P/T Custom Framer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: P/T Custom Framer

Company: Michaels Stores

Location: Poughkeepsie, NY, United States

Job Type: Part time

Category: Retail Operations / Customer Service

Date Posted: 2026-09-19

Experience Level: Entry Level (0-2 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role focuses on delivering exceptional customer experiences through expert custom framing solutions.

• Key responsibilities include building strong customer relationships and driving sales within the custom framing department.

• The position requires maintaining a well-organized and visually appealing retail environment, focusing on both custom framing and ready-made frame displays.

• Adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), safety protocols, and company programs is essential for maintaining operational efficiency and compliance.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the raw data doesn't explicitly state "Revenue Operations" or "Sales Operations," this role functions within a retail operations context, directly impacting sales and customer retention through specialized services. The focus on customer relationships, sales results, and operational adherence aligns with core GTM (Go-To-Market) principles at the store level.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Build and nurture customer relationships by actively engaging them and understanding their framing needs, utilizing Elevated ABC Deliver methodologies.

• Design and execute high-quality custom framing solutions, ensuring orders are completed accurately and on time to meet customer expectations and production targets.

• Drive sales performance within the custom framing department by effectively presenting solutions and closing orders.

• Maintain the visual presentation and stock levels of the ready-made frame department, as well as other assigned areas, including SISO (Shop In Store Out) and Directed Replenishment.

• Provide friendly and efficient customer service, assisting shoppers in locating products and offering solutions to enhance their shopping experience.

• Operate the cash register and execute cash handling procedures accurately and according to company standards.

• Participate actively in truck un-loading and stocking processes, ensuring adherence to truck standards and budgetary guidelines.

• Support company-wide shrink and safety programs by following established procedures and maintaining a safe work environment.

• Collaborate with team members in a positive and respectful manner, promoting organizational values and serving as a role model.

• Assist with Omni-channel processes, ensuring a seamless customer experience across online and in-store touchpoints.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities emphasize a blend of direct customer interaction, sales generation, operational execution (merchandising, stocking), and adherence to company procedures, which are critical for successful retail GTM strategies.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While no specific degree is mandated, a strong foundation in customer service and a willingness to learn operational processes are key.

Experience: Entry-level candidates are welcome, with a focus on foundational skills and a demonstrated aptitude for learning. Previous experience in retail or sales environments is advantageous.

Required Skills:

• Basic computer skills for system navigation and order processing.

• Basic measuring skills to ensure accurate framing dimensions.

• Ability to operate framing equipment and a glass cutter safely and effectively.

• Proficiency in cash handling and operating a cash register.

• Strong customer service orientation with excellent interpersonal and communication skills.

• Ability to maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.

• Willingness to adhere to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company policies. Preferred Skills:

• Prior retail experience, ideally in a customer-facing or sales role.

• Proven experience in selling products and/or services, with a track record of meeting sales targets.

• Familiarity with visual merchandising principles.

• Experience with inventory management or stock replenishment processes.

• Basic understanding of art and framing principles.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "0-2 years" experience level suggests that foundational skills are prioritized, and the company is willing to train for specific operational tasks like framing equipment operation. The preferred skills highlight a desire for candidates who can quickly contribute to sales and operational efficiency.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• While a formal "portfolio" in the traditional sense may not be required for this entry-level role, candidates are encouraged to prepare examples of how they have successfully:

  • Built customer relationships and driven sales in previous roles.
  • Managed tasks and responsibilities in a fast-paced retail or service environment.
  • Demonstrated problem-solving skills related to customer needs or operational challenges.
  • Contributed to team success and maintained a positive work environment.

• Be prepared to discuss how you would approach creating a "memorable framing solution" for a customer. Process Documentation:

• Candidates should be ready to discuss their understanding of and adherence to:

  • Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for sales, customer service, and operational tasks.

  • Safety protocols related to equipment operation and general store safety.

  • Cash handling and transaction processing procedures.

  • Merchandising and display maintenance standards.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an entry-level retail role, the "portfolio" is less about formal documents and more about demonstrating transferable skills and a proactive approach to learning and execution during the interview process. The emphasis is on process adherence and customer engagement.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $16.25 - $19.10 per hour. This range reflects an entry-level to early-career retail position, with potential for growth based on performance and acquired skills.

Benefits:

• 401(k) with employer match: Offers a retirement savings plan with company contributions.

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Provides confidential support for personal and work-related challenges.

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

• Telemedicine Services: Convenient access to healthcare professionals remotely.

• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs): Allows for pre-tax contributions to cover healthcare or dependent care expenses.

• Commuter Benefits: Assistance with transportation costs for commuting to work.

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

• Adoption Assistance: Financial support for team members pursuing adoption.

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

• Access to Partner Discount Programs: Additional savings opportunities through affiliated companies.

Working Hours: This is a part-time position. Specific hours will vary based on business needs, including nights, weekends, and early mornings. The stated "40" in the raw data likely refers to a full-time equivalent, but the job type is explicitly "Part time."

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is competitive for entry-level retail roles in Poughkeepsie, NY, considering the cost of living and industry benchmarks. The comprehensive benefits package, especially for a part-time role, is a significant draw and indicates Michaels' investment in its team members.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

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

Company Size: Over 1,300 stores across North America. This large retail footprint indicates established operational processes, a structured hierarchy, and opportunities for advancement within a well-resourced organization.

Founded: 1973, headquartered in Irving, Texas. With a long history, Michaels has developed robust operational frameworks and a strong brand presence in the creative sector.

Team Structure:

• Store-level Operations: This role is part of a local store team, likely reporting to a Store Manager or Assistant Manager. The Custom Framer works alongside other retail associates, visual merchandisers, and potentially a dedicated framing specialist or manager depending on store size and volume.

• Cross-functional Collaboration: While primarily focused on the framing department and customer service, collaboration with other store associates for general operations, stocking, and customer assistance is expected. There's also an implicit connection to corporate support for inventory, marketing, and operational guidelines.

• Emphasis on Customer-Centricity: The company culture is driven by "fueling the joy of creativity and celebration," which translates to a focus on customer engagement, inspiration, and providing solutions.

Methodology:

• Customer Engagement: Utilizing "Elevated ABC Deliver" and other customer service methodologies to build relationships and drive sales.

• Process Adherence: Strict adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for all operational, sales, and safety functions.

• Visual Merchandising: Maintaining store appearance and product displays to attract and guide customers.

• Data-Driven (at Store Level): While not deeply analytical, decisions regarding stock, sales focus, and customer service are informed by store performance metrics and customer feedback.

Company Website: www.michaels.com

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's emphasis on creativity and customer experience shapes the operational environment. For a Custom Framer, this means understanding customer needs beyond just a product transaction, but as part of a creative journey.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned at an entry-level or early-career stage within retail operations. It provides foundational experience in customer service, sales, and operational execution within a specialized department (custom framing).

Reporting Structure: Typically reports to a Store Manager, Assistant Store Manager, or a Framing Department Manager, depending on the store's organizational structure. This provides direct oversight and mentorship.

Operations Impact: The Custom Framer directly impacts store revenue through custom framing sales and contributes to overall store performance by enhancing the customer shopping experience and maintaining store standards. Their ability to build relationships and provide quality service can lead to repeat business and customer loyalty.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Development: Opportunity to become an expert in custom framing techniques, sales, and customer consultation. Proficiency with framing equipment and design principles can be honed.

• Advancement within Store: Potential to move into roles such as Lead Framer, Visual Merchandiser, Key Holder, Assistant Store Manager, or Store Manager, depending on performance, initiative, and acquired skills.

• Cross-Departmental Experience: Opportunity to gain experience in other store departments, broadening understanding of retail operations.

• Specialized Training: Access to company-provided training for sales techniques, customer service, and operational procedures, including potential for advanced framing certifications.

📝 Enhancement Note: For individuals starting in retail operations, this role offers a clear path for skill acquisition and internal promotion within the Michaels retail structure. The focus on a specialized service like custom framing provides a unique skill set.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Public retail store setting. The primary workspace is the sales floor and the dedicated custom framing shop within the store.

Office Location(s): Poughkeepsie, NY (specifically the 2526 South Rd location). This is a customer-facing environment.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: Works as part of a local store team, interacting with colleagues for customer assistance, operational tasks, and general store support.

• Tools and Technology: Access to framing equipment (e.g., mat cutters, framing tools, heat press), glass cutters, cash registers, and potentially basic computer systems for order management and inventory.

• Team Interaction: Opportunities for daily interaction with team members to coordinate tasks, share customer insights, and provide mutual support.

Work Schedule: Part-time, including nights, weekends, and early mornings. Flexibility is required to meet business needs. The work environment is climate-controlled in public areas, with potential for less controlled conditions in stock rooms or during truck unloads.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is dynamic and customer-focused, requiring adaptability and a positive attitude. The framing shop specifically involves working with tools and materials that require careful handling and adherence to safety protocols.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Application Review: Focus on resume and application details highlighting relevant skills (customer service, basic technical aptitude, retail experience).

• First Interview (likely with Store Manager/Assistant Manager):

  • Focus: Behavioral questions assessing customer service philosophy, problem-solving skills, teamwork, and adaptability.
  • Preparation: Be ready to discuss how you build customer relationships, handle difficult customer situations, and contribute to a team environment. Prepare examples of past achievements.
  • Portfolio Discussion: While not a formal portfolio, be prepared to discuss your "basic computer skills and basic measuring skills" and your ability to operate framing equipment. If you have any relevant experience or examples of projects (even personal ones), be ready to share.

• Skills Assessment/Demonstration: May involve a practical demonstration of basic measuring skills or a discussion about operating framing equipment. They will assess your understanding of safety procedures.

• Final Interview (if applicable): May involve a deeper dive into sales aptitude and long-term commitment to the role and company.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Highlight Transferable Skills: If you lack direct framing experience, emphasize skills like attention to detail, precision, problem-solving, and customer interaction from previous roles (retail, service, or even personal projects).

• Demonstrate Learning Aptitude: Express enthusiasm for learning the craft of custom framing and operating the necessary equipment.

• Showcase Customer Focus: Prepare examples of how you've gone above and beyond for customers in previous roles.

• Articulate Understanding of SOPs: Show that you understand the importance of following procedures for quality, safety, and efficiency.

Challenge Preparation:

• Scenario-Based Questions: Be ready for questions like, "A customer wants to frame a valuable piece of art but has a limited budget. How would you approach this?" or "How would you handle a situation where a customer is unhappy with their custom framing order?"

• Operational Awareness: Understand the importance of merchandising, stock levels, and keeping the store clean and organized.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "portfolio" for this role is less about a curated set of work samples and more about demonstrating practical skills, a customer-centric mindset, and a willingness to learn through discussion and potential practical assessments.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Custom Framing Equipment: Various tools for cutting mats, assembling frames, and securing artwork (e.g., mat cutters, framing guns, jointers). Specific brand names are less critical than the ability to operate and maintain them safely.

• Glass Cutter: Essential for custom glass and acrylic sizing.

• Heat Press: Used for specific framing applications.

• Measuring Tools: Rulers, tape measures, calipers for precise measurements.

Analytics & Reporting:

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

• Inventory Management Systems: Used for tracking stock levels of ready-made frames, mat boards, and framing supplies.

CRM & Automation:

• Elevated ABC Deliver: A customer engagement and sales methodology that acts as a form of "CRM" at the point of sale, focusing on personalized service and sales conversion.

• Basic Computer Systems: For accessing training, company information, and potentially managing custom order details.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency with specialized framing equipment and basic POS systems is crucial. The role leverages a specific customer engagement methodology ("Elevated ABC Deliver") rather than a complex CRM platform.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Creativity: Encouraging and facilitating customer creativity through custom framing solutions.

• Customer Focus: Prioritizing customer satisfaction and building lasting relationships through exceptional service.

• Quality: Commitment to delivering high-quality framing work that meets customer expectations and durability standards.

• Efficiency: Adhering to SOPs and optimizing workflows to ensure timely order completion and operational smoothness.

• Teamwork: Collaborating effectively with colleagues to achieve store goals and provide a positive shopping experience.

• Safety: Maintaining a safe work environment for themselves, colleagues, and customers.

Collaboration Style:

• Customer-Centric Collaboration: Working with customers to understand their vision and translate it into a tangible framing solution.

• Peer Support: Assisting fellow team members with customer service, operational tasks, and general store upkeep.

• Process-Oriented: Following established procedures and company guidelines to ensure consistency and efficiency across all operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture emphasizes a blend of creative expression, customer dedication, and operational discipline. Team members are expected to be both creative problem-solvers for customers and diligent executors of company processes.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Sales and Service: Effectively engaging customers to drive sales while ensuring a high level of personalized service and accurate order taking.

• Technical Skill Acquisition: Learning to operate specialized framing equipment and mastering precise measuring and cutting techniques.

• Managing Diverse Customer Needs: Handling a wide range of customer requests, budgets, and artistic preferences for framing.

• Pace of Retail: Working efficiently during busy periods, managing multiple tasks, and maintaining composure in a fast-paced environment.

• Physical Demands: Performing physically demanding tasks such as lifting, standing for long periods, and working with tools.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Framing Expertise: Gaining in-depth knowledge of framing materials, techniques, design principles, and conservation methods.

• Sales and Customer Relationship Building: Developing advanced skills in consultative selling and customer loyalty programs.

• Operational Proficiency: Mastering retail operations, including merchandising, inventory management, and POS systems.

• Potential for Specialization: Becoming a go-to expert for custom framing within the store.

• Company Training Programs: Access to ongoing training modules and workshops offered by Michaels.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a solid entry point for developing specialized retail skills and customer service expertise. The challenges are balanced by opportunities for skill mastery and career progression within the company.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Customer Service & Sales: "Describe a time you helped a customer find the perfect solution for their needs." "How would you approach a customer who is unsure about framing options for their artwork?" "What steps would you take to ensure a custom framing order is perfect for the customer?"

• Problem-Solving & Adaptability: "Tell me about a time you had to adapt to a change in procedure or a challenging situation at work." "How would you handle a situation where you don't know the answer to a customer's question?"

• Technical Aptitude: "What experience do you have with measuring or using tools?" "How comfortable are you learning to operate new equipment like a glass cutter or framing machinery?"

Company & Culture Questions:

• Motivation: "Why are you interested in working for Michaels?" "What do you know about our custom framing services?" "How do you align with Michaels' values of creativity and customer focus?"

• Teamwork: "Describe your ideal team environment." "How do you contribute to a positive team dynamic?"

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Highlight Relevant Skills: Even without a formal portfolio, be ready to discuss specific examples of your skills. For example, if you've done personal framing projects, mention them. If you have strong measuring skills from another job, highlight that.

• Focus on Customer Interaction: Prepare stories that showcase your ability to listen to customers, understand their needs, and provide solutions.

• Demonstrate Enthusiasm for Learning: Emphasize your eagerness to learn the craft of custom framing and to become a valuable member of the team.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on showcasing transferable skills, a strong customer service ethic, a willingness to learn, and an understanding of the retail operational environment.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

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

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight customer service experience, any technical aptitude (even basic tool use or computer skills), and any sales achievements. Use keywords from the job description like "customer service," "sales," "measuring skills," and "attention to detail."

• Prepare for Behavioral Questions: Practice answering questions about your customer service approach, problem-solving abilities, and teamwork using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result).

• Research Michaels: Familiarize yourself with Michaels' products, services (especially custom framing), and company values. Understand their mission to "fuel the joy of creativity."

• Practice Out Loud: Rehearse discussing your skills and experiences, especially how they relate to this specific role. Be ready to articulate your interest in custom framing and customer engagement.

⚠️ 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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