PT Framer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: PT Framer Company: Michaels Stores Location: Rosenberg, Texas, United States Job Type: PART_TIME Category: Retail Operations / Custom Framing Date Posted: 2025-08-08 Experience Level: Entry-Level (0-2 years) Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role focuses on building customer relationships and providing exceptional service within the custom framing department.
• Responsibilities include consultative selling of framing solutions, ensuring quality and timely order fulfillment, and maintaining department presentation.
• Key operational tasks involve operating specialized framing equipment, accurate measurement, and adhering to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
• The position requires a customer-centric approach, contributing to the overall in-store customer experience and operational efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: While this role is primarily customer-facing and sales-oriented, it sits within the retail operations framework. The operational aspects involve the management of the framing department's inventory, equipment, and production processes to ensure customer satisfaction and sales targets are met.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Customer Engagement & Sales:
  • Build strong customer relationships by actively listening to their needs and providing personalized custom framing solutions.
  • Utilize Elevated ABC Deliver methodology to drive sales and achieve production targets within the framing department.
  • Greet customers, assist with product location, and offer solutions to enhance their shopping experience.
• Custom Framing Operations:
  • Accurately measure artwork and select appropriate framing materials based on customer specifications and design principles.
  • Operate framing equipment, including mat cutters and potentially heat presses, safely and efficiently to produce high-quality custom frames.
  • Ensure all framing orders are completed with a high degree of quality and delivered on time according to customer expectations and company standards.
• Store Operations & Presentation:
  • Maintain the ready-made frame department, including Single Item/Single Order (SISO) and Directed Replenishment, ensuring visual merchandising standards are met.
  • Contribute to a safe, clean, and clutter-free store environment by adhering to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company programs.
  • Participate actively in truck unloading and stocking processes, ensuring compliance with truck standards and efficient inventory management.
• Point of Sale & Omni-channel Support:
  • Operate the cash register and execute cash handling procedures accurately and according to company standards.
  • Assist with various Omni-channel processes, such as buy online, pick up in-store (BOPIS) or ship-from-store, as required.
• Teamwork & Compliance:
  • Adhere to all Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company programs to ensure compliance with applicable laws and requirements.
  • Support company shrink and safety programs, acting as a role model for positive behavior and adherence to policies.
  • Interact positively with colleagues, demonstrating respect and maintaining a positive attitude, even in challenging situations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of direct customer interaction, sales, and hands-on operational tasks related to custom framing production. The emphasis on SOPs and safety is critical for retail operations roles.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• High school diploma or equivalent is typically expected for entry-level retail positions.

Experience:

• Experience in custom framing or a related visual arts/crafts field is a plus, demonstrating an understanding of materials and design.
• Retail experience, particularly in a customer-facing or sales-oriented role, is preferred.
• Experience selling products and/or services to customers is highly valued for driving sales performance.

Required Skills:

• Customer Service Excellence: Ability to engage customers, understand their needs, and provide solutions in a friendly and helpful manner.
• Basic Measuring Skills: Precision in measurement is crucial for accurate custom framing orders.
• Basic Computer Skills: Proficiency in using POS systems, basic data entry, and potentially internal inventory management software.
• Framing Equipment Operation: Competency in operating framing equipment such as mat cutters and potentially other specialized tools like heat presses.
• Cash Handling: Accuracy and responsibility in managing financial transactions at the point of sale.
• Product Knowledge (Developing): Willingness to learn about framing materials, design principles, and Michaels' product offerings.

Preferred Skills:

• Retail Sales Experience: Proven ability to meet sales goals and provide consultative selling.
• Custom Framing Expertise: Prior experience in a custom framing environment, including knowledge of different matting, framing, and mounting techniques.
• Visual Merchandising: Understanding of how to present products and maintain department aesthetics to attract customers.
• Problem-Solving: Ability to address customer concerns or operational issues effectively and efficiently.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "0-2 years" experience level suggests that formal training on framing equipment and processes will be provided. The core requirements focus on foundational customer service and basic technical aptitudes, with a strong preference for prior retail sales experience.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• While a formal "portfolio" in the traditional sense (like for designers) isn't expected, candidates should be prepared to discuss examples of their customer service interactions and sales achievements.
• Demonstrating an understanding of process flow, from customer consultation to order completion, is beneficial.
• Ability to articulate how they would ensure quality control and timely delivery for custom framing orders.
• Any experience with point-of-sale systems or inventory management software can be highlighted.

Process Documentation:

• While not required to create documentation from scratch, understanding the importance of following documented Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) is key.
• Candidates should be able to explain how they approach learning and executing new processes or operational workflows.
• An understanding of how to ensure accuracy in processes like measuring, cutting, and assembly is important.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an entry-level retail operations role like this, a "portfolio" is less about formal documents and more about demonstrating practical skills and process awareness through interview responses and potentially answering scenario-based questions. The emphasis is on the ability to follow established processes and learn new ones.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Given the entry-level, part-time nature of the role and its location in Rosenberg, Texas, a typical hourly wage would likely fall within the range of $10.00 - $14.00 per hour. This estimate is based on general retail associate wages in the Houston metropolitan area, considering the specific duties of a custom framer which may command a slightly higher rate than a general sales associate due to specialized skills.

Benefits:

• Health Insurance: Medical, dental, and vision insurance are available, typically for full-time employees, but part-time employees may have access to limited benefits or eligibility requirements. The job description explicitly mentions "robust benefits for both full-time and part-time Team Members."
• Paid Time Off (PTO): Accrued paid time off is generally offered, with accrual rates potentially varying based on hours worked.
• Tuition Assistance: Programs may be available to support ongoing education and skill development.
• Employee Discounts: Significant discounts on Michaels products are a core benefit for team members.
• Other Potential Benefits: Depending on company policy and local regulations, benefits could also include retirement savings plans (e.g., 401k), employee assistance programs, and opportunities for advancement.

Working Hours:

• This is a PART_TIME position.
• Working hours will include nights, weekends, and early mornings, reflecting the typical demands of a retail environment.
• Specific hours will vary based on business needs and scheduling. The job description mentions "40" for ai_working_hours, which typically refers to a full-time equivalent, but given the PART_TIME designation, expect fewer hours per week, likely between 15-29.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on publicly available data for similar retail roles in the specified geographic region and the "entry-level" experience level. Benefits are confirmed as mentioned in the provided text, with a note on potential variations for part-time employees.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Arts and Crafts Retail. Michaels is a dominant player in the North American creative products market, offering a wide range of supplies for crafting, decorating, and hobbies. Company Size: Michaels operates over 1,300 stores across the US and Canada, indicating a large, established retail organization. This scale means structured operational processes and a defined corporate culture. Founded: 1973. With a long history, Michaels has a well-established brand identity and operational framework.

Team Structure:

• Store Level: The PT Framer will work as part of a store team, reporting to store leadership (e.g., Store Manager, Assistant Store Manager, or Framing Department Manager/Lead).
• Departmental Focus: While part of the larger store team, there's a specific focus on the Custom Framing department, requiring collaboration with other sales associates and operational staff.
• Cross-functional Collaboration: The role requires interaction with various store functions, including sales floor associates, cashiers, and potentially receiving/stocking teams, especially during truck unloads.

Methodology:

• Customer-Centric Approach: The company's purpose, "to fuel the joy of creativity," emphasizes a positive customer experience as a core driver.
• Process Adherence: Emphasis on SOPs indicates a structured approach to operations, ensuring consistency and compliance across all stores.
• Sales & Productivity Focus: The role is directly tied to sales performance and production efficiency within the framing department.
• Data-Informed Decisions (Store Level): While not directly managing data, understanding sales performance and inventory levels is part of the retail operational context.

Company Website: www.michaels.com

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's mission and size suggest a culture that values creativity, customer engagement, and operational consistency. The role is embedded within a familiar retail structure, offering opportunities to learn core operational and sales skills.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This position is an entry-level, part-time retail associate role with a specialization in the Custom Framing department. It serves as a foundational position within the retail operations environment.

Reporting Structure:

• The PT Framer typically reports to a Framing Department Manager or Lead, who in turn reports to the Store Manager or Assistant Store Manager.
• This structure provides direct supervision and guidance on framing-specific tasks and sales performance.

Operations Impact:

• The role directly impacts store revenue through custom framing sales and contributions to overall store sales.
• By ensuring quality and timely custom framing orders, the role enhances customer satisfaction and loyalty, which is a critical operational metric.
• Maintaining department presentation and stock levels contributes to the overall operational efficiency and shopping experience of the store.

Growth Opportunities:

• Within the Framing Department: Potential to advance to a Framing Department Lead or Manager role, with increased responsibility for sales, production, inventory management, and team training.
• Cross-functional Retail Roles: Opportunities to move into other specialized roles within the store, such as visual merchandising, inventory specialist, or key holder positions.
• Store Leadership: Progression to Assistant Store Manager or Store Manager roles, requiring broader operational oversight, team management, and P&L responsibility.
• Corporate Opportunities: For exceptional performers, potential pathways exist into corporate roles in areas like Merchandising, Operations Support, or Training, though this often requires broader experience.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth path within Michaels is typical for retail, starting with specialized roles and potentially expanding to broader management responsibilities. The skills gained in custom framing (sales, operations, customer service) are transferable to many other retail positions.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The work environment is a public retail store setting. This means a dynamic, customer-facing atmosphere with varying levels of foot traffic throughout the day. Office Location(s): The specific location is Rosenberg, Texas, within the Brazos Town Crossing shopping center. Store locations are generally in accessible retail hubs.

Workspace Context:

• Climate Controlled: Most public areas of the store are climate-controlled.
• Stock Rooms: Some stock rooms may not be climate-controlled, requiring adaptability.
• Frame Shop Area: This is a dedicated section within the store where custom framing work is performed, containing specialized equipment.
• Customer Interaction: A significant portion of time is spent on the sales floor and within the framing department, interacting directly with customers.
• Physical Demands: The role involves standing for long periods, regular bending, lifting (up to 50 lbs for heavy boxes/frames), reaching, and stretching. Accessing high shelves might require using ladders.

Work Schedule:

• Part-time: Hours will vary based on business needs.
• Flexibility Required: Employees must be available to work nights, weekends, and early mornings.
• On-site: This is an on-site position with no remote work component.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is typical for retail, emphasizing customer interaction and physical activity. The specific mention of the "Frame shop" and its equipment highlights a specialized workspace within the broader store setting.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process: The interview process for a PT Framer at Michaels typically involves:

1. Application Submission: Applying online through the Workday portal.
2. Initial Screening: Likely conducted by a hiring manager or HR representative to assess basic qualifications, availability, and alignment with company culture. This may include a brief phone screen.
3. In-Person Interview: A face-to-face interview at the store. This will likely involve:
   • Behavioral Questions: Assessing customer service skills, teamwork, problem-solving abilities, and how candidates handle specific situations (e.g., dealing with a difficult customer, managing multiple tasks).
   • Situational Questions: Presenting hypothetical scenarios related to custom framing, such as how they would consult with a customer on a framing project or handle a production issue.
   • Skills Assessment: Discussion of basic computer and measuring skills, and comfort level with operating machinery.
4. Potential Second Interview/Final Assessment: Depending on the store's hiring process, there might be a follow-up interview or a "day in the life" shadowing opportunity.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• No Formal Portfolio Required: As this is an entry-level role, a formal visual portfolio is not expected.
• Highlight Relevant Experience: Be prepared to discuss past experiences in customer service, sales, or any craft/art-related activities that demonstrate attention to detail, creativity, and problem-solving.
• Showcase Process Understanding: When asked about responsibilities, articulate how you would approach learning and executing the custom framing process, from customer consultation to order fulfillment, emphasizing accuracy and quality.
• Customer Service Examples: Have specific examples ready of how you've provided excellent customer service, resolved customer issues, or gone above and beyond to meet customer needs.
• Sales Acumen: If you have sales experience, be ready to discuss how you approach selling products or services and how you contribute to sales targets.

Challenge Preparation:

• Scenario-Based Questions: Prepare for questions that ask "What would you do if...?" related to customer interactions, operational tasks, or store policies.
• Customer Consultation Simulation: Be ready to walk through how you would consult with a customer on a custom framing project, asking relevant questions about their artwork, desired style, and budget.
• Operational Awareness: Understand the importance of accuracy in measuring, cutting, and assembling frames, and how to maintain a clean and safe workspace.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process emphasizes behavioral and situational questions to assess soft skills relevant to customer service and retail operations. Candidates should prepare to articulate their experiences and thought processes rather than presenting a formal portfolio.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• POS System: Michaels uses a proprietary Point of Sale (POS) system for transactions, customer management, and order entry. Proficiency in using such systems is essential.
• Custom Framing Equipment:
  • Mat Cutters: Essential for precise cutting of mat boards.
  • Frame Moulding Cutters/Chop Saws: Used for cutting frame lengths accurately.
  • V-Nailers/Frame Assembly Tools: For joining frame corners.
  • Heat Press: May be used for certain mounting or finishing processes.
  • Glass/Plexiglass Cutters: For custom sizing of glazing materials.
• Measuring Tools: Tape measures, rulers, and potentially specialized measuring devices for framing.
• Basic Computer Skills: For system navigation, email, and potentially internal communication platforms.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not directly responsible for analytics, the role may interact with systems that track sales performance and inventory levels. Understanding the output of these systems (e.g., sales reports) can be beneficial.

CRM & Automation:

• The POS system likely has CRM functionalities for tracking customer purchases and preferences.
• Automation is primarily within the framing equipment itself (e.g., precise cutting mechanisms) and POS system workflows.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core tools are the POS system and specialized framing equipment. Familiarity with any POS system is transferable, and the ability to learn to operate machinery safely and accurately is paramount.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Customer Focus: A strong emphasis on providing excellent customer service and creating positive shopping experiences, aligning with the company's purpose to "fuel the joy of creativity."
• Teamwork & Collaboration: Working effectively with fellow team members to achieve store goals and support a positive work environment.
• Integrity & Respect: Adhering to company policies, treating colleagues and customers with respect, and maintaining a positive and professional demeanor.
• Passion for Creativity: While not strictly operational, an appreciation for arts, crafts, and creativity can enhance the customer experience and personal job satisfaction.
• Efficiency & Accuracy: Maintaining high standards in custom framing production, inventory management, and operational tasks.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Support: Associates are expected to support various store functions as needed, fostering a collaborative environment rather than siloed roles.
• Open Communication: Encouraging open communication with store leadership and team members to address customer needs or operational challenges.
• Shared Goals: Working together to meet sales targets, maintain store presentation, and ensure overall customer satisfaction.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture values customer-centricity, teamwork, and integrity. For an operations role, this translates to executing tasks efficiently, accurately, and always with the customer experience in mind.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Multiple Responsibilities: Managing customer interactions, sales consultations, framing production, and general store tasks simultaneously.
• Meeting Sales Targets: Consistently achieving sales goals for custom framing services.
• Learning Specialized Equipment: Mastering the safe and efficient operation of framing machinery.
• Handling Customer Expectations: Meeting diverse customer needs and preferences for custom framing projects.
• Physical Demands: The role requires standing for extended periods and lifting moderately heavy items.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Custom Framing Skills: Developing expertise in design consultation, material selection, and precise fabrication techniques.
• Sales & Customer Service Skills: Enhancing consultative selling abilities and customer relationship management.
• Retail Operations Knowledge: Gaining experience in inventory management, visual merchandising, and POS system operation.
• On-the-Job Training: Michaels provides training on their specific processes, equipment, and sales methodologies.
• Potential for Advancement: Clear pathways exist for career progression within the framing department or other store roles.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary challenge for this role is managing the diverse demands of a retail environment combined with specialized production tasks. Growth opportunities are well-defined within the retail structure.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Customer Service Focus:
  • "Describe a time you went above and beyond to help a customer."
  • "How do you handle a situation where a customer is unhappy with a product or service?"
  • "How would you approach a customer who is unsure about their framing needs?"
• Sales & Framing:
  • "What steps would you take to consult with a customer on a custom framing project?"
  • "How would you try to upsell or offer complementary products/services in the framing department?"
  • "What do you think is important in creating a high-quality custom frame?"
• Operational & Teamwork:
  • "How do you ensure accuracy when performing tasks like measuring or cutting?"
  • "Describe your experience with cash handling or operating a POS system."
  • "How do you prioritize tasks when you have multiple demands on your time?"
  • "What would you do if you noticed a safety hazard in the store?"

Company & Culture Questions:

• Be prepared to discuss why you're interested in Michaels and specifically the PT Framer role.
• Research Michaels' commitment to creativity and customer service.
• Understand the company's values regarding teamwork and integrity.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Verbal Examples: Since no formal portfolio is required, be ready to provide clear, concise examples from your past experiences that demonstrate the skills and qualities listed in the job description.
• Situational Responses: Practice articulating your thought process for handling customer service scenarios, sales consultations, and operational tasks related to framing.
• Enthusiasm for Creativity: Convey genuine interest in arts, crafts, and helping customers bring their creative visions to life.

📝 Enhancement Note: Focus on demonstrating soft skills through behavioral examples and articulating a clear understanding of customer service and operational responsibilities. Be ready to discuss your approach to learning new processes and using specialized equipment.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your online application through the Michaels Careers portal.
• Prepare specific examples of your customer service, sales, and problem-solving experiences to share during the interview. Think about situations where you demonstrated attention to detail, accuracy, or went the extra mile for a customer.
• Research Michaels' core values and its mission to "fuel the joy of creativity." Understand how these translate into the daily operations of a retail store and the role of a framer.
• Familiarize yourself with the responsibilities outlined in the job description, particularly those related to customer consultation, framing processes, and store operations.
• Practice articulating your answers to common retail interview questions, focusing on the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for behavioral questions.

⚠️ 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.