PT Framer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: PT Framer

Company: Michaels Stores

Location: Houston, Texas, United States

Job Type: Part time

Category: Retail Operations / Custom Framing Specialist

Date Posted: September 15, 2026

Experience Level: 0-2 Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

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

• Key responsibilities include building customer relationships and translating their needs into high-quality framing solutions.

• The position requires proficiency in operating specialized framing equipment and adhering to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for sales and production.

• A core aspect involves maintaining store presentation, including merchandising and inventory management, to enhance the overall customer shopping experience.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "PT Framer," the role encompasses significant customer-facing sales and operational duties typical of a retail environment. The emphasis on "building customer relationships" and "delivering sales and production results" indicates a proactive sales component beyond basic framing tasks. The "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodology suggests a structured approach to customer engagement and upselling within the framing services.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Customer Engagement & Sales:

  • Build and nurture customer relationships by actively engaging them, understanding their framing needs, and recommending appropriate solutions using the "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodology.
  • Drive sales and production targets through effective consultation and upselling of custom framing products and services.
  • Acknowledge customers promptly, assist them in locating products, and provide solutions to their creative needs.

• Custom Framing Execution:

  • Complete custom framing orders with a high degree of quality and within established production timelines.
  • Operate framing equipment, including specialized machinery and glass cutters, safely and efficiently.
  • Ensure all framing projects meet company quality standards and customer expectations.

• Store Operations & Merchandising:

  • Maintain the ready-made frame department, SISO (Sales In Store Only) sections, and Directed Replenishment areas to ensure optimal product presentation and availability.
  • Ensure a safe, clean, and clutter-free environment for both customers and team members.
  • Assist with truck un-load and stocking processes, adhering to established standards and timelines.

• Point of Sale & Transaction Processing:

  • Operate the cash register and execute cash handling procedures according to company standards.
  • Support Omni-channel processes, which may include assisting with online order fulfillment or in-store pickup procedures.

• Compliance & Safety:

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

  • Actively participate in and support company shrink and safety programs, reporting any hazards or concerns.

  • Maintain a positive and respectful attitude, acting as a role model and promoting organizational values.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of specialized craft skills (framing) and broad retail operational duties. The mention of "Elevated ABC Deliver" points to a specific sales training program focused on customer interaction and solution selling within a custom service context. The role also involves significant physical demands and requires adherence to strict safety protocols due to the nature of the equipment and materials used.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• While no specific degree is mandated, a strong understanding of basic measurements and spatial reasoning is essential.

• A background in art, design, or a related creative field can be advantageous but is not a strict requirement. Experience:

• 0-2 years of experience in a customer-facing role, preferably within a retail or service-oriented environment.

• Experience in a role that involves direct sales or consultative selling is highly preferred.

• Prior experience operating machinery or working with tools that require precision and adherence to safety protocols is beneficial. Required Skills:

• Basic Computer Skills: Ability to navigate point-of-sale (POS) systems, basic data entry, and potentially internal communication platforms.

• Basic Measuring Skills: Proficiency in taking accurate measurements for framing purposes, understanding dimensions, and calculating material needs.

• Equipment Operation: Ability to safely and effectively operate framing equipment, including but not limited to, mat cutters, frame saws, and potentially heat presses.

• Customer Service Excellence: Demonstrated ability to provide friendly, helpful, and solution-oriented service to customers, building rapport and trust.

• Communication Skills: Clear and concise verbal communication for interacting with customers and team members.

• Adherence to SOPs: Capability to follow detailed Standard Operating Procedures for sales, production, safety, and operational tasks.

Preferred Skills:

• Retail Sales Experience: Proven track record in retail sales, with an ability to upsell and meet sales targets.

• Custom Framing Knowledge: Familiarity with different framing materials, techniques, and design principles.

• Merchandising Skills: Ability to arrange products attractively, maintain visual standards, and ensure product availability.

• Inventory Management: Understanding of basic inventory principles for stock replenishment and organization.

• Glass Cutting Proficiency: Skill in safely and accurately cutting glass or acrylic for framing projects.

• Time Management: Ability to prioritize tasks, manage multiple orders, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "0-2 Years" experience level suggests this is an entry-level to junior role. However, the requirement for specific skills like operating framing equipment and glass cutters indicates a need for candidates who are either trainable or possess some vocational aptitude. The preference for retail and sales experience underscores the commercial aspect of the role, moving beyond a purely craft-based position.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Custom Framing Design Examples: While a formal portfolio may not be required for this entry-level role, candidates are encouraged to be prepared to discuss or visually represent (if possible) examples of framing projects they've completed or conceptualized, showcasing an understanding of aesthetics, materials, and customer needs.

• Customer Service Scenarios: Be ready to describe how you have handled challenging customer interactions or successfully resolved customer issues in previous roles, demonstrating problem-solving skills and a customer-centric approach.

• Process Adherence Documentation: While not a typical portfolio item, being able to articulate how you have successfully followed and adhered to established procedures (SOPs) in previous work environments is crucial.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Understanding: Candidates should demonstrate an understanding of a typical workflow from customer consultation to order fulfillment in a service-oriented retail setting.

• Quality Control Awareness: Ability to discuss the importance of quality control in custom fabrication and how to ensure a high-quality end product.

• System Navigation: While specific system documentation isn't required, familiarity with POS systems and basic data entry processes is expected. The ability to quickly learn and adapt to new operational systems is key.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an entry-level "PT Framer" role, a formal "portfolio" in the traditional sense (like a graphic designer's book) is unlikely to be a strict requirement. However, the "Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements" section is enhanced to reflect what a candidate should be prepared to discuss or demonstrate during the interview process. This includes showcasing their understanding of the custom framing process, customer service skills, and ability to follow operational procedures, rather than submitting a physical portfolio.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on regional data for similar entry-level retail positions with specialized skills in Houston, Texas, and considering the "Part time" employment type, the estimated hourly wage is likely between $12.00 and $16.00 per hour. Benefits:

• Core Benefits:

  • 401(k) with Employer Match: Provides a retirement savings plan with company contributions.
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Offers confidential counseling and support services for personal and work-related issues.
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision Coverage: Comprehensive health insurance options for eligible team members.
  • Telemedicine Services: Access to remote medical consultations for convenience and efficiency.

• Additional Benefits:

  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs): Allows pre-tax contributions for healthcare or dependent care expenses.
  • Commuter Benefits: Assistance with public transportation costs.
  • Tuition Assistance: Support for continuing education and professional development.
  • Adoption Assistance: Financial support for team members expanding their families through adoption.

• Perks:

  • Employee Discounts: Significant discounts on Michaels products, fostering a connection with the brand and its offerings.
  • Partner Discount Programs: Access to discounts from affiliated businesses.

Working Hours:

• Part-time: This position is part-time, with hours varying based on business needs and scheduling. The typical full-time equivalent is 40 hours per week, but this role will be less.

• Flexibility: While specific hours will be scheduled, the nature of retail often requires flexibility, including availability for nights, weekends, and early mornings, as stated in the work environment section.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimation based on average retail associate wages in Houston, TX, factoring in the specialized skill requirement for framing. Michaels is known for offering a comprehensive benefits package, even for part-time roles, which is detailed in the provided company information. The "40 hours" mentioned for working hours in the raw data is interpreted as a full-time equivalent benchmark, not the actual hours for this "Part time" role.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Arts and Crafts Retail. Michaels is the largest specialty arts and crafts retail chain in North America, catering to hobbyists, crafters, and professionals seeking supplies for various creative endeavors.

Company Size: The Michaels Companies, Inc. operates over 1,300 stores across North America, indicating a large, established retail organization with a significant workforce. This size suggests structured operational processes and a well-defined corporate hierarchy.

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

Team Structure:

• Store-Level Operations: This role operates within a store environment, likely reporting to a Store Manager or an Assistant Store Manager, with direct supervision from a Framing Department Manager or Lead if such a role exists at the specific location.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Team members collaborate closely with fellow sales associates, stock associates, and potentially visual merchandisers to ensure the smooth operation of the store and a positive customer experience. Collaboration with other departments is crucial for Omni-channel fulfillment and inventory management.

• Specialized Department Focus: The PT Framer will be part of a dedicated framing department, working alongside colleagues who share expertise in custom framing services, product knowledge, and customer consultation within that specific area.

Methodology:

• Customer-Centric Approach: Michaels emphasizes a customer-first philosophy, focusing on creating memorable experiences and providing solutions for customer creative projects.

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

• Data-Driven Decision Making: While this role is hands-on, the company likely uses sales data, inventory metrics, and customer feedback to inform operational strategies and merchandising decisions.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The company context is derived from the provided description and general knowledge of Michaels Stores. The emphasis is on how this context influences the operations role. The large scale of the company implies established, potentially complex operational frameworks that a new team member must learn and adhere to.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This PT Framer position is considered an entry-level to junior role within the retail operations framework. It's designed for individuals beginning their careers or seeking part-time work that involves both customer interaction and hands-on production skills. The scope includes direct customer service, sales, and operational tasks within a specific department.

Reporting Structure:

• Typically reports to a Store Manager or Assistant Store Manager.

• May have direct supervision from a Framing Department Lead or Manager, depending on the store's organizational structure.

• Works collaboratively with other store associates. Operations Impact:

• Customer Satisfaction: Directly impacts customer satisfaction through the quality of framing services and the overall shopping experience.

• Revenue Generation: Contributes to store revenue through direct sales of custom framing and related products.

• Brand Representation: Serves as a brand ambassador, embodying Michaels' values and commitment to creativity and customer service.

• Operational Efficiency: Supports store operations by maintaining merchandising standards, managing inventory, and adhering to SOPs, which contributes to overall store efficiency and profitability.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Development: Opportunity to develop specialized skills in custom framing, art presentation, and customer consultation.

• Retail Advancement: Potential to advance into roles such as Lead Framer, Assistant Store Manager, or Store Manager within Michaels.

• Cross-Training: Possibility for cross-training in other store departments, such as visual merchandising or inventory management, to broaden retail experience.

• Sales Expertise: Develop strong sales and consultative selling skills applicable across various retail environments.

📝 Enhancement Note: This analysis extrapolates growth paths and impact based on typical retail structures and the specific responsibilities of a custom framing specialist role within a large chain. The "entry-level" designation is key to framing the growth potential.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Public Retail Store Setting. This role operates within a vibrant, customer-facing retail store environment. The primary workspace includes the sales floor, the custom framing department, and potentially stock rooms.

Office Location(s): Houston, Texas, specifically at the 7560 Westheimer Rd Unit A location. This is a typical suburban retail plaza location, likely with good accessibility and parking.

Workspace Context:

• Customer Interaction Zone: Significant time will be spent on the sales floor and within the framing department, directly engaging with customers. This requires a friendly, approachable demeanor and the ability to navigate a busy retail space.

• Production Area: The framing shop itself is a specialized workspace equipped with tools and materials for custom fabrication. This area requires attention to detail, precision, and strict adherence to safety protocols due to the use of cutting tools, adhesives, and potentially heat presses.

• Stock Rooms & Receiving: May involve time in stock rooms for inventory management and during truck un-loads, which can be less climate-controlled and involve physical labor.

• Tools & Technology: Access to point-of-sale (POS) systems, framing equipment, glass cutters, measuring tools, and potentially internal communication devices.

Work Schedule:

• Flexible Scheduling: Work hours will be scheduled based on business needs and will include nights, weekends, and early mornings. This flexibility is common in the retail industry to ensure adequate staffing during peak shopping times.

• Part-Time Commitment: This is a part-time position, meaning hours will be less than a standard full-time schedule.

📝 Enhancement Note: The description emphasizes the "public retail store setting" and the specific "frame shop" environment. The physical demands and potential for varied climate control in stock rooms are noted, along with the inherent need for flexible scheduling in retail.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Likely a phone screen or online assessment to gauge basic qualifications and availability.

• In-Person Interview: This will be the primary interview stage, conducted at the store location. It will involve meeting with the Store Manager or Assistant Store Manager.

  • Behavioral Questions: Expect questions about customer service scenarios, handling difficult customers, teamwork, and problem-solving.
  • Situational Questions: Scenarios related to framing requests, upselling opportunities, and store operational tasks.
  • Skills Assessment: Potential demonstration of basic measuring skills or discussion of comfort level with tools.
  • Company Culture Fit: Assessment of alignment with Michaels' values of creativity, customer focus, and teamwork.

• Possible Second Interview: For some roles, a follow-up interview might occur, potentially with a district manager or a more senior store leader.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Preparedness for Discussion: While a formal portfolio isn't expected, be ready to discuss:

  • Framing Projects: Describe any framing projects you've worked on, highlighting your process, material choices, and the outcome. If you have personal creative projects (e.g., artwork you've framed for yourself or friends), be ready to describe them.
  • Customer Service Successes: Prepare specific examples of how you've provided excellent customer service, resolved issues, or exceeded customer expectations. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result).
  • Process Adherence: Be prepared to talk about how you follow instructions and adhere to company policies and procedures.

• Showcase Enthusiasm: Express your passion for creativity, art, and helping customers bring their visions to life.

Challenge Preparation:

• Customer Scenario Role-Play: Be ready for a brief role-play where you might simulate assisting a customer with a framing inquiry, including asking clarifying questions and suggesting solutions.

• Problem-Solving: Prepare to discuss how you would handle a situation where a customer is unhappy with a framing order or if a framing project is delayed.

• Product Knowledge (Basic): While extensive knowledge isn't required initially, show an interest in learning about different types of artwork, matting, and framing styles.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section is tailored to a retail, on-site role. The emphasis is on practical demonstration of skills and behavioral competencies rather than a formal operations portfolio. The interview process is likely to be more direct and focused on in-person interaction and hands-on capabilities.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Custom Framing Equipment:

  • Mat Cutters: Manual or automated tools for precisely cutting mats to size and shape.
  • Frame Saws/Cutters: Specialized saws for accurately cutting framing stock to length and angle.
  • Assembly Tools: Staplers, joiners, and adhesives for constructing frames.
  • Glass Cutters: Tools for cutting glass or acrylic to fit the frame dimensions.
  • Heat Press: May be used for certain mounting or sealing processes.

• Point of Sale (POS) System: For processing transactions, managing customer orders, and potentially accessing inventory information.

• Measuring Tools: Tape measures, rulers, and potentially specialized measuring devices for accurate framing.

Analytics & Reporting:

• POS Reporting: Basic sales data and transaction summaries generated by the POS system.

• Inventory Management Software: Used for tracking stock levels of framing materials and ready-made frames, and for managing Directed Replenishment.

CRM & Automation:

• Customer Order Management: The POS system likely serves as the primary tool for managing custom framing orders, including customer details, order specifications, and production status.

• Communication Platforms: Internal communication tools for team coordination and receiving updates from management.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section focuses on the tangible tools and systems directly used in the PT Framer role, distinguishing them from the broader enterprise systems used in corporate operations roles. The emphasis is on the hands-on equipment and basic retail technology.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Creativity & Passion: A core value that permeates the company, encouraging a love for arts, crafts, and DIY projects. This translates to a team that appreciates artistic expression and helping customers achieve their creative goals.

• Customer Focus: A strong emphasis on providing exceptional customer service, building relationships, and ensuring customer satisfaction with both products and experiences.

• Teamwork & Collaboration: Encouraging a supportive environment where team members work together to achieve store goals, assist each other, and create a positive atmosphere.

• Integrity & Respect: Upholding ethical standards in all business dealings and fostering an inclusive environment where all team members and customers are treated with respect.

• Efficiency & Quality: Balancing the need for efficient operations and timely order fulfillment with a commitment to high-quality craftsmanship in custom framing.

Collaboration Style:

• Service-Oriented: The team collaborates to ensure customers receive prompt and helpful service across all touchpoints, from initial inquiry to order completion.

• Knowledge Sharing: Team members are encouraged to share product knowledge and best practices, especially within specialized departments like custom framing.

• Mutual Support: Associates often support each other during busy periods, assisting with customer service, stocking, or framing tasks to ensure smooth store operations.

• Process Adherence: A collaborative effort to maintain store standards, follow SOPs, and contribute to a safe and organized work environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: These values are derived from Michaels' stated mission and common retail operational culture. The focus is on how these values translate into daily interactions and operational practices for a store team member.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Craftsmanship and Speed: The primary challenge is to deliver high-quality custom framing solutions efficiently, meeting both production deadlines and customer expectations for meticulous work.

• Customer Expectations Management: Effectively managing customer expectations regarding design, material choices, turnaround times, and pricing for custom framing can be demanding.

• Physical Demands: The role involves prolonged standing, lifting heavy items, and working with tools, which can be physically taxing.

• Learning Curve for Equipment: Mastering the operation of specialized framing equipment and glass cutters safely and accurately requires a dedicated learning period.

• Peak Season Demands: During holiday seasons or peak crafting periods, managing increased customer traffic and order volume presents a significant operational challenge.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Framing Techniques: Opportunity to learn more complex framing methods, conservation framing, and advanced design principles through on-the-job training and potentially company-provided resources.

• Sales and Customer Consultation Skills: Develop expertise in consultative selling, understanding customer needs, and effectively presenting solutions, transferable to many customer-facing roles.

• Retail Operations Management: Potential to learn about inventory management, visual merchandising, and store operations, paving the way for leadership roles.

• Product Knowledge Expansion: Deepen understanding of various art mediums, framing materials, and preservation techniques.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section outlines typical challenges faced in a custom fabrication role within retail and highlights the developmental aspects that can contribute to career growth.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Customer Service Scenarios: "Describe a time you dealt with a difficult customer and how you resolved the situation." "How would you approach a customer who is unsure about what kind of frame they need for their artwork?"

  • Preparation: Use the STAR method. Focus on empathy, active listening, problem-solving, and achieving a positive outcome. For framing, emphasize asking clarifying questions about the artwork, its purpose, and the customer's aesthetic preferences.

• Sales & Upselling: "How would you encourage a customer to consider a premium framing option or additional services like matting?" "What steps would you take to ensure a sale is completed smoothly?"

  • Preparation: Focus on understanding customer needs first, then presenting solutions that add value. Highlight benefits rather than just features. Be ready to discuss how to handle objections.

• Process & Operations: "How do you ensure accuracy when taking measurements for a custom order?" "What steps do you take to maintain a safe and organized workspace?"

  • Preparation: Emphasize attention to detail, adherence to SOPs, and a proactive approach to safety and organization. Discuss double-checking work.

Company & Culture Questions:

• Motivation: "Why are you interested in working at Michaels, and specifically in the framing department?" "What do you know about Michaels?"

  • Preparation: Research Michaels' mission, values, and products. Connect your personal interests (e.g., creativity, art, customer service) to the company. Express enthusiasm for the craft.

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

  • Preparation: Highlight your ability to collaborate, support colleagues, and maintain a positive attitude, even during busy periods.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Verbal Case Studies: Be prepared to walk through hypothetical or past framing projects.

  • Structure:
    1. Customer Need/Situation: What was the customer's artwork and objective?
    2. Your Consultation/Process: What questions did you ask? What options did you present?
    3. Solution & Materials: What framing, matting, and glass did you recommend and why?
    4. Outcome: What was the final product, and was the customer satisfied?

• Demonstrate Problem-Solving: If discussing a challenging customer, clearly articulate the problem, your actions to resolve it, and the successful outcome.

• Showcase Enthusiasm for Creativity: Convey your passion for art, design, and helping customers realize their creative visions through framing.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation for this role is centered on practical skills, customer interaction, and a fit with the retail environment, rather than complex operational strategy. The "portfolio" is essentially the candidate's ability to articulate their experience and approach.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

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

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight any customer service, sales, or hands-on experience. Quantify achievements where possible (e.g., "Assisted an average of X customers per shift," "Consistently met X sales targets"). Emphasize skills like "customer engagement," "customization," "precision," and "problem-solving."

• Portfolio Preparation (Verbal): Mentally prepare to discuss specific examples of customer interactions, problem-solving scenarios, and any creative projects (framing or otherwise) you have been involved in. Practice articulating your thought process for customer consultations and order fulfillment.

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

• Interview Practice: Rehearse answers to common retail interview questions, focusing on behavioral and situational examples. Practice your approach to role-playing customer interactions.

⚠️ 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.