Part Time Custom Framer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Part Time Custom Framer

Company: Michaels Stores

Location: Phoenix-4727 E Cactus Rd, Phoenix, Arizona, United States

Job Type: Part time

Category: Retail Operations / Customer Service

Date Posted: 2026-08-19

Experience Level: Entry Level (0-2 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role focuses on providing exceptional customer service within a retail environment, specifically within the custom framing department.

• Key responsibilities include building strong customer relationships through personalized design consultations and ensuring timely, high-quality completion of custom framing orders.

• The position requires maintaining visual merchandising standards for the ready-made frame department and other assigned store areas, ensuring a well-stocked and appealing shopping experience.

• Operational duties encompass accurate cash handling, assisting with inventory management and stocking processes, and supporting omni-channel initiatives to enhance customer convenience.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the job title is "Part Time Custom Framer," the description indicates a broader retail associate role with a specialization in custom framing. The emphasis on "building customer relationships," "helping customers shop," and "providing a safe, clean and clutter-free environment" suggests a comprehensive customer-facing role that extends beyond just framing. The inclusion of "Omni channel processes" points to a modern retail operation supporting both in-store and online customer interactions.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Engage customers in personalized design consultations to create unique custom framing solutions, driving sales and production targets for the framing department.

• Execute custom framing orders with meticulous attention to quality, ensuring all specifications are met and deliveries are on schedule.

• Maintain and merchandise the ready-made frame department, including SISO (Sales In Store, Ship Out) and Directed Replenishment, to optimize visual appeal and product availability.

• Deliver friendly and efficient customer service, assisting shoppers in locating products, providing solutions, and ensuring a positive store experience.

• Adhere strictly to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), company programs, and safety guidelines to ensure compliance and operational integrity.

• Participate actively in truck un-load and stocking processes, ensuring adherence to truck standards and efficient inventory replenishment.

• Operate the cash register accurately and perform all cash handling procedures to company standards.

• Support company-wide shrink and safety initiatives to maintain a secure and accident-free work environment.

• Foster positive interactions with colleagues and customers, demonstrating respect, positivity, and a commitment to organizational values and vision.

• Assist with the execution of omni-channel processes, facilitating seamless customer experiences across online and in-store channels.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of direct sales, customer service, operational execution, and team collaboration. The emphasis on "Elevated ABC Deliver" (likely referring to a specific sales and service methodology like Approach, Build Rapport, Close) suggests a structured approach to customer interaction and sales. The inclusion of "SISO" and "Directed Replenishment" points to specific inventory management and fulfillment processes within the retail context.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: No specific educational degree is mandated; however, a foundational understanding of basic math and measurement is essential.

Experience: A minimum of 0-2 years of experience is required, with a preference for prior retail or sales-focused roles.

Required Skills:

• Basic computer skills for operating point-of-sale (POS) systems and potentially order management software.

• Fundamental measuring skills for accurate custom framing order specifications.

• Ability to operate framing equipment safely and effectively.

• Proficiency with a glass cutter.

• Strong customer service orientation with an ability to build rapport and provide solutions.

• Cash handling and transaction processing accuracy.

• Basic merchandising and visual presentation skills.

• Ability to follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company directives. Preferred Skills:

• Previous retail sales experience, particularly in a consultative or design-oriented environment.

• Experience in selling products and/or services, with a proven ability to meet sales targets.

• Familiarity with custom framing processes and materials.

• Knowledge of inventory management principles.

• Experience with omni-channel retail operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Minimum Type of experience" section clearly outlines the essential technical skills required for operating framing equipment and handling basic measurements. The "Preferred Type of experience" section indicates that candidates with prior sales and retail experience will be more competitive, suggesting that selling skills and customer engagement are highly valued for this role, even in a part-time capacity.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• While a formal portfolio isn't explicitly requested for this entry-level role, candidates are encouraged to highlight any relevant project experience demonstrating:
  • Process Optimization: Examples of how you've improved efficiency or accuracy in previous tasks, even in non-professional settings (e.g., organizing a workspace, streamlining a personal project).
  • Metrics & Efficiency: Instances where your actions led to tangible improvements, such as completing tasks faster, reducing errors, or increasing customer satisfaction.
  • System Implementation: Familiarity with using tools or systems to achieve a goal, such as learning a new software quickly or utilizing a POS system effectively.
  • ROI Demonstration: While direct ROI might be difficult to showcase, focus on how your contributions positively impacted outcomes (e.g., increased sales, positive customer feedback).

Process Documentation:

• Candidates should be prepared to discuss their understanding of and adherence to established processes.

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Be ready to talk about how you approach tasks methodically and any personal strategies for making processes more efficient.

• Implementation & Automation: While this role involves manual equipment, discuss your ability to quickly learn and implement new procedures and utilize technology as directed.

• Measurement & Analysis: Demonstrate an understanding of how to track your own performance against goals (e.g., sales targets, order completion times) and how you use feedback to improve.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an entry-level, part-time retail position, a formal portfolio is unlikely to be a strict requirement. However, the emphasis on "Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)," "programs," and "processes" suggests that candidates should be prepared to discuss their ability to follow instructions and learn operational workflows. Highlighting any examples of methodical task completion, efficiency improvements, or successful use of tools in previous roles (even personal projects) can serve as a proxy for portfolio elements.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: As this is a part-time role at a national retail chain, typical entry-level retail associate wages in Phoenix, Arizona, are estimated to be between $13.00 and $17.00 per hour, depending on experience and specific store needs.

Benefits:

• 401(k) with employer match: Opportunity to save for retirement with company contributions.

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Confidential support services for personal and work-related challenges.

• Medical coverage: Health insurance options available for eligible employees.

• Dental coverage: Dental insurance plans for oral health needs.

• Vision coverage: Vision insurance for eye care.

• Telemedicine services: Access to remote medical consultations.

• Flexible spending accounts (FSAs): Pre-tax accounts for healthcare or dependent care expenses.

• Commuter benefits: Assistance with transportation costs for commuting to work.

• Tuition assistance: Support for continuing education and skill development.

• Adoption assistance: Financial support for employees pursuing adoption.

• Employee discounts: Significant discounts on Michaels products and services.

• Partner discount programs: Access to discounts with affiliated businesses.

Working Hours: This is a part-time position. Actual hours will vary based on business needs and scheduling, potentially including nights, weekends, and early mornings. The description mentions "40" in the ai_working_hours field, which is likely a placeholder or default and should be clarified with the employer regarding typical weekly hours for a part-time role.

📝 Enhancement Note: Based on typical retail wages in Phoenix, Arizona, for entry-level positions and considering the part-time nature of the role, an hourly wage range of $13-$17 is a reasonable estimate. The provided benefits list is extensive for a part-time role, indicating Michaels' commitment to employee well-being. Clarification on the exact weekly hours expected for a "part-time" role would be beneficial for candidates.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Arts and Crafts Retail. Michaels operates as the leading specialty retailer of arts, crafts, and home decor products in North America. This industry context means the company culture likely values creativity, passion for DIY projects, and a customer-centric approach focused on inspiring and enabling creative endeavors.

Company Size: Michaels Companies, Inc. operates over 1,300 stores in 49 states and Canada, employing a large workforce. This scale implies structured operations, established corporate policies, and a robust training infrastructure.

Founded: Founded in 1973 and headquartered in Irving, Texas, Michaels has a long-standing history in the retail sector, suggesting a stable and experienced organization with a deep understanding of its market.

Team Structure:

• Store-Level Operations: This role is part of a local store team, reporting to store management (Store Manager, Assistant Store Manager, or Department Specialist). The team typically includes various sales associates, framers, and potentially seasonal staff.

• Reporting Structure: Direct reporting to a store supervisor or manager who oversees daily operations, customer service, and sales performance.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Collaboration will occur primarily within the store team, including assisting customers from other departments, supporting stockroom operations, and working together during peak periods or special events. Interaction with corporate operations teams is minimal in this role.

Methodology:

• Data Analysis & Insights: While this role is not heavily analytical, success relies on understanding sales trends for framing and popular craft items, as well as customer preferences to drive personalized sales.

• Workflow Planning & Optimization: Adherence to SOPs for framing, customer service, and inventory management is critical. Opportunities for personal workflow optimization involve efficient task management and customer interaction.

• Automation & Efficiency: Use of POS systems for transactions and potentially inventory management tools. Efficiency is driven by accurate order taking, timely production, and effective customer engagement.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's mission to "fuel the joy of creativity and celebration" strongly suggests a culture that encourages artistic expression, community involvement, and a positive, inspiring work environment. For operations roles, this translates to a focus on customer experience, product knowledge, and maintaining an engaging store atmosphere. The large store count implies standardized operational procedures.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This position is an entry-level, part-time role within the retail operations and customer service spectrum. It serves as a foundational position for individuals interested in a career in retail, customer engagement, or specialized areas like custom design and sales. The scope includes direct customer interaction, operational tasks, and specialized craft/design support.

Reporting Structure: The Custom Framer reports to the store's management team, typically the Store Manager or an Assistant Manager overseeing the framing department or general store operations. This structure provides direct oversight and guidance for performance and development.

Operations Impact: The Custom Framer directly impacts store revenue through custom framing sales and general retail sales. They also influence customer satisfaction and loyalty by providing exceptional service and quality custom solutions. Their role in maintaining store presentation and inventory availability supports the overall operational efficiency and shopping experience.

Growth Opportunities:

• Operations Skill Advancement: Potential to become a full-time Custom Framer or Department Specialist, taking on more responsibility within the framing department or other areas like visual merchandising.

• Sales & Customer Engagement: Development of advanced sales techniques, customer relationship management, and product knowledge, potentially leading to roles like Sales Lead or Key Holder.

• Leadership Potential: With demonstrated performance and commitment, opportunities may arise for advancement into Assistant Management or Store Management positions, requiring broader operational and leadership skills.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an entry-level part-time role, the primary growth path is often within the store's operational hierarchy. The ability to excel in customer service, sales, and operational tasks like framing and merchandising can lead to increased responsibilities and potentially full-time roles or supervisory positions within the store. The company's size offers a broad landscape for internal mobility.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is a retail store environment, specifically a Michaels Arts & Crafts store. The workspace includes the main retail floor, a dedicated custom framing area (frame shop), and stockroom areas.

Office Location(s): The specific location is 4727 E Cactus Rd, Phoenix, Arizona. This is a public-facing retail store accessible to customers.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The role operates within a team environment where collaboration with fellow associates is essential for managing customer flow, supporting sales, and completing operational tasks. The framing area requires focused work but often involves customer interaction.

• Tools & Technology: Access to framing equipment (molding cutters, mat cutters, presses), glass cutters, a cash register/POS system, and potentially inventory management tools. A "basic computer skills" requirement suggests familiarity with digital interfaces.

• Team Interaction: Frequent interaction with customers seeking custom framing services and general retail assistance. Daily interaction with store management and colleagues for task delegation, support, and operational coordination.

Work Schedule: The role is part-time, requiring flexibility. Work hours will include nights, weekends, and early mornings, aligning with typical retail operating hours and customer traffic patterns. This schedule is common for part-time retail positions to ensure adequate store coverage throughout operating hours.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Work Environment" section highlights the dynamic nature of retail. The frame shop itself may have specific environmental considerations (e.g., dust, fumes from adhesives, sharp tools), while the main store is a climate-controlled public space. The mention of "some stock rooms may not be climate controlled" and "some outdoor work if assigned to retrieve shopping carts or while unloading trucks" provides a realistic view of the varied tasks and environments within the role.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Likely a brief phone or online assessment to gauge basic qualifications, availability, and interest.

• In-Person Interview: A one-on-one interview with the Store Manager or Assistant Manager. This will focus on customer service skills, retail experience, understanding of the role, and cultural fit.

• Practical Assessment/Demonstration: Candidates may be asked to demonstrate basic measuring skills or discuss their approach to customer service and problem-solving in a retail context. For framing, a brief discussion about their understanding of the process or willingness to learn will be key.

• Follow-up/Offer: Reference checks and a formal job offer if successful.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• No Formal Portfolio Expected: For this entry-level, part-time role, a formal portfolio is not anticipated.

• Highlight Relevant Experience: Instead, focus on your resume and interview responses to showcase:

  • Customer Service Examples: Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to describe times you provided excellent customer service, resolved issues, or went above and beyond.
  • Sales Aptitude: Discuss any experience selling products or services, and how you approach understanding customer needs to recommend solutions.
  • Process Adherence: Provide examples of how you follow instructions, learn new procedures, and maintain accuracy in your work.
  • Technical Aptitude: Mention any experience with tools, equipment, or basic technical tasks that demonstrate your ability to learn and operate framing equipment.

• Showcase Enthusiasm: Express genuine interest in arts, crafts, and helping customers bring their creative visions to life.

Challenge Preparation:

• Customer Service Scenarios: Be prepared to discuss how you would handle common customer inquiries or complaints (e.g., a customer unhappy with a framing quote, a customer looking for a specific craft supply).

• Problem-Solving: Think about how you approach challenges, learn new skills, and adapt to changing priorities in a retail setting.

• Teamwork: Discuss your ability to collaborate with colleagues and contribute to a positive team environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for a part-time retail role at Michaels will likely be straightforward, focusing on fundamental skills and personality fit. While a formal portfolio isn't required, candidates should be ready to articulate their skills and experiences through clear examples, especially those related to customer interaction, sales, and learning new processes. The "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodology mentioned in the responsibilities suggests interviewers might probe on how candidates build rapport and close sales.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Custom Framing Equipment: This includes specialized tools for cutting frames, mats, and assembling artwork. Proficiency with a glass cutter and framing equipment is explicitly required.

• POS System (Point of Sale): Essential for processing customer transactions, handling payments, and potentially managing custom order details. Basic computer skills are required for operating this system.

• Measuring Tools: Precision is key in framing, so accurate use of tape measures, rulers, and other measuring devices is fundamental.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Sales Reporting: While not directly managed by this role, understanding basic sales metrics (e.g., personal sales targets, department performance) is beneficial.

• Inventory Management Systems: May be used for tracking stock levels of framing materials, ready-made frames, and other store merchandise.

CRM & Automation:

• Customer Relationship Management (CRM): The "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodology and focus on building customer relationships suggest a CRM-like approach, even if it's managed through POS or manual tracking. The goal is to foster repeat business and loyalty.

• Omni-channel Support: Assisting with omni-channel processes implies interacting with systems that manage online orders, in-store pickups, and potentially ship-from-store operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack for this role is primarily focused on the physical tools of the trade (framing equipment, measuring tools) and the core retail transaction system (POS). The emphasis is on hands-on skills and accurate operation of these tools, rather than complex software analytics or automation platforms. Familiarity with basic computer operations is sufficient.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Creativity & Inspiration: Michaels champions creativity, encouraging both employees and customers to explore their artistic potential. This value translates to a supportive environment for creative projects and a focus on inspiring customer solutions.

• Customer Focus: A strong emphasis on providing friendly, helpful service to ensure customers find what they need and have a positive shopping experience. Building relationships is key to repeat business.

• Quality & Craftsmanship: For custom framing, a commitment to producing high-quality work that meets customer expectations is paramount. This value extends to maintaining store standards and product presentation.

• Teamwork & Collaboration: Working effectively with colleagues to achieve store goals, support each other, and maintain a positive work atmosphere.

• Integrity & Accountability: Adhering to company policies, SOPs, and ethical business practices, including accurate cash handling and safety compliance.

Collaboration Style:

• Customer-Centric Collaboration: Team members are expected to work together to serve customers, whether it's assisting with product location, processing sales, or collaborating on framing projects.

• Process-Oriented: A structured approach to tasks, following established SOPs and company programs to ensure consistency and efficiency across the store.

• Supportive Environment: A culture that encourages mutual support among team members, especially during busy periods or when learning new skills. Feedback is likely exchanged to improve performance and processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's stated purpose, "to fuel the joy of creativity and celebration," is the bedrock of its culture. For operations, this means a focus on enabling customer creativity through product availability, helpful service, and excellent custom solutions. The values likely emphasize a positive, encouraging, and collaborative atmosphere that mirrors the creative spirit of the products sold.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Multiple Roles: Juggling customer service, custom framing consultations, production, merchandising, and operational tasks within a part-time schedule.

• Meeting Sales Targets: Consistently driving sales for custom framing, which can be a considered purchase for customers.

• Managing Production Demands: Ensuring custom orders are completed accurately and on time, especially during peak seasons or when facing staffing shortages.

• Learning Technical Skills: Mastering the operation of framing equipment and glass cutters safely and efficiently.

• Maintaining Store Standards: Keeping the framing area, ready-made frame department, and other assigned areas clean, organized, and visually appealing.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Framing Expertise: Deepen skills in custom framing design, material selection, and production techniques.

• Sales & Customer Engagement: Develop advanced consultative selling skills, learn about customer psychology, and build strong client relationships.

• Retail Operations: Gain a comprehensive understanding of retail store management, inventory control, visual merchandising, and omni-channel operations.

• Product Knowledge: Expand knowledge of arts, crafts, and home decor products to better assist customers.

• Cross-Training: Opportunity to be trained in other store departments, broadening skill sets and increasing value to the team.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary challenges revolve around the diverse demands of a retail environment and the specialized nature of custom framing. Growth opportunities are firmly rooted in developing expertise within Michaels' operational framework, from product knowledge and sales to mastering the craft of framing and potentially moving into supervisory roles.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Customer Service Approach: "Describe a time you went above and beyond to help a customer. How would you handle a customer who is unhappy with a framing quote?" (Focus on empathy, problem-solving, and adherence to company policy/pricing.)

• Sales & Framing: "How would you approach a customer looking for custom framing? What questions would you ask to understand their needs?" (Demonstrate consultative selling, interest in their project, and ability to explain options.)

• Problem-Solving & Efficiency: "Imagine you have multiple framing orders due today and a rush customer walks in. How would you prioritize and manage your time?" (Showcase organizational skills, ability to assess urgency, and communication with management/customers.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "Why are you interested in working for Michaels, specifically in custom framing?" (Connect your interest to creativity, art, helping people, or retail experience.)

• "What do you know about Michaels' commitment to creativity and customer service?" (Reference the company's mission and values.)

• "How do you stay motivated in a retail environment, especially during busy periods?" (Highlight your positive attitude, teamwork, and focus on customer satisfaction.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• No Formal Portfolio Needed: As mentioned, a formal portfolio is not expected.

• Resume & Anecdotes: Prepare to discuss specific examples from your resume that demonstrate your skills. Use the STAR method for behavioral questions.

• Showcase Enthusiasm: Convey your passion for arts, crafts, or design. If you have personal framing or art projects, be ready to briefly discuss them as evidence of your interest and capability.

• Demonstrate Learnability: Emphasize your eagerness to learn the framing equipment, processes, and company standards.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating core retail competencies: strong customer service, sales aptitude, ability to follow procedures, and a positive attitude. For this specific role, highlighting any artistic inclination, attention to detail, or experience with tools will be beneficial. The interview will likely assess not just skills but also how well the candidate aligns with Michaels' creative and customer-centric culture.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

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

• Resume Customization: Tailor your resume to highlight any relevant experience in customer service, sales, retail, or hands-on work involving tools or precise tasks. Use keywords from the job description such as "customer service," "sales," "framing," "measuring skills," and "cash handling."

• Prepare for Behavioral Questions: Anticipate questions about your customer service approach, problem-solving abilities, and teamwork. Prepare specific examples using the STAR method to showcase your skills and experiences.

• Research Michaels: Understand the company's mission, values, and product offerings. Be ready to articulate why you are a good fit for their creative and customer-focused culture.

• Practice Demonstrating Skills: If applicable, think about how you would briefly explain your understanding of measurements or your approach to a customer consultation. Be ready to discuss your eagerness to learn the framing equipment.

⚠️ 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.