PT Custom Framer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: PT Custom Framer

Company: Michaels Stores

Location: Phoenix, AZ, United States

Job Type: Part time

Category: Retail Operations / Sales

Date Posted: 2026-09-28

Experience Level: 0-2 years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role focuses on providing exceptional customer service within a retail environment, specifically in the custom framing department.

• Key responsibilities include building customer relationships, understanding their needs for custom framing solutions, and driving sales through consultative selling.

• The position requires hands-on operation of framing equipment and adherence to operational standards for quality, timeliness, and store presentation.

• It involves maintaining inventory, assisting with general store operations, and ensuring a safe and welcoming environment for all customers.

📝 Enhancement Note: While this role is in retail, the "Custom Framer" title and focus on "framing solutions" suggest a specialization that requires a blend of sales acumen, artistic sensibility, and technical skill with specific equipment. The revenue operations aspect comes from driving sales and contributing to the profitability of the framing department.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Customer Engagement & Sales:

  • Proactively engage with customers to understand their framing needs and provide expert advice on design, materials, and preservation techniques.
  • Utilize consultative selling techniques to recommend and close custom framing orders, meeting or exceeding sales targets.
  • Build and maintain strong customer relationships through personalized service, fostering repeat business and loyalty.
  • Leverage the "Elevated ABC Deliver" program to enhance customer interactions and drive sales outcomes.

• Custom Framing Production:

  • Accurately measure, cut, assemble, and finish custom framing orders according to established quality standards and customer specifications.
  • Operate framing equipment, including mat cutters, saws, and assembly tools, safely and efficiently.
  • Ensure all framing orders are completed on time to meet customer expectations and delivery schedules.

• Store Operations & Merchandising:

  • Maintain the visual presentation and stock levels of the ready-made frame department and other assigned areas.
  • Execute SISO (Ship-from-Store) and Directed Replenishment tasks to ensure product availability and efficient inventory management.
  • Assist with truck un-loads and stocking processes, adhering to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for efficient receiving and replenishment.
  • Operate the cash register, handle cash transactions accurately, and follow all cash handling procedures.

• Store Maintenance & Safety:

  • Ensure a safe, clean, and clutter-free environment for both customers and team members, adhering to all safety programs.
  • Maintain the overall cleanliness and organization of the framing area and other assigned store sections.
  • Support loss prevention initiatives and report any safety concerns or potential hazards.

• Team Collaboration & Compliance:

  • Work collaboratively with other team members to support overall store goals and customer needs.

  • Adhere strictly to all Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and Company programs to ensure compliance and operational consistency.

  • Participate in training and development opportunities to enhance skills in customer service, sales, and framing techniques.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a dual focus on direct sales (driving revenue through framing solutions) and operational efficiency (maintaining the department, accurate order fulfillment, and store presentation). The emphasis on "Elevated ABC Deliver" suggests a structured approach to customer interaction that directly impacts sales performance.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• High school diploma or equivalent required.

• Post-secondary education or certifications in art, design, or a related field are a plus. Experience:

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

• Demonstrated experience in sales or customer service roles.

• Experience in custom framing or a related craft is preferred. Required Skills:

• Customer Service Excellence: Ability to build rapport, actively listen, and provide solutions to meet customer needs.

• Basic Measuring & Math Skills: Accurate measurement and calculation are critical for custom framing orders.

• Basic Computer Proficiency: Ability to use point-of-sale (POS) systems and basic computer applications.

• Equipment Operation: Aptitude to learn and safely operate framing equipment, including mat cutters and potentially other specialized tools.

• Product Knowledge Application: Ability to quickly learn and apply knowledge of framing materials, styles, and techniques.

• Adherence to Procedures: Ability to follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company guidelines.

• Communication Skills: Clear and effective verbal communication with customers and team members.

Preferred Skills:

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

• Custom Framing Experience: Hands-on experience with custom framing processes and materials.

• Design Acumen: An eye for aesthetics, color, and composition to assist customers with design choices.

• Cash Handling Proficiency: Experience managing financial transactions accurately and efficiently.

• Merchandising Skills: Ability to maintain attractive and organized product displays.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "0-2 years" experience level suggests this is an entry-level to junior role. The emphasis on "basic" skills for required items and "preferred" for retail/sales experience indicates a willingness to train candidates with a strong foundation in customer interaction and a willingness to learn technical skills. The "revenue operations" connection is through the direct sales performance and efficiency of the framing service.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• While a formal portfolio may not be strictly required for this entry-level role, candidates are encouraged to highlight any relevant projects or experiences that demonstrate their skills.

• Visual Examples: If possible, include photographs of custom framing projects you have completed, showcasing your attention to detail, creativity, and quality of work.

• Customer Success Stories: Briefly describe instances where you successfully helped a customer find the perfect framing solution, highlighting your consultative approach and the positive outcome.

• Process Adherence: Mention any experience you have in following specific procedures or SOPs to ensure consistent quality and timely delivery of products or services.

Process Documentation:

• Candidates should be prepared to discuss their understanding of and willingness to learn and follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for custom framing, including:
  • Workflow Design & Optimization: Understanding the steps involved in taking a custom framing order from consultation to completion.
  • Implementation & Automation: Familiarity with the use of specific framing equipment and tools to efficiently execute orders.
  • Measurement & Performance Analysis: Ability to track order accuracy, completion times, and customer satisfaction metrics.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an entry-level role, a portfolio will likely focus on demonstrating potential and foundational skills rather than extensive project management. The emphasis should be on a candidate's ability to learn, follow processes, and communicate their understanding of how their work contributes to customer satisfaction and sales.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on industry standards for part-time custom framers in Phoenix, AZ, with 0-2 years of experience, the estimated hourly wage typically ranges from $14.00 to $18.00 per hour.

• This range accounts for the retail nature of the role, the specialized skills required for custom framing, and the cost of living in the Phoenix metropolitan area. Benefits:

• For eligible part-time team members:

  • Employee Discounts: Significant discounts on Michaels products, fostering personal creativity and savings.
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Confidential counseling and support services for personal and work-related challenges.
  • 401(k) with Employer Match: Opportunity to save for retirement with company contributions.
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs): Pre-tax accounts for healthcare and dependent care expenses.
  • Commuter Benefits: Assistance with public transportation costs.
  • Tuition Assistance: Support for continuing education and skill development.
  • Adoption Assistance: Financial support for team members welcoming a new child through adoption.
  • Access to Partner Discount Programs: Additional savings on various goods and services.

Working Hours:

• This is a part-time position.

• Work hours will include nights, weekends, and early mornings, as dictated by store operating hours and customer traffic.

• Flexibility in scheduling is expected to meet business needs, particularly during peak seasons and promotional events.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate based on publicly available data for similar retail roles in the specified location and experience level. Benefits listed are drawn directly from the provided company information, with specific notes on eligibility for part-time roles. The "working hours" section is enhanced to highlight the common retail demands of weekend and evening availability.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Arts and Crafts Retail

Company Size: Large (over 10,000 employees globally, based on Michaels' scale of over 1,300 stores)

Founded: 1973

Company History: Founded in 1973 and headquartered in Irving, Texas, Michaels has grown to be the leading destination for creativity and celebration in North America. Its purpose is to "fuel the joy of creativity and celebration," which permeates its customer-facing roles.

Team Structure:

• Store-Level Operations: The Custom Framer will be part of a store team, likely reporting to a Store Manager or Assistant Manager.

• Departmental Focus: Within the store, there will be a dedicated framing department, likely overseen by a Framing Manager or Lead Framer, where this role plays a key part.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Collaboration is essential with other store associates for general customer assistance, inventory management, and operational tasks. The role also connects with the broader retail operations and potentially corporate teams for SOPs and program execution.

Methodology:

• Customer-Centric Approach: The company emphasizes a customer-first mentality, focusing on building relationships and providing solutions, as highlighted by the "Elevated ABC Deliver" program.

• Process Standardization: Adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) is crucial for consistent quality, safety, and operational efficiency across all stores.

• Data-Driven Merchandising: While not as complex as typical GTM roles, visual merchandising and inventory management are guided by sales data and replenishment strategies to ensure product availability and optimize sales.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The company context is derived from the provided description and general knowledge of Michaels Stores. The "Methodology" section infers operational approaches based on the emphasis on SOPs and customer engagement programs.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Entry-Level Retail Specialist

This role is designed for individuals starting their career in a retail environment or looking to specialize in a craft-oriented sales and service position. It provides foundational experience in customer interaction, sales techniques, operational tasks, and specialized craft execution.

Reporting Structure:

The PT Custom Framer typically reports to a Store Manager or an Assistant Store Manager. Within the framing department, they may receive direct guidance and training from a Lead Framer or Custom Framing Manager, if applicable to the store's structure.

Operations Impact:

This role directly impacts store revenue through the sale of custom framing services. By building customer relationships and providing high-quality solutions, the Framer contributes to customer satisfaction, repeat business, and the overall profitability of the framing department and the store. Efficient operations in the framing area, including timely order fulfillment and accurate production, are key to minimizing waste and maximizing output.

Growth Opportunities:

• Within the Framing Department: Potential to advance to a Lead Custom Framer or Framing Manager role, taking on more responsibility for sales, production oversight, and team training.

• Broader Retail Management: Opportunities to move into Assistant Store Manager or Store Manager positions, managing all aspects of store operations, sales, and team leadership.

• Specialized Skill Development: Continuous learning in advanced framing techniques, design principles, and sales strategies.

• Cross-Functional Roles: Potential to transition into visual merchandising, inventory management, or other operational support roles within Michaels or its parent company.

📝 Enhancement Note: The career path analysis focuses on typical progression within a large retail organization, emphasizing both specialization within the craft and broader retail management opportunities. The "Operations Impact" section is tailored to how a retail associate in a specialized department contributes to revenue and operational efficiency.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Retail Store Environment

This role operates within a dynamic, customer-facing retail store setting. The work environment includes both the public sales floor and a dedicated framing workshop area.

Office Location(s):

• Store - 35035 North Valley Pkwy, Phoenix, AZ, United States.

• Michaels operates over 1,300 stores across North America, indicating a widespread physical presence. Workspace Context:

• Customer Interaction Zone: The sales floor requires constant engagement with customers, offering assistance, and maintaining visual standards.

• Framing Workshop: This area is equipped with specialized tools for cutting, assembling, and finishing frames. It involves working with materials such as glass, mat board, and various frame moldings. Safety protocols are paramount in this area due to the tools and materials used.

• Collaborative Atmosphere: Team members work together to ensure smooth store operations, from customer service on the floor to efficient processing in the back or workshop areas.

• Tools & Technology: Access to POS systems, basic computer terminals, and specialized framing equipment.

Work Schedule:

• Part-time schedule, requiring flexibility to work nights, weekends, and early mornings.

• The schedule will fluctuate based on business needs, customer demand, and seasonal retail peaks.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Workspace Context" is elaborated to reflect the specific demands of a retail environment that includes a specialized workshop, emphasizing both customer-facing and production aspects.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Likely a brief phone or online application review to assess basic qualifications and interest.

• In-Person Interview: This will be the primary interview stage, focusing on:

  • Customer Service & Sales Aptitude: Behavioral questions assessing how you handle customer interactions, resolve issues, and drive sales.
  • Technical Skills Assessment: Discussion about your comfort level with basic tools, measuring, and your ability to learn new equipment (framing tools, glass cutter). You may be asked to demonstrate basic measuring skills.
  • Operational Understanding: Questions about your understanding of retail operations, including SOP adherence, safety, and merchandising.
  • Fit with Company Values: Assessment of your alignment with Michaels' purpose of fueling creativity and celebration.

• Potential Practical Assessment: Depending on the store's practice, a brief hands-on demonstration of a simple cutting or measuring task might be requested.

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

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Focus on Relevance: For this role, a formal portfolio isn't mandatory, but any visual examples of your framing work (even personal projects) can be highly beneficial.

• Highlight Customer Impact: If you have examples of how your work or service directly benefited a customer, prepare to share those stories.

• Demonstrate Process Understanding: Be ready to articulate how you would approach a custom framing order, from initial customer consultation to final product delivery, emphasizing accuracy and quality.

• Showcase Learning Agility: Express your enthusiasm for learning new skills, particularly operating framing equipment and understanding design principles.

Challenge Preparation:

• Scenario-Based Questions: Be prepared for questions like: "A customer wants a frame for a very unusual piece of art; how would you help them?" or "How would you handle a customer who is unhappy with their framing order?"

• Product Knowledge: While extensive product knowledge isn't expected upfront, show an eagerness to learn about different types of mat boards, frames, and glass.

• Math & Measurement: Practice basic measurements and calculations; be ready to explain how you ensure accuracy.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process and preparation tips are tailored to a retail, sales-focused role with a specialized craft component, emphasizing practical skills, customer interaction, and a willingness to learn.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Point of Sale (POS) System: For processing customer transactions, managing sales, and potentially tracking inventory.

• Custom Framing Software/Quoting Tool: Likely a system used to design frames, calculate pricing, and generate order details.

• Framing Equipment:

  • Mat Cutters: For precise cutting of mat boards.
  • Frame Moulding Saws: For cutting frame pieces to size.
  • Assembly Tools: Such as underpinner machines, staple guns, and joining tools.
  • Glass Cutters: For custom-sized glass or acrylic.
  • Heat Press: Potentially used for mounting or applying protective finishes.

• Measuring Tools: Tape measures, rulers, calipers for accurate dimensions.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Basic reporting on sales performance within the framing department may be accessed through the POS system.

• Understanding of key metrics like average order value (AOV) for custom framing and sales conversion rates. CRM & Automation:

• The POS system may have basic CRM functionalities for customer data and order history.

• Automation is primarily related to the efficiency of the framing equipment and processes to expedite order fulfillment.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section details the specific tools and technologies relevant to a custom framing role in a retail setting, focusing on both customer-facing systems and the specialized equipment used in the workshop.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Customer Focus: Prioritizing customer needs and satisfaction in all interactions, aiming to make their creative projects a success.

• Quality Craftsmanship: A commitment to producing high-quality custom framing solutions that meet or exceed customer expectations.

• Creativity & Inspiration: Fostering an environment where creativity is celebrated and team members are encouraged to inspire customers.

• Teamwork & Collaboration: Working together effectively to achieve store goals, support colleagues, and provide a seamless customer experience.

• Integrity & Accountability: Upholding company policies, ethical standards, and taking responsibility for one's actions and contributions.

• Efficiency & Productivity: Striving for operational excellence in framing production and general store tasks to maximize output and minimize waste.

Collaboration Style:

• Service-Oriented: Team members collaborate to ensure customers receive prompt and helpful service, whether on the sales floor or in specialized departments.

• Process-Driven: Adherence to SOPs promotes a consistent and predictable workflow, facilitating smoother collaboration across tasks and shifts.

• Supportive Environment: Encouragement to share knowledge and assist colleagues, particularly in learning new skills or handling complex customer requests.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture and values are inferred from Michaels' stated purpose and the nature of a customer-facing retail role that requires specialized skills. The emphasis is on customer satisfaction, quality, and teamwork.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Sales & Production: Effectively managing time to engage customers, drive sales, and simultaneously complete framing orders to a high standard.

• Customer Expectations: Meeting diverse customer needs and artistic visions, sometimes with limited material options or budget constraints.

• Learning Curve for Equipment: Mastering the operation of various framing tools and equipment safely and efficiently.

• Maintaining Quality Under Pressure: Ensuring consistent quality and accuracy during busy periods or when facing tight deadlines.

• Adapting to Retail Demands: Working flexible hours, including nights and weekends, and adapting to the fast-paced retail environment.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Framing Techniques: Training on more complex framing methods, preservation techniques, and specialized materials.

• Sales & Customer Engagement Training: Developing skills in consultative selling, upselling, and building customer loyalty programs.

• Design Principles: Learning about color theory, composition, and current design trends to better advise customers.

• Retail Operations Management: Opportunities to learn about inventory control, visual merchandising, and store management principles.

• Cross-Training: Potential to gain experience in other areas of the retail store.

📝 Enhancement Note: Challenges are identified based on the dual nature of the role (sales and production) and the retail environment. Growth opportunities are mapped to expanding expertise within framing and moving into broader retail management.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Customer Scenarios: "Describe a time you had to handle a difficult customer. How did you resolve the situation?" "How would you approach a customer who is unsure about their framing choices?"

• Sales Approach: "What steps would you take to sell a custom framing solution to a customer?" "How do you stay motivated to meet sales goals?"

• Problem-Solving: "Imagine a framing order you completed has a slight imperfection. What would you do?" "How do you prioritize tasks when you have multiple framing orders and customers waiting?"

• Technical Aptitude: "What is your experience with tools? Are you comfortable learning to operate new machinery?" "How do you ensure accuracy when taking measurements?"

Company & Culture Questions:

• "Why are you interested in working for Michaels?"

• "What does 'fueling the joy of creativity' mean to you?"

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

• "What are your thoughts on working in a retail environment with flexible hours?" Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• If you have visual examples: Be prepared to briefly walk through 1-2 of your best framing projects. Explain the customer's need, your design choices, the materials used, and the final outcome.

• Highlight Process: Discuss your approach to taking an order, ensuring accuracy, and delivering a quality product. Emphasize any steps you take to ensure customer satisfaction.

• Focus on Learning: If your experience is limited, articulate your eagerness to learn and your ability to follow instructions and SOPs precisely.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview questions are designed to assess core competencies for a retail sales and specialized craft role, including customer service, sales ability, operational awareness, and technical aptitude.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

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

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight customer service experience, any sales achievements, and any experience with tools, crafts, or detailed work. Use keywords like "customer engagement," "sales," "customization," "visual merchandising," and "operational procedures."

• Portfolio Preparation (Optional but Recommended): If you have examples of custom framing work, gather photos. Be ready to discuss your process and the results. If no formal framing experience, prepare to discuss any craft projects or roles where attention to detail and following instructions were critical.

• Interview Practice: Prepare to answer behavioral questions about customer service, problem-solving, and teamwork. Practice explaining how you would approach a custom framing consultation and order.

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

⚠️ 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.