Part-time Framer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Part-time Framer

Company: Michaels Stores

Location: Germantown, MD (20902 Frederick Rd)

Job Type: PART_TIME

Category: Retail Operations / Custom Framing

Date Posted: 2026-04-13

Experience Level: Entry-level to 2 years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Execute sales and production goals within the custom framing department, focusing on building strong customer relationships through personalized design consultations.

• Maintain operational standards by adhering to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for sales, production, and store maintenance.

• Ensure a positive customer shopping experience by providing excellent service, maintaining store cleanliness, and ensuring product availability through effective merchandising and stocking.

• Support overall store operations through participation in inventory management, truck unloading, and omnichannel processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Framer," the responsibilities extend beyond just production to encompass a significant customer-facing sales and relationship-building component, characteristic of a retail sales associate with specialized duties. The focus on "Elevated ABC Deliver" suggests a structured approach to customer engagement and sales.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Customer Engagement & Sales:

  • Build and nurture customer relationships by actively engaging with shoppers, understanding their needs, and recommending tailored custom framing solutions.
  • Utilize the "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodology to guide customer interactions, drive sales, and achieve personal designer sales and production targets.
  • Acknowledge customers promptly, assist them in locating products, and provide comprehensive solutions to their framing needs.

• Custom Framing Production:

  • Complete custom framing orders accurately, with a high degree of quality, and within established timelines.
  • Operate framing equipment and glass cutters safely and effectively to produce finished framed artwork.
  • Maintain the readiness and quality of the ready-made frame department and other assigned areas.

• Store Operations & Merchandising:

  • Ensure assigned store areas, including the ready-made frame department and SISO (Shop In Store Out) sections, are well-merchandised, clean, and clutter-free.
  • Participate actively in the truck unloading and stocking processes, ensuring adherence to truck standards and timely completion.
  • Maintain a safe, clean, and well-organized store environment for both customers and team members.

• Omnichannel & Inventory Support:

  • Assist with and support the execution of omnichannel processes, ensuring a seamless customer experience across online and in-store channels.
  • Contribute to inventory management by participating in stocking, replenishment, and potentially cycle count activities.

• Operational Compliance & Standards:

  • Adhere strictly to all Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and Company programs to ensure compliance with applicable laws and internal requirements.
  • Support shrink reduction and safety programs through diligent adherence to policies and procedures.
  • Operate the cash register and execute cash handling procedures to established standards, ensuring accuracy and security.

• Teamwork & Professionalism:

  • Interact with colleagues and customers in an accepting, respectful, and positive manner, even in challenging situations.

  • Promote commitment to the organization's vision and values, serving as a role model for professional conduct.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a dual role: a skilled framer with production duties and a customer-focused sales associate. The emphasis on "Elevated ABC Deliver" and "personal designer" indicates a sales-driven approach within the framing department, requiring strong interpersonal and consultative selling skills.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: High school diploma or equivalent is typically expected for retail roles of this nature.

Experience:

• 0-2 years of experience in a retail or customer service environment.

Required Skills:

• Customer Service Excellence: Ability to provide friendly, helpful, and solution-oriented service to all customers.

• Basic Measuring Skills: Proficiency in taking accurate measurements for framing projects.

• Equipment Operation: Ability to safely operate framing equipment and a glass cutter.

• Basic Computer Skills: Familiarity with point-of-sale (POS) systems and basic computer functions.

• Sales Acumen: Capability to engage customers, understand needs, and recommend appropriate products and services.

• Merchandising & Store Maintenance: Ability to maintain visually appealing displays and a clean, organized store environment.

• Adherence to Procedures: Willingness and ability to follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company programs.

Preferred Skills:

• Retail Sales Experience: Proven track record in a retail sales role, especially in consultative selling.

• Custom Framing Expertise: Prior experience or training in custom framing techniques and design principles.

• Relationship Building: Demonstrated ability to build rapport and lasting customer relationships.

• Inventory Management: Familiarity with stocking, replenishment, and basic inventory control principles.

• Omnichannel Support: Understanding of or experience with supporting online order fulfillment and in-store pickup processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Minimum Type of experience" and "Preferred Type of experience" sections in the original description directly inform these qualifications. The AI's "0-2" experience level aligns with the preference for retail experience and the basic skill requirements. The role is entry-level but values specific practical skills.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• While a formal portfolio might not be strictly required for this entry-level role, candidates with prior framing or design experience are encouraged to highlight relevant projects.

• For experienced candidates, a portfolio showcasing a range of custom framing projects, demonstrating aesthetic judgment, material knowledge, and execution quality, would be beneficial.

• Documented examples of successful customer interactions or sales achievements in a retail or service context can serve as a de facto portfolio for sales-related aspects.

Process Documentation:

• Candidates are expected to understand and follow established Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for customer service, sales, production, and store operations.

• Familiarity with or ability to quickly learn processes related to custom framing order intake, production workflow, quality control, and customer delivery.

• Understanding of basic retail processes such as cash handling, point-of-sale operations, inventory stocking, and merchandising.

• Ability to learn and adapt to company-specific systems for order management, customer relationship management (CRM), and inventory tracking.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the retail and part-time nature of the role, a formal operations portfolio is unlikely to be a strict requirement. However, the emphasis on following SOPs and executing specific processes means candidates should be prepared to discuss their understanding of and experience with process-driven work. For those with framing experience, showcasing their work is a strong advantage.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $17.75 - $20.90 per hour.

Explanation of Range: This range is based on the provided "Total Base Pay Range for this Position" in the job description. It reflects an entry-level to moderately experienced part-time retail position, likely influenced by the specialized framing skill set and the cost of living in the Germantown, MD area.

Benefits:

• Health insurance (medical, dental, and vision)

• Paid time off (PTO)

• Tuition assistance

• Generous employee discounts on Michaels products

Working Hours:

• Part-time position.

• Work hours include nights, weekends, and early mornings, as required by store operational needs.

• The job description mentions 40 hours as a potential for "working_hours" but this is likely a placeholder or maximum for full-time roles; for a part-time role, actual hours would be less and vary based on scheduling.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is explicitly stated. The benefits listed are directly from the job description's "Total Base Pay Range for this Position" and "At Michaels, we prioritize the wellbeing of our teams" sections. The working hours are confirmed as part-time with flexible scheduling.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Arts and Crafts Retail; Specialty Framing Services.

Company Size: Over 1,300 stores across North America, indicating a large, established retail footprint. The Michaels Companies, Inc. also includes Artistree, a framing manufacturer.

Founded: 1973, with headquarters in Irving, Texas. This signifies a long-standing presence and deep experience in the creative retail market.

Team Structure:

• Retail Store Environment: Operates within a typical retail store hierarchy, likely including a Store Manager, Assistant Store Manager, and specialized roles like Framers and Sales Associates.

• Reporting: This part-time Framer would likely report to a designated supervisor or manager responsible for the framing department or overall store operations.

• Cross-functional Collaboration: Collaborates with other store team members in areas such as sales, inventory, customer service, and cashiering to ensure smooth daily operations and a positive customer experience.

Methodology:

• Customer-Centric Sales: Focuses on building customer relationships and providing personalized solutions, particularly within the custom framing department, using structured sales methodologies like "Elevated ABC Deliver."

• Process Adherence: Emphasizes strict adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for all aspects of store operations, from sales and production to safety and inventory.

• Efficiency & Productivity: Strives for efficient store operations through organized merchandising, effective stocking, and timely order fulfillment.

Company Website: www.michaels.com

📝 Enhancement Note: The company context is derived from the provided description, highlighting its scale, history, and core business. The "Team Structure" and "Methodology" sections infer typical retail operations based on the role's responsibilities and the company's stated practices.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Entry-Level Retail Associate with Specialized Skills. This role serves as an excellent entry point into the retail operations environment, particularly within a specialized department like custom framing. It offers hands-on experience in sales, customer service, and production.

Reporting Structure: Typically reports to a department lead, assistant manager, or store manager, providing direct oversight and guidance on daily tasks and performance.

Operations Impact: The Framer directly impacts store revenue through custom framing sales and contributes to overall customer satisfaction by providing quality products and excellent service. Their work in maintaining store standards also affects the shopping environment and operational efficiency.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Opportunity to become a highly skilled custom framer, mastering design principles, material knowledge, and advanced fabrication techniques.

• Sales Development: Potential to advance sales skills and product knowledge, leading to roles with higher sales targets or commission opportunities.

• Leadership Potential: With demonstrated performance and leadership qualities, progression to roles like Lead Framer, Sales Lead, or Assistant Store Manager is possible within Michaels' retail structure.

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

• Further Education Support: Tuition assistance can support formal education in design, business, or related fields.

📝 Enhancement Note: This analysis extrapolates growth paths based on the entry-level nature of the role, the specialized skill set, and typical career progression within a large retail organization like Michaels.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Public retail store setting. The primary workspace is the retail floor and the dedicated custom framing area/shop.

Office Location(s): Germantown, MD (20902 Frederick Rd). The description specifies a climate-controlled public retail store setting. Some stock rooms may not be climate-controlled.

Workspace Context:

• Customer Interaction Hub: The environment is customer-facing, requiring constant interaction and service provision.

• Production Area: The framing shop contains specialized equipment like glass cutters and heat presses, requiring careful operation and adherence to safety protocols.

• Team Collaboration: Opportunities for interaction and collaboration with other store team members during daily operations, stocking, and customer assistance.

Work Schedule:

• Part-time.

• Flexible scheduling is typical, with shifts potentially including nights, weekends, and early mornings to cover store operating hours.

• The role requires standing for extended periods and involves physical tasks like bending, lifting, and reaching.

📝 Enhancement Note: The description explicitly details the work environment, including climate control, potential stockroom conditions, and specific equipment used in the framing shop. Physical requirements and work schedule flexibility are also clearly outlined.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Likely involves an application review and potentially a brief phone screen to assess basic qualifications and interest.

• In-Person Interview: A primary interview will likely take place at the store location. This will focus on:

  • Customer Service Skills: Behavioral questions assessing how you handle customer interactions, problem-solving scenarios, and your approach to sales.
  • Technical Aptitude: Questions about your comfort with basic measurements, operating equipment, and understanding of framing principles (if applicable).
  • Operational Understanding: Discussion of your ability to follow SOPs, work in a team, and maintain store standards.
  • Motivation & Fit: Understanding why you're interested in Michaels and this specific role.

• Practical Assessment (Potentially): For framing roles, a brief practical demonstration of measuring or handling materials might be requested, or a discussion about past framing projects.

• Final Offer: Based on interview performance and background checks.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• For Experienced Framers:

  • Prepare a concise visual presentation (digital or physical) showcasing 3-5 diverse custom framing projects.
  • For each project, highlight the client's need, your design choices, materials used, and the final outcome.
  • Quantify impact where possible (e.g., "client satisfaction," "achieved aesthetic goal").

• For All Candidates:

  • Be ready to discuss specific examples of excellent customer service you've provided.
  • Prepare to talk about times you've successfully sold a product or service.
  • If you have experience in merchandising or maintaining store appearance, have examples ready.

Challenge Preparation:

• Customer Scenario: Be prepared for a role-playing scenario where you interact with a "customer" needing framing advice. Focus on active listening, asking clarifying questions, and proposing solutions.

• Problem-Solving: Anticipate questions about how you would handle a difficult customer, a production delay, or a merchandising issue. Emphasize your adherence to SOPs and your problem-solving approach.

• Operational Awareness: Be ready to discuss your understanding of retail operations, including the importance of store presentation, inventory accuracy, and safety.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section is tailored to a retail sales and specialized production role. The "portfolio" aspect is interpreted broadly to include examples of sales success and customer service, alongside potential framing work for experienced candidates. The interview process is structured around typical retail hiring practices.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Custom Framing Equipment: Standard framing tools including mat cutters, glass cutters, saws, underpinnings, and potentially heat presses. Proficiency or ability to learn quickly is key.

• Point-of-Sale (POS) System: Used for customer transactions, order entry, and potentially inventory lookup. Familiarity with retail POS systems is beneficial.

• Basic Computer Skills: For accessing company systems, email, and potentially online training modules.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not directly responsible for complex analytics, the role contributes data through sales transactions and inventory movements that feed into broader reporting.

CRM & Automation:

• The "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodology suggests a structured approach to customer relationship management, likely supported by CRM functionalities within the POS or a separate system.

• Omni channel processes imply integration between online and in-store systems, requiring an understanding of how orders flow.

📝 Enhancement Note: The tools mentioned are derived directly from the job description's requirements ("operate the framing equipment and glass cutter," "basic computer skills," "operate cash register," "Omni channel processes"). The focus is on practical, customer-facing, and production-related technologies.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Customer Focus: Prioritizing customer needs and satisfaction through excellent service and personalized solutions.

• Creativity & Passion: Embracing the joy of creating and celebrating, reflected in the custom framing work and store atmosphere.

• Teamwork & Respect: Fostering a positive, accepting, and respectful environment for both colleagues and customers.

• Integrity & Accountability: Adhering to SOPs, company policies, and ethical standards in all actions.

• Efficiency & Quality: Striving for high-quality production and efficient store operations.

Collaboration Style:

• Proactive Engagement: Actively assisting customers and colleagues, contributing to a helpful store environment.

• Structured Process Adherence: Working within established procedures to ensure consistency and quality.

• Open Communication: Encouraging positive interactions and respectful feedback among team members.

• Shared Responsibility: Participating in all aspects of store operations, from sales and production to stocking and maintenance.

📝 Enhancement Note: These values and collaboration styles are inferred from the company's mission ("fuel the joy of creativity and celebration"), the emphasis on customer service, adherence to SOPs, and the general principles of a large retail organization aiming for a positive work environment.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Sales and Production: Effectively managing time to meet both custom framing sales targets and production deadlines.

• Customer Demands: Handling diverse customer expectations, budgets, and design preferences, sometimes under pressure.

• Physical Demands: The role requires standing for long periods and performing physically demanding tasks, which can be challenging.

• Pace of Retail: Adapting to the fast-paced, dynamic nature of a retail environment, especially during peak seasons.

• Learning Curve: Mastering framing equipment, design principles, and company-specific sales processes.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Framing Certifications: Potential for advanced training and certification in custom framing, possibly through industry associations or company-sponsored programs.

• Sales Training: Development in consultative selling techniques, product knowledge, and achieving sales goals.

• Retail Management: Opportunities to learn about store operations, inventory management, and leadership through cross-training and potential advancement.

• Product Knowledge: Continuous learning about art, framing materials, preservation techniques, and design trends.

• Tuition Assistance: Support for pursuing further education in relevant fields such as art, design, business, or operations management.

📝 Enhancement Note: Challenges are identified based on the nature of the role (part-time, retail, specialized production) and its inherent demands. Growth opportunities are built upon the company's stated benefits (tuition assistance) and typical career progression within retail.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Customer Service & Sales:

  • "Describe a time you successfully helped a customer find the perfect product or solution."
  • "How would you approach a customer who seems unsure about what they want for their custom framing project?"
  • "Imagine a customer is unhappy with a framing order. How would you handle the situation?"
  • "What steps would you take to upsell or recommend additional services/products to a framing customer?"

• Operational & Technical:

  • "What experience do you have with operating machinery or tools? How do you ensure safety?"
  • "How do you prioritize tasks when you have multiple orders to complete and customers waiting?"
  • "What does it mean to adhere to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) in a retail environment?"
  • "How would you ensure the ready-made frame department is well-merchandised and stocked?"

• Company & Culture:

  • "Why are you interested in working for Michaels, specifically in custom framing?"
  • "What do you think makes for a positive and productive team environment in a retail store?"

Company & Culture Questions:

• Research Michaels' mission and values. Be prepared to discuss how your own work ethic aligns with "fueling the joy of creativity and celebration."

• Understand the "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodology if possible (look for general retail sales training principles).

• Familiarize yourself with the types of art and framing services Michaels offers.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Framing Experience: If you have framing experience, be ready to walk through 1-2 key projects. Focus on the problem, your solution, and the outcome. Highlight your design choices and technical skills.

• Sales Achievements: If you have strong sales experience, prepare to discuss specific metrics or achievements. Quantify your success whenever possible (e.g., "exceeded sales targets by 15%").

• Customer Service Examples: Have 2-3 concise stories ready that demonstrate your ability to go above and beyond for customers.

• Visual Aids: If you have photos of framing work, have them readily accessible on your phone or as a small printed booklet.

📝 Enhancement Note: These questions are designed to probe the core competencies required for the role: customer service, sales ability, operational adherence, and technical aptitude for framing. The portfolio advice is tailored to showcasing relevant skills for this specific position.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this part-time Framer position:

• Submit Your Application Online: Navigate to the provided Workday job portal link and complete the application form accurately and thoroughly.

• Tailor Your Resume: Ensure your resume highlights relevant experience in customer service, sales, any specific framing or crafting skills, and familiarity with retail operations (e.g., POS systems, stocking, merchandising). Use keywords from the job description.

• Prepare Your "Portfolio": Even without formal framing experience, gather examples of customer service success, sales achievements, or any creative projects you've completed that demonstrate attention to detail and design sense. If you have framing work, have photos ready to share.

• Practice Interview Responses: Rehearse answers to common retail interview questions, focusing on behavioral examples that showcase your skills in customer interaction, problem-solving, and operational compliance. Be ready to discuss your interest in Michaels and the framing department specifically.

• Research Michaels: Understand the company's mission, values, and product offerings to articulate your fit during the interview. Familiarize yourself with the Germantown, MD store location if possible.

⚠️ 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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