Part Time Framer/ Personal Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Part Time Framer/ Personal Designer

Company: Michaels Stores

Location: Cumming, Georgia, United States

Job Type: Part-Time

Category: Retail Operations / Customer Service & Sales

Date Posted: May 30, 2026

Experience Level: Entry Level (0-2 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role focuses on creating memorable framing solutions and building strong customer relationships within a retail environment.

• Key responsibilities include driving sales and production targets through personalized design consultations and adherence to operational standards.

• The position requires maintaining store presentation, managing inventory, and ensuring a positive shopping experience for customers.

• Successful candidates will leverage their creative skills and customer service expertise to contribute to store performance and operational efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the original job title includes "Personal Designer," the core responsibilities and skills lean heavily into a "Framer" role with a strong customer service and sales component. The "Personal Designer" aspect implies a consultative approach to custom framing, emphasizing the ability to understand customer needs and translate them into aesthetically pleasing and functional framing solutions. This is a key differentiator for attracting candidates with a creative flair and consultative sales aptitude.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Customer Engagement & Sales:

  • Build and foster strong customer relationships by acting as a Personal Designer, offering elevated design consultations for custom framing solutions.
  • Drive sales and production results by effectively recommending and selling custom framing products and services.
  • Acknowledge customers promptly, assist them in locating products, and provide comprehensive solutions to meet their needs.

• Custom Framing Operations:

  • Complete custom framing orders with a high degree of quality and within established timelines, adhering to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
  • Operate framing equipment and utilize a glass cutter proficiently and safely.
  • Maintain the ready-made frame department and other assigned areas, including SISO (Single Item, Single Order) and Directed Replenishment processes.

• Store Operations & Merchandising:

  • Ensure a safe, clean, and clutter-free environment for customers and team members.
  • Maintain the ready-made frame department and other assigned areas, ensuring products are well-merchandised and in stock.
  • Participate actively in truck un-load and stocking processes, ensuring adherence to truck standards and completion within budget.
  • Operate the cash register and execute cash handling procedures to company standards.
  • Assist with Omni-channel processes, supporting online order fulfillment and in-store pickup.

• Team Collaboration & Compliance:

  • Adhere to all Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and Company programs to ensure compliance with applicable laws and requirements.

  • Interact positively and respectfully with colleagues, remaining committed to the organization's vision and values.

  • Support shrink and safety programs through diligent execution of duties.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities are segmented to highlight customer-facing sales and design, technical framing execution, general store operations, and team collaboration. This structure provides clarity on the multifaceted nature of the role, emphasizing both the creative/sales aspect and the operational/execution requirements.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: High school diploma or equivalent (e.g., GED) is typically required for entry-level retail positions. Specific certifications in design or framing are not mandated but can be advantageous.

Experience:

• 0-2 years of experience in a retail or customer-facing role.

• Experience in custom framing, art, or design is a strong plus.

Required Skills:

• Customer Service Excellence: Ability to engage customers, understand their needs, and provide solutions with a friendly and helpful demeanor.

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

• Measuring Skills: Accurate measurement capabilities for custom framing projects.

• Operational Equipment Proficiency: Ability to operate framing equipment and a glass cutter safely and effectively.

• Cash Handling: Competence in processing transactions accurately and managing cash responsibly.

• Merchandising Acumen: Understanding of how to present products attractively and maintain an organized sales floor.

• Adaptability: Ability to work flexible hours, including nights, weekends, and early mornings, as required by retail operations.

Preferred Skills:

• Custom Framing Expertise: Prior experience in designing and creating custom frames.

• Retail Sales Experience: Proven track record of meeting or exceeding sales targets in a retail environment.

• Design Sensibility: An eye for aesthetics, color, and composition, particularly as it applies to art and display.

• Inventory Management: Familiarity with inventory replenishment and stock management processes.

• Omni-channel Retail Knowledge: Understanding of integrated retail operations, including online order fulfillment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Experience Level" was inferred as "Entry Level (0-2 years)" based on the "Minimum Type of experience the job requires" and "Preferred Type of experience the job requires" sections, which indicate basic skills and preferred retail experience rather than extensive professional backgrounds. The education requirement is a standard assumption for retail roles of this nature.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• While a formal portfolio is not explicitly requested, candidates are encouraged to showcase their creativity and understanding of design principles. This can be demonstrated through:
  • Examples of past framing projects (personal or professional), highlighting creativity, problem-solving, and attention to detail.
  • A discussion of how they approach customer consultations to understand and deliver on design preferences.
  • Visual examples of aesthetic sense, perhaps through personal projects or mood boards related to art and decor.

Process Documentation:

• Candidates should be prepared to discuss their understanding of and adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for framing, sales, and store operations.

• An understanding of workflow for custom framing orders, from consultation to completion, is beneficial.

• Familiarity with inventory management processes, including replenishment and stock organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a retail associate role focusing on custom framing, a traditional "process and systems portfolio" is less common. The enhancement here focuses on what a candidate can bring to demonstrate their capabilities in lieu of a formal portfolio, emphasizing creativity, problem-solving, and understanding of operational processes.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on industry standards for part-time retail positions with custom framing responsibilities in the Cumming, Georgia area, the estimated hourly wage range is $12.00 - $17.00 per hour.

Benefits:

• Health Insurance: Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance are available, reflecting a commitment to team member well-being.

• Paid Time Off (PTO): Accrued PTO for eligible part-time team members, allowing for rest and personal time.

• Employee Discounts: Generous discounts on Michaels products, fostering a passion for crafting and creativity.

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

• Flexible Scheduling: As a part-time role, offers flexibility to balance work with other commitments.

• Retirement Savings Plan: Opportunities to save for the future.

Working Hours:

• This is a part-time position, with hours typically ranging from 15-25 hours per week.

• The role requires flexibility to work nights, weekends, and potentially early mornings, aligning with typical retail operating hours and business needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary range is an estimate based on common part-time retail associate and custom framer roles in the specified location. Benefits are directly pulled from the provided text, highlighting their availability for part-time employees.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Arts and Crafts Retail. Michaels is a leading North American retailer specializing in arts, crafts, custom framing, and decor.

Company Size: The Michaels Companies, Inc. operates over 1,300 stores across 49 states and Canada, employing a significant number of individuals. This large scale implies robust operational processes and a structured corporate environment.

Founded: 1973. With decades of experience, Michaels has established itself as a staple in the creative community, indicating a culture that values longevity, customer loyalty, and adapting to market trends.

Team Structure:

• This role is part of the store-level team, reporting to store management (e.g., Store Manager, Assistant Manager, or Department Specialist).

• Collaboration is expected with fellow sales associates, stock associates, and potentially visual merchandisers.

Methodology:

• Customer-Centric Approach: The core methodology revolves around building customer relationships and providing solutions, particularly in custom framing.

• Operational Excellence: Adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) is crucial for maintaining consistency, quality, and compliance across all stores.

• Sales-Driven Environment: Performance is measured by sales and production targets, encouraging a proactive and results-oriented mindset.

• Teamwork: Collaborative efforts are essential for managing store operations, from stocking to customer service.

Company Website: www.michaels.com

📝 Enhancement Note: Company context is derived from the provided description, emphasizing its scale, industry leadership, and operational philosophy. The team structure is inferred based on typical retail store organizational models.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is an entry-level to junior position within the retail operations framework. It serves as a foundational role for individuals interested in customer-facing sales, design consultation, and hands-on production within a retail setting.

Reporting Structure: The Part Time Framer/ Personal Designer typically reports to a Store Manager, Assistant Store Manager, or a Framing Department Lead/Specialist, depending on the store's organizational hierarchy.

Operations Impact:

• Directly impacts store revenue through custom framing sales and customer engagement.

• Contributes to overall store presentation and customer satisfaction through effective merchandising and service.

• Supports operational efficiency by adhering to SOPs, managing inventory, and assisting with stocking duties.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Development: Opportunity to develop advanced framing techniques, design consultation skills, and proficiency with specialized equipment.

• Sales Acumen: Potential to hone sales techniques, learn about upselling and cross-selling within the arts and crafts context.

• Leadership Potential: Progression to roles like Framing Department Lead, Key Holder, or Assistant Manager within the store, with increased responsibility and leadership opportunities.

• Cross-Training: Possibility of cross-training in other store departments, broadening retail operational knowledge.

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in custom framing, art, or specific craft areas.

📝 Enhancement Note: Growth opportunities are inferred based on typical career paths within large retail organizations like Michaels, focusing on skill enhancement, sales progression, and potential leadership roles.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: On-site, within a public retail store setting. This involves customer interaction in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.

Office Location(s): Cumming, Georgia, specifically at the 1200 Market Place Blvd store.

Workspace Context:

• Customer-Facing Area: The primary workspace involves the sales floor, customer service desk, and the custom framing counter/area. This requires maintaining a professional and welcoming appearance.

• Framing Shop: A dedicated area within the store where framing orders are executed. This space contains specialized equipment like glass cutters and heat presses, requiring adherence to safety protocols.

• Stock Room: Access to stock rooms for receiving and organizing inventory. These areas may not always be climate-controlled.

• Collaborative Environment: Frequent interaction with other store team members is expected for task coordination and customer support.

Work Schedule:

• Flexible part-time schedule, typically 15-25 hours per week.

• Requires availability for nights, weekends, and potentially early mornings.

• The schedule is designed to cover peak retail hours and ensure adequate staffing for customer service and operational needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment description is synthesized from the "Work Environment" section of the raw input, detailing the physical space and operational demands.

📄 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: Candidates will likely undergo an in-person interview at the store. This will include:

  • Behavioral Questions: Assessing customer service skills, problem-solving abilities, and teamwork through questions like "Tell me about a time you dealt with a difficult customer."
  • Situational Questions: Evaluating how candidates would handle specific scenarios, such as approaching a customer, resolving a framing design conflict, or managing a stock shortage.
  • Skills Assessment: Discussion of technical skills related to measuring, operating equipment, and basic computer proficiency.
  • Design Consultation Simulation: Potentially a role-play scenario where candidates demonstrate their ability to consult with a "customer" on framing options.

• Practical Assessment (Optional but likely): A brief hands-on demonstration of measuring skills or familiarity with basic tools might be requested.

• Final Interview/Offer: May involve a final discussion with the Store Manager or Department Lead to confirm fit and extend an offer.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Showcase Creativity: Even without a formal portfolio, be prepared to discuss personal creative projects, art interests, or design preferences. Visual aids (e.g., photos on a phone) of past framing or craft projects can be impactful.

• Highlight Problem-Solving: Be ready to explain how you would approach a complex framing job, such as framing an irregularly shaped item or a delicate piece of art, emphasizing your thought process and solution-oriented mindset.

• Demonstrate Customer Empathy: Prepare examples of how you've successfully understood and met customer needs in previous roles, focusing on active listening and personalized service.

• Articulate Value Proposition: Clearly communicate why your skills in design, customer service, and attention to detail make you a strong candidate for the Part Time Framer/ Personal Designer role.

Challenge Preparation:

• Operational Scenarios: Anticipate questions about managing multiple tasks (e.g., serving a customer while a framing order needs attention), handling stock, or dealing with product availability issues.

• Customer Service Scenarios: Prepare for questions related to de-escalating customer issues, making product recommendations, and ensuring customer satisfaction.

• Design Consultation Practice: Think through how you would guide a customer through the custom framing process, from selecting materials to discussing aesthetics and functionality.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview and portfolio section is tailored to a retail sales and custom framing role, focusing on practical demonstrations of skills and customer interaction rather than traditional operations metrics or complex system implementations.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Custom Framing Equipment:

  • Mat Cutters/Framing Tools: Proficiency in using various tools for cutting mats and assembling frames.
  • Glass Cutters: Skill in precisely cutting glass for framed items.
  • Heat Press/Mounting Equipment: Familiarity with tools used for mounting artwork and applying protective finishes.

• Point of Sale (POS) System: Experience operating a cash register and POS system for processing sales, returns, and managing customer accounts.

• Basic Computer Systems: Familiarity with Windows-based operating systems for order entry, inventory lookup, and internal communications.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While advanced analytics are not expected for this role, an understanding of how sales figures and production metrics contribute to store performance is beneficial.

CRM & Automation:

• Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Software: Used for tracking customer orders, preferences, and contact information. The ability to input and retrieve customer data accurately is key.

• Inventory Management Systems: Used for tracking stock levels, managing replenishment, and organizing merchandise.

📝 Enhancement Note: The tools and technology stack are specific to a retail environment with a custom framing component, focusing on operational equipment and basic retail software rather than enterprise-level operations platforms.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Customer Focus: Prioritizing customer needs and satisfaction through exceptional service and personalized design consultations.

• Creativity & Passion: Embracing the joy of creativity and encouraging artistic expression in both products and team members.

• Quality & Craftsmanship: Commitment to delivering high-quality custom framing solutions that meet customer expectations.

• Teamwork & Support: Fostering a collaborative environment where team members support each other to achieve store goals.

• Integrity & Respect: Upholding ethical standards and treating all customers and colleagues with dignity and respect.

• Efficiency: Maintaining operational standards and processes to ensure timely order fulfillment and a well-organized store.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Interaction: Working alongside other sales associates, stock team members, and management to ensure smooth store operations.

• Shared Goal Orientation: Collaborating to meet daily sales targets, maintain store appearance, and provide comprehensive customer service.

• Open Communication: Encouraging clear communication regarding customer needs, order status, and operational challenges.

• Mutual Support: Assisting colleagues with tasks, sharing knowledge, and contributing to a positive team atmosphere.

📝 Enhancement Note: Team culture and values are inferred from the company's stated purpose ("fuel the joy of creativity and celebration") and general principles of successful retail operations, emphasizing customer centricity and collaboration.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Multiple Demands: Juggling customer consultations, framing production, sales transactions, and stocking duties simultaneously in a busy retail environment.

• Meeting Sales Targets: Consistently driving custom framing sales in a competitive market.

• Managing Customer Expectations: Effectively communicating timelines, costs, and design possibilities to satisfy diverse customer needs.

• Physical Demands: Performing physically demanding tasks such as lifting heavy frames, standing for extended periods, and working with specialized equipment.

• Adapting to Trends: Staying current with design trends and customer preferences in the art and framing industry.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Framing Techniques: Opportunities to learn more complex framing methods, materials, and preservation techniques.

• Sales & Design Training: Access to training programs that enhance consultative selling skills and design knowledge.

• Product Knowledge: Continuous learning about the wide range of art supplies, craft materials, and framing options available.

• In-Store Career Progression: Potential to advance into leadership roles within the store, such as Key Holder, Framing Department Lead, or Assistant Manager.

• Company Resources: Leveraging Michaels' resources for professional development, including online learning modules and workshops.

📝 Enhancement Note: Challenges and growth opportunities are tailored to the specific demands and potential career paths of a retail associate in a custom framing role.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Customer Service & Sales:

  • "Describe your approach to helping a customer find the perfect frame for a cherished piece of art."
  • "How would you handle a situation where a customer is unhappy with their custom framing order?"
  • "What strategies would you use to upsell or cross-sell related products to a custom framing customer?"

• Operational & Technical Skills:

  • "Walk me through the process of measuring a piece of art for framing."
  • "What safety precautions would you take when operating a glass cutter?"
  • "How do you ensure accuracy when taking customer measurements and order details?"

• Company & Culture Fit:

  • "Why are you interested in working for Michaels?"
  • "How do you contribute to a positive team environment?"

Company & Culture Questions:

• Research Michaels' mission, values, and recent initiatives. Understand their position in the arts and crafts market.

• Be prepared to discuss your understanding of the "Personal Designer" aspect and how you would embody that role.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Verbal Examples: Since a formal portfolio may not be required, prepare clear, concise stories that illustrate your relevant skills.

  • Framing/Design: Describe a challenging framing project you completed, detailing your thought process, material choices, and the final outcome.
  • Customer Service: Share an example of how you went above and beyond to assist a customer.
  • Problem-Solving: Provide an instance where you resolved an issue efficiently and effectively.

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

• Highlight Key Skills: Emphasize your measuring skills, attention to detail, comfort with tools, and ability to connect with customers.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation is focused on retail-specific scenarios, customer interaction, and demonstrating basic technical aptitude relevant to framing.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

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

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight relevant experience in customer service, sales, any art or design background, and any experience with tools or meticulous work. Use keywords from the job description such as "custom framing," "customer service," "sales," "measuring skills," and "retail operations."

• Portfolio Preparation (Verbal): Prepare to discuss specific examples of your design sense, problem-solving skills in a creative context, and customer interaction successes. Think of 2-3 key achievements or scenarios you can articulate clearly.

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

• Interview Practice: Practice answering common retail interview questions, focusing on behavioral and situational examples related to customer service, sales, and operational tasks. Be ready to articulate your availability for part-time work, including nights and weekends.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description has been created to provide a comprehensive overview based on the provided input and industry standards for retail and custom framing roles. Specific details regarding salary, benefits, and interview processes should always be confirmed directly with Michaels Stores during the application process.