PART TIME FRAMER ASSOCIATE

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Part-Time Framer Associate
Company: Michaels Stores
Location: Thornton, Colorado, United States
Job Type: Part-Time
Category: Retail Operations / Custom Framing Specialist
Date Posted: May 11, 2026
Experience Level: Entry-Level to 2 Years
Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Drive customer engagement and build lasting relationships by providing expert custom framing solutions.
• Ensure operational excellence through adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company programs.
• Facilitate a positive shopping experience by maintaining store presentation, stock levels, and customer assistance.
• Execute efficient sales and production processes, including accurate order completion and cash handling.
• Contribute to a safe and efficient work environment through participation in inventory management and safety programs.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a "Framer Associate," indicating a specialized focus on the custom framing department within a retail environment. While the core duties involve direct customer interaction and sales, the emphasis on "creating a memorable framing solution" suggests a need for consultative selling and product knowledge specific to framing services. The "Part-Time" designation implies flexibility and a focus on core operational tasks during scheduled shifts.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Customer Engagement & Sales:
  • Build and nurture customer relationships through personalized consultations using the "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodology.
  • Actively engage customers to understand their framing needs and recommend suitable solutions.
  • Drive sales for custom framing services and related products.
  • Provide friendly and efficient customer service, assisting with product location and problem-solving.
• Custom Framing Production & Quality:
  • Complete custom framing orders with a high degree of quality and within established timelines.
  • Operate framing equipment and glass cutters safely and effectively.
  • Ensure the ready-made frame department and other assigned areas are well-maintained and organized.
• Store Operations & Merchandising:
  • Adhere strictly to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company programs to ensure compliance and operational consistency.
  • Maintain a safe, clean, and clutter-free store environment.
  • Participate actively in truck unload and stocking processes, ensuring adherence to store standards.
  • Manage inventory for the ready-made frame department and support stock replenishment initiatives (SISO and Directed Replenishment).
• Point of Sale & Omni-channel Support:
  • Operate the cash register and execute cash handling procedures according to company standards.
  • Assist with and support Omni-channel processes, ensuring a seamless customer experience across all touchpoints.
• Team Collaboration & Safety:
  • Interact positively and respectfully with colleagues, promoting a team-oriented environment.
  • Support company-wide shrink and safety programs.
  • Serve as a role model by embodying the organization's vision and values.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a dual role: direct customer-facing sales and consultation within the custom framing department, coupled with essential retail operations tasks. The mention of "Elevated ABC Deliver" suggests a specific sales methodology that candidates should be aware of. The inclusion of "SISO" (Sounds like, Sounds like) and "Directed Replenishment" points to inventory management strategies that may require specific training or prior experience.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Not specified, but a strong understanding of basic math and measurement is essential.
Experience:

• 0-2 years of experience in a customer-facing role, preferably within a retail or service environment.
• Demonstrated ability to learn and operate specialized equipment.

Required Skills:

• Basic Computer Skills: Ability to navigate point-of-sale (POS) systems and basic computer applications.
• Basic Measuring Skills: Precision and accuracy in taking measurements for framing projects.
• Equipment Operation: Proficiency or ability to quickly learn to operate framing equipment and glass cutters.
• Customer Service Excellence: Proven ability to engage customers, understand needs, and provide solutions.
• Cash Handling: Accurate and reliable management of financial transactions.
• Teamwork & Communication: Ability to collaborate effectively with team members and communicate clearly.
• Adherence to Standards: Willingness and ability to follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company policies.

Preferred Skills:

• Retail Experience: Prior experience working in a retail store setting.
• Sales Acumen: Experience in selling products or services, particularly in a consultative manner.
• Visual Merchandising: An eye for presentation and ability to maintain appealing retail displays.
• Custom Framing Knowledge: Familiarity with framing techniques, materials, and design principles.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirements are geared towards an entry-level to early-career professional. The emphasis on "basic" skills suggests that extensive prior experience in custom framing is not mandatory, but a aptitude for learning and a strong customer service orientation are key. Retail experience and sales aptitude are listed as preferred, indicating a desire for candidates who can quickly contribute to sales targets.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• While a formal portfolio is not explicitly requested, candidates are encouraged to prepare examples showcasing:
  • Customer Interaction Scenarios: Instances where they successfully understood customer needs and provided effective solutions, particularly in a consultative sales context.
  • Problem-Solving Examples: Situations where they encountered and resolved challenges related to customer service, operational tasks, or production.
  • Process Adherence: Demonstrations of their ability to follow instructions and procedures accurately, especially in technical or safety-critical environments.
• Measurement & Accuracy: Evidence of meticulousness in tasks requiring precision, such as measurements or order details.

Process Documentation:

• Candidates should be prepared to discuss their understanding of and ability to follow:
  • Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs): How they approach learning and implementing new procedural guidelines.
  • Production Workflows: Their approach to completing tasks efficiently and accurately, from order intake to final product delivery.
  • Inventory Management: Basic understanding of stock rotation, replenishment, and maintaining organized retail spaces.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the entry-level nature of the role, a traditional portfolio showcasing complex operations projects is unlikely. Instead, the focus should be on demonstrating practical skills and a process-oriented mindset through examples of past work experiences, problem-solving abilities, and adherence to established procedures. The ability to articulate how they would approach learning and executing framing processes is crucial.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $15.25 - $17.90 per hour.
Explanation of Range: This range is based on the provided pay information for the Part-Time Framer Associate position at Michaels Stores. It reflects entry-level to intermediate pay for part-time retail roles with specialized responsibilities in the Thornton, Colorado area, considering the company's stated pay range.

Benefits:

• Health Insurance: Comprehensive coverage including medical, dental, and vision plans.
• Paid Time Off (PTO): Accrued time off for vacation, personal needs, or illness.
• Tuition Assistance: Support for continuing education and professional development.
• Employee Discounts: Generous discounts on Michaels products and services.
• Other Benefits: Additional benefits as detailed on mikbenefits.com, potentially including retirement savings plans or wellness programs.

Working Hours: Part-time. While the exact number of hours per week is not specified, part-time roles typically involve fewer than 30-40 hours. Work hours include nights, weekends, and early mornings, requiring flexibility.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is clearly stated. The benefits package is robust for a part-time retail position, with health insurance, PTO, and tuition assistance being significant draws for candidates seeking comprehensive support. The note about work hours emphasizes the need for flexibility, a common requirement for part-time retail roles, especially in customer-facing positions that require coverage during peak shopping times and diverse operational needs.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Arts and Crafts Retail. Michaels is a leading retailer in North America for arts, crafts, and framing products. Company Size: Large (over 1,000 employees, with thousands of employees across numerous stores). This scale means established processes and a structured corporate environment. Founded: 1973. With a long history, Michaels has developed significant brand recognition and operational expertise in the retail sector.

Team Structure:

• Store-Level Operations: This role is part of a local store team, reporting to store management (potentially a Framing Manager or Store Manager).
• Cross-functional Collaboration: Daily interaction with fellow sales associates, potentially cashiers, and visual merchandisers. Collaboration is key for maintaining store appearance, customer flow, and efficient operations.
• Specialized Department: The Framing Associate works within a dedicated custom framing department, requiring close coordination with other framers or department leads.

Methodology:

• Customer-Centric Approach: Emphasis on building customer relationships and providing tailored solutions, as indicated by "Elevated ABC Deliver."
• Process Standardization: Adherence to SOPs ensures consistent service and operational quality across all locations.
• Data-Informed Merchandising: While not a data analysis role, the company utilizes merchandising strategies (SISO, Directed Replenishment) to optimize stock and sales.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Michaels operates within the highly competitive arts and crafts retail sector. The company culture emphasizes creativity, customer service, and operational efficiency. The large company size suggests a well-defined corporate structure with established training programs and career paths. The "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodology is a key indicator of their sales approach, focusing on building rapport and providing value.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Entry-Level / Associate. This role is designed for individuals starting their career in retail operations or seeking to specialize in custom services. It involves executing defined tasks and learning specific operational and sales processes. Reporting Structure: The Framer Associate typically reports to a Store Manager, Assistant Store Manager, or a dedicated Framing Department Manager. This structure provides direct supervision and guidance. Operations Impact: While not a strategic operations role, the Framer Associate directly impacts store revenue through custom framing sales and contributes to operational efficiency by maintaining store standards, managing inventory, and providing excellent customer service. Their work directly influences customer satisfaction and repeat business.

Growth Opportunities:

• Within Framing Specialization: Potential to advance to a Lead Framer or Framing Department Manager role, taking on more responsibility for production, inventory, and team guidance within the department.
• Retail Management Path: Opportunity to move into broader retail management roles, such as Assistant Store Manager or Store Manager, by demonstrating strong operational, sales, and leadership skills.
• Cross-Functional Skill Development: Exposure to various retail functions (sales, merchandising, inventory, customer service) can build a broad skill set applicable to other retail environments.
• Continuous Learning: Access to training on new framing techniques, materials, and sales methodologies.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role serves as a foundational stepping stone within Michaels' retail operations. The growth opportunities are clearly defined, allowing ambitious individuals to progress either within the specialized framing department or into broader retail leadership positions. The emphasis on skill development in sales, customer service, and operations provides a solid basis for a retail career.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Public retail store setting. This involves working directly with the public in a customer-facing environment. Office Location(s): The specific store is located at 931 E 120th Ave, Thornton, CO. This is a standard retail location within a commercial area.

Workspace Context:

• Customer Interaction Area: Primarily working on the sales floor and within the dedicated custom framing area, which may include specialized equipment.
• Stockroom & Back Areas: May involve working in stockrooms for inventory management and truck unloading. Some stockrooms may not be climate-controlled.
• Collaborative Environment: Requires frequent interaction with colleagues and supervisors to ensure smooth store operations and customer service.
• Tools & Technology: Access to POS systems, framing equipment, and potentially basic computer terminals for order management.

Work Schedule: Part-time, with work hours including nights, weekends, and early mornings. Flexibility is essential to cover various shifts and operational needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is typical for a retail associate, emphasizing direct customer interaction and the need to maintain a presentable and functional store. The mention of potentially non-climate-controlled stockrooms and the need to work with framing equipment (glass cutter, heat press) indicates specific environmental considerations. The varied work hours are a key characteristic of part-time retail roles.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Likely involves an online application and potentially an initial phone or video screening to assess basic qualifications and interest.
• In-Person Interview: Candidates will likely participate in one or more in-person interviews at the store. This may include:
  • Behavioral Questions: Assessing past experiences related to customer service, problem-solving, teamwork, and handling challenging situations.
  • Situational Questions: Presenting hypothetical scenarios related to customer interactions, sales opportunities, or operational issues to gauge problem-solving abilities.
  • Skills Assessment: Discussion or practical demonstration of basic measuring skills, computer proficiency, and understanding of framing equipment.
  • Company Culture Fit: Evaluating alignment with Michaels' values of creativity, customer focus, and teamwork.
• Framing Demonstration (Potential): For candidates with prior framing experience, a brief demonstration of skills might be incorporated.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Focus on Relevant Experience: Although not a formal portfolio role, be prepared to discuss specific examples from past retail, customer service, or any hands-on work that demonstrates:
  • Customer Consultation: How you identify customer needs and propose solutions.
  • Accuracy and Precision: Examples of tasks where attention to detail was critical.
  • Problem-Solving: How you handled difficult customer situations or operational challenges.
  • Learning Agility: How you quickly learned new skills or procedures.
• Quantify Achievements: Where possible, use numbers to illustrate your impact (e.g., "assisted X customers per shift," "maintained a Y% accuracy rate in order taking").
• Showcase Enthusiasm: Convey your passion for creativity, art, and helping customers bring their visions to life through framing.

Challenge Preparation:

• Customer Scenario Role-Play: Practice engaging with a hypothetical customer looking for custom framing, from initial inquiry to recommending solutions.
• Operational Task Explanation: Be ready to explain how you would approach tasks like stocking, merchandising, or operating the cash register, emphasizing accuracy and efficiency.
• Measurement Practice: If possible, practice basic measuring tasks to ensure comfort and accuracy.

📝 Enhancement Note: The application process for this role is likely to be standard for retail positions, focusing on assessing customer service skills, operational aptitude, and cultural fit. While a formal portfolio is not expected, candidates should leverage their resume and interview responses to highlight relevant experiences and demonstrate their capabilities through concrete examples.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Point of Sale (POS) System: For processing transactions, managing customer orders, and potentially accessing basic customer information.
• Custom Framing Equipment:
  • Framing Machines/Tools: For cutting mats, assembling frames, and finishing orders.
  • Glass Cutter: For precisely cutting glass or acrylic to size.
  • Heat Press (Potentially): Used in some framing processes for mounting or sealing.
• Basic Computer Systems: For accessing training materials, company updates, and potentially order management software.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Primarily used at a higher management level. The Framer Associate will contribute data through sales transactions and order entries which feed into store-level performance reports.

CRM & Automation:

• Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Elements: The "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodology implies a focus on customer relationship building, which is a CRM-like function at the associate level.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is focused on retail operational tools. Proficiency with POS systems and a willingness to learn specialized framing equipment are key. While advanced analytics or automation tools are not directly used by this associate, understanding how their work contributes to overall store performance is beneficial.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Customer Focus: Prioritizing customer satisfaction and creating positive experiences (e.g., "building customer relationships," "delivering friendly customer service").
• Creativity & Passion: Embracing and fueling the joy of creativity, as per the company's purpose.
• Integrity & Accountability: Adhering to SOPs, safety programs, and ethical cash handling.
• Teamwork & Respect: Interacting positively with colleagues and contributing to a supportive work environment.
• Efficiency & Quality: Completing tasks accurately and on time, particularly framing orders.

Collaboration Style:

• Direct Interaction: Frequent collaboration with fellow store associates and management to ensure smooth store operations.
• Departmental Focus: Close coordination within the custom framing department for production and customer service.
• Communication: Open communication channels are essential for task delegation, problem-solving, and ensuring a cohesive team effort.
• Supportive Environment: Encouraged to help each other, maintain a positive attitude, and contribute to a shared goal of excellent customer service.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture at Michaels is strongly tied to its brand identity – creativity and customer engagement. For this role, it means being approachable, helpful, and willing to engage with customers on their creative projects. Teamwork is essential in a retail setting to manage workload and provide consistent service.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Multiple Responsibilities: Juggling customer service, sales consultations, production tasks, and general store duties simultaneously.
• Managing Customer Expectations: Effectively communicating timelines, pricing, and design options for custom framing to meet customer needs and satisfaction.
• Learning Technical Skills: Mastering the operation of framing equipment and precise measuring techniques.
• Peak Season Demands: Handling increased customer traffic and order volumes during holidays and peak craft seasons.
• Physical Demands: Consistently performing tasks that require standing for long periods, lifting, and reaching.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Framing Skills Certification: Potential to gain expertise in various framing techniques, materials, and design trends.
• Sales & Customer Service Training: Development of consultative selling skills and advanced customer engagement strategies.
• Retail Operations Knowledge: Gaining experience in inventory management, visual merchandising, and store operations.
• Potential for Leadership: Opportunities to develop leadership skills for future advancement into supervisory or management roles.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are inherent to a dynamic retail environment with specialized service components. The growth opportunities are substantial for an entry-level role, offering clear pathways for skill development and career progression within the company.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Customer Service Scenarios: "Describe a time you went above and beyond to help a customer. How did you approach the situation, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on problem-solving, empathy, and solution-orientation.)
• Sales Approach: "How would you approach a customer who is unsure about their framing needs? What questions would you ask to help them find the perfect solution?" (Demonstrate consultative selling and active listening.)
• Handling Difficult Situations: "Tell me about a time you had to deal with a difficult customer or a mistake you made. How did you resolve it?" (Showcase accountability, composure, and problem-resolution skills.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• Motivation: "Why are you interested in working at Michaels, and specifically in the Framer Associate role?" (Connect your interests to creativity, art, customer service, and the company's mission.)
• Teamwork: "Describe your ideal team environment. How do you contribute to a positive team dynamic?" (Highlight collaboration, respect, and a willingness to support colleagues.)
• Adaptability: "How do you handle learning new processes or equipment?" (Emphasize a willingness to learn, follow instructions, and ask clarifying questions.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Prepare Specific Examples: Have 2-3 concrete examples ready from previous jobs or experiences that showcase:
  • A time you successfully advised a customer to a solution.
  • A situation where your attention to detail prevented an error.
  • How you handled a busy period or a challenging task.
• Quantify Your Achievements: If possible, use numbers to illustrate your impact (e.g., "increased sales by X% in my department," "handled an average of Y customer inquiries per shift").
• Showcase Enthusiasm: Convey your genuine interest in art, crafts, and helping customers create.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a blend of customer service skills, a proactive sales approach, attention to detail, and a positive attitude. Candidates should be ready to articulate how their experiences align with Michaels' values and the specific demands of the Framer Associate role.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this part-time operations position:

• Submit your application: Complete the online application form thoroughly and accurately through the provided link.
• Tailor your resume: Highlight any experience in customer service, retail, sales, or hands-on work. Emphasize skills such as measuring, basic computer use, and cash handling. Use keywords from the job description.
• Prepare for the interview: Be ready to discuss your customer service philosophy, how you handle sales consultations, and any relevant technical or operational skills. Practice answering behavioral and situational questions.
• Research Michaels: Familiarize yourself with Michaels' products, services (especially custom framing), and company mission to demonstrate genuine interest and cultural fit. Understand their commitment to creativity and customer experience.
• Highlight relevant experience: Be prepared to discuss specific examples of your ability to learn new skills, work accurately, and provide excellent customer service, even if it's from non-retail contexts.

⚠️ 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.

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