Part-time Framer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Part-time Framer

Company: Michaels Stores

Location: Joliet, Illinois, United States

Job Type: PART_TIME

Category: Retail Operations / Custom Framing

Date Posted: May 04, 2026

Experience Level: Entry Level (0-2 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Deliver exceptional customer service by building relationships and creating memorable custom framing solutions.

• Drive sales and production results within the Custom Framing department, adhering to quality and timeline standards.

• Maintain store presentation through effective merchandising, stocking, and ensuring a safe, clean environment.

• Execute company policies, Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), and operational programs to ensure compliance and efficiency.

• Support omni-channel processes and handle transactions accurately at the cash register.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the raw input suggests a "Part-time Framer" role, the description details extensive customer interaction, sales, and operational tasks typical of a retail environment, specifically within a custom framing department. The focus is on both sales performance and operational execution, requiring a blend of customer-facing skills and attention to detail for production. The target candidate will likely need to be adaptable and customer-centric.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Engage customers to understand their framing needs, leveraging sales techniques and product knowledge to propose tailored custom framing solutions.

• Execute the complete framing order process, from initial design consultation and sales to production, ensuring high-quality craftsmanship and on-time delivery.

• Maintain the visual presentation and stock levels of the ready-made frame department, including managing SISO (Sales In, Stock Out) and Directed Replenishment processes.

• Provide friendly and efficient customer service throughout the store, assisting with product location, offering solutions, and ensuring a well-merchandised and in-stock shopping environment.

• Operate the cash register accurately, managing cash handling procedures and executing transactions according to company standards, including supporting omni-channel fulfillment processes.

• Participate actively in truck un-load and stocking procedures, adhering to established standards and timelines to maintain inventory accuracy and flow.

• Uphold company policies, SOPs, and safety/shrink programs, contributing to a secure and efficient store operation.

• Foster positive relationships with colleagues and customers, demonstrating respect, positivity, and a commitment to the company's vision and values.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities outline a dual role focusing on direct sales and custom framing production, combined with general retail operations. Key areas include customer engagement for sales, quality control in production, inventory management for both custom and ready-made frames, and general store upkeep. Emphasis is placed on adhering to SOPs and contributing to a positive team and customer experience, which are critical for retail operations roles.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While no specific degree is mandated, a foundational understanding of basic math and measurement is essential for framing accuracy.

Experience: 0-2 years of experience in a customer-facing or operational role is preferred, particularly within a retail environment.

Required Skills:

• Basic computer skills for order processing and system navigation.

• Basic measuring skills with a focus on accuracy for custom framing projects.

• Ability to operate framing equipment and a glass cutter safely and effectively.

• Proficiency in cash handling and operating a cash register.

• Strong customer service orientation with excellent interpersonal and communication skills.

Preferred Skills:

• Prior retail experience, demonstrating familiarity with store operations and customer interactions.

• Proven experience in selling products and/or services, with an aptitude for consultative selling.

• Experience with custom framing processes, design, or material selection.

• Familiarity with inventory management principles and merchandising standards.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirements emphasize practical skills over formal education, aligning with an entry-level retail position. The core needs are hands-on operational capabilities (measuring, equipment operation) and customer engagement. Preferred skills suggest that candidates with previous retail sales or specific framing experience will have a distinct advantage, indicating a desire for candidates who can quickly contribute to sales and production targets.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• While a formal portfolio is not explicitly required for this entry-level role, candidates are encouraged to highlight any past projects or experiences demonstrating attention to detail, problem-solving skills, or customer satisfaction achievements.

• For candidates with prior framing experience, showcasing examples of completed projects (e.g., through photos or detailed descriptions) that illustrate design sensibility and quality craftsmanship would be beneficial.

Process Documentation:

• Candidates should be prepared to discuss their understanding of and ability to follow established Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company programs.

• The ability to document or describe a process they have followed or improved in a previous role (e.g., customer service interaction, order fulfillment, stocking procedure) will be valuable.

• An understanding of how to maintain a clean and organized workspace, which is a form of process documentation for operational efficiency, is important.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the entry-level nature and part-time status, a formal portfolio is unlikely to be a strict requirement. However, framing the discussion around process adherence, attention to detail, and customer service examples in their resume or during an interview will serve as a de facto portfolio for this role, showcasing their ability to follow operational guidelines and deliver quality work.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $15.25 - $17.90 per hour. This range reflects entry-level to moderately experienced part-time retail associate compensation in the Joliet, IL area, considering the specialized framing duties.

Benefits:

• Health Insurance (Medical, Dental, and Vision) for eligible team members.

• Paid Time Off (PTO) accrual for eligible team members.

• Tuition Assistance programs to support ongoing education.

• Generous employee discounts on Michaels products.

• Other benefits as may be available for part-time team members.

Working Hours: This is a part-time position. Actual hours will vary based on business needs, but typically involve nights, weekends, and early mornings. While not explicitly stated, part-time roles often offer some flexibility in scheduling within operational requirements.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is provided directly in the source data. The benefits listed are standard for retail positions and include comprehensive health coverage, PTO, and educational support, which are attractive incentives for part-time roles. The mention of nights, weekends, and early mornings is typical for retail, emphasizing the need for schedule flexibility.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Retail (Arts and Crafts, Custom Framing). Michaels operates as a leading North American retailer for arts, crafts, and custom framing, catering to a wide demographic of hobbyists, artists, and individuals seeking personalized décor solutions.

Company Size: Over 1,300 stores across the US and Canada, with a significant online presence. This indicates a large, established retail organization with structured operational frameworks.

Founded: 1973. With decades of experience, Michaels has a well-established brand identity and operational history.

Team Structure:

• The role operates within a local store team, likely reporting to a Store Manager or an Assistant Manager/Department Lead responsible for Custom Framing.

• Collaboration is expected with fellow sales associates, framing specialists, and potentially stockroom personnel.

Methodology:

• Emphasis on customer-centric sales and service, utilizing "Elevated ABC Deliver" to build relationships.

• Structured adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for all tasks from sales to stocking.

• Focus on maintaining store standards for visual merchandising, cleanliness, and stock availability.

• Data-driven performance is implied through sales and production targets.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Michaels positions itself as a company that "fuels the joy of creativity and celebration." The culture likely emphasizes creativity, customer engagement, and operational excellence within a structured retail environment. The size and longevity of the company suggest stable processes and a clear career path within retail operations, even at the part-time level.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is entry-level within the retail operations and custom framing specialization. It serves as a foundational position for individuals looking to gain experience in customer service, sales, and production within a specialized retail department.

Reporting Structure: The Part-time Framer typically reports to a Custom Framing Manager or a Store Manager, who oversees all store operations and staff. This structure provides direct supervision and guidance on performance and adherence to operational standards.

Operations Impact: The Framer directly impacts store revenue through custom framing sales and impulse purchases of ready-made frames. They also contribute to operational efficiency by maintaining department standards, supporting inventory accuracy, and ensuring a positive customer experience that drives repeat business.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Development: Opportunity to master custom framing techniques, design principles, and advanced sales strategies. Develop proficiency in operating specialized equipment and managing production workflows.

• Cross-Training: Potential to gain experience in other store departments, such as merchandising, customer service, or inventory management, broadening operational skill sets.

• Advancement: For high-performing individuals, potential pathways could include becoming a Full-time Framer, Custom Framing Department Lead, or moving into broader retail management roles within Michaels, such as Assistant Store Manager or Store Manager.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a clear entry point into specialized retail operations. Growth is tied to mastering the craft of framing, demonstrating sales acumen, and proving reliability in operational tasks. The company's structure provides recognizable career progression within the retail sector, particularly for those interested in specialized departments.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The work environment is a public retail store setting, specifically within a Michaels Arts & Crafts store that includes a dedicated Custom Framing department.

Office Location(s): Joliet, Illinois (2800 Plainfield Rd). This location is a standard retail footprint, accessible to the local community.

Workspace Context:

• The primary workspace is the retail floor and the custom framing shop. The framing shop contains specialized equipment like a glass cutter and heat press, requiring careful operation.

• The environment is generally climate-controlled in public areas, though stock rooms may vary. Outdoor work may be required for tasks like retrieving shopping carts or during truck unloads.

• Opportunities for collaboration exist with team members, especially within the framing department and during busy store periods, fostering a team-oriented atmosphere.

Work Schedule: The schedule is part-time and flexible, requiring availability for nights, weekends, and early mornings to meet business demands. This flexibility is typical in retail and allows for operations to be covered across all operating hours.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is dynamic and customer-facing. The framing shop itself is a specialized area within the broader retail store, requiring careful attention to safety protocols due to tools like glass cutters and heat presses. The part-time nature and varied hours are standard for retail, demanding adaptability from employees.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Likely an online application followed by a brief phone or video screen with an HR representative or hiring manager to assess basic qualifications and interest.

• In-Person Interview: A more in-depth interview, potentially including a practical assessment or scenario-based questions focusing on customer service, problem-solving, and operational tasks. This may involve a tour of the framing department.

• Skills Assessment: Candidates may be asked to demonstrate basic measuring skills or discuss their understanding of framing processes.

• Final Evaluation: Assessment of cultural fit, reliability, and enthusiasm for the role and company.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• For this role, a formal portfolio isn't expected. Instead, focus on clearly articulating your experience in customer service, sales, and any hands-on tasks on your resume.

• Be prepared to discuss specific examples of how you've handled challenging customer interactions or met sales targets in previous roles.

• If you have prior framing or craft experience, be ready to describe your projects and the skills involved.

Challenge Preparation:

• Customer Scenarios: Prepare for questions involving how you would handle a customer with a unique framing request, a dissatisfied customer, or a situation requiring upselling.

• Operational Scenarios: Be ready to discuss how you would prioritize tasks during a busy period, maintain a clean and organized workspace, or handle a stock discrepancy.

• Technical Skills: Be prepared to discuss your comfort level with basic tools, measuring, and following instructions for operating equipment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for this role will likely be practical and focused on assessing core retail competencies and specific framing aptitude. Candidates should prepare to demonstrate their customer service skills, basic technical abilities, and understanding of retail operations through scenario-based questions and potentially a brief practical demonstration.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Cash Register/POS System: For processing sales, returns, and managing transactions. Proficiency with point-of-sale systems is essential.

• Framing Equipment: Includes specialized tools like mat cutters, saws, jointers, and potentially vacuum presses or heat presses for framing. Safe and accurate operation is key.

• Glass Cutter: A specialized tool for precision cutting of glass or acrylic for frames.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not directly managing complex analytics, understanding basic sales reports and production metrics for the framing department may be part of the role.

CRM & Automation:

• Basic computer skills for accessing customer order information and potentially company communication platforms.

• While not a direct CRM role, customer relationship building is a core part of the "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodology.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is focused on essential retail operations and specialized framing tools. Proficiency in point-of-sale systems and the ability to safely operate framing equipment are critical. The role requires an understanding of basic inventory management processes.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Customer Focus: Prioritizing customer satisfaction through excellent service and tailored solutions.

• Creativity & Passion: Embracing the company's mission to fuel creativity and celebration.

• Teamwork & Respect: Collaborating positively with colleagues and fostering an inclusive environment.

• Operational Excellence: Adhering to SOPs, maintaining high standards for quality, and driving efficiency.

• Integrity: Upholding company policies and ethical business practices.

Collaboration Style:

• A collaborative approach is essential, working alongside fellow associates to ensure smooth store operations and excellent customer experiences.

• Open communication and mutual support are encouraged, especially within the framing department to manage workflow and meet deadlines.

• Willingness to assist in various store functions as needed to support the overall team effort.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture at Michaels likely emphasizes a blend of creativity, customer-centricity, and operational discipline. The values encourage a positive, respectful, and collaborative work environment where team members are empowered to contribute to both sales and operational success.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Sales and Production: Effectively managing customer interactions for sales while ensuring timely and high-quality production of custom framing orders.

• Handling Diverse Customer Needs: Adapting to a wide range of customer requests, budgets, and design preferences for framing.

• Physical Demands: The role requires standing for long periods, lifting heavy items, and working with tools that require precision and care.

• Pace of Retail: Adapting to busy periods, seasonal demands, and the need for flexible scheduling, including nights and weekends.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Framing Expertise: Deepen knowledge of framing materials, design techniques, and advanced production methods.

• Sales Skills: Develop consultative selling techniques and customer relationship management.

• Operational Proficiency: Gain experience in retail inventory management, visual merchandising, and point-of-sale systems.

• Industry Exposure: Learn about art, preservation, and design trends relevant to custom framing.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are typical for a specialized retail role that combines sales, production, and customer service. The growth opportunities are significant for someone looking to build a career in retail operations, particularly within a niche like custom framing, offering a pathway to specialized expertise and potential leadership.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Tell me about a time you used your measuring skills to solve a problem or ensure accuracy." (Assesses attention to detail and practical application).

• "How would you approach a customer who has a complex or unusual framing request?" (Evaluates consultative sales and problem-solving skills).

• "Describe your experience with cash handling and operating a point-of-sale system. What steps do you take to ensure accuracy?" (Tests operational reliability and attention to detail).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about working at Michaels and specifically in the Custom Framing department?" (Gauges enthusiasm and understanding of the role/brand).

• "How do you contribute to a positive and collaborative team environment?" (Evaluates interpersonal skills and team fit).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Since a formal portfolio isn't required, prepare to verbally "showcase" your skills and experience.

• Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to answer behavioral questions, providing concrete examples from past work or personal projects.

• Be ready to discuss your understanding of the framing process and your willingness to learn and adhere to Michaels' specific SOPs for framing and customer service.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a blend of customer service prowess, practical operational skills, and an eagerness to learn the specifics of custom framing and Michaels' operational standards. Highlighting any experience with detailed work, sales, or customer interaction will be key.

📌 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 experience in customer service, sales, retail operations, or hands-on work involving precision and measuring skills. Quantify achievements where possible (e.g., "Met 95% of daily sales targets").

• Portfolio Preparation (Verbal): Be ready to discuss specific examples of your work ethic, problem-solving abilities, and customer interaction skills using the STAR method. If you have any relevant craft or framing projects, prepare to describe them.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Michaels' mission, values, and the scope of their custom framing services. Understand their commitment to creativity and customer experience.

• Interview Practice: Practice answering common retail interview questions, focusing on scenarios related to customer service, sales, operational tasks, and teamwork.

⚠️ 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.