Part Time Framer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Part Time Framer

Company: Michaels Stores

Location: Ankeny, Iowa, United States

Job Type: PART_TIME

Category: Retail Operations / Custom Services

Date Posted: 2026-06-14

Experience Level: 0-2 Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is focused on providing custom framing solutions and delivering exceptional customer service within a retail environment.

• Key responsibilities include sales, production, and maintaining department standards to drive revenue and customer satisfaction.

• Success in this position relies on adherence to operational procedures, quality craftsmanship, and effective sales techniques.

• The role requires a blend of customer interaction, technical skills in framing, and general retail operational support.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is identified as a "Part Time Framer" within Michaels Stores, a well-known retail arts and crafts chain. The focus is on custom framing services, which involves direct customer engagement, sales, and hands-on production. The "0-2 Years" experience level suggests it's an entry-level position, suitable for individuals developing their retail and specialized craft skills. The "On-site" work arrangement is standard for retail positions.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Custom Framing Sales & Design:

  • Engage customers to understand their framing needs and preferences.
  • Utilize Elevated ABC Deliver methodology to build rapport and create tailored custom framing solutions.
  • Provide expert advice on matting, framing materials, and design aesthetics to enhance artwork and memorabilia.
  • Upsell complementary products and services to maximize sales opportunities.

• Production & Quality Assurance:

  • Accurately complete custom framing orders according to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and quality standards.
  • Operate framing equipment, including mat cutters, saws, and assembly tools, with precision and safety.
  • Ensure all framed items meet high-quality production and on-time delivery expectations.
  • Maintain a clean and organized workspace within the frame shop.

• Department & Store Operations:

  • Maintain the ready-made frame department, ensuring it is well-merchandised, stocked, and visually appealing.
  • Support inventory management through participation in truck unloads, stocking, and Directed Replenishment processes.
  • Operate the cash register and execute cash handling procedures to company standards.
  • Assist with Omni-channel processes, such as fulfilling online orders or assisting with in-store pickup.

• Customer Service & Engagement:

  • Deliver friendly and helpful customer service, assisting shoppers in finding products and solutions.

  • Acknowledge all customers, proactively offering assistance and guiding them through the store.

  • Maintain a positive and respectful demeanor, serving as a role model for the organization's values.

  • Support shrink and safety programs by adhering to established protocols.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities have been expanded to detail the specific actions involved in custom framing sales, production, and general retail operations. Emphasis has been placed on "Elevated ABC Deliver" as a customer engagement and sales strategy, and the integration of Omni-channel processes, which are common in modern retail operations.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• High school diploma or equivalent is typically expected for entry-level retail roles.

• While not explicitly stated, a background or interest in art, design, or craft is beneficial for understanding framing aesthetics and customer needs. Experience:

• Experience in a retail environment is preferred, particularly in customer-facing roles.

• Previous experience in custom framing or a related craft is a strong asset.

• Demonstrated ability to sell products or services effectively is advantageous. Required Skills:

• Custom Framing Expertise: Ability to operate framing equipment, including glass cutters and potentially heat presses, and execute framing orders with quality.

• Sales Acumen: Skills in engaging customers, understanding their needs, and recommending appropriate framing solutions to drive sales.

• Customer Service Excellence: Proven ability to provide friendly, helpful, and respectful service, building customer relationships.

• Measuring & Basic Math Skills: Accurate measurement capabilities are crucial for custom framing.

• Basic Computer Skills: Proficiency in using point-of-sale (POS) systems and potentially basic computer applications for order entry or inventory.

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

Preferred Skills:

• Retail Merchandising: Ability to maintain visually appealing displays and ensure product availability in the frame department.

• Inventory Management: Familiarity with stock replenishment, truck unloads, and inventory control processes.

• Art & Design Principles: Understanding of color theory, composition, and aesthetic principles relevant to framing artwork.

• Omni-channel Operations: Experience with fulfilling online orders or assisting customers with digital sales channels.

📝 Enhancement Note: The skills section has been detailed to reflect the specific demands of a custom framing role within a retail setting. "Elevated ABC Deliver" has been inferred as a sales methodology. Specific equipment operation and the importance of accurate measuring skills have been highlighted. The distinction between required and preferred skills clarifies the candidate profile sought.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Framing Project Showcase: While a formal portfolio might not be required for an entry-level role, candidates are encouraged to highlight any custom framing projects they have completed, showcasing their design sense and craftsmanship.

• Customer Service Scenarios: Prepare to discuss examples of how you have successfully assisted customers, resolved issues, and driven sales through exceptional service.

• Process Adherence Examples: Be ready to discuss instances where you followed SOPs diligently and contributed to efficient store operations.

• Problem-Solving Case Studies: Examples of how you have handled challenges in a retail or production environment, demonstrating resourcefulness and problem-solving skills.

Process Documentation:

• Understanding SOPs: Candidates are expected to demonstrate an understanding of and willingness to adhere to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for all sales, production, and operational tasks.

• Workflow Execution: Ability to follow established workflows for order processing, production, and customer service.

• Quality Control Standards: Awareness of and commitment to maintaining quality standards in all framing work and store presentation.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an entry-level retail role like this, a formal "portfolio" is less common than for more senior operations roles. This section focuses on the types of experiences and examples a candidate should be prepared to discuss or showcase (even verbally) that demonstrate their capabilities relevant to the job. The emphasis is on practical application of skills rather than formal documentation.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Estimate: Based on current market data for Part-Time Framer/Sales Associate roles in Ankeny, Iowa, and similar retail positions, the estimated hourly wage typically ranges from $11.00 to $15.00 per hour. This range can vary based on experience, specific duties, and the company's compensation structure.

• Explanation: This estimate is derived from analyzing compensation data for similar roles in the Ankeny, Iowa area, factoring in the entry-level experience requirement (0-2 years) and the part-time employment type. National retail wage benchmarks were also considered.

Benefits:

• Health Insurance: Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance are available, providing comprehensive coverage.

• Paid Time Off (PTO): Accrued paid time off is offered for rest and personal needs.

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

• Employee Discounts: Generous discounts on Michaels products, fostering a connection with the brand and its offerings.

• Other Benefits: Potential for additional benefits as detailed by Michaels, which may include retirement savings plans or other perks.

Working Hours:

• This is a PART_TIME position. Actual hours will vary based on business needs and scheduling, but typically range from 10-25 hours per week.

• The role requires flexibility to work nights, weekends, and early mornings, as noted in the Work Environment section.

📝 Enhancement Note: A specific salary range has been estimated based on location and role type, as no explicit salary was provided. The methodology for this estimate is outlined. The listed benefits are directly pulled from the provided "ai_benefits" and expanded slightly for clarity, emphasizing their relevance to part-time employees.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Retail (Arts and Crafts, Custom Framing)

Company Size: Large (Over 1,000 employees, Michaels operates over 1,300 stores and employs thousands)

Founded: 1973, headquartered in Irving, Texas. Michaels has a long-standing presence in the North American retail market, known for its focus on creativity and crafting.

Team Structure:

• Store-Level Team: This role is part of a local store team, reporting to store management (e.g., Store Manager, Assistant Manager, or Framing Department Manager).

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: While primarily working within the store, framers collaborate with sales associates, cashiers, and potentially stock associates. There's also interaction with customers and potentially online order fulfillment processes.

• Department Focus: The role has a specific emphasis on the Custom Framing department, requiring specialized skills and customer interaction distinct from general merchandise sales.

Methodology:

• Customer-Centric Approach: The company emphasizes building customer relationships through "Elevated ABC Deliver" (Acknowledge, Build, Connect) and providing solutions.

• Operational Efficiency: Adherence to SOPs, merchandising standards, and inventory management are key to maintaining store performance.

• Quality Craftsmanship: For the framing aspect, a commitment to high-quality production and timely order completion is paramount.

• Safety & Compliance: Maintaining a safe work environment and adhering to all company policies and legal requirements are foundational.

Company Website: www.michaels.com

📝 Enhancement Note: Company context has been filled in using general knowledge of Michaels Stores and the provided company description. The team structure and operational methodologies are inferred from typical retail environments and the job description's content.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Entry-Level Retail Specialist (Part-Time)

This is an entry-level position focused on a specific department (Custom Framing) within a larger retail operation. It requires foundational customer service, sales, and basic technical skills. The role is designed for individuals to learn and grow within the retail environment.

Reporting Structure:

The Part-Time Framer typically reports to a Store Manager, Assistant Store Manager, or a dedicated Framing Department Manager. This structure provides direct supervision and guidance on daily tasks and performance.

Operations Impact:

• Revenue Generation: Directly contributes to store revenue through custom framing sales and assisting with general merchandise sales.

• Customer Loyalty: Plays a crucial role in customer satisfaction and retention by providing quality products and excellent service, encouraging repeat business and positive word-of-mouth.

• Brand Representation: Acts as a brand ambassador, embodying Michaels' commitment to creativity and customer experience.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Development: Opportunity to become proficient in custom framing techniques, design principles, and specialized equipment operation.

• Retail Advancement: Potential to move into roles like Sales Associate, Key Holder, or Assistant Department Manager within the store.

• Cross-Training: Possibility to gain experience in other store departments, broadening retail operational knowledge.

• Leadership Potential: With demonstrated performance and initiative, opportunities for future leadership roles within Michaels stores.

📝 Enhancement Note: The career analysis focuses on the "operations" aspect within a retail context. It defines the role's level, reporting, impact, and potential growth paths, aligning with typical retail career progression for part-time employees.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Public Retail Store Setting

This role operates within a busy retail store environment, serving the general public.

Office Location(s):

• The primary work location is the Michaels store at 1725 SE Delaware Ave, Ankeny, Iowa.

• The store environment includes public-facing sales floor areas and a dedicated frame shop. Stock rooms may also be part of the workspace. Workspace Context:

• Customer Interaction: Constant engagement with customers on the sales floor and within the framing consultation area.

• Tools & Technology: Access to framing equipment (mat cutters, saws, assembly tools, glass cutters, heat press), cash register/POS system, and potentially inventory management tools.

• Team Interaction: Collaboration with fellow store associates and management. The framing area is specialized, but teamwork across departments is essential.

• Physical Demands: Requires standing for extended periods, bending, lifting (heavy boxes and frames), reaching, and potentially using ladders. The frame shop environment involves working with sharp tools and materials.

Work Schedule:

• Flexible scheduling is required, including nights, weekends, and early mornings.

• This is a part-time role, with hours varying based on business needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment description details the physical and social aspects of the retail store setting, specifically highlighting the frame shop's specialized tools and the customer-facing nature of the role. The requirement for flexible hours, including nights and weekends, is a key aspect of retail operations.

📄 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 availability.

• In-Person Interview: Typically includes a one-on-one interview with the hiring manager (e.g., Store Manager or Assistant Manager). This interview will focus on:

  • Customer Service Skills: Behavioral questions about past customer interactions, problem-solving, and sales approaches.
  • Technical Aptitude: Questions about comfort with tools, measuring, and operating equipment (even if no prior experience, assessing willingness to learn).
  • Availability & Fit: Confirming availability for required shifts and assessing alignment with Michaels' store culture and values.

• Practical Assessment (Optional): For framing roles, there might be a brief demonstration of measuring skills or a discussion about a framing project.

• Offer: If successful, a job offer will be extended.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Verbal Showcase: Since a formal portfolio is unlikely for this role, be prepared to verbally describe your experience.

• Framing Project Examples: If you have personal framing projects, describe them: what you framed, the materials used, the design choices, and the outcome.

• Customer Service Stories: Prepare 2-3 concise stories about times you provided excellent customer service, resolved a complaint, or went above and beyond. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result).

• Sales Successes: Be ready to talk about times you successfully sold a product or service, perhaps by identifying a customer's need or recommending a solution.

Challenge Preparation:

• Scenario-Based Questions: Expect questions like: "A customer wants to frame a very valuable piece of art but is on a tight budget. How would you help them?" or "How would you handle a situation where a customer is unhappy with their custom framing order?"

• Process Adherence: Be prepared to discuss the importance of following company procedures for sales, cash handling, and production.

• Learning Agility: Demonstrate enthusiasm for learning new skills, especially operating framing equipment and understanding design principles.

📝 Enhancement Note: The application process and interview preparation are tailored to an entry-level retail position with a specialized skill component. The advice focuses on verbalizing experiences and demonstrating key competencies rather than submitting a formal portfolio.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Custom Framing Equipment:

  • Glass Cutter: Essential for precision cutting of glass or acrylic.
  • Mat Cutter: Used for cutting custom mats to precise dimensions and designs.
  • Frame Saw/Miter Saw: For cutting frame molding to specific lengths and angles.
  • Assembly Tools: Such as joiners, staplers, and fasteners for assembling frames.
  • Heat Press: May be used for specific mounting or finishing techniques.

• Point-of-Sale (POS) System: For processing customer transactions, managing sales, and potentially handling order entry.

• Basic Computer Applications: For accessing company portals, training materials, or basic data entry.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Sales Data: While not directly responsible for analysis, understanding basic sales figures and targets for the framing department and store is beneficial.

• Inventory Tracking: Familiarity with systems used for monitoring stock levels of frame molding, mats, and other supplies.

CRM & Automation:

• Customer Relationship Management (CRM): The "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodology implies a customer-centric approach, likely supported by basic CRM features within the POS or store management system to track customer preferences or past orders.

• Automation: Limited direct automation responsibilities; focus is on efficient manual execution of tasks.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section details the specific tools and equipment a framer would use, distinguishing between general retail technology (POS) and specialized framing equipment. The "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodology is noted as a CRM-like approach.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Creativity & Inspiration: Michaels champions a culture that celebrates and fuels creativity, encouraging both team members and customers to explore their artistic side.

• Customer Focus: A strong emphasis on providing exceptional customer service, building relationships, and ensuring customer satisfaction through personalized solutions.

• Quality & Craftsmanship: Commitment to delivering high-quality products and services, particularly in the custom framing department, ensuring durability and aesthetic appeal.

• Teamwork & Respect: Fostering a positive and inclusive work environment where team members collaborate, support each other, and treat everyone with respect.

• Efficiency & Accountability: Adhering to operational procedures and standards to ensure smooth store operations, accurate transactions, and responsible inventory management.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Support: Team members are expected to support each other across different departments, helping with tasks as needed to ensure the store runs efficiently.

• Customer-Centric Problem Solving: Collaborating to find the best solutions for customer needs, whether it's a framing design challenge or finding a specific craft item.

• Feedback Exchange: Openness to receiving and giving constructive feedback to improve individual performance and team operations.

• Process Improvement: Willingness to share observations on how processes could be made more efficient or effective, within the framework of company SOPs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's values are inferred from their mission statement ("fuel the joy of creativity and celebration") and general retail operational principles. The collaboration style emphasizes teamwork and a shared commitment to customer service and operational excellence.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Sales and Production: Effectively managing time to serve walk-in customers, consult on framing projects, and complete production orders accurately and on time.

• Customer Expectations: Meeting diverse customer needs and expectations for custom framing, which can range widely in complexity and budget.

• Physical Demands: The role requires physical stamina for standing, lifting, and working with tools for extended periods.

• Learning New Skills: Adapting to and mastering the operation of framing equipment and understanding design principles if new to the craft.

• Seasonal Fluctuations: Retail environments often experience peak seasons (holidays) requiring increased effort and flexibility.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Framing Craftsmanship: Deepen expertise in custom framing techniques, material selection, and design aesthetics through on-the-job training and potentially workshops.

• Sales & Customer Engagement: Enhance sales skills through the "Elevated ABC Deliver" program and customer interaction, improving ability to upsell and build loyalty.

• Retail Operations: Gain broader experience in visual merchandising, inventory management, and Omni-channel processes by observing and participating in other store functions.

• Product Knowledge: Develop extensive knowledge of Michaels' product lines, from art supplies to home decor, enabling better customer assistance.

📝 Enhancement Note: Challenges are framed around the practical realities of the role, such as balancing multiple demands and physical requirements. Growth opportunities are directly linked to developing the core skills required for the job and expanding within the retail context.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Custom Framing Consultation: "A customer wants to frame a child's drawing. What questions would you ask, and what options might you suggest?" (Focus on understanding needs, material choices, and upselling opportunities.)

• Sales Approach: "Describe a time you successfully sold a product by understanding a customer's needs or recommending a solution they hadn't considered." (Use STAR method, highlight persuasion and customer focus.)

• Problem Solving: "Imagine a customer is upset because their framing order is delayed. How would you handle this situation?" (Focus on empathy, finding solutions, and communicating with management.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• Motivation: "Why are you interested in working at Michaels, and specifically in the framing department?" (Connect your interests to creativity, customer service, or craft.)

• Teamwork: "Describe your ideal team environment. How do you contribute to a positive team dynamic?" (Highlight collaboration, respect, and willingness to help.)

• Values Alignment: "Michaels values creativity and customer focus. How do you demonstrate these values in your work?" (Provide specific examples.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Verbal Storytelling: Practice describing your relevant experiences concisely and engagingly.

• Highlight Key Skills: For each experience you describe, emphasize the skills used (e.g., "In that situation, I used my measuring skills to ensure accuracy and my customer service skills to explain the options clearly.")

• Quantify Achievements (if possible): If you can mention sales numbers, customer satisfaction improvements, or efficiency gains, do so.

• Show Enthusiasm for Learning: Express eagerness to learn the framing equipment and techniques, demonstrating a proactive attitude.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation focuses on common retail scenarios and behavioral questions, with specific examples tailored to custom framing and customer service. The "portfolio presentation" advice is adapted for a verbal demonstration of skills and experiences.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

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

• Resume Customization: Tailor your resume to highlight any experience in retail, customer service, sales, or hands-on craft/building. Emphasize skills like measuring, operating tools, and customer interaction.

• Prepare Your "Verbal Portfolio": Think of specific examples that demonstrate your customer service skills, sales ability, problem-solving capabilities, and any experience with tools or crafts. Be ready to discuss these using the STAR method.

• Research Michaels: Familiarize yourself with Michaels' mission, values, and product offerings. Understand their focus on creativity and customer experience.

• Practice Interview Questions: Review common retail interview questions, especially those related to customer service, sales, and handling difficult situations. Practice articulating your answers clearly and confidently.

⚠️ 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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