Retail PT Custom Framer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Retail PT Custom Framer
Company: Michaels Stores
Location: Cedar Park, TX
Job Type: PART_TIME
Category: Retail Operations / GTM Support
Date Posted: August 23, 2025
Experience Level: Entry-Level (0-2 years)
Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role serves as a critical touchpoint in the customer journey, directly impacting the in-store experience and driving revenue through personalized custom framing solutions.
• The Custom Framer is responsible for understanding customer needs, translating them into high-quality framing designs, and executing production with precision and efficiency.
• This position requires a blend of customer service, sales acumen, and operational execution within a retail environment, focusing on creating memorable customer interactions.
• Success in this role contributes to Michaels' overall GTM strategy by enhancing customer loyalty and driving sales in a key product category.

📝 Enhancement Note: While this role is in retail, its focus on custom solutions, client relationships, and product execution aligns with operational support functions that drive revenue and customer satisfaction, fitting within a broader GTM support context.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Customer Engagement & Sales:
  • Build and nurture customer relationships by understanding their needs and preferences for custom framing projects.
  • Utilize Elevated ABC Deliver methodology to provide personalized design consultations and recommend appropriate framing solutions.
  • Drive sales by effectively presenting product features, benefits, and value propositions of custom framing options.
  • Achieve personal sales and production targets through exceptional customer service and design expertise.
• Custom Framing Production:
  • Accurately measure and cut frames, glass, and mats according to customer specifications and quality standards.
  • Operate framing equipment, including mat cutters and framing tools, safely and efficiently.
  • Assemble custom framing orders with a high degree of quality and attention to detail, ensuring timely completion.
  • Maintain the ready-made frame department, including SISO (Sales in Store, Out of Store) and Directed Replenishment processes.
• Store Operations & Merchandising:
  • Ensure a safe, clean, and clutter-free environment for customers and team members, adhering to all Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
  • Assist with inventory management, including truck unloads and stocking processes, ensuring compliance with truck standards.
  • Maintain visual merchandising standards in assigned areas, including the ready-made frame department.
  • Support shrink prevention and safety programs through diligent execution of store policies.
• Customer Service & Omni-Channel Support:
  • Provide friendly and helpful customer service, assisting customers with locating products and offering solutions.
  • Operate the cash register and execute cash handling procedures according to company standards.
  • Assist with Omni-channel processes, such as buy online, pick up in-store (BOPIS) or ship from store, as needed.
  • Interact positively and respectfully with customers and team members, acting as a role model for company values.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities emphasize a direct customer-facing role that requires operational execution of sales and production processes. The mention of "Elevated ABC Deliver" suggests a structured sales and service methodology, common in GTM roles focused on customer experience and relationship management.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

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

Experience:

• 0-2 years of experience in a customer-facing role, preferably in a retail or service environment.
• Experience in custom framing, art, or design is beneficial but not strictly required, as training will be provided.
• Demonstrated ability to learn and apply new skills, particularly in operating specialized equipment and understanding product specifications.

Required Skills:

• Basic Computer Skills: Ability to navigate point-of-sale (POS) systems, basic inventory software, and internal communication platforms.
• Basic Measuring Skills: Precision in taking measurements, essential for accurate framing and production.
• Customer Service Excellence: Proven ability to engage customers, understand their needs, and provide solutions in a friendly and professional manner.
• Framing Equipment Operation: Willingness and ability to learn and operate framing equipment, including a glass cutter, with proper training and safety protocols.
• Cash Handling Proficiency: Accurate and secure management of financial transactions at the point of sale.
• Adaptability & Teamwork: Ability to adapt to changing priorities, work collaboratively in a team environment, and follow directives.

Preferred Skills:

• Retail Sales Experience: Prior experience in a retail sales environment, with a proven track record of driving sales and building customer relationships.
• Product Knowledge: Familiarity with art, design principles, and framing materials is a plus, enhancing the ability to provide expert advice.
• Visual Merchandising Acumen: An eye for detail and ability to maintain appealing product displays.
• Sales Process Orientation: Experience with consultative selling or solution-based selling techniques.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Basic Computer Skills" and "Measuring Skills" requirements are foundational for many operations roles. The emphasis on customer service, sales, and the ability to operate specific equipment points to a hands-on operational execution role within the retail context.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• While a formal portfolio is not explicitly required for this entry-level role, candidates with prior custom framing or design experience are encouraged to highlight relevant projects.
• Showcase examples of creative problem-solving or unique design solutions provided to customers.
• Quantify achievements in previous roles, particularly those related to sales performance, customer satisfaction, or production efficiency.
• Demonstrations of understanding and application of process standards or quality control measures in prior work are beneficial.

Process Documentation:

• Understanding and adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) is critical for consistent execution across all tasks.
• Ability to follow detailed work instructions for framing orders, ensuring accuracy and quality.
• Documenting customer interactions and design choices within the Point of Sale (POS) or CRM system (if applicable) may be part of the workflow.
• Participation in store operational processes such as inventory counts, stock replenishment, and visual merchandising updates.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an entry-level role, the "portfolio" is more about demonstrating a capacity to follow processes and deliver quality results. The focus is on the application of learned skills and adherence to established operational procedures rather than a pre-existing portfolio of complex projects.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on industry standards for part-time retail custom framers in the Cedar Park, TX area, the estimated hourly wage typically ranges from $13 to $17 per hour. This estimate considers the entry-level experience requirement, the specific skills involved (framing, sales, customer service), and the local cost of living.

Benefits:

• Health Insurance: Access to medical, dental, and vision insurance plans for eligible team members, supporting overall well-being.
• Paid Time Off (PTO): Opportunities for paid time off to ensure work-life balance.
• Tuition Assistance: Support for continuing education and skill development, aligning with Michaels' commitment to team member growth.
• Employee Discounts: Generous discounts on Michaels products and services, encouraging personal creativity and saving.
• Other Benefits: Potential for additional benefits such as 401(k) plans, employee assistance programs, and opportunities for advancement within the company.

Working Hours:

• This is a part-time position. Actual hours will vary based on store needs and scheduling, but typically range from 15-25 hours per week.
• Work hours include evenings, weekends, and potentially early mornings, reflecting the operational demands of a retail environment. Flexibility in scheduling is often required.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimation based on publicly available data for similar roles in the specified geographic area and experience level. The benefits listed are confirmed from the provided job description, with emphasis on aspects relevant to part-time employees seeking stability and growth.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Arts and Crafts Retail. Michaels is a leading North American retailer specializing in arts, crafts, and home décor products, serving a broad customer base ranging from hobbyists to professional artists. Company Size: Michaels operates over 1,300 stores across the United States and Canada, employing a large workforce. This scale provides opportunities for diverse career paths and significant market presence. Founded: 1973, with headquarters in Irving, Texas. This long history signifies stability and deep market understanding.

Team Structure:

• The Custom Framer is part of the in-store retail team, working under the direct supervision of Store Management (e.g., Store Manager, Assistant Manager, or Framing Department Manager).
• Collaboration is expected with fellow sales associates, cashiers, and other department specialists to ensure smooth store operations and a positive customer experience.
• The role involves cross-functional interaction with other departments for inventory management, visual merchandising, and customer service support.

Methodology:

• Customer-Centric Approach: The core methodology revolves around prioritizing the customer experience, from initial interaction to final product delivery.
• Process Adherence: Emphasis on following established Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for sales, production, safety, and inventory management to ensure consistency and quality.
• Data-Informed Operations: While not explicitly detailed for this role, broader Michaels operations likely utilize sales data, inventory levels, and customer feedback to inform staffing, merchandising, and operational adjustments.
• Continuous Improvement: Encouragement to learn new skills, adopt new processes (like Elevated ABC Deliver), and contribute to a more efficient and customer-friendly store environment.

Company Website: www.michaels.com

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture is centered on creativity, customer engagement, and operational efficiency within a large retail network. The scale of Michaels suggests a structured environment where adherence to processes is key, while also offering opportunities for personal growth and customer interaction.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned at an entry-level (0-2 years) within the retail operations and customer experience spectrum. It provides foundational experience in customer service, sales, and hands-on production within a specialized department.

Reporting Structure: The Custom Framer typically reports to an Assistant Store Manager or a dedicated Framing Department Manager, who oversees daily operations, team performance, and customer satisfaction within the framing department.

Operations Impact:

• Directly impacts revenue through custom framing sales, a specialized service offering that often carries higher margins.
• Influences customer loyalty and repeat business by providing exceptional design consultation and quality product execution.
• Contributes to the overall store's operational efficiency by accurately fulfilling orders and maintaining department standards.
• Plays a role in brand perception by embodying Michaels' commitment to creativity and customer satisfaction.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Development: Opportunity to become proficient in custom framing techniques, sales consultations, and customer relationship management.
• Retail Advancement: Potential to move into roles such as Lead Custom Framer, Sales Associate, Key Holder, or Assistant Store Manager, depending on performance and interest.
• Department Specialization: Deepen expertise in framing design, materials, and advanced production techniques.
• Cross-Training: Opportunities to gain experience in other store departments, broadening operational knowledge.
• Management Track: For individuals demonstrating leadership potential, a path toward store management roles within Michaels is possible.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role serves as a strong starting point for a career in retail operations, offering tangible skills in sales, customer service, and specialized production. The growth potential within Michaels is significant, particularly for those who excel in customer engagement and operational execution.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The work environment is a public retail store setting, specifically within a Michaels store. This includes the main sales floor, the custom framing department, and stockroom areas.

Office Location(s): Cedar Park, TX - 5001 183A Toll Rd, Ste E100. This location is a typical suburban retail setting.

Workspace Context:

• Customer Interaction Hub: The primary workspace is the custom framing counter and surrounding sales floor, where direct customer interaction is constant.
• Production Area: The frame shop itself is a specialized workspace with tools and equipment (mat cutters, framing tools, heat press, glass cutter) requiring careful operation and adherence to safety protocols.
• Climate Control: Most public areas are climate-controlled, but stockrooms may not always be, and outdoor work might be involved during truck unloads.
• Dynamic Pace: The environment is fast-paced, especially during peak shopping seasons and weekends, requiring the ability to multitask and remain composed.

Work Schedule:

• Part-time, with hours varying based on business needs.
• Schedules often include evenings, weekends, and holidays. Flexibility is key to meeting operational demands and customer availability.
• The role requires standing for long periods and involves physical activities like bending, lifting, and reaching.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is typical of a busy retail store, emphasizing customer interaction and hands-on operational tasks. The frame shop is a specialized area requiring technical proficiency and safety awareness.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Application: Submit resume and application online.
• Screening Call: A brief phone call with a recruiter or hiring manager to assess basic qualifications, availability, and interest.
• In-Person Interview: This typically involves meeting with the Store Manager or Framing Department Manager.
  • Behavioral Questions: Expect questions about customer service scenarios, handling difficult customers, teamwork, and problem-solving.
  • Situational Questions: Questions based on hypothetical scenarios related to framing consultations, production challenges, or sales situations.
  • Skills Assessment: Discussion of your measuring skills, computer proficiency, and any prior framing or sales experience.
  • Fit Assessment: Evaluation of your alignment with Michaels' culture and values, particularly regarding creativity, customer focus, and teamwork.
• Potential Second Interview: May involve meeting additional management staff or a more in-depth discussion of responsibilities.
• Offer: If successful, a job offer will be extended.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• For this entry-level role, focus on transferable skills. If you have prior framing, art, or design projects, be prepared to discuss them.
• Highlight any customer service success stories or instances where you went above and beyond for a customer.
• For sales experience, be ready to discuss your approach to understanding customer needs and recommending solutions.
• If you have examples of meticulous work or attention to detail (e.g., in crafting, hobbies, previous jobs), mention them.

Challenge Preparation:

• Customer Scenario: Be prepared to role-play a customer interaction where a customer needs help choosing a frame for a special item (e.g., a child's artwork, a wedding photo). Focus on asking clarifying questions, offering options, and explaining the benefits of different materials.
• Problem-Solving: Think about how you would handle a situation where a custom framing order is delayed or if a customer is unhappy with the final product. Emphasize communication, finding solutions, and escalating appropriately.
• Process Adherence: Be ready to discuss why following instructions and procedures is important in a retail and production setting.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is typical for a retail position, with an emphasis on customer service skills, operational aptitude, and cultural fit. Highlighting transferable skills and demonstrating a proactive, customer-centric attitude will be key.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Point of Sale (POS) System: Essential for processing transactions, managing sales, and potentially customer order tracking. Proficiency in using POS software is expected.
• Custom Framing Software/Design Tools: While not explicitly detailed, the store likely uses software to help visualize framing options for customers and generate order details.
• Basic Computer Applications: Standard office software for internal communication, scheduling, and potentially inventory management.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Sales Performance Metrics: Understanding basic sales targets and performance indicators for the framing department.
• Inventory Management Systems: Used for tracking stock levels of frames, mats, glass, and supplies.

CRM & Automation:

• Customer Relationship Management (CRM) System: Potentially used to track customer preferences, past orders, and design history for personalized service. Michaels may utilize a system that integrates with their POS for this purpose.
• Order Management Systems: To track custom framing orders from creation to completion.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is focused on retail operations essentials: POS systems for transactions and customer management, and potentially specialized software for custom framing design and order processing. Familiarity with retail software is beneficial.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Creativity: Michaels encourages a creative mindset, both in product offerings and in problem-solving for customers.
• Customer Focus: Prioritizing customer needs and delivering exceptional service is paramount, reflected in the "Elevated ABC Deliver" approach.
• Teamwork & Collaboration: Working effectively with colleagues to ensure smooth store operations and a positive shopping experience.
• Passion for Craft: A genuine interest in arts, crafts, and creating can enhance the employee experience and customer interactions.
• Integrity & Respect: Maintaining ethical standards and fostering a respectful environment for all team members and customers.
• Efficiency & Quality: Balancing speed with precision in production and service to meet operational goals and customer expectations.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Support: Team members are expected to support each other across different departments and tasks to ensure the store runs efficiently.
• Open Communication: Encouraging clear and respectful communication between team members and management.
• Shared Goals: Working towards common objectives, such as sales targets, customer satisfaction scores, and operational standards.
• Feedback Culture: Willingness to give and receive constructive feedback to improve performance and processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture at Michaels is steeped in creativity and customer engagement. The operational aspects emphasize teamwork, adherence to standards, and a commitment to delivering quality products and services efficiently.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Sales and Production: Effectively managing customer consultations and sales while also meeting production deadlines for custom framing orders.
• Customer Demands: Handling diverse customer needs, aesthetic preferences, and budget constraints in framing design.
• Pace of Retail: Adapting to the dynamic and often fast-paced nature of a retail environment, especially during peak seasons.
• Learning New Skills: Mastering the operation of framing equipment and understanding various framing materials and techniques.
• Physical Demands: Managing the physical requirements of the job, such as standing for long periods and lifting heavy items.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Framing Expertise: Develop specialized skills in custom framing design, material selection, and production techniques, becoming a subject matter expert.
• Sales & Customer Service Training: Enhance consultative selling skills, customer relationship management, and conflict resolution.
• Operational Proficiency: Gain experience in retail inventory management, visual merchandising, and POS system operations.
• Industry Knowledge: Learn about art, design trends, and the value of professional framing.
• Career Progression: Opportunities to advance within Michaels into leadership or specialized roles.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers significant opportunities to develop specialized skills in a niche area of retail, coupled with core competencies in customer service and sales. The challenges are typical of hands-on retail roles, with clear growth paths available for motivated individuals.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Customer Service: "Describe a time you went above and beyond to help a customer. What was the situation, what did you do, and what was the outcome?" (Prepare a STAR method answer focusing on empathy, problem-solving, and positive results.)
• Sales Approach: "How would you approach a customer who is unsure about which frame to choose for a valuable piece of art?" (Focus on asking discovery questions, understanding their aesthetic, and presenting options with benefits.)
• Problem-Solving: "Imagine a customer is unhappy with their custom frame because it doesn't match their expectations. How would you handle this?" (Emphasize active listening, apologizing, understanding the issue, and proposing solutions like remaking or offering a discount.)
• Process Adherence: "Why is it important to follow Standard Operating Procedures in a retail environment, especially when handling custom orders?" (Discuss consistency, quality control, safety, and customer trust.)
• Teamwork: "Tell me about a time you had to work with a difficult team member. How did you manage the situation?" (Highlight communication, professionalism, and focusing on shared goals.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about working at Michaels, and specifically in the Custom Framing department?" (Connect your passion for creativity or customer service to Michaels' mission.)
• "How do you define excellent customer service in a retail setting?" (Emphasize being helpful, knowledgeable, friendly, and efficient.)
• "What do you know about Michaels' commitment to creativity and its role as a creative destination?" (Show you've researched the company's brand and purpose.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• If you have relevant work (framing, art projects, design), prepare to briefly describe the project, the materials used, the problem you solved, and the outcome.
• Quantify achievements if possible (e.g., "Increased sales in my previous role by X%").
• Focus on demonstrating attention to detail, creativity, and a customer-centric mindset.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparation should focus on behavioral and situational questions that assess customer service, sales aptitude, and operational awareness. Demonstrating a passion for creativity and a commitment to following processes will be key differentiators.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Michaels Careers website.
• Portfolio Customization: If you have prior framing, art, or sales experience, tailor your resume to highlight quantifiable achievements and specific responsibilities related to customer service, sales, and meticulous work. For example, instead of "Assisted customers," use "Assisted an average of 50 customers daily, resolving inquiries and driving sales through product recommendations."
• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly lists "Basic Computer Skills," "Measuring Skills," "Customer Service," and any "Retail Experience" or "Sales Experience." Use action verbs that reflect operational tasks like "executed," "managed," "assembled," and "maintained."
• Interview Preparation: Practice answering common retail interview questions using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for behavioral questions. Be ready to discuss your understanding of customer service and your approach to custom sales. Prepare specific examples of your attention to detail and problem-solving abilities.
• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Michaels' mission ("Fuel the joy of creativity"), its product offerings, and its emphasis on customer experience. Understand the role of the Custom Framer within the broader store operations and how it contributes to the company's success.

⚠️ 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.