PT Custom Picture Framer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: PT Custom Picture Framer

Company: Michaels Stores

Location: Missoula, Montana, United States

Job Type: Part time

Category: Retail Operations / Sales

Date Posted: 2026-09-16T00:00:00

Experience Level: 0-2 years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Drive customer engagement and sales by providing expert custom framing solutions and personalized design consultations.

• Maintain a visually appealing and well-stocked retail environment, ensuring adherence to merchandising standards and inventory management principles.

• Execute daily retail operations, including cash handling, customer service, and assisting with stockroom processes, to ensure seamless store functioning.

• Uphold company standards for quality, efficiency, and customer satisfaction in all framing production and customer interactions.

• Contribute to a positive and productive work environment by collaborating effectively with team members and adhering to company values.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is a part-time, on-site position within a retail store environment, focusing on customer-facing sales and in-store operational duties related to custom picture framing. The emphasis is on building customer relationships and providing a memorable framing experience, alongside general retail responsibilities.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Engage customers proactively to understand their framing needs, offering expert design advice and recommending appropriate materials and solutions.

• Execute custom framing orders with precision and high quality, ensuring timely completion and adherence to production standards using specialized equipment.

• Maintain and organize the ready-made frame department, including SISO (Single Item, Single Order) and Directed Replenishment processes, to ensure product availability and visual appeal.

• Provide exceptional customer service by assisting shoppers with product location, offering solutions, and ensuring a positive and welcoming store experience.

• Operate the cash register, process transactions accurately, and adhere to all cash handling and security procedures.

• Participate actively in truck unloading and stocking processes, ensuring compliance with store standards and efficient inventory management.

• Maintain a safe, clean, and clutter-free store environment, adhering to all Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company safety programs.

• Assist with Omni-channel processes, such as fulfilling online orders or assisting with in-store pickup, to support integrated customer experiences.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core responsibilities blend direct customer sales and service with operational execution in a retail setting. The role requires a balance of creative design consultation, technical framing production, and general store upkeep and transaction processing, all within established company SOPs.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: High school diploma or equivalent is typically expected for entry-level retail positions, though not explicitly stated.

Experience: 0-2 years of experience in a customer-facing role, preferably in retail, with demonstrated ability in sales and service.

Required Skills:

• Basic computer proficiency for point-of-sale (POS) systems and potential order management software.

• Fundamental measuring skills for accurate custom framing specifications.

• Ability to operate framing equipment safely and effectively.

• Capability to operate a glass cutter with precision.

• Strong customer service orientation with excellent interpersonal communication skills.

• Basic cash handling and transaction processing abilities.

• Ability to work effectively within a team environment.

• Adherence to safety protocols and company policies. Preferred Skills:

• Previous retail sales experience, particularly in art, craft, or custom services.

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

• Familiarity with merchandising principles and visual presentation standards.

• Experience with inventory management or stock replenishment processes.

• Basic understanding of design principles or an eye for aesthetics.

📝 Enhancement Note: The required skills are foundational for a retail associate role with a specialized function. The preferred skills indicate a desire for candidates who can quickly adapt to sales targets and understand the consultative selling aspect of custom framing, suggesting a potential for higher performance and quicker ramp-up time.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• While a formal portfolio is not explicitly required for this entry-level retail role, candidates are encouraged to highlight relevant experience in their resume or during the interview that demonstrates:

• Customer Interaction Examples: Instances where you successfully assisted customers, resolved issues, or provided solutions that led to satisfaction or sales.

• Sales Achievement Documentation: Any quantifiable results from previous sales roles, such as meeting or exceeding targets.

• Project Examples (if applicable): If you have personal experience with framing or similar creative projects, be prepared to discuss your process and outcomes.

• Process Adherence: Examples of following procedures (SOPs) and maintaining standards in previous roles.

Process Documentation:

• Candidates should be prepared to discuss their understanding of and ability to follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for:

• Customer Engagement & Sales Process: How they would approach a customer needing custom framing.

• Production Workflow: Understanding the steps involved in completing a framing order from consultation to completion.

• Inventory & Merchandising: Processes for maintaining stock levels, organizing displays, and executing replenishment.

• Transaction Processing: Adherence to cash handling and POS system protocols.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an entry-level retail position, a formal portfolio is less critical than demonstrating practical skills and a strong understanding of customer service and operational processes. The emphasis will be on how candidates can articulate their past experiences to show their capability in performing the core responsibilities.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Based on the "Part time" employment type, "0-2 years" experience level, and the "PT Custom Picture Framer" title at Michaels Stores in Missoula, Montana, the estimated hourly wage would likely fall within the range of $12.00 - $16.00 per hour.

📝 Enhancement Note: This estimate is based on typical entry-level retail associate wages in the United States, considering regional cost of living adjustments for Missoula, Montana, and Michaels' general compensation practices for part-time roles. Specific wages are subject to experience, performance, and store-level pay structures. It is advisable to confirm the exact salary during the interview process.

Benefits:

• Employee discounts on Michaels products, fostering creativity and personal use.

• Access to a 401(k) plan with potential employer match, supporting long-term financial planning.

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

• Potential for medical, dental, and vision coverage, telemedicine services, flexible spending accounts, and commuter benefits, depending on eligibility and hours worked.

• Tuition assistance and adoption assistance programs, supporting personal and professional development.

• Various voluntary insurance options to supplement core benefits. Working Hours:

• This is a part-time position.

• Work hours will include nights, weekends, and potentially early mornings, aligning with retail operating schedules.

• Total weekly hours may vary but are typically less than 30-40 hours per week for part-time roles.

📝 Enhancement Note: The benefits listed are comprehensive for a retail environment, with many contingent on eligibility. The part-time nature of the role suggests that some benefits might have minimum hour requirements.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Arts and Crafts Retail. Michaels is the leading specialty retailer of arts, crafts, and custom framing products in North America.

Company Size: The Michaels Companies, Inc. operates over 1,300 stores across North America and employs a significant workforce, indicating a large, established retail organization.

Founded: 1973. With a long history, Michaels has established brand recognition and a mature operational framework.

Team Structure:

• The role is part of a store-level team, reporting to store management (e.g., Store Manager, Assistant Manager, or Department Specialist).

• Collaboration is expected with fellow sales associates, cashiers, and potentially specialized roles within the store.

• Cross-functional interaction primarily occurs within the store environment, with limited direct interaction with corporate or regional operations teams for this specific role. Methodology:

• Data Analysis: While this role is not heavily data-analytic, performance metrics for sales, customer service, and production efficiency are tracked at the store and individual level.

• Workflow Planning: Adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for daily tasks, customer interactions, and production processes is key.

• Automation & Efficiency: While direct automation implementation is unlikely for this role, efficient execution of tasks and processes contributes to overall store efficiency.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture emphasizes creativity, customer engagement, and operational execution within a retail framework. The structure supports a hands-on approach to serving customers and managing store operations.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is an entry-level to junior associate position within the retail operations spectrum. It's focused on executing defined tasks and providing direct customer service and product fulfillment.

Reporting Structure: Reports directly to store management (e.g., Store Manager, Assistant Manager), who oversee daily operations and team performance.

Operations Impact: This role directly impacts the customer experience through personalized service and quality product delivery, contributing to store sales, customer loyalty, and the overall brand perception of Michaels.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Development: Opportunities to master custom framing techniques, enhance sales consultation skills, and gain proficiency in POS and inventory systems.

• Advancement within Store: Potential to move into roles with more responsibility, such as a Lead Framer, Key Holder, or Assistant Manager, depending on performance and available opportunities.

• Cross-Training: Possibility to gain experience in other store departments or functions.

• Leadership Potential: Demonstrating strong performance and leadership qualities can open doors for supervisory or management roles within Michaels.

📝 Enhancement Note: Growth in this role is typically within the retail store hierarchy. Progression depends on developing technical skills, sales acumen, and demonstrating reliability and customer service excellence.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Public retail store setting with a dedicated custom framing shop area.

Office Location(s): Missoula, Montana - specifically at 2850 N Reserve St. This is a customer-facing environment.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: Work alongside other store associates, fostering teamwork to manage customer flow and operational tasks.

• Tools & Technology: Access to framing equipment, glass cutters, heat presses, POS systems, and potentially inventory management tools.

• Team Interaction: Regular interaction with colleagues and supervisors to coordinate tasks, share information, and ensure smooth store operations.

Work Schedule:

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

• The exact schedule will be determined by store needs and management.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is dynamic and customer-centric. The framing shop requires attention to detail and safety, while the sales floor demands proactive customer engagement.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Likely a brief phone or video screen to assess basic qualifications and interest.

• In-Person Interview: Typically involves meeting with the store manager or assistant manager. This will likely include:

  • Behavioral Questions: Assessing customer service skills, problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and reliability (e.g., "Tell me about a time you handled a difficult customer").
  • Situational Questions: Presenting hypothetical scenarios related to framing consultations, sales, or store operations (e.g., "How would you help a customer choose a frame for a valuable piece of art?").
  • Skills Assessment: Discussion of technical abilities (measuring, equipment operation) and any relevant retail/sales experience.
  • Cultural Fit: Evaluating alignment with Michaels' values of creativity, customer focus, and teamwork.

• Practical Demonstration (Potential): May be asked to demonstrate basic measuring skills or discuss how they would approach a framing consultation.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• While a formal portfolio isn't mandatory, be prepared to discuss:
  • Past Projects: If you have personal framing or creative projects, be ready to describe your process, materials used, and the outcome.
  • Customer Service Scenarios: Prepare specific examples of how you've provided excellent customer service or handled challenging customer interactions.
  • Sales Achievements: Quantify any sales successes from previous roles.

Challenge Preparation:

• Framing Consultation Simulation: Practice how you would guide a customer through the custom framing process, asking clarifying questions about their artwork, budget, and desired aesthetic.

• Problem-Solving Scenarios: Think about how you would handle common retail issues like customer complaints, stock discrepancies, or equipment malfunctions.

• Sales Pitch Practice: Prepare to articulate the value of custom framing and how it enhances artwork.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will likely focus on practical skills, customer service aptitude, and cultural fit for a retail environment. Demonstrating enthusiasm for art and creativity, alongside a strong work ethic, will be beneficial.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Custom Framing Equipment: Various tools for cutting mats, assembling frames, securing artwork, and finishing.

• Glass Cutter: Specialized tool for precisely cutting glass or acrylic.

• Heat Press: Used in some framing processes for specific applications.

• Cash Register/POS System: For processing sales transactions, returns, and managing customer accounts.

Analytics & Reporting:

• POS Reporting: Basic sales data, transaction summaries, and potentially inventory movement tracked through the POS system.

• Inventory Management System: Tools for tracking stock levels, receiving shipments, and managing product placement within the store.

CRM & Automation:

• Customer Relationship Management (CRM): While not a dedicated CRM role, the POS system may store basic customer information for loyalty programs or order history.

• Order Management System: Potentially integrated with POS for tracking custom framing orders from placement to completion.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is primarily focused on point-of-sale operations, inventory management, and specialized equipment for custom framing production. Proficiency with these tools is essential for the role.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Creativity: Encouraging artistic expression and helping customers bring their creative visions to life through framing.

• Customer Focus: Prioritizing customer satisfaction through exceptional service, expert advice, and quality product delivery.

• Integrity: Upholding company policies, ethical sales practices, and accurate cash handling.

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

• Efficiency: Performing tasks accurately and in a timely manner, contributing to smooth store operations.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Working closely with other sales associates and management to manage customer flow, stock replenishment, and overall store presentation.

• Process Review: Openness to feedback on operational procedures and quality standards to ensure continuous improvement.

• Knowledge Sharing: Sharing insights on customer preferences, product knowledge, and best practices for framing consultations and production.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture encourages a blend of creative expression and customer-centric service, underpinned by strong operational execution and teamwork.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Multiple Demands: Juggling customer consultations, production work, sales transactions, and general store duties simultaneously.

• Handling High-Value Items: Working with customers' potentially valuable artwork requires careful handling and attention to detail to prevent damage.

• Meeting Sales Targets: As a sales-oriented role, meeting or exceeding custom framing sales goals can be challenging but rewarding.

• Learning Technical Skills: Mastering the operation of framing equipment and understanding various framing materials and techniques takes practice.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Framing Expertise: Deepen knowledge of framing materials, design principles, and advanced production techniques.

• Sales & Customer Service: Enhance consultative selling skills, customer relationship building, and conflict resolution.

• Retail Operations: Gain a comprehensive understanding of retail store management, inventory control, and visual merchandising.

• Leadership Skills: Develop leadership qualities through experience, potentially leading to supervisory roles.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a good entry point into specialized retail operations, providing opportunities to develop both creative and business-oriented skills.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Framing Consultation Approach: "Describe how you would walk a customer through the custom framing process for a piece of art they cherish." (Focus on asking questions about the artwork, their style preferences, budget, and intended display location.)

• Sales & Service Scenarios: "A customer is undecided between two frame options. How would you help them make a decision?" (Emphasize understanding their priorities, highlighting benefits of each option, and building confidence in their choice.)

• Problem-Solving: "Imagine a framing order is delayed due to a material shortage. How would you communicate this to the customer and manage their expectations?" (Focus on proactive communication, offering alternatives, and maintaining a positive customer relationship.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• Motivation: "Why are you interested in working at Michaels and specifically in custom framing?" (Connect your passion for creativity, art, or customer service to the role.)

• Teamwork: "Describe a time you worked effectively as part of a team to achieve a goal." (Highlight collaboration, communication, and shared responsibility.)

• Values Alignment: "How do you embody Michaels' values of creativity and customer focus in your work?" (Provide specific examples.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Highlight Relevant Experience: If you have any experience with art, design, crafts, or customer-facing roles, be ready to discuss it.

• Showcase Problem-Solving: Prepare examples of how you've solved customer issues or improved processes in previous roles.

• Demonstrate Enthusiasm: Express your passion for art, creativity, and helping customers create lasting pieces.

📝 Enhancement Note: Be prepared to demonstrate not just technical aptitude but also a genuine interest in art, design, and providing exceptional customer experiences.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

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

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight any relevant customer service, sales, or hands-on experience. Use keywords like "custom framing," "customer engagement," "sales," "merchandising," and "POS systems."

• Prepare for Behavioral Questions: Think of specific examples from past experiences that demonstrate your customer service, problem-solving, teamwork, and reliability.

• Research Michaels: Understand their mission, values, and product offerings, particularly their custom framing services. Familiarize yourself with their brand identity.

• Practice Framing Consultation: Mentally walk through how you would assist a customer with a framing project, from initial inquiry to final product.

⚠️ 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.