a mandatory requirement. However, candidates who can articulate their process for handling customer inquiries, sales, and operational tasks will stand out.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: For a part-time Framer position in Edina, Minnesota, with 0-2 years of experience, the estimated hourly wage typically falls between $12.00 - $16.00. This range is based on industry standards for entry-level retail positions with specialized duties in the Minneapolis-St. Paul metropolitan area, considering the cost of living and typical retail compensation structures.

Benefits:

• Health Insurance (Medical, Dental, and Vision) for eligible team members.
• Paid Time Off (PTO), accrued based on hours worked.
• Tuition Assistance programs to support ongoing education and skill development.
• Generous Employee Discounts on Michaels products and services.
• Potential for additional benefits as per company policy.

Working Hours: This is a part-time position, with an estimated average of 20 hours per week. Working hours will include nights, weekends, and potentially early mornings, aligning with retail operational needs and customer traffic patterns.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided salary estimate is based on general retail industry benchmarks for similar roles in the specified geographic location. Actual compensation may vary based on experience, performance, and specific scheduling.

🎯 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 in the US and Canada). This size means established processes and potential for diverse career paths. Founded: 1973, headquartered in Irving, Texas. The company's purpose is to "fuel the joy of creativity."

Team Structure:

• The Framer will likely be part of the store's sales floor team, reporting to a Store Manager or Assistant Store Manager, with potential direct guidance from a Custom Framing Manager or Lead Sales Associate if applicable.
• Collaboration with other store associates (cashiers, sales floor associates, stock team) is expected to ensure smooth store operations and excellent customer experience.
• The role involves direct interaction with customers, making customer engagement a primary focus of team dynamics.

Methodology:

• The company emphasizes customer-centric service, aiming to build relationships and provide creative solutions.
• Operational efficiency is maintained through adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and participation in store-wide processes like truck unloads and stocking.
• Visual merchandising and store presentation are key components of the company's strategy to attract and retain customers.

Company Website: www.michaels.com

📝 Enhancement Note: Michaels positions itself as a creative hub, fostering a culture that values customer engagement and artistic expression. The large store footprint implies a structured operational environment.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Entry Level / Associate. This role is an excellent starting point for individuals interested in retail operations, sales, and customer service within a specialized department.

Reporting Structure: The Part-Time Framer typically reports to the Store Manager or an Assistant Store Manager. In larger stores, there might be a dedicated Custom Framing Manager or Supervisor who oversees this function.

Operations Impact: The Framer's impact is directly tied to customer satisfaction and sales within the custom framing department. High-quality service and product delivery contribute to repeat business and positive store reputation. Efficient operations in framing and display maintenance support the overall store's profitability and customer experience.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Development: Opportunity to become a skilled custom framer, mastering techniques in matting, framing, glass cutting, and design consultation.
• Sales Growth: Develop consultative selling skills to increase custom framing sales and potentially move into sales lead roles.
• Cross-Training: Potential to gain experience in other store operations, such as cashiering, visual merchandising, or inventory management.
• Leadership Potential: With experience and demonstrated performance, opportunities may arise for roles like Key Holder, Shift Supervisor, or Custom Framing Manager.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a clear path for skill acquisition in a niche area of retail and provides foundational experience in customer service and sales, which are transferable to various career paths within Michaels or the broader retail industry.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Public retail store setting. The work environment is customer-facing and dynamic. Office Location(s): The specific store is located at 4240 W 78th St in Bloomington, MN. This location is part of the broader Minneapolis-St. Paul metropolitan area.

Workspace Context:

• The primary workspace includes the retail sales floor, the custom framing counter/area, and potentially stock rooms.
• The framing area contains specialized equipment like framing machinery and a glass cutter, requiring careful operation.
• The environment is generally climate-controlled, though some stock rooms might not be.
• Working hours can include nights, weekends, and early mornings to accommodate customer traffic and operational needs.

Work Schedule: Part-time, with an estimated 20 hours per week. Flexibility is important, as shifts will cover various operational times, including peak customer hours, evenings, and weekends.

📝 Enhancement Note: The retail environment requires adaptability to changing customer flow and operational demands. Safety protocols for tools like glass cutters and heat presses are paramount.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Likely a brief phone or online application review to assess basic qualifications and availability.
• In-Person Interview: This will typically involve a one-on-one conversation with the Store Manager or an Assistant Manager. Expect questions about customer service experience, problem-solving abilities, and motivation for the role.
• Skills Assessment: You may be asked to demonstrate basic measuring skills or discuss your approach to customer interactions.
• Finalization: Reference checks and offer extension.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• While a formal portfolio isn't expected, prepare to discuss specific examples of successful customer interactions or sales achievements.
• If you have any visual work (e.g., personal framing projects, display designs), be ready to briefly describe them and your process if asked.
• Highlight any experience where you had to learn a new process or equipment quickly.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be ready to answer situational questions like, "How would you handle a customer who is unhappy with their custom framing order?" or "Describe a time you went above and beyond for a customer."
• Prepare to discuss why you are interested in Michaels and the specific role of a Framer.
• Think about how you would approach learning the framing equipment and SOPs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will likely focus on assessing soft skills like customer service, teamwork, and problem-solving, alongside basic aptitude for the technical aspects of framing. Demonstrating enthusiasm for creativity and customer satisfaction is key.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Custom Framing Equipment: This includes mat cutters, framing tools (e.g., underpinner, staple gun), and potentially a glass cutter. Proficiency will be trained.
• POS System: For processing transactions, returns, and managing customer orders.
• Basic Measuring Tools: Rulers, measuring tapes.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While direct reporting is not expected, understanding sales performance and inventory levels may be part of daily tasks.
• Access to internal systems for tracking orders, inventory, and sales data.

CRM & Automation:

• The company likely uses a CRM system to manage customer information and order history, which the Framer will interact with for order placement and customer service.
• Internal systems for managing stock replenishment and sales directives.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role requires hands-on use of specialized framing equipment. Training will be provided, but a willingness to learn and operate these tools safely and efficiently is essential. Familiarity with POS systems is a plus.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Creativity: Encouraging personal expression and helping customers bring their creative visions to life.
• Customer Focus: Prioritizing customer needs and delivering exceptional service to build loyalty.
• Teamwork: Collaborating with colleagues to ensure smooth store operations and a positive work environment.
• Quality: Maintaining high standards in product presentation, service delivery, and framing craftsmanship.
• Efficiency: Adhering to processes and SOPs to ensure operational effectiveness.

Collaboration Style:

• The team is expected to work collaboratively to support sales, customer service, and store maintenance.
• Open communication and mutual support are encouraged to achieve store goals.
• Associates are expected to assist customers throughout the store, not just within their specific department.

📝 Enhancement Note: Michaels fosters a culture that celebrates creativity and customer engagement. Team members are expected to be supportive of each other and contribute to a positive shopping experience.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Multiple Roles: Juggling customer service, sales consultations, framing production, and general store duties.
• Learning New Skills: Mastering the operation of framing equipment and understanding various framing techniques can be challenging but rewarding.
• Customer Expectations: Meeting diverse customer expectations for custom framing, which can range from simple to complex designs.
• Pace of Retail: Adapting to busy periods, peak seasons, and the fast-paced nature of a retail environment.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Framing Certification: Potential to gain recognized certifications in custom framing through training and experience.
• Sales Training: Opportunities to enhance consultative selling and customer relationship management skills.
• Visual Merchandising: Learning best practices for creating appealing retail displays.
• Product Knowledge: Deepening understanding of different framing materials, matting options, and art conservation techniques.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a solid foundation for developing specialized craft skills and customer-facing sales experience, presenting tangible growth opportunities within the creative retail sector.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Customer Service: "Describe a time you handled a difficult customer. What was the outcome?" or "How do you approach helping a customer who isn't sure what they want?"
• Sales: "What techniques do you use to upsell or cross-sell products?" or "How do you stay motivated to meet sales goals?"
• Problem Solving: "Imagine a customer receives a framing order that is incorrect. What steps would you take?"
• Technical Aptitude: "How comfortable are you with learning to use new equipment?" or "Describe your experience with measuring accurately."

Company & Culture Questions:

• "Why are you interested in working for Michaels?"
• "What does 'fueling the joy of creativity' mean to you?"
• "How do you contribute to a positive team environment?"

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Be prepared to verbally walk through specific examples from your past roles that demonstrate your customer service, sales, or problem-solving skills.
• If you have any personal creative projects or experience with visual displays, be ready to briefly describe them and highlight your role.
• Focus on your ability to learn and adapt, especially regarding new tools and processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interviewers will be looking for candidates who are enthusiastic about creativity, possess strong interpersonal skills, and show a willingness to learn the technical aspects of framing and retail operations.

📌 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 hands-on experience. Use keywords like "customer engagement," "sales consultation," "retail operations," "visual merchandising," and "problem-solving." Quantify achievements where possible (e.g., "exceeded sales targets by X%").
• Portfolio Preparation: While not a formal portfolio, prepare specific examples of customer interactions, problem-solving scenarios, or any experience with hands-on tasks that demonstrate your suitability for the role. Be ready to discuss these confidently.
• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Michaels' mission, values, and product offerings. Understand their focus on creativity and customer experience.
• Interview Practice: Practice answering common retail interview questions, focusing on behavioral examples that showcase your customer service skills, sales aptitude, and ability to learn new processes.

⚠️ 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.