PT Custom Framer (Hourly Rate & Bonus Potential)

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: PT Custom Framer (Hourly Rate & Bonus Potential)

Company: Michaels Stores

Location: Glen Allen, Virginia, United States

Job Type: Part-time

Category: Retail Operations

Date Posted: August 11, 2026

Experience Level: Entry-level to Junior (0-2 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Support daily retail operations by engaging customers and providing custom framing solutions.

• Maintain visual merchandising standards and ensure product availability across the sales floor and back stock.

• Execute operational procedures, including cash handling, inventory management, and safety protocols.

• Contribute to a positive and efficient store environment through teamwork and adherence to company policies.

📝 Enhancement Note: While this role is in retail, the "Custom Framer" aspect and the emphasis on "creating a memorable framing solution for their art" suggest a specialized function within the store that requires attention to detail, product knowledge, and customer consultation, aligning with certain aspects of specialized operations roles that involve bespoke service delivery.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Build and foster customer relationships by providing expert consultation and personalized custom framing solutions, utilizing the Elevated ABC Deliver methodology to drive sales and production targets.

• Accurately complete custom framing orders to high-quality standards and within established timelines, ensuring customer satisfaction.

• Maintain the visual presentation and stock levels of the ready-made frame department, as well as other assigned areas including SISO (Ship-In, Ship-Out) and Directed Replenishment, to optimize product visibility and accessibility.

• Deliver exceptional customer service by actively acknowledging customers, assisting with product location, providing solutions, and ensuring a well-merchandised and in-stock store environment.

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

• Actively participate in truck un-load and stocking processes, ensuring adherence to truck standards and completion within budget.

• Operate the cash register and execute all cash handling procedures to established standards, ensuring accuracy and security.

• Support and actively participate in shrink and safety programs to maintain a secure and risk-free store environment.

• Interact with colleagues and customers in an accepting and respectful manner, maintaining a positive and respectful attitude, especially during challenging situations, and promoting commitment to the organization's vision and values.

• Assist with and support Omni channel processes, ensuring a seamless customer experience across all sales channels.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of direct customer interaction, sales execution, and operational upkeep. For operations professionals, understanding how these tasks contribute to overall store efficiency, inventory accuracy, and customer satisfaction is key. The emphasis on SOPs and compliance is a direct link to operational best practices.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: High school diploma or equivalent required.

Experience:

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

• Demonstrated ability to perform basic computer and measuring tasks.

• Proven ability to operate framing equipment and a glass cutter. Required Skills:

• Customer Service Excellence: Ability to build rapport, understand customer needs, and provide tailored solutions.

• Sales Acumen: Proven ability to drive sales through consultation and product knowledge, meeting sales and production targets.

• Custom Framing Proficiency: Hands-on experience operating framing equipment and glass cutters, with a focus on quality craftsmanship.

• Basic Technical Skills: Familiarity with basic computer operations for tasks such as order entry or POS systems.

• Measurement Accuracy: Precision in taking measurements for custom framing projects.

• Cash Handling & POS Operation: Competence in operating a cash register and managing financial transactions accurately.

• Merchandising & Presentation: Ability to maintain visually appealing product displays and ensure stock availability.

• Adherence to Procedures: Strong commitment to following Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company policies.

Preferred Skills:

• Prior retail experience, particularly in a specialty or art-related field.

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

• Familiarity with visual merchandising principles and techniques.

• Basic understanding of inventory management principles.

📝 Enhancement Note: For operations candidates, the required skills translate to process execution, system utilization (POS, basic computer), and quality control. The preferred skills suggest an advantage for those with prior experience in sales operations or merchandising roles where data-driven decision-making and customer journey optimization are critical.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Case Studies of Process Improvement: Examples demonstrating how you identified an operational inefficiency (e.g., in-store process, workflow) and implemented a solution, detailing the steps taken, the tools used, and the measurable impact.

• Customer Consultation & Solution Design: Showcase a project where you consulted with a customer to understand their needs, designed a custom solution (e.g., framing project), and managed its execution from concept to completion, highlighting quality and timeliness.

• System Utilization Examples: Briefly describe your experience using retail POS systems, basic computer applications, or any inventory management tools, emphasizing accuracy and efficiency.

• Sales & Production Tracking: If applicable, provide examples of how you tracked your sales performance or production output, demonstrating your ability to meet targets.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Document a typical custom framing process from customer consultation to order fulfillment, identifying potential bottlenecks and suggesting optimization strategies.

• Quality Control Measures: Outline the steps you would take to ensure the quality and accuracy of custom framing orders, including checks and balances.

• Customer Interaction Protocols: Describe your approach to customer engagement, from initial greeting to problem resolution, focusing on creating a positive and memorable experience.

📝 Enhancement Note: While this is an entry-level retail role, operations professionals can frame their experience to align with portfolio expectations. This means highlighting any instances of process documentation, workflow improvement, system usage, or customer solution design, even if in a different context. The emphasis on SOP adherence and quality control directly relates to operational process management.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $13.00 - $15.30 per hour (plus bonus potential)

Benefits:

• Retirement Savings: 401(k) with employer match to help secure your financial future.

• Health & Wellness: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage options.

• Support Services: Access to Employee Assistance Program (EAP) and telemedicine services for confidential support and healthcare.

• Financial Flexibility: Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) for healthcare and dependent care expenses, and commuter benefits for transportation.

• Professional Development: Tuition assistance and adoption assistance to support personal and family growth.

• Insurance Options: Various voluntary insurance options for enhanced protection.

• Employee Perks: Significant employee discounts on Michaels products and access to partner discount programs.

Working Hours: Part-time schedule, with flexibility to work nights, weekends, and early mornings as required by store operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range provided is typical for entry-level retail positions in the United States, adjusted for the stated location. The bonus potential indicates an incentive structure tied to individual or store performance, common in sales-driven retail environments. The benefits package is robust for a part-time role, offering a good mix of financial, health, and developmental support. For operations roles, understanding the incentive structures and benefits can inform career decisions regarding compensation and work-life balance.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Arts and Crafts Retail. Michaels is a leading retailer in North America, specializing in arts, crafts, and home decor products.

Company Size: Large (over 1,000 employees, likely significantly more with store count). This implies structured processes, established HR functions, and a wide network of stores.

Founded: 1973. With a long history, Michaels has developed established operational frameworks and a strong brand presence.

Team Structure:

• Store-Level Operations: This role is part of a local store team, reporting to store management (e.g., Custom Framing Lead, Assistant Store Manager, Store Manager).

• Functional Specialization: While part of a general store team, the "Custom Framer" role has a specialized focus within the store's service offerings.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Collaboration is expected with other store associates for customer service, inventory stocking, and Omni channel fulfillment.

Methodology:

• Customer-Centric Approach: Emphasis on building relationships, providing solutions, and ensuring customer satisfaction through personalized service (Elevated ABC Deliver).

• Process Adherence: Strict following of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to ensure consistency, compliance, and efficiency across all stores.

• Data-Informed Operations: While not explicitly stated for this role, retail operations generally rely on sales data, inventory levels, and customer feedback to inform decisions and drive performance.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture emphasizes creativity, customer engagement, and operational discipline. For operations professionals, understanding how a large retail organization balances creative offerings with structured operational execution is key. The emphasis on SOPs and compliance is a strong indicator of a process-oriented environment.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Entry-Level Retail Associate with Specialized Function. This role serves as a foundational position within the retail operations environment, focusing on direct customer interaction, sales, and specific operational tasks (custom framing).

Reporting Structure: The Custom Framer typically reports to a designated supervisor within the store, such as a Custom Framing Lead, Sales Floor Manager, or Store Manager. This structure provides direct oversight and guidance on daily tasks and performance.

Operations Impact:

• Revenue Generation: Directly contributes to store revenue through custom framing sales and general retail sales.

• Customer Experience: Plays a crucial role in shaping the customer's perception of Michaels through quality service, product knowledge, and effective problem-solving.

• Operational Efficiency: Supports store operations by maintaining merchandising standards, assisting with inventory, and adhering to operational procedures, which contributes to overall store productivity and profitability.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization Advancement: Potential to become a Custom Framing Lead or specialist, taking on more responsibility for training, inventory, and sales strategy within the framing department.

• Retail Management Track: Opportunity to progress into Assistant Store Manager or Store Manager roles by demonstrating leadership, operational expertise, and strong sales performance.

• Cross-Functional Skills Development: Gain experience in various retail operations areas, including merchandising, inventory management, customer service, and Omni channel fulfillment, which can be transferable to other operational roles within Michaels or the broader retail industry.

• Skills Expansion: Develop advanced customer service, sales, and potentially operational planning skills.

📝 Enhancement Note: For operations professionals, this role offers a ground-level understanding of retail operations. Growth paths can lead to more complex operational management roles, requiring strategic planning, process optimization, and team leadership. The transferable skills are valuable for anyone looking to build a career in operations, starting from the front lines.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Public Retail Store Setting. This is a customer-facing environment with a dedicated framing shop area.

Office Location(s): Glen Allen, Virginia (specifically the store at 9910 Brook Rd). The location is a standard retail store environment.

Workspace Context:

• Customer Interaction Zone: The primary workspace involves direct interaction with customers on the sales floor and within the custom framing area.

• Production Area: The framing shop includes specialized equipment like a glass cutter and heat press, requiring careful operation and adherence to safety protocols.

• Stock Room & Back Areas: Associates may also work in stock rooms, which may not be climate-controlled, for stocking and inventory tasks.

• Collaborative Atmosphere: Work requires interaction with fellow store associates, management, and customers, fostering a team-oriented and service-driven environment.

Work Schedule: Part-time, with flexibility required to work nights, weekends, and early mornings. This schedule is typical for retail roles and necessitates adaptability.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is dynamic and fast-paced, typical of a retail setting. For operations professionals, understanding the constraints and opportunities of a physical retail space—including customer flow, inventory management in-store, and the impact of the physical layout on efficiency—is valuable. The mention of non-climate-controlled stock rooms and outdoor work (cart retrieval, truck unloading) highlights the need for adaptability and physical capability.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

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

• In-Store Interview: This typically involves meeting with the Store Manager or Assistant Store Manager. It will likely focus on behavioral questions, customer service scenarios, and assessment of your understanding of the role and company values.

• Skills Assessment: You may be asked about your experience with basic computer skills, measuring, and potentially a demonstration or discussion about operating framing equipment if you have prior experience.

• Situational Questions: Expect questions about how you would handle specific customer interactions, sales opportunities, or operational challenges (e.g., a customer complaint, a busy period).

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

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Focus on Transferable Skills: Even without formal operations experience, highlight projects or responsibilities that demonstrate problem-solving, attention to detail, process adherence, and customer interaction.

• Quantify Achievements: If you have sales experience, use numbers to show your success (e.g., "exceeded sales targets by 15%," "served an average of 50 customers per shift").

• Showcase Process Understanding: For framing, illustrate your understanding of the workflow from consultation to final product, emphasizing quality control and customer satisfaction.

• Tailor to Michaels: Research Michaels' brand, values, and commitment to creativity. Frame your experience to align with these aspects.

Challenge Preparation:

• Scenario-Based Questions: Be prepared to discuss how you would handle common retail situations, such as a customer seeking a specific product, dealing with a difficult customer, or managing multiple tasks during a busy period.

• Product Knowledge: While specific framing knowledge is a plus, demonstrate your ability and willingness to learn product details quickly.

• Operational Awareness: Show an understanding of basic retail operations like merchandising, stock replenishment, and cash handling.

📝 Enhancement Note: For operations candidates, the interview process is an opportunity to demonstrate transferable skills. Emphasize your understanding of process, efficiency, and customer satisfaction. If you have a portfolio, focus on case studies related to process improvement, problem-solving, or customer solution design, even if from a different industry.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

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

• Basic Computer Applications: For general tasks, possibly including order entry, scheduling, or internal communications.

• Custom Framing Equipment: Specialized tools such as mat cutters, frame cutters, jointers, and heat presses.

• Measuring Tools: Tape measures, rulers, and potentially specialized framing measurement devices.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Sales Reporting: Basic reporting on individual sales performance and store sales metrics, likely accessed through the POS system or store management software.

CRM & Automation:

• Customer Relationship Management (CRM): The "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodology suggests a customer-centric approach, implying some form of customer data tracking or interaction logging, though likely basic within a retail POS.

• Order Management System: For tracking custom framing orders from placement to completion.

📝 Enhancement Note: For operations professionals, understanding the technology stack is crucial. While this role uses basic retail tools, the custom framing equipment represents specialized operational technology. Familiarity with POS systems and basic computer skills are foundational. For more advanced operations roles, understanding how these systems integrate and contribute to broader business intelligence is key.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Creativity & Inspiration: Fostering an environment where creativity is celebrated and customers are inspired to create.

• Customer Focus: Prioritizing customer needs and ensuring a positive, memorable experience through excellent service and personalized solutions.

• Teamwork & Collaboration: Working together effectively to achieve store goals, support colleagues, and create a positive work environment.

• Quality & Craftsmanship: Upholding high standards in custom framing and product presentation.

• Efficiency & Compliance: Adhering to operational procedures and standards to ensure smooth store functioning and compliance.

Collaboration Style:

• Service-Oriented: Associates collaborate to ensure all customer needs are met, whether it's finding products, processing sales, or fulfilling custom orders.

• Process-Driven: The team relies on SOPs to guide daily operations, ensuring consistency and efficiency.

• Supportive Environment: Encouragement of mutual support among team members to handle busy periods and complex tasks.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture at Michaels blends a passion for creativity with a structured operational approach. For operations professionals, this means understanding how to balance creative freedom with process discipline, a common challenge in many GTM and RevOps environments. The emphasis on teamwork and customer service is paramount.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Multiple Demands: Juggling customer service, sales consultations, custom framing production, stocking, and cashier duties in a fast-paced environment.

• Meeting Sales Targets: Consistently achieving individual and store sales goals, particularly in custom framing, which requires effective consultative selling.

• Maintaining Quality Standards: Ensuring high-quality craftsmanship on all custom framing projects while working efficiently.

• Adapting to Customer Needs: Effectively understanding and translating diverse customer requests into accurate framing solutions.

• Physical Demands: Performing physically demanding tasks such as lifting heavy boxes and standing for extended periods.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Custom Framing Expertise: Deepen knowledge and skills in custom framing techniques, materials, and design principles.

• Sales & Customer Service Skills: Enhance consultative selling abilities and customer relationship management through hands-on experience and potential training.

• Retail Operations Fundamentals: Gain practical experience in merchandising, inventory control, loss prevention, and Omni channel fulfillment.

• Leadership Potential: Opportunities to take on more responsibility, potentially leading to supervisory or management roles within the store.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges highlight the need for strong time management, problem-solving, and adaptability—key traits for operations professionals. The growth opportunities offer a clear path for developing foundational skills in sales, customer experience, and operational management, which are valuable for a career in operations.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Customer Service Scenarios: "Describe a time you went above and beyond for a customer." "How would you handle a customer who is unhappy with their custom framing order?"

• Sales Approach: "How do you approach selling a product or service to a customer?" "What steps would you take to understand a customer's framing needs?"

• Problem-Solving: "Tell me about a time you had to solve a problem at work." "How would you manage your time if you had multiple customers waiting and framing orders to complete?"

• Operational Understanding: "What does good merchandising look like to you?" "How do you ensure accuracy when handling transactions or taking measurements?"

Company & Culture Questions:

• Motivation: "Why are you interested in Michaels and this specific role?" "What do you know about Michaels?"

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

• Values Alignment: "How do you align with our values of creativity and customer focus?"

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Highlight Transferable Skills: If you have a portfolio, focus on projects demonstrating problem-solving, process improvement, customer solutions, or data analysis. For example, if you improved a workflow in a previous role, present it as a case study.

• Quantify Impact: Use numbers to showcase achievements where possible (e.g., "reduced errors by X%", "increased customer satisfaction scores by Y%").

• Focus on Process: Clearly articulate the steps you took in any project, emphasizing your understanding of process and efficiency.

• Visuals: If presenting examples of your work (e.g., custom framing designs), ensure they are clear, professional, and well-organized.

📝 Enhancement Note: For operations candidates, prepare to discuss your understanding of process efficiency, data-driven decision-making, and customer journey optimization, drawing parallels from your experience. Even in a retail context, framing your answers around operational impact will be beneficial.

📌 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, sales, attention to detail, and any experience with processes or systems. Use keywords from the job description.

• Portfolio Preparation (Optional but Recommended for Operations Roles): If you have projects demonstrating process improvement, problem-solving, or customer solution design, prepare to discuss them. Focus on the steps taken, tools used, and measurable outcomes.

• Interview Practice: Rehearse answers to common behavioral and situational interview questions, focusing on demonstrating your problem-solving skills, adaptability, and commitment to customer satisfaction and operational standards.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Michaels' mission, values, products, and recent initiatives to demonstrate genuine interest and cultural fit. Understand their approach to customer service and operations.

⚠️ 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.