Part-time Retail Custom Framer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Part-time Retail Custom Framer

Company: Michaels Stores

Location: Middletown, Connecticut, United States

Job Type: Part time

Category: Retail Operations / Customer Service

Date Posted: 2026-09-06T00:00:00

Experience Level: 0-2 years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Focus on delivering exceptional customer service and creating custom framing solutions to drive sales.

• Manage daily retail operations, including merchandising, inventory management, and cash handling.

• Operate specialized framing equipment and tools with precision and adherence to safety protocols.

• Contribute to a positive and productive store environment by collaborating with team members and upholding company values.

• Support omni-channel processes to enhance the overall customer experience and operational efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is fundamentally a customer-facing retail position with a specialized focus on custom framing. While not a traditional "Revenue Operations" or "Sales Operations" role in the B2B tech sense, it heavily involves direct sales, customer relationship management, and operational execution within a retail environment. The "operations" aspect lies in managing the workflow, inventory, and sales processes of the custom framing department to ensure profitability and customer satisfaction.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Customer Engagement & Sales:

  • Greet and acknowledge customers, providing a friendly and helpful shopping experience.
  • Utilize Elevated ABC Deliver methodology to build rapport and understand customer needs for custom framing solutions.
  • Act as a design consultant, offering expert advice on framing options, materials, and styles to meet customer requirements.
  • Drive sales by effectively presenting custom framing options and closing orders.

• Custom Framing Operations:

  • Accurately measure and assess artwork or items for custom framing projects.
  • Operate framing equipment, including mat cutters, saws, and assembly tools, to produce high-quality, finished frames.
  • Safely operate a glass cutter and heat press according to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
  • Ensure all framing orders are completed with a high degree of quality and delivered on time.

• Store Operations & Merchandising:

  • Maintain the ready-made frame department, ensuring it is well-merchandised, organized, and fully stocked.
  • Execute directed replenishment and SISO (Sales In Store Only) processes to optimize inventory levels.
  • Participate actively in truck unloads and stocking processes, adhering to established standards and timelines.
  • Assist with omni-channel fulfillment processes, such as buy online, pick up in-store (BOPIS).

• Point of Sale & Cash Handling:

  • Operate the cash register accurately and efficiently.
  • Execute cash handling procedures according to established standards, ensuring accountability.
  • Process customer transactions, returns, and exchanges with attention to detail.

• Teamwork & Compliance:

  • Adhere strictly to all Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company programs.

  • Support and participate in shrink reduction and safety programs to maintain a secure and safe store environment.

  • Interact positively and respectfully with colleagues, management, and customers, promoting a collaborative atmosphere.

  • Serve as a role model by projecting a positive image and embodying company values.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities emphasize a blend of direct sales, technical execution (framing), and general retail operations. The "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodology suggests a structured approach to customer interaction and sales, which is a key operational component for driving revenue in this role.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• High school diploma or equivalent is typically expected for this role. Experience:

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

• Experience in retail sales or a service-oriented environment is preferred.

• Previous experience with custom framing, art handling, or woodworking is a plus but not strictly required. Required Skills:

• Basic Computer Skills: Ability to navigate point-of-sale systems, basic order entry, and potentially inventory management software.

• Basic Measuring Skills: Precision in measuring is critical for accurate custom framing.

• Framing Equipment Operation: Proficiency or the ability to quickly learn to operate various framing machinery (mat cutters, saws, assembly tools).

• Glass Cutter Operation: Safe and accurate use of a glass cutter.

• Customer Service Excellence: Ability to engage customers, understand their needs, and provide solutions.

• Sales Acumen: Aptitude for selling products and services, upselling, and closing sales.

• Cash Handling Proficiency: Accuracy and reliability in managing monetary transactions.

• Merchandising Skills: Ability to maintain visually appealing and well-stocked displays.

• Physical Stamina: Ability to stand for extended periods, lift heavy items (up to 50 lbs), and perform repetitive tasks involving bending, reaching, and stretching.

Preferred Skills:

• Retail Experience: Prior work in a retail setting, understanding store operations and customer flow.

• Sales Experience: Proven track record of meeting or exceeding sales targets.

• Artistic Aptitude/Design Sense: An eye for aesthetics and design principles to assist customers with framing choices.

• Experience with Heat Press: Ability to safely and effectively use a heat press for framing applications.

• Inventory Management Basics: Understanding of stock rotation, replenishment, and loss prevention.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "0-2 years" experience level suggests that the company is willing to train candidates with strong foundational skills in customer service, sales, and basic technical aptitudes. The emphasis on "basic" skills indicates that specialized framing knowledge can be acquired on the job.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• While a formal portfolio isn't typically required for this entry-level retail role, candidates are encouraged to highlight relevant experiences in their resume. This could include:
  • Customer Service Achievements: Examples of going above and beyond for customers.
  • Sales Accomplishments: Quantifiable results from previous sales roles (e.g., exceeding targets, specific sales figures).
  • Project Examples (if applicable): If candidates have personal projects or examples of custom framing work they've done, these can be mentioned.
  • Process Improvement Contributions: Any instances where a candidate identified and improved a process, even in a non-professional context.

Process Documentation:

• Candidates should be prepared to discuss their understanding of and adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).

• Demonstrating an ability to follow and execute documented processes for sales, production, and customer service will be key.

• While not expected to create documentation, understanding the importance of standardized processes for consistent quality and efficiency is valuable.

📝 Enhancement Note: For this specific role, a traditional "process and systems portfolio" as seen in corporate operations roles is not expected. The focus will be on demonstrating practical application of skills and understanding of existing company processes through resume content and interview discussions.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on industry standards for part-time retail associates with custom framing responsibilities in the Middletown, CT area, the estimated hourly wage would likely range from $14.00 to $18.00 per hour. This estimate considers the specialized nature of custom framing, customer service demands, and the general retail wage landscape in Connecticut for entry-to-mid-level positions. Benefits:

• Employee Discount: A significant perk for arts and crafts enthusiasts, offering savings on Michaels products.

• 401(k) with Employer Match: For eligible team members, providing a pathway to retirement savings with company support.

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

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Coverage: Comprehensive health benefits for eligible part-time employees, often on a pro-rated basis or with specific eligibility criteria.

• Telemedicine Services: Convenient access to healthcare professionals remotely.

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

• Commuter Benefits: Assistance for transportation costs to and from work.

• Tuition Assistance: Support for continued education and skill development.

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

• Various Voluntary Insurance Options: Additional coverage choices such as life insurance, disability, etc.

Working Hours:

• This is a part-time position.

• Typical working hours will include nights, weekends, and potentially early mornings, depending on store operational needs and scheduling.

• While specific hours will be scheduled by the store manager, the role requires flexibility to meet customer demand and operational requirements.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate based on typical part-time retail roles with specialized duties in the specified geographic area. Benefit eligibility for part-time employees can vary significantly and should be confirmed with the employer. The "401(k) with employer match" is a strong benefit often associated with larger retail organizations like Michaels.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Arts and Crafts Retail / Specialty Retail. Michaels operates as the largest specialty arts and crafts retail chain in North America, positioning itself as a destination for creativity, DIY projects, and celebration needs.

Company Size: Michaels operates over 1,300 stores across North America, with a significant corporate and distribution workforce. This indicates a large, established retail organization with structured operational processes.

Founded: Founded in 1973 and headquartered in Irving, Texas. This long history signifies stability and a deep understanding of the arts and crafts market.

Team Structure:

• Store Level: The Custom Framer will be part of a store team led by a Store Manager. They will likely report directly to a Custom Framing Manager or a designated Sales Floor Manager, depending on store size and structure.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Collaboration will occur with other sales floor associates, cashiers, and potentially stockroom personnel to ensure smooth store operations, customer assistance, and inventory management.

• Departmental Focus: While part of the broader store team, the Custom Framer will have a primary focus on the Custom Framing department, working closely with any other framers or department specialists.

Methodology:

• Customer-Centric Approach: The company emphasizes "fueling the joy of creativity and celebration," which translates into a customer-focused approach in-store. The "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodology highlights a structured process for customer engagement and sales.

• Process Adherence: Michaels relies on Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to ensure consistency in customer service, sales, production, and operational tasks across all locations.

• Data-Driven Merchandising: While not as complex as B2B operations, retail merchandising and inventory management are informed by sales data to ensure popular items are in stock and displays are optimized.

Company Website: www.michaels.com

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture at Michaels is built around creativity and customer engagement within a structured retail environment. For a Custom Framer, this means balancing a creative, consultative approach with the need to follow established operational procedures for sales, production, and store management.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned at an entry-level to junior associate level within the retail operations framework. It requires hands-on execution of tasks related to sales, customer service, and specialized production (framing).

Reporting Structure: The Custom Framer typically reports to a Sales Floor Manager, Custom Framing Manager, or directly to the Store Manager, depending on the store's hierarchy. They are part of the store’s operational team.

Operations Impact: The Custom Framer directly impacts store revenue through custom framing sales and customer service. Their ability to create solutions, drive sales, and maintain operational standards contributes to the overall profitability and customer satisfaction of the store. Efficient framing production and accurate order fulfillment are critical to minimizing waste and maximizing profitability in this department.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Potential to become a Senior Custom Framer or Framing Specialist, taking on more complex projects or training new team members.

• Sales Leadership: Advancement into roles like Assistant Store Manager or Store Manager, focusing on overall store performance, sales strategy, and team leadership.

• Cross-Functional Training: Opportunities to gain experience in other store departments, such as visual merchandising, inventory management, or omni-channel operations.

• Corporate Opportunities: With significant experience and further education, potential pathways to corporate roles in areas like Merchandising, Operations, or Product Development within Michaels.

📝 Enhancement Note: While not a corporate "Revenue Operations" role, growth within Michaels retail operations is tangible. Progression often involves mastering core retail functions, demonstrating leadership potential, and taking on increasing responsibility for sales, operations, and team management.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is a public retail store setting. The work environment is customer-facing, dynamic, and requires constant interaction with the public.

Office Location(s): The specific store is located at Middletown-689 Middletown Warwick Rd, Middletown, CT. This implies a typical suburban retail location.

Workspace Context:

• Sales Floor: A significant portion of the time will be spent on the sales floor, assisting customers, merchandising, and operating the cash register. This area is typically climate-controlled.

• Frame Shop Area: This specialized workspace contains equipment such as a glass cutter, mat cutters, saws, and a heat press. While often part of the store, it may have specific environmental considerations (e.g., ventilation for cutting materials). Some stock rooms may not be climate-controlled.

• Collaboration: The environment encourages interaction with fellow team members for support, task delegation, and problem-solving.

Work Schedule:

• Part-time: Hours will vary based on store needs.

• Flexibility Required: Must be available to work nights, weekends, and early mornings.

• Physical Demands: The role involves regular standing for long periods, bending, lifting (heavy boxes and frames), carrying, reaching, and stretching. Ladder use may be required for accessing high shelves.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is hands-on and requires adaptability to customer traffic, operational demands, and the physical requirements of retail and custom framing. The presence of specialized equipment in the frame shop necessitates adherence to safety protocols.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Application Review: Resumes will be screened for relevant experience, customer service skills, and any mention of sales or technical aptitude.

• Phone Screen/Initial Interview: A brief conversation with a hiring manager (e.g., Store Manager or Framing Manager) to assess basic qualifications, availability, and cultural fit. Questions may focus on customer service scenarios, previous retail experience, and motivation for applying.

• In-Person Interview/Practical Assessment:

  • Customer Interaction Simulation: Candidates may be asked to role-play customer interactions to demonstrate sales and service skills.
  • Skills Demonstration (Potential): While not always formal, candidates might be asked about their comfort level with basic measuring, computer use, or their willingness to learn framing equipment.
  • Situational Questions: Questions about how they would handle common retail situations (e.g., difficult customer, busy periods, stock issues).
  • Portfolio/Resume Discussion: If applicable, discussion about past roles, achievements, and any mentioned skills or projects.

• Final Interview (if applicable): May involve a discussion with a higher-level manager or a review of the candidate's overall fit with the store team and company culture.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Resume Focus: For this role, your resume is your primary "portfolio." Ensure it clearly highlights:

  • Customer Service Skills: Use action verbs and quantify achievements where possible (e.g., "Consistently received positive customer feedback," "Assisted an average of 50+ customers per shift").
  • Sales Experience: Detail any sales targets met or exceeded, and types of products/services sold.
  • Technical Aptitude: Mention any experience with tools, equipment, or hands-on tasks.
  • Reliability: Emphasize attendance and punctuality.

• Highlight Adaptability: Show your willingness and ability to learn new skills, especially related to framing equipment and processes.

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

Challenge Preparation:

• Customer Scenarios: Prepare for questions like: "How would you handle a customer who is unhappy with their framing order?" or "How would you approach a customer who seems unsure about what they need?"

• Sales Approach: Be ready to discuss how you would recommend framing options and upsell related products (e.g., matting, glass types, preservation methods).

• Process Understanding: Be prepared to discuss your understanding of following instructions, SOPs, and working efficiently in a team.

📝 Enhancement Note: The application process for this role is focused on practical skills, customer interaction, and cultural fit rather than formal operational documentation. Candidates should prepare to demonstrate their customer service, sales, and learning capabilities.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Point of Sale (POS) System: Michaels uses a proprietary or industry-standard POS system for transactions, order entry, and customer management. Proficiency in navigating such systems is essential.

• Custom Framing Software/Quoting Tools: Likely a system (either digital or manual) used to design frames, calculate costs, and generate quotes for customers.

• Framing Equipment:

  • Mat Cutters (e.g., Logan, Fletcher)
  • Saws (e.g., Underpinner, V-Nailer, chopper)
  • Assembly Tools (e.g., staple guns, glue guns)
  • Glass Cutter
  • Heat Press

• Basic Computer Systems: For general store operations, email, and potentially internal training platforms.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Primarily at the store level, focusing on:
  • Sales Reports: Tracking daily, weekly, and monthly sales performance for the framing department and the store overall.
  • Inventory Reports: Monitoring stock levels for framing materials, ready-made frames, and related supplies.

CRM & Automation:

• Customer Relationship Management (CRM): The POS system likely has basic CRM functionalities to track customer purchase history and contact information for repeat business and loyalty programs.

• Automation: Primarily related to operational efficiency within the store, such as automated ordering suggestions based on sales data or efficient task management systems.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency is expected in using specialized framing equipment and standard retail POS systems. The company provides training on their specific software and tools. Familiarity with basic computer operations is a prerequisite.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Customer Focus: The core value is to "fuel the joy of creativity and celebration" for customers. This translates to prioritizing customer needs, providing helpful solutions, and ensuring a positive shopping experience.

• Creativity & Passion: A company that thrives on arts and crafts encourages a culture where creativity is valued, both in products and in problem-solving.

• Teamwork & Collaboration: Working effectively with colleagues to achieve store goals, support each other, and maintain a positive work environment is crucial.

• Accountability & Integrity: Adhering to SOPs, handling cash accurately, and contributing to safety and shrink reduction programs demonstrates personal and team accountability.

• Continuous Improvement: While not explicitly stated as a core value for this role, the emphasis on SOPs and programs suggests an environment that benefits from efficient execution and adherence to best practices.

Collaboration Style:

• Supportive Retail Environment: Team members are expected to assist each other with customer needs, operational tasks (like stocking or truck unloads), and maintaining store standards.

• Open Communication: Encouraging team members to communicate issues, share ideas, and provide feedback to improve store operations and customer service.

• Cross-Functional Support: Willingness to step outside of primary duties to support other departments or tasks as needed to ensure the store runs smoothly.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture at Michaels is geared towards fostering creativity and providing excellent customer service within a structured retail framework. Team members are expected to be collaborative, accountable, and customer-focused.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Creativity with Efficiency: The primary challenge is to provide highly creative and personalized custom framing solutions while maintaining efficient production timelines and cost controls.

• Managing Customer Expectations: Educating customers on the possibilities and limitations of custom framing, managing expectations regarding timelines and pricing, and resolving any dissatisfaction.

• Physical Demands: The role requires sustained physical activity, including standing for long periods and lifting heavy items, which can be challenging.

• Adapting to Retail Fluctuations: Handling busy peak seasons, unexpected customer volumes, and adapting to changing store needs.

• Learning Specialized Equipment: Mastering the safe and effective operation of various framing tools and machinery requires concentration and training.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Framing Skills Mastery: Intensive on-the-job training to become proficient in all aspects of custom framing, from design to assembly.

• Sales & Customer Service Enhancement: Developing advanced sales techniques, consultative selling, and customer relationship management skills.

• Product Knowledge Expansion: Deepening understanding of different framing materials, preservation techniques, and art handling best practices.

• Retail Operations Training: Gaining insights into store management, inventory control, visual merchandising, and omni-channel fulfillment.

• Potential for Advancement: Opportunities to move into leadership roles within the store, such as Assistant Manager, or to become a specialized expert in custom framing.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a solid foundation in retail operations and a specialized craft. The challenges are typical of hands-on retail roles, while the growth opportunities focus on skill development within the creative retail sector.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Customer Service Scenarios: Be prepared to discuss how you would handle a customer who is unhappy with their framing order, a customer who is undecided, or how you would engage a customer browsing the framing section.

  • Preparation: Think about the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) and how you've previously resolved customer issues or exceeded expectations.

• Sales Approach: How would you introduce custom framing services to a customer? How would you upsell matting, glass, or preservation options?

  • Preparation: Understand the value proposition of custom framing and be ready to articulate it clearly. Think about features (e.g., types of glass) and benefits (e.g., UV protection, aesthetic appeal).

• Problem-Solving & Process: If a framing order is delayed, how would you communicate this to the customer? How do you ensure accuracy when taking an order?

  • Preparation: Emphasize clear communication, attention to detail, and adherence to company processes. Company & Culture Questions:

• Why are you interested in working for Michaels? What do you know about our company?

  • Preparation: Research Michaels' mission, values, and product offerings. Highlight your personal connection to creativity or the arts if applicable.

• How do you handle working under pressure or during busy periods?

  • Preparation: Focus on your ability to stay calm, prioritize tasks, and maintain a positive attitude.

• How do you contribute to a positive team environment?

  • Preparation: Discuss your collaborative approach, willingness to help others, and positive communication style. Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Resume as Portfolio: Your resume is key. Be ready to walk through your relevant work history, highlighting customer service, sales, and any hands-on experience.

• Quantify Achievements: Whenever possible, use numbers to demonstrate your impact (e.g., "increased framing sales by X% in my department," "handled Y customer transactions daily").

• Showcase Learning Aptitude: Even if you don't have direct framing experience, emphasize your eagerness and ability to learn new skills, operate machinery, and follow instructions precisely.

• Enthusiasm for Creativity: Express genuine interest in art, craft, and helping customers realize their creative projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating strong customer service, sales potential, a willingness to learn technical skills, and a cultural fit with a creative, customer-centric retail environment.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

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

• Resume Customization: Tailor your resume to highlight customer service experience, any sales achievements, basic technical aptitude, and your availability. Use keywords from the job description like "customer service," "sales," "measuring skills," and "retail."

• Prepare for Scenarios: Practice answering common retail interview questions related to customer interactions, sales approaches, and problem-solving. Be ready to discuss how you would handle the unique aspects of custom framing.

• Research Michaels: Familiarize yourself with Michaels' brand, mission, and the importance of the custom framing department. Understand their commitment to creativity and customer experience.

• Highlight Learnability: If you lack direct framing experience, emphasize your ability to learn quickly, follow instructions, and operate equipment safely and accurately. Showcase any past experiences where you've successfully acquired new technical skills.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description provides detailed insights and industry-standard assumptions for a retail custom framing role. Specific responsibilities, benefits, and interview processes can vary by store location and hiring manager. All details should be verified directly with Michaels Stores during the application and interview process.