Part-Time Framer (training included)

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Part-Time Framer (training included)

Company: Michaels Stores

Location: Dubuque, Iowa, United States

Job Type: Part time

Category: Retail Operations / Customer Service

Date Posted: October 4, 2026

Experience Level: Entry Level (0-2 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Drive customer engagement and build relationships by providing exceptional custom framing solutions and personalized design advice.

• Execute sales and production targets by effectively utilizing sales techniques and understanding customer needs for art and memorabilia.

• Maintain operational excellence through adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), inventory management, and visual merchandising standards.

• Contribute to a positive and safe retail environment by ensuring a clean, organized workspace and supporting company safety programs.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Part-Time Framer," the responsibilities extend beyond just framing to encompass broader retail operations, customer service, and sales. The "training included" aspect signifies an entry-level opportunity with a focus on skill development in custom framing and sales.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Develop and nurture customer relationships through proactive engagement, understanding their creative needs, and offering tailored custom framing solutions.

• Execute sales strategies, including upselling and cross-selling, to meet and exceed personal designer sales and production targets.

• Meticulously complete custom framing orders with a high degree of quality, ensuring timely delivery and customer satisfaction.

• Maintain the visual presentation and stock levels of the ready-made frame department, including SISO (Single Item, Single Order) and Directed Replenishment processes.

• Provide friendly and efficient customer service, assisting shoppers in locating products, offering solutions, and ensuring a well-merchandised and in-stock store.

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

• Actively participate 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 with accuracy and integrity, adhering to all company standards.

• Acknowledge all customers promptly, assist with product location, and offer solutions to enhance their shopping experience.

• Support and participate in Omni channel processes, ensuring seamless integration between online and in-store customer experiences.

• Uphold company shrink and safety programs, contributing to a secure and accident-free work environment.

• Interact positively and respectfully with colleagues and customers, maintaining a positive attitude even in challenging situations.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of specialized framing skills, customer-facing sales, and general retail operations. The emphasis on "Elevated ABC Deliver" and "personal designer" suggests a structured approach to consultative selling within the framing department.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: High school diploma or equivalent required. Specific training in art or design is a plus but not mandatory due to included training.

Experience: 0-2 years of experience in a customer-facing role is preferred. Experience in retail or sales environments is beneficial.

Required Skills:

• Basic computer skills for order processing and system navigation.

• Basic measuring skills to ensure accurate framing dimensions.

• Ability to learn and operate framing equipment safely and effectively.

• Ability to learn and operate a glass cutter with precision.

• Strong customer service orientation with a passion for helping customers.

• Effective communication skills for interacting with customers and team members.

• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced retail environment. Preferred Skills:

• Previous retail experience, particularly in a specialty or custom goods environment.

• Proven experience in selling products and/or services, with a consultative approach.

• Familiarity with art, design principles, or framing techniques.

• Experience with POS (Point of Sale) systems and cash handling.

• Basic merchandising and visual display skills.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "training included" aspect significantly lowers the barrier to entry, making basic aptitude and a willingness to learn key qualifications. The preferred skills point towards candidates who can quickly adapt to sales and customer interaction.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• While a formal portfolio is not explicitly required for this entry-level role, candidates are encouraged to highlight any past projects or experiences demonstrating attention to detail, problem-solving, and customer-centric solutions.

• Examples of successfully executed tasks, even from non-framing roles, that showcase precision, adherence to instructions, and quality output.

• Any experience with visual presentation or creative problem-solving can be beneficial to showcase adaptability. Process Documentation:

• Candidates should be prepared to discuss their understanding of following Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and their ability to learn and document new processes.

• The ability to understand and execute step-by-step instructions for operating framing equipment and completing orders accurately.

• A demonstrated commitment to quality control and attention to detail in task completion.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an entry-level role with training, the emphasis is less on a pre-existing portfolio and more on demonstrating trainability, a strong work ethic, and the capacity to learn and follow defined processes.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: As this is a part-time, entry-level position with included training, the salary is expected to be at or slightly above minimum wage for the Dubuque, Iowa area. Based on regional data for similar retail roles, a typical range would be $12.00 - $15.00 per hour.

Benefits:

• 401(k) with employer match

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

• Medical coverage (eligibility may vary based on hours worked)

• Dental coverage (eligibility may vary based on hours worked)

• Vision coverage (eligibility may vary based on hours worked)

• Telemedicine services

• Flexible spending accounts (FSAs)

• Commuter benefits

• Tuition assistance

• Adoption assistance

• Employee discounts on Michaels products

• Partner discount programs

Working Hours: This is a part-time position. Actual hours will vary based on business needs, but typically involve a mix of day, evening, weekend, and potentially early morning shifts. The job description mentions 40 hours as a reference, but for a part-time role, actual weekly hours may be less and are subject to scheduling.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary estimate is based on current minimum wage laws in Iowa and typical entry-level retail pay rates in Dubuque. Benefits like health insurance may have specific hour-per-week requirements for eligibility in part-time roles.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Retail (Arts and Crafts / Home Decor / Custom Framing)

Company Size: Michaels operates over 1,300 stores across North America, making it a large-scale retail organization with a significant employee base. This size offers stability and structured career paths.

Founded: 1973. With a long history, Michaels has established itself as a leader in the creative retail space, fostering a culture centered around creativity, community, and customer inspiration.

Team Structure:

• The immediate team will likely consist of a Store Manager, Assistant Store Manager(s), and fellow Team Members/Framers.

• This role operates within a store-level hierarchy, with direct reporting to a supervisor responsible for framing operations or the store's overall management.

• Cross-functional collaboration is essential, involving interaction with other store associates for customer assistance, inventory management, and general store operations. Methodology:

• Data Analysis & Insights: While not a data-heavy role, understanding sales trends and inventory needs is crucial for merchandising and stock management.

• Workflow Planning & Optimization: Adhering to SOPs for framing, sales, and customer service ensures efficient workflow and consistent quality.

• Automation & Efficiency: Utilizing POS systems and understanding Omni channel processes contributes to operational efficiency.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Michaels' culture is deeply rooted in creativity and community. For operations roles like this, it translates to a focus on customer experience, product knowledge, and maintaining a visually appealing and well-stocked store environment.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This position is at the Entry Level / Associate stage within the retail operations framework. It focuses on developing foundational skills in customer service, sales, and specialized craft execution (framing).

Reporting Structure: The Framer typically reports to a Store Manager or a designated department lead (e.g., Framing Manager or Assistant Store Manager) who oversees daily store operations and departmental performance.

Operations Impact: The Framer directly impacts store revenue through custom framing sales and customer engagement. They also contribute to operational efficiency by maintaining department standards and supporting overall store functions. A positive customer experience in the framing department can lead to repeat business and customer loyalty.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Advancement: Develop expertise in custom framing techniques, materials, and design consultation, potentially becoming a lead framer or design specialist.

• Retail Management Path: Progress into roles like Key Holder, Assistant Store Manager, or Store Manager by demonstrating leadership, operational proficiency, and sales acumen.

• Cross-Departmental Experience: Gain exposure to other areas of store operations, such as inventory management, visual merchandising, or customer fulfillment, to broaden retail skill sets.

📝 Enhancement Note: Michaels emphasizes internal growth. This part-time role can serve as a stepping stone for individuals looking to build a career in retail management or specialized creative services within the company.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is a public retail store setting. The primary workspace includes the sales floor, the custom framing department, and stockroom areas.

Office Location(s): Dubuque, Iowa - specifically at the 2455 NW Arterial location. This is a customer-facing environment.

Workspace Context:

• The environment is climate-controlled in public areas, with potential for non-climate-controlled stock rooms.

• The framing shop involves specialized equipment like a glass cutter and heat press, requiring adherence to safety protocols.

• Opportunities for team interaction are constant due to the nature of a busy retail store, fostering a collaborative atmosphere for customer service and operational tasks.

Work Schedule: This is a part-time role with variable hours. Work hours include nights, weekends, and early mornings, aligning with typical retail operating schedules. Flexibility is key to accommodate customer needs and business demands.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment demands adaptability to customer traffic, diverse tasks, and the specific safety requirements of the framing area.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

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

• In-Person Interview: Candidates will likely participate in one or more in-person interviews at the store. This may include meeting with the Store Manager or Assistant Manager.

• Skills Assessment: Expect questions related to customer service scenarios, problem-solving, and hypothetical situations involving framing or sales. Basic measuring and computer skills may be informally assessed.

• Situational Questions: Prepare to discuss how you would handle common retail challenges, such as dealing with difficult customers, managing stock, or learning new equipment.

• Cultural Fit: Assess your alignment with Michaels' values of creativity, community, and customer focus.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• For this role, a formal portfolio isn't expected. Instead, prepare to discuss specific examples from past experiences (work, school, or personal projects) that demonstrate:

  • Attention to Detail: How you ensure accuracy in tasks.
  • Customer Focus: Instances where you went above and beyond for a customer.
  • Problem-Solving: How you addressed challenges or found solutions.
  • Learning Aptitude: Your ability and eagerness to learn new skills and equipment.

• If you have any creative projects, even simple ones, that showcase manual dexterity or aesthetic sense, be ready to briefly mention them. Challenge Preparation:

• Customer Interaction Scenarios: Practice responding to questions like, "How would you help a customer who is unsure about framing their artwork?" or "What would you do if a customer is unhappy with a framing order?"

• Operational Questions: Be ready to discuss your understanding of following instructions, maintaining a clean workspace, and contributing to team goals.

• Enthusiasm for Creativity: Show genuine interest in Michaels' mission and the creative process.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will likely focus on assessing soft skills, trainability, and cultural fit for a customer-facing retail role with a specialized component.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Custom Framing Equipment: Candidates will be trained on specific machinery and tools used for cutting mats, assembling frames, and finishing orders. This includes specialized saws, mat cutters, and assembly tools.

• Glass Cutter: A fundamental tool for custom framing that requires precision and safety training.

• Heat Press: Used for specific framing applications, requiring careful operation.

• POS (Point of Sale) System: For processing sales transactions, managing customer orders, and handling payments. Training will be provided on the specific system used by Michaels.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While this role is not heavily analytical, understanding basic sales performance metrics and inventory levels for the framing department will be beneficial. This information is typically accessed through the POS system or store management reports. CRM & Automation:

• Customer Relationship Management (CRM) aspects: The POS system likely captures customer information for order tracking and potentially loyalty programs. Building customer relationships is a key part of the role.

• Omni Channel Integration: Understanding how online orders and in-store pickups/services are managed through the store's systems.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in specific framing equipment and the company's POS system will be developed through training. The emphasis is on learning and safe operation.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Creativity: Embracing the joy of creation and helping customers bring their artistic visions to life through custom framing.

• Customer Focus: Prioritizing customer needs, providing exceptional service, and building lasting relationships.

• Teamwork: Collaborating effectively with colleagues to ensure smooth store operations and a positive work environment.

• Quality & Craftsmanship: Taking pride in producing high-quality custom framing solutions that meet customer expectations.

• Integrity: Upholding company standards in all aspects of work, from cash handling to customer interactions.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Working seamlessly with other store associates to assist customers, manage inventory, and support Omni channel initiatives.

• Process Adherence & Feedback: Following established SOPs for framing and operations, while also being open to feedback for continuous improvement.

• Knowledge Sharing: Sharing insights on customer preferences, product availability, and operational efficiencies with team members and management.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture is geared towards fostering a supportive and creative environment where team members are empowered to help customers express their creativity.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Mastering Framing Techniques: Learning the intricacies of custom framing, including material selection, precise cutting, and assembly, can be challenging but rewarding.

• Balancing Sales and Production: Effectively managing customer interactions and sales goals while simultaneously producing high-quality framing orders.

• Adapting to Retail Demands: Thriving in a dynamic retail environment with varying customer traffic, seasonal peaks, and diverse customer needs.

• Continuous Learning: Staying updated on new framing materials, design trends, and company procedures.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Formal Training: Comprehensive training on custom framing techniques, equipment operation, and sales processes provided by Michaels.

• Skill Specialization: Opportunity to become a subject matter expert in custom framing, potentially leading to advanced roles or responsibilities.

• Retail Management Track: Access to training and development programs for those aspiring to move into leadership positions within Michaels stores.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary challenge is acquiring specialized framing skills, which is directly addressed by the "training included" aspect of the role. Growth opportunities are well-defined within the retail sector.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Customer Service Scenarios: "Describe a time you helped a customer solve a problem." or "How would you handle a customer who is unhappy with a product or service?"

• Sales Approach: "How would you approach a customer who seems hesitant to purchase a custom framing solution?" or "What steps would you take to understand a customer's needs for framing their artwork?"

• Problem-Solving: "Imagine a framing order is running late. How would you communicate this to the customer and what steps would you take?" or "If you discovered a mistake in a framing order, what would you do?"

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Michaels and our commitment to creativity?"

• "Why are you interested in a role focused on custom framing?"

• "How do you contribute to a positive team environment?"

• "What does excellent customer service mean to you?" Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Since a formal portfolio isn't required, focus on preparing concise, impactful examples from your past experiences.

• For each example, use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to clearly articulate your contribution and the outcome.

• Be ready to discuss your willingness to learn, your attention to detail, and your enthusiasm for creative work and customer satisfaction.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interviews will likely assess your ability to connect with customers, your aptitude for learning new skills, and your alignment with Michaels' creative and service-oriented culture.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

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

• Resume Preparation: Tailor your resume to highlight any customer service, sales, manual dexterity, or problem-solving experiences. Emphasize your willingness to learn and adapt.

• Interview Practice: Prepare to answer common retail interview questions focusing on customer interaction, problem-solving, and teamwork. Practice articulating your enthusiasm for creativity and the framing craft.

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

• Highlight Trainability: Be ready to express your eagerness to undergo training and develop proficiency in framing equipment and sales techniques.

⚠️ 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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