Part Time Custom Framer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Part Time Custom Framer

Company: Michaels Stores

Location: Chicago-3131 N Clark St, Chicago, Illinois, United States

Job Type: PART_TIME

Category: Retail Operations / Customer Service

Date Posted: 2026-04-06

Experience Level: Entry Level (0-2 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Engage customers directly to understand their needs and provide expert custom framing solutions, driving personalized sales and production.

• Maintain exceptional store standards through effective merchandising, inventory management, and ensuring a safe, clean, and clutter-free shopping environment.

• Execute operational procedures accurately, including cash handling, truck un-loads, and stock replenishment, to support overall store efficiency.

• Uphold company policies and programs, demonstrating a commitment to customer satisfaction and operational excellence within a retail setting.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role, while framed as "Custom Framer," is fundamentally a retail operations position with a specialized focus. The emphasis on customer engagement, sales, and store upkeep, alongside the operational tasks, positions it within the broader retail operations and customer service categories. The "Part Time" designation suggests flexibility but also demands efficiency in completing assigned duties within shorter work blocks.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Actively build customer relationships by providing a personalized design experience using Elevated ABC Deliver, aiming to meet and exceed custom framing sales and production targets.

• Ensure all custom framing orders are completed with a high degree of quality, accuracy, and adherence to established timelines.

• Maintain the visual presentation and stock levels of the ready-made frame department, including SISO (Single Item, Single Out) and Directed Replenishment processes.

• Deliver friendly and proactive customer service, assisting shoppers with product location and offering solutions to enhance their shopping experience.

• Support the execution of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company programs, including shrink prevention and safety initiatives.

• Participate in the efficient and compliant unloading and stocking of merchandise from trucks, adhering to specific truck standards.

• Operate the cash register accurately and follow all cash handling procedures to ensure financial integrity.

• Acknowledge all customers promptly, assist them in locating products, and provide helpful solutions to their needs.

• Support and execute various Omni-channel processes as required, ensuring a seamless customer experience across all service touchpoints.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of direct sales (custom framing), visual merchandising, inventory control, and fundamental retail operations. The mention of "Elevated ABC Deliver" suggests a specific sales methodology or customer engagement framework that candidates should be aware of, likely focused on consultative selling and relationship building within the framing context.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: High school diploma or equivalent is generally expected for entry-level retail positions, though not explicitly stated.

Experience: 0-2 years of experience in a customer-facing role or retail environment.

Required Skills:

• Basic computer proficiency for operating POS systems and potentially order management software.

• Fundamental measuring skills to accurately record dimensions for custom framing projects.

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

• Strong customer service orientation with excellent interpersonal communication skills.

• Aptitude for learning and adhering to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).

• Basic understanding of inventory management and merchandising principles.

Preferred Skills:

• Prior retail experience, particularly in a sales or customer advisory capacity.

• Proven experience in selling products and/or services, with a focus on consultative selling.

• Familiarity with custom framing processes or art display techniques.

• Experience operating specialized equipment like heat presses.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirements emphasize practical, hands-on skills related to the framing process and customer interaction, rather than extensive theoretical knowledge. The "0-2 years" experience level indicates that the company is open to training individuals with a foundational understanding of retail and a willingness to learn specialized skills.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• While a formal portfolio is not explicitly required for this entry-level role, candidates who have demonstrated process improvement or successful sales initiatives in previous roles may highlight these achievements.

• Examples could include instances where a candidate improved customer satisfaction scores, streamlined a workflow, or exceeded sales targets through effective customer engagement.

Process Documentation:

• Candidates should be prepared to discuss their understanding of following established Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for custom framing, sales, and store operations.

• Demonstrate an ability to learn and implement new processes, such as Omni-channel fulfillment or specific sales methodologies like Elevated ABC Deliver.

• Highlight any experience in contributing to a safe and clean work environment through adherence to established protocols.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an entry-level part-time role, a traditional "portfolio" of project documents is unlikely. The expectation is more about demonstrating an understanding of process, adherence to standards, and a proactive approach to learning and contributing to operational efficiency. Candidates can prepare by thinking of examples from previous experiences that showcase these qualities.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $16.75 - $19.70 per hour.

Benefits:

• Health insurance (medical, dental, and vision)

• Paid time off (PTO)

• Tuition assistance programs

• Generous employee discounts on Michaels products

• Potential for other benefits as detailed on mikbenefits.com.

Working Hours: This is a part-time position. While the exact number of hours is not specified, typical part-time roles can range from 15-30 hours per week. The work environment includes nights, weekends, and early mornings, aligning with retail operating hours.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range provided is competitive for part-time retail positions in Chicago. The benefits package, particularly for part-time employees, is a significant offering, including health insurance and tuition assistance, which are often not fully provided to part-time staff in the retail sector. This indicates Michaels' commitment to employee well-being.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Arts and Crafts Retail. Michaels is a leading retailer in North America for arts, crafts, custom framing, and decorative home goods.

Company Size: Large (over 10,000 employees). This indicates a structured corporate environment with established processes and a significant retail footprint across the US and Canada.

Founded: 1973. With a long history, Michaels has developed a strong brand identity and operational expertise in the creative retail space.

Team Structure:

• This role is part of a store-level team, working directly with other sales associates, a frame specialist (if applicable), and reporting to store management (e.g., Store Manager, Assistant Store Manager, or Department Specialist).

• Collaboration is key, involving interaction with colleagues in various departments to ensure smooth store operations and customer service.

Methodology:

• Emphasis on customer-centric sales approaches, such as "Elevated ABC Deliver," to build rapport and drive sales.

• Adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for all aspects of store operations, from sales transactions to inventory management and safety.

• Data-driven decision-making is likely at a store management level, focusing on sales performance, inventory turns, and customer satisfaction metrics.

• Continuous improvement through team huddles, training, and feedback mechanisms to enhance operational efficiency and customer experience.

Company Website: https://www.michaels.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture at Michaels emphasizes creativity, customer engagement, and operational efficiency within a large retail framework. For operations professionals, understanding how to balance creative sales with strict operational procedures and customer service standards is crucial. The company's long history suggests a stable environment with well-defined operational processes.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is an entry-level, part-time position within the retail operations framework. It serves as a foundational role for individuals looking to gain experience in customer service, sales, and store operations.

Reporting Structure: Typically reports to a Department Specialist, Assistant Store Manager, or Store Manager, providing direct oversight and guidance on daily tasks and performance.

Operations Impact: While individual impact might seem small, collectively, Custom Framers contribute significantly to store revenue through direct sales, customer loyalty, and maintaining operational standards that ensure efficient store functioning and a positive customer experience. Their role in customer engagement directly influences purchase decisions and repeat business.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Development: Opportunity to become proficient in custom framing techniques, advanced sales methodologies (Elevated ABC Deliver), POS operation, and visual merchandising.

• Advancement within Retail: Potential to move into full-time roles, become a Lead Framer, or transition into other store leadership positions (e.g., Key Holder, Assistant Manager) within Michaels.

• Cross-Departmental Experience: Gain exposure to various aspects of retail operations, potentially leading to roles in inventory management, visual merchandising, or customer service specialization.

• Industry Knowledge: Develop expertise in the arts and crafts retail sector, understanding product lines, customer trends, and operational best practices.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an entry-level part-time role, the primary growth path involves mastering the immediate responsibilities and demonstrating potential for increased responsibility within the same store or transitioning to other roles within Michaels. The company's size offers a broad spectrum of opportunities for those who excel and show initiative.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is a customer-facing role within a retail store environment. The "office" is the sales floor and the dedicated custom framing area.

Office Location(s): The specific store is located at 3131 N Clark St, Chicago, IL. This is a high-traffic retail location in Chicago.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace includes the general retail sales floor, a dedicated custom framing counter/area equipped with specialized tools (e.g., glass cutter, framing equipment, heat press), and potentially stock room areas for inventory.

• The environment is dynamic, requiring constant interaction with customers and a need to adapt to varying demands throughout the day.

• Opportunities for collaboration exist with fellow team members to manage workload, assist customers, and maintain store standards.

• Access to necessary tools and technology, including POS systems and framing equipment, is provided.

Work Schedule: Part-time, with a schedule that includes nights, weekends, and early mornings. Flexibility is often required to cover operational needs during peak retail hours and seasons.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is typical of a busy retail store, demanding adaptability, strong interpersonal skills, and the ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously. The framing area itself requires precision and adherence to safety protocols due to the nature of the tools and materials used.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Application: Submit resume and complete any required online assessments or questionnaires.

• Phone Screen/Initial Interview: A brief conversation with an HR representative or hiring manager to assess basic qualifications, interest in the role, and availability.

• In-Person Interview: This is likely to involve a discussion about your customer service philosophy, experience with sales or framing (if any), and how you would handle specific retail scenarios. You may be asked to demonstrate basic measuring or computer skills.

• Practical Assessment (Potential): For framing roles, a brief demonstration of using a measuring tape or operating simple equipment might be requested.

• Final Interview/Onboarding: If selected, a final meeting to discuss terms, benefits, and begin the onboarding process.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• For this role, a traditional portfolio is not expected. Instead, prepare to discuss specific examples from past experiences that demonstrate your customer service skills, ability to learn new processes, and any sales achievements.

• If you have prior framing experience, be ready to describe projects you've worked on and your approach to design and execution.

• If you have no direct framing experience, highlight transferable skills from retail, customer service, or even personal creative projects that showcase attention to detail and problem-solving.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared for scenario-based questions: "How would you handle a customer who is unhappy with their framing choice?" or "A customer needs a frame for a very unusual item; how would you approach this?"

• Think about how you would explain the custom framing process to a customer who is unfamiliar with it.

• Consider how you would manage your time effectively if you had multiple framing orders and customer interactions simultaneously.

📝 Enhancement Note: The application process for a part-time retail role like this is typically streamlined. The emphasis will be on assessing soft skills, attitude, and basic aptitude for the core responsibilities rather than extensive technical expertise or a formal portfolio. Candidates should focus on showcasing their enthusiasm for customer service and their willingness to learn.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Point of Sale (POS) System: For processing transactions, managing customer accounts, and potentially tracking custom framing orders.

• Custom Framing Equipment: Including mat cutters, framing tools (e.g., saws, jointers), glass cutters, and potentially heat presses for specialized applications.

• Measuring Tools: Tape measures, rulers, and other devices for accurate project dimensioning.

• Basic Computer Software: For email, internal communication, and potentially simple order entry or lookup.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While direct analytics responsibilities are minimal for this role, understanding basic sales reports or performance metrics (e.g., sales per hour) may be part of training.

CRM & Automation:

• Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system: Likely integrated into the POS or a separate system to manage customer profiles, order history, and preferences for personalized service and repeat business.

• Omni-channel Fulfillment Tools: Systems to manage and process online orders for in-store pickup or shipping.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency with standard retail POS systems and manual measurement tools is essential. Experience with specialized framing equipment is a plus but likely trainable. The company likely uses an integrated system for sales, customer data, and order management.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Customer Focus: Prioritizing customer satisfaction through excellent service, personalized solutions, and a welcoming store environment.

• Creativity & Inspiration: Fostering an environment that celebrates creativity and helps customers bring their artistic visions to life.

• Quality & Craftsmanship: Commitment to delivering high-quality custom framing solutions that meet customer expectations.

• Teamwork & Collaboration: Working together effectively to achieve store goals, support colleagues, and ensure smooth operations.

• Integrity & Accountability: Upholding company standards, ethical practices, and taking responsibility for assigned tasks and customer interactions.

Collaboration Style:

• The team likely operates with an open-door policy for seeking assistance and sharing information.

• Regular communication during shift changes and through team huddles to align on daily priorities and customer needs.

• A supportive environment where team members assist each other in busy periods, especially within the framing department and on the sales floor.

• Feedback is likely encouraged to improve processes and customer service.

📝 Enhancement Note: Michaels' culture is built around fostering creativity and providing a positive customer experience. For operations, this translates to a need for individuals who are not only process-oriented but also enthusiastic about helping customers achieve their creative goals. The emphasis on teamwork is critical in a retail setting where workload can fluctuate.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Sales and Production: Effectively managing customer interactions and sales consultations while also fulfilling framing orders accurately and on time.

• Handling Diverse Customer Needs: Catering to a wide range of artistic styles, budgets, and framing requirements.

• Learning Specialized Skills: Mastering the operation of framing equipment, glass cutting, and design principles for custom framing.

• Maintaining Store Standards: Consistently upholding visual merchandising, cleanliness, and stock availability across departments.

• Adapting to Peak Seasons: Managing increased customer traffic and order volume during holidays and promotional periods.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Framing Expertise: Intensive training on custom framing techniques, materials, and design principles.

• Sales Training: Development in consultative selling, upselling, and building customer loyalty through programs like Elevated ABC Deliver.

• Retail Operations Skills: Gaining practical experience in inventory management, POS operations, visual merchandising, and safety protocols.

• Career Progression: Opportunities to advance to more senior roles within the store, potentially in leadership or specialized departments.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges in this role are typical of a customer-facing, specialized retail position. The growth opportunities are tied to developing expertise in custom framing and retail operations, with clear pathways for advancement within the Michaels organization.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Tell me about a time you helped a customer find the perfect solution to their needs." (Focus on active listening, problem-solving, and customer satisfaction).

• "How would you approach explaining the custom framing process to someone who has never used it before?" (Demonstrate clarity, patience, and an ability to break down complex information).

• "Describe your experience with sales or customer service. What do you enjoy most about it?" (Highlight relevant skills and genuine enthusiasm for customer interaction).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "Why are you interested in working at Michaels, specifically in the custom framing department?" (Research Michaels' mission, values, and product offerings. Connect your interests to their brand).

• "How do you handle working in a fast-paced retail environment with multiple demands?" (Discuss time management, prioritization, and staying calm under pressure).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Since a formal portfolio isn't required, prepare a concise "story" of your relevant experiences.

• Instead of showcasing physical work, focus on narratives: "In my previous role at X, I encountered a situation where Y happened. I addressed it by Z, which resulted in A."

• For framing, if you have personal projects or experience, be ready to briefly describe your process, materials used, and design considerations.

• Emphasize your ability to learn quickly and follow instructions, highlighting any past instances where you mastered a new skill or process.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating enthusiasm for creativity, a strong customer service ethic, and a capacity for learning and executing detailed operational tasks. Highlighting transferable skills and a positive attitude will be key for this entry-level role.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

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

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight customer service experience, any sales achievements, attention to detail, and any experience with tools or creative processes. Use keywords from the job description such as "customer service," "sales," "custom framing," and "merchandising."

• Prepare for Scenario Questions: Think of specific examples from past jobs, volunteer work, or even personal projects that demonstrate your ability to handle customer interactions, manage tasks, and learn new skills.

• Research Michaels: Familiarize yourself with Michaels' brand, values, and the custom framing services they offer. Understand the importance of creativity and customer engagement in their operations.

• Articulate Your Interest: Be ready to clearly explain why you are interested in this part-time role and how your skills and enthusiasm align with the requirements of a Custom Framer.

⚠️ 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.