Part Time Custom Framer (Personal Designer)

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Part Time Custom Framer (Personal Designer)

Company: Michaels Stores

Location: Austin, TX, United States

Job Type: Part time

Category: Retail Operations / Sales Support

Date Posted: August 09, 2026

Experience Level: Entry Level (0-2 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is pivotal in driving sales and production within the custom framing department, focusing on building customer relationships and delivering tailored framing solutions.

• The position requires a blend of customer service, sales acumen, and operational execution to meet department sales targets and production deadlines.

• Responsibilities include operating framing equipment, managing inventory for the ready-made frame department, and contributing to overall store operational efficiency.

• Candidates will be expected to uphold company standards for customer engagement, visual merchandising, and adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title includes "Personal Designer," the core responsibilities and required skills suggest a role focused on executing custom framing orders and providing sales support within a retail environment, rather than high-level design consultation. The emphasis is on understanding customer needs and translating them into viable framing solutions using available materials and equipment.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Customer Engagement & Sales:

  • Embrace and execute the "Elevated ABC Deliver" strategy to build strong customer relationships and create personalized custom framing solutions.
  • Actively engage with customers to understand their needs, provide product solutions, and drive sales within the framing department.
  • Achieve assigned sales and production targets for custom framing orders.

• Production & Quality Control:

  • Complete custom framing orders with a high degree of quality, ensuring timely delivery and customer satisfaction.
  • Operate framing equipment and glass cutters proficiently and safely according to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).

• Merchandising & Inventory Management:

  • Maintain the ready-made frame department, ensuring it is well-merchandised, in-stock, and appealing to customers.
  • Support inventory management through directed replenishment and accurate stock processing.
  • Participate in truck un-load and stocking processes, adhering to established standards and timelines.

• Store Operations & Compliance:

  • Adhere to all Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and Company programs to ensure compliance with applicable laws and requirements.
  • Operate the cash register and execute cash handling procedures to company standards.
  • Support shrink and safety programs, contributing to a secure and accident-free work environment.
  • Assist with Omni channel processes, ensuring seamless integration of online and in-store customer experiences.

• Teamwork & Professionalism:

  • Interact with colleagues and customers in an accepting and respectful manner, maintaining a positive attitude, especially during challenging situations.

  • Serve as a role model by projecting a positive image and demonstrating commitment to organizational vision and values.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities emphasize a hands-on approach to sales and production within a retail setting. The "Personal Designer" aspect is integrated through customer interaction and solution-finding, rather than requiring a formal design background. Candidates should be comfortable with direct customer interaction, sales targets, and operational tasks.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• No specific degree is strictly required, but a background or interest in art, design, or visual merchandising is beneficial. Experience:

• Experience in a retail environment is preferred, particularly in customer-facing roles involving sales or service.

• Previous experience selling products and/or services to customers is a strong asset. Required Skills:

• Basic Computer Skills: Ability to navigate point-of-sale (POS) systems, basic software applications, and potentially online order management tools.

• Basic Measuring Skills: Precision in taking measurements for custom framing orders.

• Equipment Operation: Proficiency in operating framing equipment and glass cutters safely and effectively.

• Customer Service Excellence: Ability to provide friendly, helpful service, assist customers in finding products, and offer solutions.

• Cash Handling: Competence in operating a cash register and managing financial transactions accurately.

• Communication Skills: Ability to clearly communicate with customers and team members, listen to needs, and provide information.

• Adherence to SOPs: Willingness and ability to follow Standard Operating Procedures and Company programs.

Preferred Skills:

• Retail Sales Experience: Demonstrated success in meeting sales targets and driving revenue in a retail setting.

• Visual Merchandising: Understanding of how to present products effectively to enhance customer appeal and drive sales.

• Inventory Management Basics: Familiarity with stock processing, replenishment, and maintaining organized inventory.

• Problem-Solving: Ability to identify customer needs and offer appropriate framing solutions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "0-2 years" experience level suggests that individuals with minimal formal experience but strong foundational skills (like basic measuring, computer literacy, and excellent customer service aptitude) are encouraged to apply. The emphasis is on trainability and a willingness to learn the specific craft of custom framing and retail operations.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• While a formal portfolio is not explicitly required for this entry-level retail role, candidates are encouraged to highlight any relevant experience or projects that demonstrate their skills in:
  • Customer Interaction & Problem Solving: Examples of how they have successfully assisted customers, identified needs, and provided solutions.
  • Quality Execution: Instances where they have completed tasks with a focus on detail and quality.
  • Process Adherence: Demonstrating an understanding of and ability to follow procedures.
  • Sales Aptitude: Any experience or examples of driving sales or achieving targets.

Process Documentation:

• Candidates should be prepared to discuss their understanding of and experience with following established processes and SOPs.

• While not expected to create new documentation, the ability to understand and execute defined workflows is crucial.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an entry-level retail position like this, the expectation for a "portfolio" is more about showcasing transferable skills and experience through resume highlights, interview discussions, and potentially a practical demonstration of skills (like measuring or basic computer tasks) rather than a formal visual portfolio. The focus is on the candidate's ability to execute existing processes and learn new ones.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Estimated Range: $12.00 - $15.00 per hour (Part-time, Entry-level)

• Methodology: This estimate is based on typical hourly wages for part-time retail associates and custom framers in the Austin, TX area, considering the entry-level experience requirement. Regional cost of living and general retail industry benchmarks were also factored in. Specific rates will vary based on experience and the exact store's pay structure.

Benefits:

• For eligible team members, Michaels Stores offers a comprehensive benefits package:

  • Retirement Savings: 401(k) with employer match.
  • Health & Wellness:
    • Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for confidential support.
    • Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage options.
    • Telemedicine services for convenient healthcare access.
  • Financial Wellness:
    • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) for healthcare and dependent care.
    • Commuter benefits to support transportation costs.
  • Professional Development:
    • Tuition assistance for continued education.
    • Adoption assistance to support growing families.
  • Employee Perks:

    • Generous employee discounts on Michaels products.

    • Access to partner discount programs. Working Hours:

• This is a part-time position.

• Working hours will include nights, weekends, and early mornings, as required by store operational needs. Flexibility in scheduling is expected.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided salary range is an estimation. Actual compensation will depend on the candidate's qualifications, experience, and the specific pay scale of the Michaels store location in Austin. The benefits listed are standard for retail positions and are subject to eligibility requirements.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Retail (Arts and Crafts, Home Decor, Custom Framing)

Company Size: Large (Over 10,000 employees, with over 1,300 stores across North America)

Founded: 1973, headquartered in Irving, Texas.

Team Structure:

• This role is part of the store-level team, reporting directly to store management (e.g., Store Manager, Assistant Store Manager, or Framing Department Lead).

• Collaboration is expected with fellow part-time and full-time store associates across various departments, including sales floor, cashiers, and potentially other specialized roles.

• The framing department often operates with a dedicated lead or specialist, with other associates supporting sales and production. Methodology:

• Customer-Centric Approach: Michaels emphasizes creating positive customer experiences through helpful service and product solutions.

• Operational Efficiency: Adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) is critical for consistent service, safety, and inventory management.

• Team Collaboration: Stores operate as a team, with associates supporting each other to meet daily operational and sales goals.

• Data-Informed Decisions: While less direct for this role, store-level operations are guided by sales data, inventory reports, and customer feedback.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Michaels operates a large, established retail chain. The company culture is geared towards customer service, creative inspiration, and efficient store operations. For this role, understanding and executing company procedures (SOPs) is paramount, alongside a focus on sales and customer engagement.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Entry-Level Retail Associate / Specialist

Reporting Structure: Reports to Store Management (e.g., Store Manager, Assistant Manager, Framing Department Lead).

Operations Impact: Directly impacts store revenue through custom framing sales and customer satisfaction. Contributes to operational efficiency by maintaining department standards and supporting store-wide tasks.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Development: Opportunity to become proficient in custom framing techniques, sales strategies, and retail operations.

• Advancement within Store: Potential to move into lead positions within the framing department or other store departments, or to full-time roles.

• Cross-Training: Possibility of gaining experience in other store functions, such as visual merchandising, inventory management, or customer service.

• Long-Term Career: For individuals interested in retail management, Michaels offers a structured path for growth into supervisory and management positions within their extensive store network.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role serves as a solid foundation for a career in retail operations or customer-facing sales. The growth path is typically within the retail environment, emphasizing hands-on experience and progression through demonstrated performance and willingness to take on more responsibility.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Public Retail Store Setting

Office Location(s): Austin, TX (Specific store: 3201 Bee Caves Rd Ste 112)

Workspace Context:

• Customer-Facing Environment: Primarily works on the sales floor and within the custom framing department, interacting directly with customers.

• Tools & Technology: Access to point-of-sale (POS) systems, framing equipment (e.g., mat cutters, jointers, heat presses), and potentially inventory management tools.

• Team Interaction: Frequent interaction with fellow store associates, fostering a collaborative team atmosphere. The framing area may involve focused, individual work as well as collaborative problem-solving with colleagues or supervisors.

Work Schedule:

• Part-time schedule, requiring flexibility to work nights, weekends, and early mornings.

• The environment is climate-controlled in public areas, but stock rooms may not be. Some outdoor work may be assigned (e.g., retrieving carts, truck unloading).

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is dynamic and customer-focused, typical of a busy retail store. Candidates should be comfortable with a fast-paced setting, standing for extended periods, and performing physical tasks. The framing shop itself requires precision and attention to detail.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Application Review: Resume and application screening for basic qualifications.

• Phone Screen/Initial Interview: A brief conversation with a hiring manager to assess basic fit, availability, and interest.

• In-Person Interview: This will likely involve:

  • Behavioral Questions: Assessing customer service skills, problem-solving abilities, and teamwork (e.g., "Tell me about a time you handled a difficult customer").
  • Situational Questions: Presenting scenarios related to framing, sales, or store operations to gauge approach.
  • Skills Assessment: Potentially a practical demonstration of basic measuring skills or computer proficiency.
  • Company Culture Fit: Discussion about values and alignment with Michaels' mission.

• Final Decision: Based on overall assessment of skills, experience, and cultural fit.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• For this role, a formal portfolio is not standard. Instead, focus on preparing:
  • Resume Highlights: Clearly list any relevant retail, customer service, or sales experience, emphasizing achievements.
  • Anecdotal Examples: Be ready to share specific examples from past experiences that demonstrate your skills in customer service, problem-solving, sales, quality execution, and teamwork. Think about "STAR" method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for your examples.
  • Demonstrable Skills: Be prepared to discuss or demonstrate basic measuring skills, computer literacy, and any experience with tools or equipment.

Challenge Preparation:

• Scenario-Based Questions: Anticipate questions about how you would handle common retail situations, such as assisting a customer with a complex framing request, managing a busy period, or dealing with an out-of-stock item.

• Sales Approach: Be ready to discuss how you would approach selling custom framing services and identify customer needs.

• Operational Understanding: Prepare to talk about the importance of following SOPs, maintaining store appearance, and contributing to a safe work environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for this role will be typical for entry-level retail positions, focusing on assessing practical skills, customer service aptitude, and cultural fit. Candidates should be prepared to provide concrete examples of their abilities rather than a formal portfolio.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Point-of-Sale (POS) System: For processing transactions, managing customer orders, and potentially inventory lookups.

• Custom Framing Equipment:

  • Mat Cutters: For precision cutting of mats.
  • Glass Cutters: For sizing glass for frames.
  • Framing Tools: Such as jointers, staplers, and mounting equipment.
  • Heat Press: May be used for specific mounting or finishing processes.

• Basic Computer Systems: For clocking in/out, accessing training materials, and potentially basic order entry.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While this role doesn't directly manage analytics, understanding how sales and inventory data impact the store is beneficial. CRM & Automation:

• The POS system may have basic CRM functionalities for tracking customer purchases and preferences.

• Automation is primarily through adherence to SOPs and efficient use of equipment.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in operating specific framing equipment and POS systems is key. While advanced technical skills are not required, a comfort level with technology and a willingness to learn new equipment are important.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Customer Focus: Prioritizing customer needs and providing exceptional service to foster loyalty and drive sales.

• Creativity & Passion: Encouraging a love for arts, crafts, and creative expression.

• Quality & Craftsmanship: Commitment to delivering high-quality custom framing solutions.

• Teamwork & Respect: Working collaboratively with colleagues, valuing diverse perspectives, and maintaining a positive work environment.

• Integrity & Accountability: Adhering to company policies, ethical standards, and taking responsibility for tasks.

• Efficiency & Productivity: Striving for efficient workflows and timely completion of tasks to meet operational goals.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Support: Associates are expected to support other departments and colleagues as needed, contributing to the overall success of the store.

• Open Communication: Encouraging clear and respectful communication to resolve issues and share information.

• Shared Goals: Working together to achieve store-wide sales targets, operational standards, and customer satisfaction metrics.

📝 Enhancement Note: Michaels emphasizes a culture that blends a passion for creativity with the operational demands of a retail environment. Team members are expected to be supportive, customer-oriented, and committed to quality and efficiency.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Sales and Production: Juggling customer interactions and sales efforts with the demands of custom framing production can be challenging.

• Managing Customer Expectations: Effectively communicating timelines, costs, and design options to meet customer needs while staying within operational constraints.

• Physical Demands: The role involves standing for extended periods, lifting heavy items, and performing repetitive tasks.

• Fast-Paced Retail Environment: Adapting to busy periods, unexpected customer needs, and the general demands of a retail store.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Custom Framing Expertise: Becoming skilled in various framing techniques, material selection, and design principles.

• Sales Techniques: Developing effective sales strategies for custom products and services.

• Retail Operations: Gaining a comprehensive understanding of store operations, including inventory, merchandising, and POS systems.

• Customer Relationship Building: Enhancing interpersonal skills to build rapport and loyalty with customers.

• Potential for Advancement: Opportunities to grow into leadership roles within Michaels retail stores.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a hands-on learning experience in a specialized retail area. The challenges are typical of customer-facing retail positions, while the growth opportunities are tied to developing practical skills and demonstrating potential for increased responsibility within the Michaels organization.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Customer Service Scenarios: Be prepared to discuss how you would handle a customer who is unhappy with a framing quote, a customer who needs a frame urgently, or a customer who is unsure about design choices. Focus on active listening, empathy, and solution-oriented approaches.

• Sales Approach: How would you initiate a conversation with a customer about custom framing? What questions would you ask to understand their needs? How would you upsell or recommend complementary products?

• Operational Understanding: Discuss the importance of following SOPs in a retail environment. How would you ensure the framing department is always well-organized and stocked? What steps would you take to contribute to a safe work environment?

Company & Culture Questions:

• Why are you interested in working for Michaels?

• What do you know about our custom framing services?

• How do you handle working as part of a team?

• How do you stay motivated during a busy shift?

• What does "customer service" mean to you in a retail context? Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Since a formal portfolio isn't required, focus on preparing to verbally present:

  • Relevant Experience: Highlight past roles where you demonstrated customer service, sales, attention to detail, or hands-on work.
  • Skill Examples: Be ready to discuss your experience with computers, measuring, or any tool operation. If you have any personal projects involving crafts or design, briefly mention them to showcase your interest.
  • Enthusiasm: Convey your excitement about learning the craft of custom framing and contributing to the creative environment at Michaels.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview preparation should focus on showcasing transferable skills, a positive attitude, and a willingness to learn. Demonstrating an understanding of customer service, sales, and operational adherence will be key.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

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

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight any relevant customer service, sales, retail, or hands-on experience. Use keywords from the job description such as "customer service," "sales," "merchandising," "measuring skills," and "equipment operation." Quantify achievements where possible (e.g., "Assisted an average of 30 customers per shift," "Contributed to a 10% increase in framing sales through personalized recommendations").

• Prepare Your Examples: Think of specific situations where you demonstrated strong customer service, problem-solving, teamwork, or sales skills. Practice articulating these using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for potential interview questions.

• Research Michaels: Familiarize yourself with Michaels' products, services (especially custom framing), company values, and mission. Understand their commitment to creativity and customer experience.

• Practice Interview Questions: Review common retail interview questions and prepare thoughtful answers, focusing on how your skills and experience align with the Part Time Custom Framer role. Be ready to discuss your availability and enthusiasm for working part-time hours, including nights and weekends.

⚠️ 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.