Part-Time Framer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Part-Time Framer

Company: Michaels Stores

Location: Portland, Oregon, United States

Job Type: Part time

Category: Retail Operations / Customer Service

Date Posted: 2026-08-30

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 in the custom framing department.

• Responsibilities include building customer relationships, understanding their needs, and delivering tailored framing solutions that meet quality and timeline expectations.

• The position involves hands-on operation of framing equipment and adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for all tasks.

• A key aspect is maintaining store presentation, including the ready-made frame department and general merchandising standards, to enhance the customer shopping experience.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the job title is "Framer," the description emphasizes customer interaction, sales, and general retail operations. This suggests a hybrid role where framing expertise is a component, but customer engagement and sales proficiency are equally critical. The "Part-Time" nature implies flexibility may be a focus for scheduling.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Customer Engagement & Sales:

  • Proactively engage with customers to build relationships and understand their custom framing needs using the "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodology.
  • Act as a trusted advisor to guide customers in selecting the best framing solutions for their art and valuable items.
  • Drive sales and production targets through effective consultation and upselling of framing services and products.

• Framing Production & Quality:

  • Execute custom framing orders with a high degree of craftsmanship, ensuring quality standards and on-time completion.
  • Operate specialized framing equipment and tools, including glass cutters, safely and efficiently.
  • Maintain the ready-made frame department, ensuring it is well-organized, visually appealing, and stocked.

• Store Operations & Merchandising:

  • Uphold Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company programs to ensure compliance and operational excellence.
  • Maintain a safe, clean, and clutter-free store environment, with a particular focus on the framing area.
  • Support inventory management through participation in truck unloads, stocking processes, and directed replenishment.
  • Execute cash handling procedures and operate the cash register to company standards.

• Customer Experience:

  • Provide friendly and helpful customer service, assisting shoppers in locating products and offering solutions.

  • Support omni-channel processes, potentially including buy online, pick up in-store (BOPIS) or ship-from-store initiatives.

  • Adhere to shrink and safety programs to minimize loss and ensure a secure working environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of technical framing skills and customer-facing retail duties. The emphasis on "Elevated ABC Deliver" suggests a structured approach to customer interaction and sales, aiming for a consultative sales process rather than just transactional service.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• No specific educational degree is mandated, indicating a focus on practical skills and on-the-job training. Experience:

• 0-2 years of experience is ideal, with a willingness to learn and develop skills in custom framing and retail sales. Required Skills:

• Basic Computer Skills: Ability to navigate point-of-sale (POS) systems, inventory management software, and other basic computer applications.

• Measuring Skills: Precision and accuracy in taking measurements for custom framing projects.

• Equipment Operation: Proficiency in operating framing equipment and a glass cutter.

• Customer Service Excellence: Demonstrated ability to engage customers positively, understand their needs, and provide solutions.

• Sales Acumen: Aptitude for selling products and services, with a focus on consultative selling techniques.

• Adherence to Procedures: Ability to follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and safety guidelines diligently.

Preferred Skills:

• Retail Experience: Prior experience working in a retail environment, preferably in a customer-facing role.

• Custom Framing Experience: Hands-on experience with custom framing processes, materials, and design principles.

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

• Cash Handling Experience: Proven ability to manage financial transactions accurately and securely.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirements emphasize foundational skills rather than extensive formal education or years of experience, making this role accessible to individuals entering the retail or operations field. The "basic computer skills" and "measuring skills" are crucial for operational efficiency and accuracy in framing.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• While a formal portfolio is not explicitly requested, candidates are encouraged to prepare examples demonstrating their ability to:

  • Showcase successful customer interactions and problem-solving scenarios in a retail or service context.

  • Illustrate understanding of sales processes, from initial customer engagement to closing a sale.

  • Detail any experience with visual merchandising or store presentation improvements.

  • Highlight instances of adherence to process and safety protocols. Process Documentation:

• Candidates should be prepared to discuss their understanding of and experience with:

  • Following Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for consistent operational execution.

  • Executing workflow steps for order fulfillment, from initial consultation to final product delivery.

  • Maintaining cleanliness and organization standards within a retail workspace.

  • Adhering to cash handling and POS transaction procedures.

📝 Enhancement Note: For this role, the "portfolio" is less about formal design work and more about demonstrating practical application of customer service, sales, and operational adherence. Candidates should be ready to speak to their experiences in these areas as if they were presenting case studies of their work.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• As a part-time retail position, the hourly wage is likely to be competitive within the Portland, Oregon market for entry-level retail roles. Based on industry benchmarks and location, an estimated range for a Part-Time Framer could be $15.00 - $19.00 per hour.

• This estimate considers the required skills, the part-time nature of the role, and the cost of living in Portland, Oregon. Benefits:

• Core Benefits (Eligibility may vary based on hours worked and tenure):

  • 401(k) with Employer Match: Retirement savings plan to help secure future financial well-being.
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Confidential counseling and support services for personal and work-related challenges.
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision Coverage: Comprehensive health insurance options for eligible team members.
  • Telemedicine Services: Convenient access to healthcare professionals remotely.
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs): Pre-tax accounts for healthcare and 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 team members building their families through adoption.
  • Voluntary Insurance Options: Additional insurance coverage for life, disability, and critical illness.

• Everyday Perks:

  • Employee Discounts: Significant discounts on Michaels products, ideal for personal projects or resale.
  • Partner Discount Programs: Access to discounts with other affiliated companies.

Working Hours:

• This is a part-time position, with hours varying based on business needs. The role may require flexibility to work nights, weekends, and early mornings, as indicated in the work environment section.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided benefits list is extensive for a part-time role, suggesting Michaels aims to provide comprehensive support to its employees. The salary estimate is based on general retail associate wages in a major metropolitan area and the specific responsibilities of a framing specialist. Actual compensation will depend on experience and local market conditions.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry:

• Retail (Arts & Crafts, Home Decor, Framing): Michaels operates within the arts, crafts, and home decor retail sector, holding a dominant position in North America. This industry thrives on creativity, DIY projects, and seasonal celebrations. For operations roles, this translates to a focus on product availability, visual presentation, and engaging customer experiences that inspire creativity.

Company Size:

• Large Enterprise (Over 10,000 employees): Michaels is a major retail player with over 1,300 stores across North America. This large scale means established operational processes, dedicated support functions, and opportunities for diverse career paths. For an individual contributor role, it signifies a structured environment with clear guidelines and performance metrics.

Founded:

• 1973: With a long history, Michaels has built a strong brand identity and a deep understanding of its customer base. This longevity suggests a stable company with robust operational frameworks and a commitment to continuous improvement in its retail strategies.

Team Structure:

• Store-Level Operations: The Part-Time Framer will be part of a store team led by a Store Manager, Assistant Store Manager, and potentially Department Specialists or Leads. The framing team might consist of one or more framers, depending on store volume.

• Reporting Structure: Typically, this role would report to a framing supervisor or department manager, who in turn reports up through the store management hierarchy.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Collaboration will primarily occur with fellow store associates, including cashiers, sales floor staff, and stockroom personnel, to ensure a seamless customer experience and efficient store operations. Interaction with corporate teams may occur indirectly through adherence to company-wide policies and initiatives.

Methodology:

• Customer-Centric Approach: Michaels emphasizes building customer relationships and providing solutions, as highlighted by the "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodology. This implies a focus on consultative selling and personalized service.

• Process Adherence: A strong reliance on Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) ensures consistency in service delivery, operational efficiency, and compliance across all stores.

• Data-Informed Merchandising: While not as data-intensive as a corporate role, store-level operations involve merchandising based on sales data, customer demand, and promotional calendars to optimize product placement and availability.

Company Website:

• https://www.michaels.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: The company context indicates a well-established, large-scale retail operation with a strong focus on customer engagement and creative products. The operational environment will likely be structured, with clear procedures and a supportive team structure focused on delivering a positive customer experience.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level:

• Entry-Level / Associate: This role is positioned at the entry-level, suitable for individuals new to retail operations or seeking to gain foundational skills in custom framing and customer sales. It involves executing defined tasks and contributing to the overall store objectives under supervision.

Reporting Structure:

• The Part-Time Framer typically reports to a Store Manager or a designated Department Manager/Lead responsible for the framing department. This structure provides direct supervision and guidance for daily tasks and performance feedback. Operations Impact:

• The Framer's impact is direct and customer-facing. By providing excellent customer service and high-quality framing solutions, they contribute to:

  • Customer Satisfaction & Loyalty: Building repeat business through positive experiences.
  • Revenue Generation: Driving sales of custom framing services, which often have higher margins.
  • Brand Perception: Reinforcing Michaels as a destination for creative solutions and quality craftsmanship.
  • Store Presentation: Maintaining an appealing and well-organized department that enhances the overall shopping environment.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Development:

  • Advanced Framing Techniques: Opportunities to learn more complex framing methods, material knowledge, and design principles.
  • Sales & Customer Service Mastery: Deepening skills in consultative selling, relationship building, and conflict resolution.
  • Operational Proficiency: Gaining experience in inventory management, POS operations, and store merchandising.

• Career Progression:

  • Senior Framer / Framing Specialist: With experience and demonstrated skill, advancement to a more senior role with increased responsibility or specialization.
  • Department Lead/Manager: Potential to move into supervisory roles within the framing department or other store departments.
  • Cross-Departmental Roles: Opportunities to gain experience in other store functions (e.g., visual merchandising, inventory control) or transfer to other Michaels locations.
  • Corporate Opportunities: While less direct, strong performance and demonstrated leadership could eventually lead to opportunities at the corporate level in areas like operations, merchandising, or training.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role serves as a solid entry point into the retail operations and creative services sector. The growth path is clearly defined within the retail store environment, offering opportunities for skill enhancement and advancement into leadership or specialized roles.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type:

• Public Retail Store Setting: The primary work environment is a bustling retail store, characterized by customer traffic, product displays, and a dynamic atmosphere. The framing department itself is a dedicated workspace within the larger store.

Office Location(s):

• Portland-12255 N Starlight Ave, Portland, OR: The specific store location is in Portland, Oregon. This implies a professional retail environment typical of a large chain store, likely situated in a shopping center or commercial area.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative & Customer-Facing: The workspace is designed for interaction with both customers and fellow team members. The framing area is a specialized zone where detailed work is performed.

• Tools & Technology: Access to framing equipment (e.g., mat cutters, framing tools, potentially specialized saws), a cash register/POS system, and basic computer resources will be provided.

• Team Interaction: Frequent collaboration with store associates for customer assistance, inventory tasks, and operational support is expected. The environment encourages a team-oriented approach to achieve store goals.

Work Schedule:

• Flexible Part-Time: The role requires flexibility, with work hours potentially including nights, weekends, and early mornings to meet business demands. This schedule allows for part-time employment while ensuring coverage during peak operational periods.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is typical for a retail associate role, blending hands-on production with significant customer interaction. The need for flexibility in scheduling is a key characteristic of this part-time position in a retail setting.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: May involve an online application review and potentially a brief phone screen to assess basic qualifications and interest.

• In-Person Interview: Typically includes a one-on-one interview with the Store Manager or Department Lead. This interview will likely cover:

  • Behavioral Questions: Assessing customer service skills, problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and previous experiences. Examples: "Tell me about a time you dealt with a difficult customer," or "How do you handle multiple tasks at once?"
  • Situational Questions: Presenting hypothetical scenarios related to the Framer role. Examples: "A customer wants a frame for a very unusual item; how would you approach this?" or "How would you handle a rush of framing orders?"
  • Skills Assessment: Discussion of basic computer, measuring, and equipment operation skills. Practical demonstrations might be requested for framing equipment if experience is claimed.
  • Cultural Fit: Evaluating alignment with Michaels' values of creativity, customer focus, and teamwork.

• Potential Second Interview: For some candidates or roles, a follow-up interview with a higher-level manager might occur.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Focus on Practical Examples: Since a formal portfolio isn't required, prepare to discuss specific examples from past work or experiences that demonstrate:

  • Customer Service Scenarios: How you've successfully assisted customers, resolved issues, or built rapport.
  • Sales Achievements: Any instances where you've met or exceeded sales targets or effectively upsold products/services.
  • Problem-Solving in Action: How you've tackled challenges in previous roles, especially those related to operations, customer needs, or equipment.
  • Adherence to Standards: Examples of following procedures, maintaining quality, or ensuring safety in a work environment.

• Framing-Specific Knowledge (if applicable): If you have prior framing experience, be ready to discuss types of artwork, framing materials, and common design considerations.

• Enthusiasm for Creativity: Express genuine interest in art, crafts, and helping customers bring their creative visions to life.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared for potential scenarios where you might be asked to:
  • Measure an object: A simple object might be provided to test measuring skills.
  • Describe a framing process: Explain how you would approach framing a specific type of item (e.g., a photograph, a canvas, a shadow box).
  • Handle a customer complaint: Role-play a situation involving an unhappy customer regarding a framing order or store experience.
  • Demonstrate basic computer skills: Navigating a simple software interface or POS system if applicable.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process emphasizes practical skills, customer service aptitude, and cultural fit. Candidates should focus on articulating their experiences using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for behavioral questions and demonstrating a proactive, customer-centric attitude.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Custom Framing Equipment:

  • Mat Cutters: Professional-grade tools for precise cutting of mat boards (e.g., Logan, Fletcher).
  • Framing Tools: Assemblers, jointers, staple guns, and hand tools for constructing frames.
  • Glass Cutters & Glazing Tools: For cutting and fitting glass or acrylic glazing.
  • Heat Press (Potentially): For specific mounting or finishing techniques.

• Point of Sale (POS) System: Used for processing customer transactions, managing sales, and potentially tracking inventory.

• Basic Computer: For accessing company portals, training modules, and potentially basic inventory lookups.

Analytics & Reporting:

• POS System Reports: Basic sales data, transaction summaries, and potentially inventory movement reports accessible through the POS.

• Inventory Management System (Internal): Used for tracking stock levels, managing replenishment, and processing incoming shipments.

CRM & Automation:

• Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Features within POS: May include customer profiles, purchase history, and loyalty program integration to facilitate personalized service and sales.

• Omni-channel Fulfillment Systems: Software to manage online orders for in-store pickup or ship-from-store processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency with specialized framing equipment is a core technical requirement. Familiarity with retail POS systems and basic inventory management tools is also essential for operational efficiency. The technology stack is geared towards direct customer interaction and product fulfillment.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Creativity & Celebration: Michaels' core purpose is to "fuel the joy of creativity and celebration." This value permeates the store culture, encouraging team members to be enthusiastic about art, crafts, and helping customers express themselves.

• Customer Focus: A strong emphasis on building relationships and providing solutions means valuing team members who are approachable, helpful, and genuinely interested in customer satisfaction.

• Teamwork & Respect: The company promotes an inclusive environment where individuals interact positively and respectfully, even in challenging situations. Collaboration is key to managing store operations effectively.

• Efficiency & Quality: Adherence to SOPs and a commitment to high-quality craftsmanship in framing are crucial. This implies valuing team members who are detail-oriented and reliable.

• Integrity & Accountability: Upholding company policies, safety standards, and accurate cash handling demonstrates integrity and accountability.

Collaboration Style:

• Supportive & Cross-Functional: Team members are expected to support each other across different tasks and departments to ensure smooth store operations and excellent customer service.

• Process-Oriented: Collaboration often involves working together to follow established procedures for stocking, merchandising, and customer service.

• Open Communication: While structured, the environment encourages open communication for problem-solving and sharing customer feedback to improve service and operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture at Michaels is centered around creativity, customer engagement, and a collaborative team spirit. Candidates who align with these values and can contribute to a positive, productive store environment will be a strong fit.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Production and Customer Service: Effectively managing time to complete framing orders accurately while also attending to walk-in customers and their needs can be demanding.

• Handling Diverse Customer Needs: Meeting the unique framing requirements for a wide range of art, memorabilia, and personal items requires adaptability and creative problem-solving.

• Maintaining Quality Under Pressure: Ensuring high-quality framing work during busy periods or when facing tight deadlines requires focus and precision.

• Adapting to Seasonal Demands: Retail environments, especially Michaels with its focus on holidays and crafts, experience significant fluctuations in customer traffic and demand, requiring flexibility in workflow.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Framing Skill Enhancement: Opportunities to become proficient in various framing techniques, understand different materials (wood, metal, acrylics), and learn about conservation framing.

• Sales & Design Training: Development in consultative selling, visual design principles for framing, and understanding customer aesthetics.

• Retail Operations Knowledge: Gaining experience in inventory management, visual merchandising, POS system operations, and loss prevention.

• Career Pathing: Potential to advance within the store structure, moving into specialized roles or leadership positions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role offers practical challenges that foster skill development in both technical crafts and customer-facing operations. The learning opportunities are tangible and directly applicable to a career in retail or specialized service industries.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Customer Service Scenarios: "Describe a time you went above and beyond to help a customer. What was the outcome?" (Focus on demonstrating empathy, problem-solving, and commitment to customer satisfaction).

• Sales Approach: "How would you approach a customer who seems unsure about their framing choices?" or "What techniques would you use to sell a higher-value framing option?" (Prepare to discuss consultative selling, understanding customer needs, and highlighting benefits).

• Operational Procedures: "How do you ensure accuracy when taking measurements or completing orders?" or "What steps would you take to maintain a clean and organized workspace?" (Highlight attention to detail, adherence to SOPs, and organizational skills).

Company & Culture Questions:

• Motivation: "Why are you interested in working at Michaels, specifically in the framing department?" (Express enthusiasm for creativity, art, and helping customers, linking it to Michaels' mission).

• Teamwork: "Describe your ideal team environment. How do you contribute to a positive team dynamic?" (Emphasize collaboration, support, and a respectful attitude).

• Adaptability: "How do you handle busy periods or unexpected challenges in a retail setting?" (Showcase flexibility, prioritization skills, and a calm demeanor under pressure).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Verbal "Portfolio": Since no physical portfolio is required, be ready to verbally present "case studies" of your past experiences. For each example, clearly outline:

  • Situation: The context of the scenario.
  • Task: What needed to be done.
  • Action: What you specifically did.
  • Result: The positive outcome or lesson learned.

• Quantify Achievements: Whenever possible, use numbers to demonstrate impact (e.g., "increased sales by X%," "reduced errors by Y%," "handled Z customers per shift").

• Highlight Relevant Skills: Tailor your examples to showcase customer service, sales, problem-solving, attention to detail, and any framing-specific skills.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on articulating transferable skills in customer service, sales, and operational execution, using concrete examples. Demonstrating genuine interest in the creative aspect of Michaels and its products will be key.

📌 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 hands-on work. Use keywords from the job description like "customer service," "sales," "framing," "merchandising," and "operations."

• Prepare Your "Verbal Portfolio": Think of specific examples from your past experiences that demonstrate your ability to handle customer interactions, solve problems, manage tasks, and work effectively in a team. Be ready to discuss these using the STAR method.

• Research Michaels: Familiarize yourself with Michaels' mission, values, and products. Understand their focus on creativity and customer experience. Consider your favorite aspects of art, crafts, or framing that you can discuss.

• Practice Interview Questions: Rehearse answers to common interview questions, focusing on clarity, conciseness, and demonstrating a positive attitude and relevant skills. Practice articulating your experiences as if presenting mini case studies.

⚠️ 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.