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 / Custom Framing Specialist

Date Posted: 2026-09-05

Experience Level: Entry Level (0-2 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is a blend of hands-on custom framing and customer-facing sales, requiring strong interpersonal skills and attention to detail within a retail operations environment.

• Focuses on building lasting customer relationships through personalized design consultations and delivering high-quality custom framing solutions.

• Involves maintaining store standards, including merchandising, inventory management, and operational efficiency within the framing department.

• Requires proficiency in basic operational tasks such as cash handling, point-of-sale (POS) operation, and supporting omni-channel fulfillment processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Personal Designer" aspect suggests a consultative sales approach, focusing on understanding customer needs for custom framing projects, which is a key differentiator in retail operations for specialized services.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Customer Engagement & Design Consultation:

  • Build and nurture customer relationships by actively engaging them in personalized design consultations for custom framing projects.
  • Utilize the "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodology to understand customer needs, preferences, and project scope, translating these into compelling framing solutions.
  • Provide expert advice on matting, framing materials, and design aesthetics to enhance artwork and memorabilia.

• Sales & Production Execution:

  • Drive sales and production targets for the custom framing department, ensuring a consistent pipeline of completed orders.
  • Complete custom framing orders with a high degree of quality, accuracy, and adherence to production timelines.
  • Operate framing equipment and utilize glass cutters with precision and safety, ensuring professional-grade finishing.

• Store Operations & Merchandising:

  • Maintain the ready-made frame department and other assigned areas to high visual merchandising standards, ensuring a clean, organized, and clutter-free environment.
  • Execute directed replenishment and "In-Stock, Out-of-Stock" (SISO) procedures to optimize product availability and visual appeal.
  • Assist with truck unloads and stocking processes, adhering to established standards and ensuring efficient inventory flow.

• Customer Service & Transaction Processing:

  • Deliver friendly and efficient customer service, assisting shoppers in locating products and providing solutions.
  • Operate the cash register accurately and execute cash handling procedures according to company standards.
  • Support omni-channel processes, including order fulfillment and customer pick-ups, to ensure a seamless customer experience.

• Adherence to Standards & Safety:

  • Strictly adhere to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company programs to ensure compliance with all applicable laws, regulations, and internal policies.

  • Actively participate in and support shrink prevention and safety programs, maintaining a secure and hazard-free work environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a dual focus on both customer-facing sales/design and back-end operational execution, common in specialized retail roles that require technical skills and client interaction. The mention of "Elevated ABC Deliver" suggests a specific sales methodology that candidates should research.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: High School Diploma or equivalent required.

Experience: 0-2 years of experience in a customer-facing role, preferably within a retail or creative environment.

Required Skills:

• Basic Computer Skills: Proficiency in navigating computer systems for order entry, inventory look-up, and basic administrative tasks.

• Basic Measuring Skills: Accurate measurement capabilities for custom framing projects, ensuring precise cuts and fits.

• Framing Equipment Operation: Ability to safely and effectively operate standard framing equipment, including mat cutters, saws, and assembly tools.

• Glass Cutting: Skill in cutting glass or acrylic to specific dimensions for framing applications.

• Customer Service Excellence: Proven ability to provide friendly, helpful, and solutions-oriented customer service.

• Relationship Building: Aptitude for establishing rapport with customers and understanding their creative needs.

• Cash Handling & POS Operation: Competence in operating a point-of-sale system and managing cash transactions accurately.

• Adherence to SOPs: Demonstrated ability to follow established procedures and company programs.

Preferred Skills:

• Retail Experience: Prior experience working in a retail store environment, understanding store operations and customer flow.

• Sales Experience: Proven track record of selling products or services, with an understanding of consultative sales techniques.

• Design Acumen: Basic understanding of design principles, color theory, and aesthetic composition relevant to framing.

• Inventory Management: Familiarity with stock management, replenishment, and visual merchandising principles.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "0-2 years" experience level indicates this is an entry-level position, with strong emphasis on trainable skills like operating equipment and customer interaction, rather than extensive prior experience. The preferred skills point towards candidates who can quickly learn and adapt to sales and merchandising aspects.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• While a formal portfolio might not be strictly required for this entry-level role, candidates are strongly encouraged to prepare examples of their work or projects that demonstrate relevant skills.

• Visual Examples: If possible, compile photos of custom framing projects completed, even if for personal use or as part of training. Focus on showcasing creativity, material selection, and finished quality.

• Process Documentation (Conceptual): Be prepared to discuss your approach to understanding customer needs, designing a solution, and executing the order, highlighting your process from initial consultation to final product.

• Problem-Solving Scenarios: Have examples ready of how you've addressed customer challenges or design dilemmas in previous roles.

Process Documentation:

• Candidates should be able to articulate their understanding of a workflow from customer consultation to order completion.

• Workflow Design: Be ready to describe how you would guide a customer through the custom framing design process, from initial concept to material selection.

• Implementation & Quality Control: Discuss how you ensure accuracy and quality in the production phase, from cutting materials to final assembly.

• Measurement & Analysis (Basic): While not a data-heavy role, understanding how to track order completion times and customer satisfaction is beneficial.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an entry-level retail role, the "portfolio" is more about demonstrating practical skills and a thoughtful approach to customer service and design. Candidates should focus on showcasing their ability to learn and apply processes rather than presenting a formal portfolio of past professional work.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: As this is a part-time role in Cumming, Georgia, the hourly wage is likely to fall within the range of $12 - $16 per hour, depending on experience and specific qualifications. This estimate is based on current retail associate wages in the Atlanta metropolitan area for similar roles, considering the specialized nature of custom framing services.

Benefits:

• 401(k) with employer match: Retirement savings plan with company contributions.

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Confidential counseling and support services for personal and work-related issues.

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Coverage: Health insurance options for eligible team members.

• Telemedicine Services: Convenient access to healthcare consultations remotely.

• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs): Pre-tax accounts for healthcare and dependent care expenses.

• Commuter Benefits: Assistance with transportation costs for eligible employees.

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

• Adoption Assistance: Financial support for employees building their families through adoption.

• Voluntary Insurance Options: Additional insurance products like life, disability, and accident insurance.

• Employee Discounts: Significant discounts on Michaels products and services, a key perk for creative individuals.

• Partner Discount Programs: Access to discounts with affiliated companies.

Working Hours: This is a part-time position. Standard retail hours will apply, including evenings, weekends, and potentially early mornings. Flexibility to work across various shifts is expected. The job description mentions "40" as a potential parameter, but for a part-time role, actual hours may vary significantly, often ranging from 15-25 hours per week.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on general retail pay scales in the specified region for roles involving customer service and specialized skills. Benefits are listed as provided in the job description, with an emphasis on those relevant to retail employees.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Arts and Crafts Retail. Michaels is a leading North American retailer specializing in arts, crafts, framing, and home décor. This industry requires a focus on creativity, customer inspiration, and product knowledge.

Company Size: The Michaels Companies, Inc. operates over 1,300 stores across North America. This large retail footprint indicates a structured corporate environment with established operational processes and a significant number of employees.

Founded: Founded in 1973, Michaels has a long history in the retail sector, suggesting a stable and experienced company with well-defined operational strategies and a strong brand presence. Headquartered in Irving, Texas.

Team Structure:

• Store-Level Operations: This role operates within a specific store location, reporting to store management (e.g., Store Manager, Assistant Manager, Framing Manager).

• Cross-functional Collaboration: While primarily focused on the framing department and customer service, team members collaborate with other store associates for general store operations, inventory stocking, and omni-channel fulfillment.

• Departmental Focus: The role has a specialized focus on the Custom Framing department, requiring close interaction with other framing specialists or designers if applicable, and direct interaction with customers seeking these services.

Methodology:

• Customer-Centric Approach: Michaels emphasizes building customer relationships and providing personalized experiences, particularly in specialized areas like custom framing.

• Process Standardization: Adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) is crucial for consistency in service delivery, safety, and operational efficiency across all locations.

• Data-Driven Merchandising: While not a data analytics role, store operations involve understanding product placement, inventory levels, and sales trends to optimize merchandising and stock.

Company Website: www.michaels.com

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture is deeply rooted in creativity and customer engagement, with a strong emphasis on operational consistency across a large retail network. The framing department represents a specialized service that requires a unique blend of artistic skill and customer service.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This position is an Entry-Level Retail Operations role with a specialization in Custom Framing. It's designed for individuals starting their careers or transitioning into retail, offering hands-on experience in customer service, sales, and specialized craft services. The responsibilities involve executing defined processes and contributing to departmental goals.

Reporting Structure: Typically, this role reports to a Framing Manager or a Store Manager/Assistant Manager, depending on the store's organizational structure and the specific responsibilities assigned. The direct reporting line will be within the store's hierarchy.

Operations Impact: The Framer/Personal Designer directly impacts store revenue through custom framing sales and contributes to overall store performance by driving customer engagement, maintaining visual standards, and ensuring efficient transaction processing. Their ability to build relationships and deliver quality service influences customer loyalty and repeat business.

Growth Opportunities:

• Framing Specialist/Designer Advancement: Potential to move into a lead framing role, taking on more complex projects, training new staff, and managing department operations.

• Retail Management Track: Progression into Assistant Store Manager or Store Manager roles, requiring broader operational and leadership skills.

• Cross-Departmental Expertise: Developing skills in other store departments (e.g., visual merchandising, inventory management) to become a more versatile retail associate.

• Specialized Training: Opportunities for advanced training in framing techniques, design, and sales methodologies.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a foundational step within retail operations, offering clear pathways for advancement within Michaels, either by deepening expertise in custom framing or by broadening scope into general store management.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is a physical retail store environment located at 1200 Market Place Blvd, Cumming, GA. The workspace includes the main retail floor, a dedicated custom framing shop area, and potentially stock rooms.

Office Location(s): The specific store location is in Cumming, Georgia, part of the greater Atlanta metropolitan area. This is a customer-facing role within a public retail space.

Workspace Context:

• Customer Interaction: The primary workspace is on the retail floor and within the framing shop, involving frequent interaction with customers.

• Tools & Technology: Access to framing equipment (saws, cutters, assembly tools), glass cutting tools, heat press, POS systems, and basic computer terminals.

• Team Interaction: Collaboration with fellow store associates, management, and potentially inventory teams during truck unloads and stocking. The framing area may be a semi-separate workspace, allowing for focused work, but still integrated with overall store operations.

Work Schedule: This is a part-time position requiring flexibility. Work hours will include evenings, weekends, and potentially early mornings. The nature of retail means shifts can vary, and availability across different days and times is essential.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is dynamic and customer-centric, typical of a retail setting. The framing shop offers a specialized area for technical work, but the role is fully integrated into the broader store operations and customer service model.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Application Review: Screening of resumes and applications for basic qualifications (skills, experience).

• Phone Screen/Initial Interview: A brief conversation with a hiring manager or HR representative to assess general fit, communication skills, and basic qualifications.

This may include questions about availability and interest in custom framing.

• In-Person Interview: A more in-depth interview at the store location. This will likely involve:

  • Behavioral Questions: Assessing customer service skills, problem-solving abilities, and teamwork (e.g., "Tell me about a time you dealt with a difficult customer").
  • Situational Questions: Presenting hypothetical scenarios related to framing design, sales, or store operations (e.g., "How would you advise a customer on framing a valuable piece of art?").
  • Skills Assessment: Discussion of your basic computer skills, measuring skills, and experience with tools. You may be asked to demonstrate basic measuring or discuss your approach to using framing equipment.
  • Cultural Fit: Evaluating your alignment with Michaels' values of creativity, customer focus, and teamwork.

• Potential Skills Demonstration: For the framing aspect, you might be asked to walk through your understanding of the framing process or discuss your comfort level with specific equipment.

• Offer & Onboarding: If successful, an offer will be extended, followed by onboarding and training.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Focus on Relevance: Even if informal, highlight any projects demonstrating creativity, attention to detail, or problem-solving in design or craft. This could include personal art projects, DIY framing, or even strong visual merchandising displays you've created.

• Discuss Your Process: Be ready to articulate your thought process for custom framing: how you'd consult with a customer, understand their vision, select materials, and ensure a quality outcome.

• Quantify Achievements (if possible): If you have sales experience, be prepared to discuss how you met or exceeded sales targets. For customer service, mention instances where you went above and beyond.

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

Challenge Preparation:

• Customer Service Scenarios: Prepare for questions about handling customer complaints, managing busy periods, and providing exceptional service.

• Basic Design Logic: Think about how different mat and frame choices can impact the presentation of artwork. Consider common framing challenges (e.g., framing irregular shapes, preserving valuable items).

• Operational Awareness: Be ready to discuss your understanding of retail operations, including inventory, merchandising, and cash handling.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for this role is geared towards assessing practical skills, customer service aptitude, and a willingness to learn. A formal portfolio is less critical than the ability to articulate relevant skills and a customer-centric, creative mindset.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Custom Framing Equipment:

  • Mat Cutters (e.g., Logan, Fletcher): Essential for precise mat board cutting.
  • Frame Saws (e.g., Morso, Wizard): Used for accurate mitering of frame mouldings.
  • Assembly Tools: Joiners, crimpers, and hardware for constructing frames.
  • Glass Cutter & Glass: For cutting glass or acrylic to size.
  • Heat Press: Potentially used for specific mounting or finishing techniques.

• Point-of-Sale (POS) System: For processing transactions, managing customer orders, and inventory look-ups.

• Basic Computer Systems: For accessing company portals, training modules, and potentially design software.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Inventory Management Systems: Used for tracking stock levels, processing receiving, and managing directed replenishment.

• Sales Reporting (POS-integrated): Access to reports on custom framing sales performance, order volume, and average transaction value.

CRM & Automation:

• Customer Relationship Management (CRM) aspects within POS: Tracking customer purchase history and preferences for personalized service and future sales.

• Omni-channel Fulfillment Systems: Tools to manage online orders for in-store pick-up or shipping.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency with specialized framing equipment and standard retail POS systems is critical. While advanced analytics tools are unlikely to be directly used by this role, understanding how sales and inventory data informs store operations is beneficial.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Creativity & Passion: A core value at Michaels, encouraging team members to embrace their own creativity and inspire customers. This translates to a supportive environment for artistic expression and problem-solving.

• Customer Focus: Dedication to providing exceptional service, building relationships, and helping customers achieve their creative goals. This means prioritizing customer needs and satisfaction in all interactions.

• Teamwork & Collaboration: Working together to achieve store goals, support each other, and create a positive work environment. This includes assisting colleagues, sharing knowledge, and contributing to team success.

• Integrity & Respect: Upholding ethical standards, treating everyone with respect, and fostering an inclusive atmosphere. This applies to interactions with customers and fellow team members.

• Efficiency & Quality: Striving for operational excellence, producing high-quality work, and maintaining a well-organized and safe store environment.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Support: Associates are expected to support each other across different departments, whether it's helping with stocking, customer service on the floor, or assisting in the framing department.

• Open Communication: Encouraging feedback and open dialogue to resolve issues and improve processes.

• Knowledge Sharing: Team members are encouraged to share their expertise, particularly in specialized areas like custom framing, to elevate the skills of the entire team.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture at Michaels is designed to be inspiring, customer-centric, and collaborative, reflecting its brand identity in the arts and crafts sector. Team members are expected to embody these values in their daily interactions and work.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Sales and Production: Effectively managing customer consultations and sales efforts while also meeting production demands for custom framing orders.

• Handling Diverse Customer Needs: Catering to a wide range of customer expectations, artistic tastes, and budget constraints for framing projects.

• Maintaining Quality Standards Under Pressure: Ensuring consistent high-quality framing even during busy periods or when dealing with complex projects.

• Adapting to Retail Demands: Navigating the dynamic nature of retail, including seasonal peaks, inventory fluctuations, and evolving customer preferences.

• Staying Current with Trends: Keeping up-to-date with framing techniques, materials, and design trends to provide contemporary solutions.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Framing Techniques: Opportunities to learn specialized framing methods, preservation techniques, and complex design solutions.

• Sales & Customer Service Training: Development in consultative selling, relationship management, and advanced customer service strategies.

• Product Knowledge Expansion: Deepening understanding of different art mediums, framing materials, and their applications.

• Leadership Development: Potential for growth into supervisory or management roles within the store.

• Cross-Training: Gaining experience in other areas of store operations to become a more versatile team member.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents opportunities to develop specialized craft skills alongside customer service and sales expertise. The challenges are typical of a specialized retail environment, offering ample room for professional growth and skill enhancement.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Operations & Process: "Describe your approach to ensuring accuracy when taking a custom framing order. What steps would you take to prevent errors?" (Focus on detailing your measurement, consultation, and order entry process.)

• Customer Service & Sales: "A customer is unsure about the best way to frame a valuable piece of art. How would you guide them through the decision-making process?" (Emphasize active listening, asking clarifying questions, and presenting options with rationale.)

• Problem-Solving: "Imagine a situation where a framing order is delayed or there's a mistake in production. How would you handle this with the customer?" (Focus on empathy, clear communication, and offering solutions.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "Why are you interested in working at Michaels, specifically in custom framing?" (Connect your interest to creativity, art, or helping people with their projects.)

• "How do you contribute to a positive team environment?" (Highlight your collaboration, helpfulness, and positive attitude.)

• "What does 'customer focus' mean to you in a retail setting?" (Discuss going above and beyond, understanding needs, and creating positive experiences.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Showcase Enthusiasm: If you have any personal projects or examples of creative work, be ready to briefly discuss them and explain your process and decisions.

• Articulate Your "Why": Explain your passion for creativity, design, or helping others bring their visions to life. This is key for a role at Michaels.

• Demonstrate Coachability: Emphasize your eagerness to learn the specific framing techniques, equipment, and sales methodologies used by Michaels.

• Highlight Relevant Skills: Clearly connect your existing skills (customer service, basic measuring, computer literacy) to the requirements of the role.

📝 Enhancement Note: Prepare to discuss your practical skills, customer service approach, and genuine interest in art and creativity. The interview will likely assess your ability to learn and apply specific processes and to connect with customers on a creative level.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

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

• Tailor Your Resume: Highlight any experience in customer service, sales, visual merchandising, or hands-on craft/design work. Emphasize skills like measuring, attention to detail, and operating equipment.

• Prepare Your "Mini-Portfolio": Gather any examples of creative projects, personal framing work, or even well-designed visual displays you've created. Be ready to discuss your process and choices.

• Practice Interview Responses: Prepare for behavioral and situational questions focusing on customer service, problem-solving, and your interest in creativity and design. Practice articulating your approach to custom framing consultations.

• Research Michaels: Familiarize yourself with Michaels' brand, its commitment to creativity, and its customer service philosophy. Understand the "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodology 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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