Part Time Framer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Part Time Framer

Company: Michaels Stores

Location: Collegeville, Pennsylvania, United States

Job Type: Part time

Category: Retail Operations / Customer Service

Date Posted: 2026-09-07T00:00:00

Experience Level: 0-2 years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role focuses on delivering exceptional customer experiences through personalized custom framing solutions, driving sales and production targets within a retail environment.

• Responsibilities include operating specialized framing equipment and maintaining store visual merchandising standards to enhance the customer shopping experience.

• The position requires adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company programs to ensure compliance, safety, and operational efficiency.

• It involves direct customer interaction, assisting with product location, and supporting omni-channel processes to meet diverse customer needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the core function is framing, the role is deeply embedded in retail operations, requiring a blend of creative sales, customer service, and operational execution within a fast-paced store environment. The "Part Time Framer" title is a specialized retail associate role, not a typical operations analyst or manager position.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Build and nurture customer relationships by providing expert custom framing consultations and solutions, aligning with the "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodology.

• Achieve and exceed personal sales and production goals for custom framing orders.

• Ensure all custom framing orders are completed with a high degree of quality and delivered within the promised timeframe.

• Maintain the visual presentation and stock levels of the ready-made frame department, as well as supporting SISO (Ship-from-Store) and Directed Replenishment processes.

• Deliver friendly and efficient customer service, actively assisting customers in locating products and offering solutions to their creative needs.

• Uphold and execute Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company programs consistently.

• Actively participate in and support company shrink and safety programs to ensure a secure and accident-free environment.

• Interact positively and respectfully with colleagues, management, and customers, even in challenging situations, embodying company values and projecting a professional image.

• Participate in truck un-load and stocking processes, ensuring adherence to truck standards and completion within budget.

• Operate the cash register accurately and execute cash handling procedures according to established standards.

• Acknowledge all customers, assist them in finding products, and provide tailored solutions to their needs.

• Support and execute omni-channel processes, such as buy online, pick up in-store (BOPIS) and ship-from-store.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities emphasize a dual focus: customer-facing sales and service through framing expertise, and back-end operational tasks like inventory management, stocking, and process adherence. The inclusion of "Omni channel processes" highlights the need for adaptability in a modern retail setting.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While no specific degree is listed, a strong aptitude for creative problem-solving and attention to detail is implicitly required for custom framing.

Experience: 0-2 years of experience is targeted, with a focus on practical skills and customer interaction.

Required Skills:

• Basic computer skills for order entry and system navigation.

• Basic measuring skills with a high degree of accuracy for framing projects.

• Ability to operate framing equipment safely and effectively.

• Proficiency in using a glass cutter.

• Strong customer service and interpersonal skills for client interaction and relationship building.

• Ability to adhere to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company policies.

• Physical stamina to stand for long periods, lift heavy items, and perform tasks requiring bending, reaching, and stretching. Preferred Skills:

• Previous retail experience, ideally in a sales or customer-facing role.

• Proven experience in selling products or services, demonstrating an ability to influence customer purchasing decisions.

• Familiarity with art or design principles that can enhance framing consultations.

• Experience with inventory management and visual merchandising.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "0-2 years" experience level suggests that on-the-job training will be provided for specific framing techniques and equipment operation. The emphasis is on foundational skills like customer service, basic technical aptitude, and a willingness to learn and follow procedures.

📊 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 projects or experiences that demonstrate attention to detail, creative problem-solving, and the ability to follow precise instructions.

• Examples could include personal art projects, custom creations, or instances where meticulous work led to successful outcomes.

• Any experience managing inventory or organizing materials for projects can also be relevant. Process Documentation:

• Candidates will be trained on and expected to follow established Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for all framing, sales, and operational tasks.

• This includes documented processes for customer consultations, order taking, production workflow, material handling, cash management, and store maintenance.

• Adherence to these documented processes is critical for quality control, efficiency, and compliance.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a part-time retail associate role focused on framing, a traditional "operations portfolio" is unlikely. The focus shifts to demonstrating an understanding of and ability to follow established processes and procedures, as well as showcasing practical skills through examples or interview discussions rather than formal documentation.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

For a Part Time Framer position in Collegeville, Pennsylvania, with 0-2 years of experience, the estimated hourly wage typically falls between $13.00 - $17.00 per hour. This estimate is based on regional retail wage data for similar roles in the Philadelphia metropolitan area, considering the current cost of living and typical entry-level compensation for specialized retail positions. Factors such as specific qualifications, performance during the interview process, and the exact store's needs may influence the final offer.

Benefits:

• 401(k) with employer match: Offers a retirement savings plan with company contributions.

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Provides confidential support and resources for personal and work-related challenges.

• Medical coverage: Health insurance options available for eligible team members.

• Dental coverage: Dental insurance benefits.

• Vision coverage: Vision insurance benefits.

• Telemedicine services: Access to remote medical consultations.

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

• Commuter benefits: Assistance with transportation costs to and from work.

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

• Adoption assistance: Financial support for team members adopting a child.

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

• Partner discount programs: Access to discounts with other affiliated companies.

Working Hours: This is a part-time position. Actual hours will vary based on business needs and scheduling, but may include nights, weekends, and early mornings. While not explicitly stated as flexible, part-time roles often offer some degree of schedule negotiation.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimation based on industry benchmarks for part-time retail roles with specialized duties in the specified geographic area. The benefits listed are comprehensive and indicative of a large retail organization, with eligibility criteria likely applying to part-time employees.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Retail (Arts and Crafts, Home Decor, Custom Framing). Michaels operates within the arts, crafts, and home decor retail sector, a market driven by consumer creativity, seasonal trends, and DIY projects. This industry requires a focus on product knowledge, visual presentation, and customer engagement to inspire purchases.

Company Size: Michaels is a large retail corporation, operating over 1,300 stores in North America. This implies established operational structures, standardized training programs, and a significant employee base, offering opportunities for diverse career paths.

Founded: Founded in 1973 and headquartered in Irving, Texas, Michaels has a long-standing history in the retail landscape, indicating stability and extensive experience in its market.

Team Structure:

• The operations within a Michaels store are typically structured around functional areas like sales floor, custom framing, and stockroom.

• This role likely reports to a Store Manager or an Assistant Store Manager, with direct supervision from a Framing Department Manager or Lead Framer.

• Collaboration is expected with other store associates, including cashiers, sales floor team members, and stock associates, to ensure seamless store operations and customer service. Methodology:

• Customer-Centric Approach: Emphasis on building relationships and providing personalized solutions, as highlighted by the "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodology.

• Process Adherence: Strong reliance on Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for consistency in sales, production, and operational tasks.

• Visual Merchandising: Maintaining appealing store displays and product presentation is a key operational strategy to drive sales.

• Inventory Management: Efficient stocking and replenishment processes are crucial for product availability and customer satisfaction.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture is geared towards fostering creativity and customer engagement. For operations professionals, understanding how a large retail entity standardizes processes across numerous locations is key. The "Part Time Framer" role is a crucial touchpoint for customer interaction and revenue generation within the store's operational framework.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as an entry-level retail associate with a specialized function (framing). It represents a foundational step within the retail operations pathway, focusing on direct customer service, sales execution, and adherence to established operational procedures. The scope is limited to the individual store environment and specific department responsibilities.

Reporting Structure: The Part Time Framer typically reports to the Store Manager or Assistant Store Manager, with direct day-to-day supervision likely coming from a Framing Department Lead or Manager. This structure ensures clear lines of communication and accountability within the store's operational hierarchy.

Operations Impact: While not a strategic operations role, the Framer's impact is directly tied to revenue generation through custom framing sales and customer retention via positive service experiences. Efficient order fulfillment and quality craftsmanship contribute to the store's overall operational success and customer satisfaction metrics. They also contribute to inventory accuracy and loss prevention through adherence to SOPs.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Development: Opportunity to become a skilled custom framer, mastering techniques, equipment, and customer consultation.

• Retail Advancement: Potential to move into roles like Key Holder, Assistant Manager, or Store Manager within Michaels, with further training and demonstrated performance.

• Specialization: Possibility to develop expertise in visual merchandising, inventory management, or other operational aspects of the retail environment.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: For an entry-level retail position, "operations growth" is primarily defined by mastering store-level operational tasks and potentially advancing within the retail management hierarchy. The growth path is less about strategic operations analysis and more about operational execution excellence and leadership within a retail store setting.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is a public retail store setting. The work environment includes customer-facing areas (sales floor, custom framing counter) and back-of-house areas (stock rooms, potentially a dedicated framing production space).

Office Location(s): The specific store is located at 300 Water Loop Dr Ste 4, Collegeville, PA. This location is a typical suburban retail environment.

Workspace Context:

• Customer Interaction: The primary workspace involves direct interaction with customers in a dynamic retail environment.

• Tools & Technology: Access to framing equipment, glass cutters, heat presses, cash registers, and basic computer systems for order processing and inventory management.

• Team Collaboration: Frequent collaboration with fellow store associates is necessary to manage customer flow, stock levels, and overall store presentation. The framing area may be a semi-dedicated space within the store.

Work Schedule: Work hours include nights, weekends, and early mornings, reflecting the operational demands of a retail business. Part-time schedules will vary based on business needs, requiring flexibility.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is typical for a retail associate role, emphasizing customer engagement, adherence to operational standards, and the use of specific tools and equipment. The framing shop itself will have unique safety considerations due to the tools and materials involved.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Likely involves an online application and potentially a brief phone or video screening to assess basic qualifications and availability.

• In-Person Interview: A more in-depth interview at the store location, likely with the Store Manager or Framing Department Lead. This will focus on customer service skills, problem-solving abilities, and understanding of the role's demands.

• Skills Demonstration: Candidates may be asked to demonstrate basic measuring skills or discuss how they would approach a customer service scenario.

• Cultural Fit Assessment: Evaluation of how well the candidate aligns with Michaels' values of creativity, customer focus, and teamwork.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• For this role, a formal portfolio is not expected. Instead, be prepared to discuss relevant experiences:

• Customer Service Examples: Share specific instances where you provided excellent customer service, resolved issues, or built rapport with clients.

• Creative Projects: If you have personal art or craft projects, be ready to briefly describe them, focusing on attention to detail, planning, or problem-solving involved.

• Technical Aptitude: Discuss any experience you have with tools, equipment, or precise tasks that required careful execution.

• Sales Experience: If you have sales experience, highlight how you approached customers, identified needs, and closed sales.

Challenge Preparation:

• Scenario-Based Questions: Be ready for questions like, "How would you handle a customer who is unhappy with their framing order?" or "How would you upsell a customer on premium framing options?"

• Role-Playing: Potential for a brief role-play to assess customer interaction and sales approach.

• Understanding of Retail Operations: Familiarize yourself with common retail challenges such as inventory management, customer traffic flow, and maintaining store standards.

📝 Enhancement Note: The application and interview process for this role is standard for retail positions. The "portfolio" aspect is de-emphasized in favor of behavioral questions and discussions about practical experience and aptitude.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Custom Framing Equipment: Specialized machinery for cutting mats, assembling frames, and finishing orders. This includes mat cutters, frame saws, jointers, and potentially specialized presses.

• Glass Cutting Tools: Proficiency with a glass cutter is a specified requirement.

• Measuring Tools: Tape measures, rulers, and calipers for precise measurements of artwork and materials.

• Cash Register/POS System: For processing sales transactions, handling cash, and managing customer accounts.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Basic Computer Systems: For accessing order management software, inventory systems, and potentially basic reporting tools related to sales performance.

• POS Reports: The point-of-sale system will generate basic sales reports for the framing department and overall store performance.

CRM & Automation:

• Customer Database (within POS): The system likely tracks customer information, order history, and contact details to facilitate repeat business and personalized service.

• Inventory Management System: Used for tracking stock levels of frame materials, mats, glass, and hardware, and for managing replenishment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is primarily focused on specialized framing equipment and standard retail point-of-sale (POS) systems. The emphasis is on practical application of tools rather than complex software suites.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Creativity & Inspiration: Michaels values fostering a creative environment where team members can inspire customers and colleagues.

• Customer Focus: A strong emphasis on providing exceptional customer service and building lasting relationships.

• Teamwork & Respect: Promoting a positive and collaborative work environment where all individuals are treated with acceptance and respect.

• Efficiency & Compliance: Adherence to SOPs, safety protocols, and operational standards to ensure smooth store functioning and compliance.

• Accountability: Taking ownership of responsibilities, including sales targets, production quality, and store maintenance.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Team members are expected to collaborate across departments (sales floor, framing, stockroom) to ensure a cohesive customer experience and efficient operations.

• Process Improvement: While SOPs are primary, open communication for suggesting minor improvements to workflow or customer service is generally encouraged.

• Knowledge Sharing: Sharing best practices in customer service, framing techniques, and operational efficiency with colleagues.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture values a blend of creative passion and operational discipline. Team members are encouraged to be helpful, positive, and efficient in their roles, contributing to a welcoming and productive store environment.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Sales and Production: Effectively managing customer consultations and sales while also fulfilling existing framing orders accurately and on time.

• Handling Diverse Customer Needs: Addressing a wide range of artistic tastes, budget constraints, and framing requirements from different customers.

• Maintaining Quality Standards: Consistently producing high-quality custom frames in a fast-paced retail setting.

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

• Adapting to Retail Schedules: Working non-traditional hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Framing Expertise: Deepen knowledge and skills in custom framing design, materials, and techniques.

• Sales & Customer Service Training: Enhance abilities in consultative selling, customer relationship management, and conflict resolution.

• Retail Operations Fundamentals: Gain exposure to broader retail operations, including visual merchandising, inventory control, and POS system management.

• Potential for Leadership: Opportunities for advancement to supervisory or management roles within Michaels stores.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are typical for a specialized retail role, focusing on balancing diverse demands. Growth opportunities are geared towards skill mastery within the framing domain and progression within the retail store management structure.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Customer Service Scenarios: Prepare to discuss how you would handle a difficult customer, de-escalate a situation, or go the extra mile to ensure customer satisfaction. Think about specific examples.

• Sales Approach: How would you approach a customer browsing the framing section? What questions would you ask to understand their needs and recommend solutions? How do you handle objections or price concerns?

• Problem-Solving: Describe a time you encountered a problem at work and how you solved it. For framing, this could be a material shortage, an equipment issue, or a customer request that's difficult to fulfill.

• Attention to Detail: Discuss the importance of accuracy in measuring and production for custom framing. How do you ensure precision in your work?

Company & Culture Questions:

• Motivation: Why Michaels? Why the framing role? What interests you about our company and this specific position?

• Teamwork: How do you contribute to a positive team environment? Describe a time you worked effectively with colleagues.

• Values Alignment: How do you embody creativity, customer focus, or respect in your work?

• Adaptability: How do you handle changing priorities or unexpected tasks in a retail environment?

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Verbal Examples: Since a formal portfolio isn't required, be ready to present "mini-case studies" of your experience. For example:

  • Customer Service Success: "Once, a customer needed a very specific type of frame for a sentimental piece on short notice. I took the time to understand their vision, explored all material options, and worked with the team to expedite production. The customer was thrilled..."
  • Problem Solved: "We ran out of a specific mat board color. I quickly researched alternative colors that would complement the artwork and presented them to the customer, who was happy with the suggestion. I also noted the inventory level to ensure timely reordering."

• Highlight Key Skills: Weave in mentions of your measuring skills, equipment operation experience, and ability to follow instructions throughout your answers.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparation should focus on behavioral questions, role-playing common retail scenarios, and articulating how one's skills and experiences align with Michaels' customer-centric and creative culture. Demonstrating a proactive and detail-oriented mindset is key.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Part Time Framer position:

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

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight customer service, sales experience (even if informal), attention to detail, and any experience with tools or equipment. Use keywords from the job description like "custom framing," "customer service," "sales," and "merchandising."

• Prepare for Behavioral Questions: Think of specific examples from past experiences (retail, school projects, personal endeavors) that demonstrate your ability to handle customer interactions, solve problems, work with tools, and follow procedures.

• Research Michaels: Understand the company's mission, values, and product offerings. Be prepared to articulate why you want to work for Michaels and specifically in the framing department.

• Practice Your Introduction: Be ready to give a concise overview of your relevant skills and experience when asked "Tell me about yourself."

⚠️ 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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