Part Time Custom Framer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Part Time Custom Framer

Company: Michaels Stores

Location: Santa Maria, California, United States

Job Type: Part time

Category: Retail Operations / Customer Service

Date Posted: 2026-09-09

Experience Level: Entry Level (0-2 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Engage with customers to understand their framing needs and provide expert design solutions, driving sales within the custom framing department.

• Execute framing orders with a high degree of quality and adherence to production timelines, ensuring customer satisfaction.

• Maintain visual merchandising standards for the ready-made frame department and other assigned store areas to enhance the shopping experience.

• Provide exceptional customer service by assisting shoppers, maintaining stock levels, and ensuring a clean and organized store environment.

• Adhere strictly to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company programs to ensure compliance and operational efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is a part-time, on-site position focused on customer engagement, sales, and operational execution within a retail environment. The core function is custom framing, which requires a blend of artistic sensibility, technical skill, and customer service. The role is entry-level, suggesting a focus on training and development in these areas.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Build and nurture customer relationships through personalized design consultations, utilizing Elevated ABC Deliver methodology to offer tailored custom framing solutions.

• Achieve and exceed sales and production targets for the custom framing department by effectively selling products and services.

• Complete all custom framing orders with meticulous attention to quality and punctuality, meeting or exceeding customer expectations.

• Manage and maintain the visual presentation of the ready-made frame department, including SISO (Shop In Shop Out) and Directed Replenishment, to drive impulse purchases.

• Deliver friendly and proactive customer service, assisting customers in locating products, providing solutions, and ensuring a positive shopping experience.

• Ensure a safe, clean, and clutter-free store environment by adhering to all safety protocols and merchandising standards.

• Participate actively in truck un-loading and stocking processes, ensuring adherence to truck standards and efficiency targets.

• Operate the cash register accurately and execute cash handling procedures according to company standards, including managing transactions for custom framing orders.

• Acknowledge all customers entering the store, offer assistance, and guide them towards desired products or solutions.

• Support and execute Omni-channel processes, such as online order fulfillment or customer pick-ups, as required.

• Contribute to shrink and safety programs by following established procedures and reporting any potential risks or losses.

• Interact with colleagues and customers in an accepting, respectful, and positive manner, embodying company values and serving as a role model.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a strong emphasis on sales, customer relationship management, and operational execution. The mention of "Elevated ABC Deliver" suggests a specific sales and service methodology that candidates should be prepared to learn and apply. The role requires a balance between creative design, technical execution, and adherence to retail operational standards.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: High school diploma or equivalent required. Specific coursework in art, design, or a related field may be beneficial but not required.

Experience: 0-2 years of experience in a customer-facing role, with a preference for retail or sales environments.

Required Skills:

• Basic computer skills for operating point-of-sale systems and potentially design software.

• Fundamental measuring skills for accurate order taking and production.

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

• Strong customer service orientation with excellent interpersonal communication skills.

• Ability to engage with customers and understand their needs to propose suitable framing solutions.

• Basic understanding of merchandising principles to maintain department appearance.

• Proficiency in cash handling and operating a cash register accurately.

• Ability to adhere to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company policies.

• Physical stamina to stand for extended periods, lift heavy items, and perform repetitive tasks. Preferred Skills:

• Previous retail sales experience, particularly in a commission or target-driven environment.

• Experience in selling products or services, with a proven ability to close sales.

• Familiarity with art, design principles, or custom framing techniques.

• Experience with inventory management and stock replenishment processes.

• Basic knowledge of visual merchandising strategies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirements emphasize practical skills and a willingness to learn. While direct framing experience is not mandatory, the ability to operate specific equipment and a background in sales and customer service are key. The preference for retail and sales experience indicates that candidates with a proven track record in customer engagement and transaction handling will be strongly considered.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• While a formal portfolio is not explicitly required for this entry-level role, candidates are encouraged to highlight any past projects or experiences demonstrating attention to detail, creative problem-solving, or customer satisfaction in their resume or during the interview.

• Showcase examples of successful customer interactions or sales achievements that highlight relationship-building skills.

• Document any personal projects involving design, crafting, or meticulous work that demonstrates an aptitude for custom framing. Process Documentation:

• Candidates should be prepared to discuss their understanding of following established processes, such as Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for sales, production, and customer service.

• Ability to articulate how they would approach learning and executing specific framing production processes and quality control checks.

• Demonstrate an understanding of the importance of accurate order taking and data entry for custom framing orders to ensure seamless production.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an entry-level role like this, a formal portfolio is less critical than demonstrating a foundational understanding of processes and a willingness to learn. The emphasis will be on a candidate's ability to follow instructions, maintain quality, and engage with customers effectively within established operational frameworks.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $17.00 - $20.00 per hour.

Explanation of Range: This range is based on the provided salary information and reflects entry-level to slightly experienced positions in retail custom framing within the Santa Maria, California area. Factors influencing placement within the range include demonstrated skills, previous relevant experience, and interview performance.

Benefits:

• 401(k) with employer match: Provides retirement savings support with company contributions.

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Offers confidential counseling and support services for personal and work-related issues.

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Coverage: Comprehensive health insurance options for eligible team members.

• Telemedicine Services: Convenient access to healthcare professionals remotely.

• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs): Allows pre-tax contributions for healthcare or dependent care expenses.

• Commuter Benefits: Assistance with costs related to commuting to work.

• Tuition Assistance: Support for continuing education and professional development.

• Adoption Assistance: Financial support for team members growing their families through adoption.

• Various Voluntary Insurance Options: Additional insurance products for enhanced coverage.

• Employee Discounts: Significant discounts on Michaels products and services, a key perk for this role.

• Potential for overtime compensation in accordance with state and local laws.

Working Hours: Part-time position. Specific hours will vary based on store needs and scheduling, potentially including nights, weekends, and early mornings. The role is not expected to exceed 40 hours per week.

📝 Enhancement Note: The compensation is hourly, reflecting the part-time nature of the role. The benefits package is quite comprehensive for a part-time retail position, indicating Michaels' commitment to its employees. The employee discount is a particularly relevant benefit for a custom framer.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Arts & Crafts Retail. Michaels is the largest specialty arts and crafts retail chain in North America, offering a wide range of supplies for various creative pursuits, including custom framing.

Company Size: Over 1,300 stores in North America, indicating a large, established retail organization. This size offers stability and a structured operational environment.

Founded: 1973, headquartered in Irving, Texas. Michaels has a long history and significant market presence, known for its focus on creativity and customer engagement.

Team Structure:

• The Custom Framer will be part of the store's retail operations team, likely reporting to a Store Manager or Assistant Store Manager, with direct oversight from a Framing Department Lead or Manager.

• Collaboration will occur with fellow sales associates, cashiers, and potentially other department specialists within the store.

• Cross-functional collaboration extends to assisting with general store operations, truck unloads, and Omni-channel fulfillment, requiring teamwork across different store functions. Methodology:

• Customer-centric approach, emphasizing building relationships and providing solutions ("Elevated ABC Deliver").

• Process-driven operations, with a strong reliance on Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for consistency in sales, production, and customer service.

• Focus on visual merchandising and maintaining store standards to create an appealing shopping environment.

• Emphasis on safety and loss prevention programs to ensure a secure and efficient workplace.

Company Website: www.michaels.com

📝 Enhancement Note: Michaels fosters a culture centered around creativity, customer engagement, and operational excellence. The company's longevity and scale suggest a stable work environment with established processes. The framing department operates with a specific sales and production methodology, requiring adherence to detailed SOPs.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned at the entry-level within retail operations and customer service, specifically focused on the custom framing specialization. It provides foundational experience in sales, customer interaction, and operational execution within a retail setting.

Reporting Structure: Typically reports to a Store Manager or Assistant Store Manager, with functional guidance from a Framing Department Manager or Lead. This structure offers direct supervision and opportunities for learning from experienced team members.

Operations Impact: The Custom Framer directly impacts store revenue through sales of framing services and products. They also influence customer satisfaction and loyalty by providing expert advice and quality service, contributing to the store's overall brand perception and repeat business. Efficient operations in the framing department, including accurate order fulfillment, are crucial for profitability and customer retention.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Development: Opportunity to become a skilled custom framer, mastering design techniques, equipment operation, and customer consultation.

• Advancement within Framing: Potential to progress to a Framing Department Lead or Manager role, taking on more responsibility for sales, training, and operations within the department.

• Broader Retail Management: Possibility of transitioning into general store management roles (e.g., Assistant Store Manager, Store Manager) by demonstrating strong leadership, sales acumen, and operational proficiency across all store functions.

• Cross-departmental Expertise: Gaining experience in various store departments, contributing to a well-rounded retail operational skill set.

📝 Enhancement Note: While an entry-level role, Michaels provides clear pathways for growth. Success as a Custom Framer can lead to specialized leadership within the framing department or broader retail management opportunities. The focus on sales and customer service provides transferable skills applicable to many retail careers.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Public retail store setting. The work environment is customer-facing and dynamic, with a dedicated custom framing area.

Office Location(s): Santa Maria, CA (1321 S. Bradley Rd). This is a single, established retail location.

Workspace Context:

• The primary workspace is the retail sales floor and the dedicated custom framing shop within the store.

• The framing shop contains specialized equipment like a glass cutter and heat press, requiring adherence to safety protocols.

• Work hours include nights, weekends, and early mornings, reflecting the operational demands of a retail environment.

• Climate control is standard for public areas, though some stock rooms may not be climate-controlled.

• Occasional outdoor work may be required for tasks such as retrieving shopping carts or during truck unloads.

Work Schedule: Part-time, with hours varying based on store needs. Flexibility to work nights, weekends, and early mornings is essential. The schedule will be set in advance by store management.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is typical for a retail setting, demanding adaptability and customer focus. The custom framing area is a specialized workspace requiring specific equipment and safety awareness. Flexibility in scheduling is a key aspect of this part-time role.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Application review to assess basic qualifications, experience, and alignment with company values.

• In-Store Interview: Likely involves meeting with the Store Manager or Framing Department Lead. This stage will focus on customer service skills, sales aptitude, and basic understanding of framing or willingness to learn. Candidates may be asked to demonstrate measuring skills or discuss their approach to customer interactions.

• Practical Assessment (Potential): Depending on the interviewer, there might be a brief practical assessment involving basic measuring or explaining how they would approach a framing consultation.

• Final Interview (If applicable): May involve a broader discussion about career goals, team fit, and understanding of Michaels' mission.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Resume Focus: Highlight customer service achievements, any sales success, experience with detailed tasks, and examples of problem-solving. Mention any personal creative projects or experience with tools.

• Showcase Soft Skills: Emphasize communication, interpersonal skills, and a positive attitude, as these are critical for customer interaction and team collaboration.

• Demonstrate Learning Aptitude: Express enthusiasm for learning custom framing techniques, operating equipment, and understanding design principles.

Challenge Preparation:

• Customer Scenario: Be prepared to role-play a customer interaction where a client needs help selecting a frame for a piece of art. Focus on asking clarifying questions, offering design options, and explaining the process.

• Problem-Solving: Think about how you would handle a situation where a customer is unhappy with a framing order or if there's a production delay. Focus on empathy, finding solutions, and escalating appropriately.

• Company Knowledge: Research Michaels' brand, its commitment to creativity, and its customer service philosophy. Be ready to articulate why you want to work for Michaels and in custom framing.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will likely be hands-on and focused on assessing practical skills and customer-facing abilities. While a formal portfolio isn't expected, candidates should be ready to "show" their capabilities through resume highlights, interview responses, and potential practical demonstrations.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Point-of-Sale (POS) System: For processing sales, handling transactions, and potentially managing custom framing orders.

• Framing Equipment: Standard framing tools including mat cutters, saws, assembly tools, and potentially specialized equipment like a heat press.

• Glass Cutter: Essential for cutting glass or acrylic to size for frames.

• Measuring Tools: Tape measures, rulers, and potentially specialized framing measuring devices.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Basic reporting related to sales performance and order volume may be accessed through the POS system. CRM & Automation:

• While not explicitly detailed, the "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodology likely involves elements of customer relationship management (CRM) for tracking customer preferences and sales interactions.

• Omni-channel processes may involve integration with online order systems.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is primarily focused on operational retail tools and specialized framing equipment. Proficiency with basic computer systems and a willingness to learn proprietary POS and CRM functionalities are expected. The emphasis is on hands-on use of tools rather than complex software analytics.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Creativity: Encouraging and supporting the creative endeavors of customers and team members.

• Customer Focus: Prioritizing customer needs and satisfaction through exceptional service and personalized solutions.

• Quality: Commitment to delivering high-quality custom framing products and maintaining store standards.

• Teamwork: Fostering a collaborative environment where team members support each other to achieve store goals.

• Integrity: Adhering to company policies, ethical practices, and accurate transaction handling.

• Efficiency: Striving for operational excellence in sales, production, and store maintenance.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Support: Team members are expected to assist across different store functions as needed, from sales floor support to stockroom tasks.

• Open Communication: Encouraging clear communication and feedback to ensure smooth operations and resolve issues effectively.

• Shared Goals: Working together to meet store-wide sales targets, maintain operational standards, and provide a positive customer experience.

📝 Enhancement Note: Michaels values a culture that blends creativity with operational discipline. Team members are expected to be customer-centric, collaborative, and committed to quality and efficiency. The company culture emphasizes personal growth and a positive work environment.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Sales and Production: Effectively managing customer consultations and sales while also meeting production deadlines for custom framing orders.

• Artistic Interpretation: Translating customer visions into tangible framing solutions, requiring good design sense and communication.

• Handling Diverse Customer Needs: Catering to a wide range of customer expectations, budgets, and artistic preferences.

• Physical Demands: The role involves standing for long periods, lifting heavy items, and working with sharp tools, which can be physically demanding.

• Learning Curve: Mastering the technical aspects of framing, operating equipment, and understanding design principles for those new to the craft.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• On-the-Job Training: Comprehensive training on custom framing techniques, design consultation, equipment operation, and sales processes.

• Product Knowledge: Continuous learning about different types of mouldings, mats, glass, and preservation techniques.

• Sales Skills Enhancement: Development of consultative selling skills to effectively present framing solutions and close sales.

• Potential for Certification: Opportunities to gain recognized certifications in custom framing through industry associations if pursued independently or supported by the company.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents opportunities to develop specialized skills in a creative industry while also building a strong foundation in retail operations and customer service. Challenges are primarily related to skill acquisition, balancing multiple demands, and physical requirements, with clear learning pathways available.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you helped a customer find the perfect solution for their needs. How did you approach it?" (Focus on active listening, problem-solving, and customer satisfaction.)

• "Imagine a customer wants to frame a valuable piece of art but has a limited budget. How would you guide them?" (Demonstrate understanding of offering options, value proposition, and managing expectations.)

• "How do you stay organized and ensure accuracy when dealing with multiple tasks or orders?" (Highlight attention to detail, time management, and methodical approaches.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "Why are you interested in working for Michaels, specifically in the Custom Framing department?" (Connect your passion for creativity, art, or customer service to Michaels' mission.)

• "How do you handle constructive criticism or feedback on your work?" (Show receptiveness to learning and improvement.)

• "What does 'customer service' mean to you in a retail environment?" (Emphasize proactive engagement, problem-solving, and creating positive experiences.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Resume Highlights: Be prepared to elaborate on any specific achievements or experiences listed on your resume that showcase relevant skills (e.g., attention to detail, customer interaction, creative projects).

• Showcase Aptitude: If you have personal projects involving design or crafting, be ready to briefly describe them and what you learned.

• Enthusiasm for Learning: Express a strong desire to learn the craft of custom framing and become proficient with the tools and techniques.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating excellent customer service skills, a proactive sales attitude, attention to detail, and a genuine interest in the creative aspects of custom framing and the Michaels brand. Be ready to discuss how you would handle customer interactions and learn new skills.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided application link on the Michaels careers portal.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight customer service experience, any sales achievements, attention to detail, and any creative or hands-on skills. Use keywords from the job description such as "customer service," "sales," "merchandising," and "detail-oriented."

• Prepare for Interview Scenarios: Practice answering common retail interview questions, especially those related to customer service, problem-solving, and sales. Be ready to discuss how you would handle specific framing consultation scenarios.

• Research Michaels: Familiarize yourself with Michaels' mission, values, and product offerings. Understand their commitment to creativity and customer experience. Be prepared to articulate why you are a good fit for their culture.

• Highlight Aptitude for Learning: Since this is an entry-level role, emphasize your willingness and ability to learn new skills, operate equipment, and master the art of custom framing.

⚠️ 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.