PT Custom Framer-2

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: PT Custom Framer
Company: Michaels Stores
Location: Durham-8200 Renaissance Pkwy Ste 1030, Durham, North Carolina, United States
Job Type: Part-Time
Category: Retail Operations / Customer Service
Date Posted: January 23, 2026
Experience Level: Entry Level (0-2 years)
Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role focuses on building strong customer relationships through personalized custom framing solutions, directly impacting customer satisfaction and sales performance within a retail environment.
• Key responsibilities include meticulously completing custom framing orders with a high degree of quality and adhering to production timelines, ensuring operational efficiency and customer delight.
• The position requires active engagement in maintaining store visual standards, including the ready-made frame department, SISO (Single Item, Single Out), and directed replenishment, contributing to a positive shopping experience.
• Candidates will operate the cash register, execute cash handling procedures to company standards, and support omni-channel processes, demonstrating a comprehensive understanding of retail operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the provided description leans heavily into customer-facing retail tasks, the "Custom Framer" title and specific mention of framing orders and equipment indicate a specialized operational function within the retail setting. This role requires a blend of direct customer interaction, sales acumen, and hands-on production/craftsmanship within the framing department, making it a unique hybrid role. The "PT" designation implies a part-time commitment, which is crucial for candidates to understand.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Cultivate and nurture customer relationships by leveraging the "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodology to create memorable and tailored custom framing solutions.
• Achieve and exceed sales and production targets through effective customer engagement and high-quality framing services.
• Execute custom framing orders with precision, ensuring exceptional quality and adherence to established timelines.
• Maintain the visual presentation and stock levels of the ready-made frame department, as well as SISO and directed replenishment areas, to enhance shopability.
• Provide outstanding customer service by assisting customers in locating products, offering solutions, and ensuring a well-merchandised and fully stocked store environment.
• Operate the cash register and perform all cash handling procedures in strict accordance with company standards.
• Actively participate in truck un-load and stocking processes, ensuring compliance with truck standards and budget adherence.
• Support and contribute to shrink and safety programs by adhering to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and Company programs.
• Interact positively and respectfully with colleagues, promoting organizational values and serving as a role model for team members.
• Assist with and execute omni-channel processes, such as buy online, pick up in-store (BOPIS) or ship-from-store, as required.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities are heavily weighted towards direct customer interaction and sales, with framing production being a core component of the service offering. The emphasis on "Elevated ABC Deliver" suggests a specific sales and customer service methodology that candidates should research. The inclusion of stocking, cash handling, and omni-channel support highlights the broad operational duties expected, even within a specialized role.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While no specific degree is mandated, a high school diploma or equivalent is generally expected for entry-level retail positions.

Experience:

• 0-2 years of experience in a customer-facing role, with a preference for retail environments.
• Demonstrated ability to complete tasks with a focus on quality and efficiency.

Required Skills:

• Basic computer proficiency for point-of-sale (POS) systems and potential inventory management tasks.
• Fundamental measuring skills essential for accurate custom framing.
• Ability to operate framing equipment safely and effectively.
• Competency in operating a glass cutter.
• Strong customer service orientation and interpersonal skills for positive customer interactions.
• Basic understanding of sales principles and customer engagement.
• Ability to adhere to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company guidelines.
• Physical stamina for standing for extended periods, bending, lifting, and carrying.

Preferred Skills:

• Previous retail experience, particularly in a specialty or craft-related setting.
• Proven experience in selling products and/or services to customers, with a track record of meeting sales goals.
• Familiarity with custom framing processes and materials.
• Experience with visual merchandising and maintaining store presentation standards.
• Basic knowledge of inventory management principles.

📝 Enhancement Note: The required skills are foundational for a retail associate, with specific emphasis on the technical aspects of custom framing. The preferred skills indicate that prior sales and retail experience will significantly enhance a candidate's application, suggesting a competitive edge for those who can demonstrate customer-centric sales success and operational familiarity within a retail context.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• While a formal portfolio is not explicitly required for this entry-level, part-time role, candidates can significantly strengthen their application by preparing examples of past work or projects that demonstrate:
  • Quality Craftsmanship: Showcase examples of projects where attention to detail and high-quality execution were critical. For framing, this could be a description of a challenging or complex framing project completed.
  • Customer Solution Examples: Briefly describe instances where you identified a customer's need and provided a tailored solution, highlighting communication and problem-solving skills.
  • Process Adherence: Mention how you followed specific instructions, SOPs, or guidelines to achieve a desired outcome, demonstrating reliability and attention to detail.
  • Efficiency Improvements: If applicable, briefly describe a situation where you improved a process or completed a task more efficiently, even in a non-work context.

Process Documentation:

• Candidates are not expected to provide formal process documentation. However, be prepared to discuss:
  • Your understanding of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and their importance in a retail environment.
  • How you would approach learning and executing new operational processes, such as framing techniques or POS system usage.
  • Your approach to maintaining a clean, organized, and safe workspace.

📝 Enhancement Note: For this specific role, a traditional operations portfolio is unlikely to be a requirement. The emphasis should be on preparing to discuss relevant experiences and skills that align with the responsibilities, particularly those related to customer service, sales, and the practical aspects of custom framing. Candidates should think of their resume and interview responses as their "portfolio" for this position.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: As this is a part-time, entry-level retail position, the salary is expected to be at or slightly above the local minimum wage. For Durham, North Carolina, this would likely range from $12.00 to $15.00 per hour, depending on experience and specific store policies.

Benefits:

• Health Insurance: Medical, dental, and vision insurance are mentioned as available benefits, which is notable for a part-time role and should be verified for eligibility requirements (e.g., hours worked per week).
• Paid Time Off (PTO): Details are not specified, but PTO is offered to team members.
• Tuition Assistance: Support for employees pursuing further education.
• Employee Discounts: A significant perk for employees of Michaels, offering savings on craft supplies and framing services.
• Other Benefits: The description mentions "and much more," indicating a comprehensive benefits package that should be explored further during the application process.

Working Hours: This is a part-time position. While the exact number of hours is not specified, typical part-time retail roles can range from 15-30 hours per week. The work hours will include nights, weekends, and early mornings, reflecting the operational needs of a retail store.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on current typical entry-level retail wages in Durham, NC, and general knowledge of Michaels' compensation practices for part-time associates. Benefit eligibility for part-time employees often depends on meeting certain hour-per-week thresholds. Candidates should confirm these details directly with Michaels. The mention of "40" in the input data for ai_working_hours seems to be a default or misinterpretation, as the role is explicitly stated as "PART_TIME."

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Retail (Arts and Crafts, Home Decor, Framing Services) - Michaels operates as a leading specialty retailer in North America, catering to a broad customer base interested in DIY projects, creative expression, and home decoration. Company Size: Michaels Stores is a large, publicly traded company with over 1,300 stores across the US and Canada, and an online presence. This scale offers stability and structured operational processes. Founded: Founded in 1973 and headquartered in Irving, Texas, Michaels has a long-standing history and established presence in the retail sector.

Team Structure:

• The store-level team typically includes a Store Manager, Assistant Store Managers, Team Leads, and Sales Associates (which would include this Custom Framer role).
• The Custom Framer likely reports to a Framing Manager or a designated Team Lead responsible for the framing department, who in turn reports to store management.
• Cross-functional collaboration is essential, involving interaction with sales associates for customer assistance, stock associates for inventory management, and potentially management for operational oversight and customer issue resolution.

Methodology:

• Customer-Centric Approach: Emphasizes building customer relationships and providing solutions, as highlighted by the "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodology.
• Operational Standards: Relies on Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for consistent execution of tasks, from sales and cash handling to inventory and safety.
• Visual Merchandising: Maintains a strong focus on store presentation to create an appealing and easy-to-shop environment.
• Data-Driven (at a store level): While not explicitly stated for this role, store performance is tracked through sales metrics, inventory turnover, and customer feedback, influencing operational adjustments.

Company Website: www.michaels.com

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture is geared towards creativity, customer engagement, and operational efficiency within a retail framework. As a large retailer, Michaels likely has well-defined processes and a structured approach to training and development. The "part-time" nature of the role suggests it's an integral part of the store's operational staff, supporting both sales and specialized services.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is at an Entry-Level or Associate level within the retail operations context. It focuses on executing defined tasks and providing direct customer service and product fulfillment within the custom framing department. The emphasis is on learning and applying specific operational procedures and customer interaction skills.

Reporting Structure: The Custom Framer will report to a direct supervisor within the store, likely a Framing Department Lead, Assistant Store Manager, or Store Manager, who oversees daily operations and team performance.

Operations Impact: This role directly impacts store operations by:

• Driving Revenue: Through sales of custom framing services and assisting customers in finding other retail products.
• Enhancing Customer Experience: By providing expert framing advice and creating high-quality finished products.
• Ensuring Operational Flow: By managing framing orders, maintaining department standards, and supporting general store operations like stocking and POS transactions.
• Reducing Shrink: Through adherence to cash handling and inventory management procedures.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Opportunity to become an expert in custom framing techniques, materials, and design, potentially leading to more advanced framing roles.
• Cross-Training: Potential to gain experience in other store operational areas, such as visual merchandising, inventory management, or customer service leadership.
• Leadership Progression: With demonstrated performance and commitment, there are opportunities to advance into Team Lead, Assistant Store Manager, or Store Manager positions within Michaels.
• Continuous Learning: Michaels offers training programs and resources to support skill development in areas like sales, customer service, and operational efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: While this is an entry-level role, Michaels is a large organization with defined career paths within its retail operations. The growth potential is centered on developing expertise within the store environment and moving up the management ladder or specializing in areas like custom framing.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is a Public Retail Store Setting. The primary workspace is the retail floor and the dedicated custom framing area within the store. Office Location(s): The specific store is located at 8200 Renaissance Pkwy Ste 1030, Durham, NC. This is a typical retail center location.

Workspace Context:

• Customer Interaction: The environment is highly customer-facing, requiring constant engagement and service.
• Operational Tools: Access to framing equipment, glass cutters, POS systems, and potentially inventory management tools.
• Team Collaboration: Frequent interaction with other store associates for support, task coordination, and customer service. The framing shop itself is a specialized workspace within the larger store.
• Environment Control: Public areas are climate-controlled; stock rooms may not be. Some outdoor work might be involved during truck unloads.

Work Schedule: The role is part-time, with work hours including nights, weekends, and early mornings to meet operational demands. Flexibility in scheduling is often required in retail environments.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is dynamic and fast-paced, typical of a busy retail store. The custom framing area provides a specialized, hands-on workspace within this setting. Candidates should be prepared for a physically active role with significant customer interaction and varied work hours.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Application Review: Resumes will be screened for relevant experience (retail, customer service, sales) and required skills.
• Phone Screen: A brief call with an HR representative or hiring manager to discuss basic qualifications, availability, and interest in the role.
• In-Person Interview: This will likely involve a discussion with the hiring manager (e.g., Store Manager or Framing Lead). Be prepared to:
  • Discuss your customer service philosophy and experience.
  • Provide examples of how you have handled challenging customer situations.
  • Explain your understanding of sales and how you would approach selling custom framing solutions.
  • Demonstrate your basic measuring and computer skills if asked.
  • Discuss your availability and how it aligns with the store's needs.
  • Showcase your ability to follow instructions and adhere to procedures.
• Practical Assessment (Potential): You might be asked to demonstrate basic measuring skills or discuss how you would approach a simple framing consultation.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Resume as Portfolio: For this role, your resume is your primary portfolio. Ensure it clearly highlights:
  • Customer Service Experience: Quantify achievements where possible (e.g., "Assisted an average of X customers per shift").
  • Sales Acumen: Mention any sales targets met or exceeded.
  • Technical Skills: List any experience with tools, equipment, or POS systems.
  • Problem-Solving: Provide examples of how you resolved customer issues or improved processes.
• Verbal Examples: Be ready to elaborate on your resume points with specific examples during the interview. For instance, describe a time you helped a customer choose the perfect framing solution or successfully upsold a related product.
• Framing Knowledge: If you have prior framing experience, be prepared to discuss it. If not, express enthusiasm for learning and highlight transferable skills like attention to detail and craftsmanship.

Challenge Preparation:

• Customer Scenario: Be ready to role-play a customer interaction where a customer needs assistance with custom framing. Focus on active listening, asking clarifying questions, and proposing suitable solutions.
• Problem-Solving: Prepare examples of how you've handled operational challenges, such as a stock shortage, a difficult customer, or a mistake with an order, and how you resolved it.
• Teamwork: Discuss how you contribute to a positive team environment and collaborate with colleagues to achieve store goals.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the role's nature, the "interview process" section focuses on typical retail hiring practices. The "portfolio" is interpreted as the candidate's resume and their ability to articulate experiences and skills verbally. Preparation should emphasize customer service, sales, and a willingness to learn operational tasks.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Point of Sale (POS) System: Used for processing transactions, handling cash, and potentially managing customer orders. Familiarity with retail POS systems is beneficial.
• Custom Framing Equipment: This includes specialized tools for cutting mats, assembling frames, and potentially specialized cutting or joining machinery. Hands-on experience or the ability to quickly learn is crucial.
• Glass Cutter: A specific tool for precise glass cutting, requiring skill and safety awareness.
• Measuring Tools: Tape measures, rulers, and potentially specialized measuring devices for accurate framing dimensions.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not directly used by the Framer, store performance is tracked. Understanding that sales data, production metrics, and customer feedback influence store operations is beneficial.

CRM & Automation:

• Customer Relationship Management (CRM): The store's POS system may have basic CRM functionalities for tracking customer purchases and preferences. The "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodology implies a structured approach to customer engagement that could be considered a form of internal CRM.
• Inventory Management Systems: Used for tracking stock levels of frames, mats, glass, and other framing supplies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is primarily operational and customer-facing. Proficiency with POS systems and basic computer skills are essential. The core "tools" are the physical equipment used for custom framing, requiring tactile skill and precision.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Customer Focus: Prioritizing customer needs and satisfaction through exceptional service and quality products.
• Creativity & Passion: Fostering an environment that celebrates artistic expression and DIY spirit.
• Teamwork & Collaboration: Working together to achieve store goals, support colleagues, and create a positive work atmosphere.
• Integrity & Respect: Upholding ethical standards in all interactions and treating everyone with respect.
• Efficiency & Quality: Striving for operational excellence in tasks, from framing production to customer transactions.

Collaboration Style:

• Supportive: Associates are encouraged to assist each other in serving customers and completing tasks.
• Process-Oriented: Adherence to established procedures and best practices is valued for consistency and quality.
• Feedback-Driven: Openness to feedback from supervisors and peers to improve performance and processes.
• Cross-Functional: Regular interaction with various roles within the store to ensure seamless operations and customer experience.

📝 Enhancement Note: Michaels emphasizes a culture that blends creative passion with retail operational discipline. The values are geared towards excellent customer service, teamwork, and a commitment to quality, which are all critical for a role involving specialized craftsmanship like custom framing.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Sales and Production: Juggling customer interactions, sales consultations, and the hands-on work of custom framing simultaneously.
• Meeting Demanding Timelines: Ensuring custom orders are completed accurately and on schedule, especially during peak periods.
• Handling Diverse Customer Needs: Adapting to a wide range of customer preferences, budgets, and artistic visions for framing projects.
• Maintaining Quality Standards: Consistently delivering high-quality framing that meets customer expectations and company benchmarks.
• Physical Demands: The role requires standing for long periods, lifting, and manual dexterity, which can be physically taxing.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Framing Expertise: Deepen knowledge of framing materials, design principles, and advanced techniques.
• Sales & Customer Service Skills: Enhance consultative selling abilities and customer relationship management.
• Operational Proficiency: Gain broader experience in retail operations, including inventory management, visual merchandising, and POS systems.
• Leadership Potential: Develop skills necessary for supervisory roles within the store.
• Industry Trends: Stay updated on art, decor, and framing trends through company resources and personal interest.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are inherent to a specialized customer service and production role in retail. The growth opportunities are structured around skill development within the framing discipline and broader retail career progression.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Customer Service Philosophy: "Describe your approach to providing excellent customer service, especially when dealing with custom or personalized products." (Prepare to discuss active listening, problem-solving, and exceeding expectations.)
• Sales Approach: "How would you approach a customer who is unsure about framing options for their artwork?" (Focus on asking questions, understanding their needs, and guiding them through choices.)
• Problem-Solving: "Tell me about a time you had to resolve a customer issue. What was the situation, and how did you handle it?" (Use the STAR method - Situation, Task, Action, Result.)
• Operational Understanding: "Why is adhering to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) important in a retail environment like Michaels?" (Discuss consistency, quality, safety, and efficiency.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about Michaels and this specific Custom Framer role?" (Research Michaels' mission, values, and products; connect your skills and interests to the role.)
• "How do you handle working in a fast-paced retail environment with varying customer demands?" (Highlight your ability to multitask, stay calm under pressure, and prioritize.)
• "Describe your ideal team environment." (Focus on collaboration, mutual support, and positive communication.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Resume Walkthrough: Be prepared to walk through your resume, elaborating on key experiences related to customer service, sales, and any technical or craft-related skills.
• Scenario-Based Responses: Instead of a formal portfolio, prepare specific, real-world examples for common interview questions that demonstrate your abilities. For instance, describe how you'd guide a customer through selecting matting and framing for a valuable piece of art.
• Showcase Enthusiasm: Express genuine interest in art, creativity, and helping customers bring their visions to life through custom framing.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation for this role should focus on demonstrating strong customer service, sales potential, attention to detail, and a willingness to learn the technical aspects of custom framing. Practical examples and a positive, collaborative attitude are key.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided application link on the Michaels Careers website.
• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight customer service experience, any sales achievements, relevant technical skills (measuring, basic computer use), and examples of attention to detail or craftsmanship. Use keywords from the job description.
• Prepare for Scenarios: Think of specific examples of how you've handled customer interactions, solved problems, or demonstrated attention to detail. Be ready to discuss your approach to selling and providing solutions.
• Research Michaels: Familiarize yourself with Michaels' products, services (especially custom framing), mission, and values. Understand their commitment to creativity and customer experience.
• Practice Interview Responses: Rehearse answers to common retail interview questions, focusing on your ability to meet the responsibilities outlined in the job description.

⚠️ 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.