PT Framer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: PT Framer Company: Michaels Stores Location: San Diego, California, United States Job Type: PART_TIME Category: Retail Operations / Custom Framing Services Date Posted: September 14, 2025 Experience Level: Entry-Level (0-2 years) Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Engage with customers to understand their framing needs and provide tailored art and memorabilia framing solutions.
• Execute custom framing projects with high-quality standards, ensuring timely completion and customer satisfaction.
• Maintain operational excellence in the framing department, including product presentation, inventory management, and equipment upkeep.
• Operate point-of-sale systems, handle transactions accurately, and support omni-channel customer service initiatives.
• Contribute to a positive and productive store environment by adhering to operational procedures, safety protocols, and company values.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title "PT Framer" might suggest a purely production role, the description emphasizes customer interaction, sales, and relationship building, indicating a hybrid role that blends customer service, sales, and operational execution within the custom framing service. This is common in retail environments where customer-facing roles are also responsible for service delivery.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Build and nurture customer relationships by providing expert consultation and personalized custom framing solutions, utilizing Elevated ABC Deliver methodology to enhance the customer experience.
• Achieve personal sales and production targets within the custom framing department, contributing directly to revenue generation.
• Complete custom framing orders with a high degree of craftsmanship, precision, and adherence to delivery timelines.
• Maintain the visual merchandising and operational standards of the ready-made frame department and assigned store areas, including SISO (Single Item, Single Order) and directed replenishment tasks.
• Deliver exceptional customer service by assisting shoppers in locating products, providing solutions, and ensuring a well-merchandised, in-stock store environment.
• Operate framing equipment, including glass cutters and heat presses, safely and efficiently according to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
• Accurately operate the cash register and execute cash handling procedures to company standards.
• Acknowledge and engage with customers promptly, assist with product location, and offer solutions to meet their creative needs.
• Support and participate in omni-channel processes, such as buy online, pick up in-store (BOPIS) or ship-from-store, as required.
• Participate actively in truck unloading and stocking processes, ensuring adherence to truck standards and budget compliance.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a strong focus on customer engagement ("build customer relationships," "deliver friendly customer service") and sales performance ("deliver sales and production results") alongside the core framing duties. This suggests that candidates will be evaluated not only on their technical framing skills but also on their ability to drive sales and create positive customer experiences.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: High school diploma or equivalent is typically expected for entry-level retail positions. Experience: 0-2 years of experience is required, with a preference for retail environments and customer-facing roles.

Required Skills:

• Basic computer skills for operating POS systems and potentially internal order management software.
• Basic measuring skills for accurate custom framing order specifications.
• Ability to operate framing equipment and glass cutters safely and effectively.
• Strong customer service orientation with a friendly and helpful demeanor.
• Proficiency in cash handling and transaction processing.
• Ability to learn and apply product knowledge related to framing materials and techniques.
• Effective communication skills for interacting with customers and team members.

Preferred Skills:

• Prior retail experience, particularly in a sales or customer advisory capacity.
• Proven experience selling products or services, demonstrating an ability to understand customer needs and recommend solutions.
• Familiarity with custom framing processes and materials.
• Experience with visual merchandising and maintaining store presentation standards.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for "basic measuring skills" and ability to operate framing equipment suggests that while prior framing experience is not mandatory, a fundamental aptitude for precise work and hands-on tasks is essential. Candidates should be prepared to demonstrate their ability to learn technical skills quickly.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Examples demonstrating customer interaction and problem-solving in a retail or service setting.
• Documentation or descriptions of projects where attention to detail and quality were critical to successful outcomes.
• Evidence of ability to follow procedural guidelines and execute tasks with accuracy.
• Case studies or descriptions of personal sales achievements or contributions to team goals.

Process Documentation:

• Candidates should be prepared to discuss how they would approach learning and executing custom framing processes, including order taking, production steps, and quality checks.
• Ability to articulate how they would maintain a clean and organized workspace, adhering to safety protocols for equipment and materials.
• Examples of how they have managed multiple tasks or priorities effectively in a previous role.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an entry-level role like this, a formal portfolio is unlikely to be required. However, candidates should be prepared to speak to relevant experiences during the interview, potentially framing past projects or customer interactions as mini case studies that demonstrate key competencies. Highlighting any experience with detailed, hands-on work or customer consultation will be beneficial.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $18.25 - $21.40 per hour. This range reflects the company's commitment to competitive compensation for part-time roles, considering the blend of customer service, sales, and specialized skills required for the framing function.

Benefits:

• Health Insurance: Medical, dental, and vision coverage options are available.
• Paid Time Off: Accrued paid time off for vacation, sick leave, and holidays.
• Tuition Assistance: Support for continuing education and skill development.
• Employee Discounts: Generous discounts on Michaels products and services, including custom framing.
• Other Benefits: Potential for additional benefits as outlined by the company, such as retirement savings plans or wellness programs.

Working Hours: This is a part-time position. Actual hours will vary based on store needs and scheduling, but may include nights, weekends, and early mornings. The company notes that total base pay is for a full-time equivalent, implying that part-time hours will be calculated proportionally.

📝 Enhancement Note: The stated salary range is competitive for part-time retail positions, especially for roles requiring specialized skills like custom framing. The inclusion of benefits like health insurance and tuition assistance for part-time employees is a significant differentiator and should be highlighted by candidates as a key reason for interest.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Arts and Crafts Retail. Michaels is a dominant player in this sector, providing a wide range of creative products and custom framing services. Company Size: Over 1,300 stores across North America, indicating a large, established retail organization with significant operational scale. Founded: 1973, with headquarters in Irving, Texas. This long history suggests a stable company with established processes and a deep understanding of its market.

Team Structure:

• Store associates typically work within a departmental structure, with dedicated individuals for areas like Custom Framing, Cashiering, and Merchandising.
• The Framer will likely report to a Store Manager or Assistant Store Manager, with potential direct supervision from a Custom Framing Manager or Lead if the store is large enough.
• Collaboration is expected with fellow store associates, particularly in customer service, inventory management, and operational tasks.

Methodology:

• Emphasis on customer-centric processes, aiming to "fuel the joy of creativity" through personalized service and product offerings.
• Adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company programs ensures consistency and compliance across all locations.
• Focus on driving sales and achieving performance metrics, particularly within the custom framing department.
• Commitment to maintaining a safe, clean, and well-organized retail environment.

Company Website: www.michaels.com

📝 Enhancement Note: Michaels positions itself as a "creative destination," implying a culture that values creativity, passion for arts and crafts, and a customer-focused approach. The company's size means there are likely established operational frameworks and training programs, which can be advantageous for those seeking structured learning and development.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is an entry-level position within the retail operations framework, specifically focused on the custom framing service line. It provides foundational experience in customer service, sales, and operational execution within a specialized retail department.

Reporting Structure: The PT Framer reports to store leadership, likely an Assistant Store Manager or Store Manager, who oversee overall store operations and team performance.

Operations Impact: The role directly impacts store revenue through custom framing sales and contributes to customer satisfaction and loyalty by providing high-quality framing solutions and excellent service. Effective operations in the framing department can significantly differentiate Michaels from competitors.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Develop expertise in custom framing techniques, materials, and design consultation, becoming a subject matter expert within the store.
• Retail Leadership: Progression to roles like Custom Framing Lead, Department Specialist, Key Holder, or Assistant Store Manager by demonstrating strong performance, leadership potential, and a commitment to company values.
• Cross-Functional Experience: Opportunity to gain experience in other store departments, such as merchandising, inventory management, or visual display, to broaden retail operational knowledge.
• Training and Development: Access to company-provided training programs, including tuition assistance, can support career advancement within Michaels or the broader retail industry.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an entry-level position, the primary growth path is within the store operations structure. Demonstrating proficiency in sales, customer service, and operational tasks within the framing department can lead to opportunities for increased responsibility and advancement to supervisory or management roles.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Public retail store setting. The work environment is customer-facing, dynamic, and fast-paced. Office Location(s): San Diego-3994 Clairemont Mesa Blvd, San Diego, California. This specific location is a climate-controlled public retail space.

Workspace Context:

• The primary workspace includes the retail floor, customer service areas, and the dedicated custom framing shop.
• The framing shop is equipped with specialized tools such as a glass cutter and heat press, requiring careful operation and adherence to safety protocols.
• While most public areas are climate-controlled, some stock rooms may not be, and outdoor work might be required for tasks like retrieving shopping carts or during truck unloads.
• The environment fosters direct customer interaction and requires constant engagement with shoppers and team members.

Work Schedule: Part-time hours will vary based on business needs, including availability during evenings, weekends, and potentially early mornings. Flexibility in scheduling is often a requirement for retail positions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is typical of a retail setting, emphasizing customer interaction and hands-on work. Candidates should be prepared for an active role that involves standing for long periods, lifting, and working with tools and equipment. The mention of customer care at 1-800-MICHAEL for reasonable accommodation requests underscores the company's commitment to inclusivity.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Likely involves a review of the application and resume, focusing on relevant customer service, retail, or hands-on experience.
• In-Person Interview: Expect a one-on-one interview with a store manager or assistant manager. This will assess customer service skills, problem-solving abilities, enthusiasm for the brand, and basic aptitude for framing tasks.
• Skills Assessment: May include practical questions about handling customer inquiries, dealing with challenging situations, or demonstrating basic measuring/craftsmanship concepts.
• Final Questions: Opportunity for the candidate to ask questions about the role, store operations, and company culture.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• While a formal portfolio isn't typically expected for this role, candidates should prepare to discuss past experiences that demonstrate key skills.
• Frame retail experiences as examples of customer engagement, problem-solving, and sales contributions.
• If you have any creative or DIY projects, be ready to briefly describe them, highlighting attention to detail, precision, or customer-centric outcomes (e.g., creating a gift for someone).
• Highlight any experience with tools, equipment, or precise tasks that showcase manual dexterity and an ability to follow instructions.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be ready to answer situational questions like: "How would you handle a dissatisfied customer?" or "How would you approach a customer who seems hesitant about a framing purchase?"
• Prepare to discuss your understanding of Michaels' brand and its commitment to creativity.
• Think about how you would ensure accuracy when taking custom framing orders, considering measurements, materials, and customer preferences.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an entry-level role, the interview will likely focus on behavioral and situational questions designed to assess soft skills, attitude, and potential for learning. Demonstrating a genuine interest in art, crafts, and helping customers achieve their creative vision will be highly beneficial.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Custom Framing Equipment: Glass cutter, mat cutters, framing tools, heat press, potentially specialized saws or mounting equipment.
• Point of Sale (POS) System: For processing transactions, managing customer orders, and inventory lookup.
• Basic Computer Skills: For accessing internal systems, potentially order management software, and email communication.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not directly responsible for analytics, understanding basic sales metrics and inventory counts is beneficial for store operations.
• Familiarity with how sales performance is tracked through the POS system.

CRM & Automation:

• The POS system likely has CRM capabilities for tracking customer purchases and preferences.
• Familiarity with order management systems or custom quoting tools used in framing departments would be advantageous.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency with custom framing equipment is a core requirement, and candidates should be prepared for hands-on work. Familiarity with retail POS systems is also a significant plus, indicating an ability to adapt to operational technology quickly.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Creativity: Encouraging passion for arts and crafts, and helping customers bring their creative visions to life.
• Customer Focus: Prioritizing customer needs, providing exceptional service, and building lasting relationships.
• Quality: Commitment to delivering high-quality custom framing solutions and maintaining store standards.
• Teamwork: Collaborating effectively with colleagues to achieve store goals and provide a positive customer experience.
• Integrity: Adhering to company policies, ethical standards, and safe operational practices.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional interaction with other store associates to ensure smooth operations and a cohesive customer experience.
• Effective communication with customers regarding order details, timelines, and product suggestions.
• Working collaboratively with store management to meet sales targets and uphold operational standards.

📝 Enhancement Note: Michaels emphasizes a culture that supports creativity and customer satisfaction. Candidates should demonstrate an ability to work harmoniously in a team environment and a genuine enthusiasm for the arts and crafts sector.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Learning Curve: Mastering custom framing techniques, product knowledge, and operating specialized equipment can present a learning challenge for those new to the field.
• Customer Demands: Managing diverse customer expectations, varying project complexities, and potentially difficult conversations requires strong interpersonal and problem-solving skills.
• Pace of Retail: Adapting to the dynamic and often fast-paced nature of retail operations, including peak seasons and high customer traffic.
• Balancing Roles: Effectively juggling customer service, sales, production, and operational tasks within a part-time capacity.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Framing Expertise: Gaining hands-on experience and training in custom framing techniques, design principles, and material selection.
• Sales and Customer Service Skills: Enhancing abilities in consultative selling, customer relationship management, and conflict resolution.
• Retail Operations: Understanding store management, inventory control, merchandising, and loss prevention principles.
• Career Advancement: Potential to move into leadership roles within Michaels stores or pursue further opportunities in retail management or specialized craft industries.

📝 Enhancement Note: For individuals new to custom framing, the challenge lies in acquiring technical skills and product knowledge. The growth opportunity is significant, offering a path to becoming a skilled artisan and potentially a leader within a well-regarded retail brand.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Be prepared to discuss your approach to customer service and how you would build rapport with clients seeking custom framing.
• How would you handle a situation where a customer is unsure about the best framing options for their artwork? (Focus on consultative selling and problem-solving).
• Describe your experience with tools or equipment that require precision and care. How do you ensure accuracy?
• How do you manage your time when you have multiple tasks or customers to attend to simultaneously?

Company & Culture Questions:

• Why are you interested in working for Michaels, and what do you know about our company?
• What does "fueling the joy of creativity" mean to you?
• How do you contribute to a positive team environment?
• What are your strengths and weaknesses related to this role?

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• If you have any relevant examples of meticulous work, customer service success, or sales achievements, be ready to briefly present them verbally.
• Focus on showcasing your ability to learn, adapt, and provide excellent customer experiences, rather than formal project documentation.
• Be prepared to walk through a hypothetical customer interaction, from greeting to order completion, highlighting key steps and considerations.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating enthusiasm for creativity, a strong customer-first mindset, and a willingness to learn technical skills. Behavioral examples are key to showcasing your fit with the company culture and operational requirements.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Michaels Careers portal.
• Resume Tailoring: Ensure your resume highlights any customer service, sales, retail, or hands-on/craft experience. Quantify achievements where possible (e.g., "Increased customer satisfaction by X%," "Assisted X customers daily").
• Skills Showcase: Be ready to verbally articulate your basic computer skills, measuring abilities, and any experience with tools or detailed work. Emphasize your customer service aptitude.
• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Michaels' products, services (especially custom framing), and its mission to "fuel the joy of creativity." Understand the company's commitment to its team members and customers.
• Interview Practice: Prepare answers to common retail interview questions, focusing on behavioral examples that demonstrate your customer service, problem-solving, and teamwork skills. Practice discussing how you would approach the framing process from a customer's perspective.

⚠️ 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.