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: 2026-08-28

Experience Level: Entry Level (0-2 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role focuses on providing exceptional customer service and building relationships through the art of custom framing.

• Responsibilities include driving sales and production targets within the Custom Framing department.

• Maintaining store presentation, including the ready-made frame department and stock areas, is crucial for a positive customer experience.

• The PT Framer will also assist with general store operations, including cash handling and Omni channel processes.

• Adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company programs ensures compliance and operational efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the job title "PT Framer" and the description focus heavily on customer interaction and sales within a specific department (Custom Framing), the inclusion of general store operations, stocking, and Omni channel responsibilities indicates a broader operational scope than a purely specialized framing role. This suggests a need for adaptability and a willingness to contribute across various store functions, typical in a retail environment.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Build and nurture customer relationships by providing expert consultation and memorable custom framing solutions, aligning with Elevated ABC Deliver methodology.

• Achieve and exceed sales and production goals for the Custom Framing department through consultative selling and high-quality service.

• Ensure all custom framing orders are completed with exceptional quality and delivered on time, meeting customer expectations.

• Maintain the visual presentation and stock levels of the ready-made frame department, as well as supporting SISO (Ship-from-Store) and Directed Replenishment initiatives.

• Deliver friendly and proactive customer service, assisting shoppers in locating products, offering solutions, and ensuring a well-merchandised, in-stock store environment.

• Execute all Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company programs diligently to ensure consistency and compliance.

• Actively participate in supporting shrink and safety programs, contributing to a secure and efficient store environment.

• Foster a positive and respectful work environment by interacting positively with colleagues and customers, remaining composed in challenging situations, and embodying the organization's vision and values.

• Participate effectively in truck un-load and stocking processes, ensuring adherence to truck standards and staying within budget guidelines.

• Operate the cash register accurately and efficiently, executing all cash handling procedures to company standards.

• Proactively acknowledge customers, assist them in product location, and provide tailored solutions to meet their needs.

• Support and execute Omni channel processes, ensuring a seamless customer experience across online and in-store channels.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities list is comprehensive for a part-time retail associate with a specialized focus. The mention of "Elevated ABC Deliver" suggests a specific sales and customer engagement methodology that candidates should research if they wish to tailor their application. The inclusion of "SISO" (Ship-from-Store) and "Directed Replenishment" highlights the growing importance of Omni channel fulfillment within retail operations.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: No specific educational degree is listed as a requirement. However, the role requires practical skills that can be learned on the job or through prior experience.

Experience:

• 0-2 years of experience in a retail or customer-facing role is generally expected.

• Prior experience in custom framing or art-related fields is a plus but not mandatory.

• Experience in sales and customer service is highly valued. Required Skills:

• Basic computer skills for operating point-of-sale (POS) systems and potentially internal software.

• Basic measuring skills to accurately assess artwork dimensions for framing.

• Ability to operate framing equipment, including specialized machinery and a glass cutter, safely and effectively.

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

• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced retail environment.

• Basic understanding of merchandising principles to maintain store presentation.

• Cash handling proficiency and accuracy. Preferred Skills:

• Previous retail experience, particularly in a specialty retail environment.

• Proven experience in selling products and/or services directly to customers, demonstrating persuasive and consultative selling techniques.

• Familiarity with different types of art materials, framing techniques, and preservation methods.

• Experience with Omni channel processes such as Ship-from-Store (SISO).

• Ability to operate a heat press for framing applications.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "0-2" years of experience categorization suggests this role is ideal for individuals starting their careers in retail operations or seeking to develop specialized skills in a creative retail environment. The emphasis on "basic" skills for required qualifications indicates that on-the-job training will be a significant component, making candidates with strong foundational customer service and a willingness to learn highly competitive.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• While a formal portfolio isn't explicitly required for this entry-level role, candidates with prior framing or design experience can showcase their work.

• For Framers: A visual portfolio (digital or physical) demonstrating a range of framing projects, including different styles, materials, and complexities, would be highly beneficial. This should highlight attention to detail and aesthetic sensibility.

• For Retail Operations: If applicable, any documentation of process improvements or successful sales initiatives in previous retail roles could be valuable. This might include examples of how you improved customer flow, managed inventory, or increased sales.

• System Proficiency: Examples of experience with POS systems, inventory management software, or customer relationship management (CRM) tools, if applicable, should be highlighted on the resume.

Process Documentation:

• Candidates are expected to understand and adhere to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for all framing and sales processes.

• The ability to follow detailed instructions for operating framing equipment, cutting materials, and assembling frames is critical.

• Understanding and executing company programs for customer engagement, sales, and loss prevention will be assessed.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an entry-level "PT Framer" role, a traditional portfolio might not be a strict requirement. However, for candidates with relevant skills, a curated selection of past framing projects (even personal ones) demonstrating craftsmanship and design understanding would significantly strengthen their application. For those without direct framing experience, focusing on transferable skills like attention to detail, problem-solving in a customer service context, and ability to follow complex instructions will be key.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

For a "PT Framer" position in Houston, Texas, with 0-2 years of experience, the estimated hourly wage typically falls between $12.00 to $16.00 per hour. This range is based on general retail associate pay scales in major metropolitan areas, factoring in the specialized framing skill which often commands a slightly higher rate than a general sales associate. Factors such as specific store performance, individual candidate experience, and the exact scheduling of part-time hours can influence the final offer.

Benefits:

• 401(k) with employer match: Opportunity to save for retirement with company contributions.

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

• Medical coverage: Health insurance options for eligible team members.

• Dental coverage: Dental insurance plans to support oral health.

• Vision coverage: Vision insurance for eye care needs.

• Telemedicine services: Convenient access to healthcare professionals remotely.

• Flexible spending accounts (FSAs): Pre-tax accounts for healthcare or dependent care expenses.

• Commuter benefits: Assistance with transportation costs to and from work.

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

• Adoption assistance: Financial support for team members growing their families through adoption.

• Employee discounts: Significant discounts on Michaels products and services.

• Partner discount programs: Access to discounts with affiliated companies.

Working Hours:

This is a part-time position. Actual weekly hours will vary based on business needs and scheduling, but typically range from 15-25 hours per week. Work hours include nights, weekends, and early mornings, reflecting the operational demands of a retail environment. Flexibility in scheduling is often a requirement for part-time retail roles.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on current market data for part-time retail associate roles in Houston, TX, with a premium for the specialized framing skill. The extensive list of benefits is a significant draw, even for part-time roles, indicating Michaels' commitment to employee well-being. The mention of "work hours include nights, weekends and early mornings" is standard for retail but important for candidates to note regarding work-life balance.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Retail, specifically arts and crafts supplies, custom framing, and seasonal decor. Michaels operates as a leading specialty retailer in North America, catering to DIY enthusiasts, artists, and individuals seeking creative expression and celebration. The industry context for this role involves a blend of product knowledge, creative services, and customer engagement.

Company Size: The Michaels Companies, Inc. is a large enterprise, operating over 1,300 stores across the U.S. and Canada, plus online retail. This scale means established operational processes, structured training programs, and opportunities for advancement within a significant retail footprint. For operations professionals, this translates to working within a well-defined framework but also offers potential for impact at scale.

Founded: Michaels was founded in 1973 and is headquartered in Irving, Texas. With decades of history, the company has a deep understanding of its market and customer base. This longevity suggests a stable operational environment and a commitment to evolving its retail and operational strategies to remain competitive.

Team Structure:

• Store Level: The PT Framer will be part of a store team comprising a Store Manager, Assistant Store Manager(s), Leads (e.g., Framing Lead, Visual Merchandising Lead), and Sales Associates. The Framing department may have a dedicated Lead or Manager overseeing operations and sales.

• Reporting: This role typically reports to the Framing Lead or Manager, and indirectly to the Assistant Store Manager or Store Manager, depending on the store's hierarchy and operational structure.

• Cross-functional Collaboration: The PT Framer will collaborate daily with other store associates to ensure smooth operations, assist customers across departments, and support inventory management and merchandising efforts. Collaboration extends to supporting Omni channel fulfillment and ensuring a cohesive customer experience.

Methodology:

• Customer-Centric Approach: The core methodology revolves around prioritizing the customer experience, from initial consultation and sales to order fulfillment and post-sale support. The "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodology emphasizes building relationships and providing solutions.

• Process Adherence: Strong emphasis on following Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for framing, sales, cash handling, and safety to ensure consistency, quality, and compliance.

• Data-Driven (Store Level): While not directly managing complex analytics, the role contributes to store-level performance metrics through sales, production, and customer satisfaction. Understanding sales targets and production efficiency is key.

Company Website: www.michaels.com

📝 Enhancement Note: The company size and industry context are crucial for understanding the operational environment. Michaels' scale suggests that while this is an entry-level role, there are established systems and pathways for growth. The mention of "Elevated ABC Deliver" points to a specific customer engagement strategy that candidates should research. The team structure highlights the collaborative nature of retail operations.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This "PT Framer" role is positioned at an entry-level to junior associate level within the retail operations framework. It's designed for individuals beginning their careers or looking to gain foundational experience in customer service, sales, and specialized craft services. The role involves executing defined tasks and processes under supervision, with a focus on delivering quality service and product.

Reporting Structure: The PT Framer reports to a Framing Lead or Department Manager, who in turn reports to higher store management (e.g., Assistant Store Manager, Store Manager). This structure provides direct supervision and mentorship for skill development.

Operations Impact: The PT Framer's impact is primarily felt at the customer engagement and transaction level. By providing excellent custom framing solutions, they directly contribute to:

• Revenue Generation: Driving sales for the high-margin Custom Framing department.

• Customer Loyalty: Creating positive experiences that encourage repeat business and customer advocacy.

• Brand Perception: Representing the Michaels brand as a creative and service-oriented destination.

• Operational Efficiency: Ensuring timely and high-quality production of framing orders, minimizing errors and rework.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Advancement within the framing department to a Framing Lead or Manager role, requiring deeper knowledge of framing techniques, materials, and sales management.

• Cross-Training & General Retail Management: Opportunities to gain experience in other store departments (e.g., Merchandising, Seasonal) and potentially move into roles like Key Holder, Assistant Manager, or Store Manager positions.

• Omni Channel Expertise: Developing skills in Omni channel fulfillment processes (SISO, BOPIS - Buy Online, Pick Up In Store) can open doors to roles in operations management with a focus on e-commerce integration.

• Company-Wide Opportunities: For high performers, opportunities may arise in corporate roles related to retail operations, merchandising, or training, especially given Michaels' large operational footprint.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section frames the entry-level role as a stepping stone. Highlighting the direct impact on revenue and customer loyalty, and detailing clear paths for growth (both within framing and broader retail management), provides a compelling narrative for ambitious candidates. The emphasis on Omni channel skills is particularly relevant for modern retail operations.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is a public retail store setting. The work environment is dynamic, customer-facing, and involves direct interaction with the public. While the main store areas are climate-controlled, some stock rooms might not be, and there could be occasional outdoor work (e.g., retrieving carts, truck unloading). The framing shop itself is a specialized area within the store, containing tools like glass cutters and heat presses.

Office Location(s): The specific store is located at 9666 Old Katy Rd, Houston, TX. This location is situated within a commercial area, likely accessible by car. Public transportation accessibility would depend on specific local routes.

Workspace Context:

• Customer Interaction Hub: The primary workspace involves engaging with customers on the sales floor and within the framing department. This requires excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

• Tool & Equipment Utilization: The framing shop is equipped with specialized tools (framing equipment, glass cutter, heat press) that require safe and proficient operation.

• Team Collaboration Space: The store floor and stock rooms serve as areas for team collaboration, including stocking, merchandising, and assisting colleagues. Quick communication and teamwork are essential.

Work Schedule:

The work schedule is part-time and will include a mix of shifts, including nights, weekends, and early mornings. Flexibility in availability is key to accommodate the retail operational needs and customer traffic patterns. The schedule will be determined by store management based on business demand and staff coverage.

📝 Enhancement Note: Detailing the "public retail store setting" and the specific tools used in the framing shop provides a clear picture of the daily work environment. Highlighting the need for flexibility in scheduling due to part-time status and varied shifts is crucial for managing candidate expectations.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

The interview process for a PT Framer role at Michaels typically involves:

1. Initial Application & Screening: Submitted online, reviewed for basic qualifications and experience.

2. Phone Screen/Video Interview: A brief conversation with an HR representative or hiring manager to assess general fit, interest, and availability.

3. In-Person Interview: This usually involves meeting with the Store Manager or Framing Lead. It will likely include:

• Behavioral Questions: Assessing customer service skills, problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and how you handle specific situations (e.g., difficult customers, busy periods).
• Situational Questions: "What would you do if..." scenarios related to customer interactions, operational tasks, or safety concerns.
• Skills Assessment: Discussion about your ability to learn and operate framing equipment, your measuring skills, and any prior retail experience.
• Portfolio Review (if applicable): If you have a framing portfolio, be prepared to discuss specific projects, your design process, and the materials used.

1. Final Assessment/Offer: Based on the interview performance, a decision will be made.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• For Framing Skills: If you have framed projects to showcase, select 3-5 diverse examples. Be ready to articulate:

  • The type of artwork/item framed.
  • The materials and framing techniques used (e.g., matting, glass type, frame style).
  • Why you chose those specific materials and techniques (e.g., preservation, aesthetic enhancement, cost-effectiveness).
  • The challenges you encountered and how you overcame them.

• For Retail/Sales Skills: If you don't have a framing portfolio, focus on your resume and interview responses. Prepare specific examples of:

  • Times you provided exceptional customer service.
  • Instances where you successfully upsold or cross-sold a product/service.
  • How you handled a customer complaint or difficult situation.
  • Your experience with cash handling and POS systems.

• Presentation: Whether digital or physical, ensure your portfolio is organized, clean, and easy to navigate. For interview discussions, be concise and highlight your contributions and learning.

Challenge Preparation:

• Customer Service Scenarios: Be ready to role-play or discuss how you would handle common customer inquiries, requests for recommendations, or complaints.

• Problem-Solving: Prepare to discuss how you approach solving problems, whether it's a customer needing a unique framing solution or an operational issue on the sales floor.

• Learning Agility: Demonstrate your enthusiasm and ability to learn new skills, particularly concerning framing equipment and techniques.

📝 Enhancement Note: The advice here focuses on translating the job description into actionable interview preparation. For a role like "PT Framer," emphasizing customer service and problem-solving, alongside practical skills demonstration (even if through examples rather than a formal portfolio), is key. The advice on portfolio presentation is tailored to both framing-specific work and general retail achievements.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Custom Framing Equipment: Proficiency or ability to learn various machines used in custom framing, such as mat cutters, frame joiners, and potentially specialized saws.

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

• Heat Press: Used for specific framing applications, such as mounting or heat-activated adhesives.

• Measuring Tools: Tape measures, rulers, and potentially digital measuring devices for accurate sizing of artwork and materials.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Point of Sale (POS) System: The primary tool for processing transactions, managing sales data, and potentially tracking inventory. Familiarity with any retail POS system is beneficial.

• Inventory Management Systems: While not directly managed by this role, understanding how inventory is tracked and replenished (e.g., through POS or dedicated software) is helpful.

• Basic Computer Skills: For accessing internal communications, training modules, and potentially basic reporting or scheduling software.

CRM & Automation:

• Customer Relationship Management (CRM) - Basic: The "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodology suggests a customer-centric approach that might involve basic CRM functionalities within the POS or a separate system to track customer preferences and past orders.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: This section details the specific tools and technologies relevant to a framing specialist in a retail environment. The emphasis is on hands-on equipment and transaction-processing systems, with a nod to the underlying operational software that supports sales and inventory. For an entry-level role, the focus is on the ability to learn and operate these tools safely and effectively.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Customer Focus: A paramount value, driving all interactions and service delivery. Operations professionals are expected to prioritize customer needs and satisfaction, aiming to create positive experiences.

• Creativity & Passion: Reflecting the arts and crafts nature of the business, creativity is valued. This translates to offering innovative framing solutions and a positive, inspiring work environment.

• Teamwork & Collaboration: Michaels emphasizes working together to achieve store goals. Operations team members are expected to support colleagues, share knowledge, and contribute to a cohesive team dynamic.

• Quality & Craftsmanship: For the framing department, a commitment to high-quality workmanship and attention to detail in custom framing is essential. This ensures customer satisfaction and upholds brand standards.

• Integrity & Respect: Operating with honesty, respecting diverse customers and colleagues, and upholding company policies are fundamental values.

Collaboration Style:

• Service-Oriented: Collaboration often centers around assisting customers seamlessly across different store functions (e.g., finding an item, processing a sale, fulfilling an online order).

• Process-Driven: Team members are expected to follow established procedures for tasks like stocking, merchandising, and framing to ensure consistency and efficiency.

• Supportive: Colleagues are encouraged to help each other, especially during busy periods or when dealing with complex customer requests. Open communication and a willingness to assist are key.

• Learning-Focused: The environment encourages learning from one another, whether it's mastering new framing techniques, understanding product details, or improving customer engagement strategies.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section translates the general company values into specific expectations for operations roles. The emphasis on customer focus, creativity, and teamwork is standard for retail but is framed here with a specific nod to the craft and service aspects of the PT Framer role.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Specialized vs. General Duties: Effectively managing time between focused custom framing tasks and broader store operations (e.g., stocking, customer assistance on the floor) can be a challenge.

• Learning Complex Framing Techniques: Mastering the operation of specialized framing equipment, understanding material properties, and developing design consultation skills requires dedicated learning and practice.

• Managing Customer Expectations: Articulating realistic timelines, costs, and design possibilities for custom framing projects while meeting diverse customer needs can be demanding.

• Physical Demands: The role involves standing for long periods, lifting heavy boxes and frames, and working with tools, which can be physically taxing.

• Seasonal Fluctuations: Retail environments often experience peak seasons (holidays, back-to-school) requiring increased effort and adaptability.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Framing Certification/Training: Opportunities to deepen expertise in custom framing through internal training programs or external certifications.

• Sales & Customer Engagement Training: Developing advanced consultative selling skills through company-provided workshops and on-the-job coaching.

• Cross-Training: Gaining experience in other store departments to develop a broader understanding of retail operations and increase versatility.

• Leadership Development: For high performers, pathways exist to move into supervisory or management roles, focusing on team leadership, operational efficiency, and strategic store management.

• Product Knowledge Expansion: Continuously learning about new art supplies, framing materials, and design trends to better serve customers.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section offers a realistic outlook on potential challenges and clearly outlines the development paths available. Highlighting the specific skills to be learned in framing and the opportunities for advancement in sales and general retail management provides a strong incentive for career-minded individuals.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Customer Service & Sales:

  • "Describe a time you went above and beyond to help a customer."
  • "How would you approach a customer who is unsure about their framing needs?"
  • "Imagine a customer wants a frame that doesn't fit their budget. How would you handle that?"
  • "What steps would you take to sell a custom framing package?"

• Technical & Operational Skills:

  • "What experience do you have with measuring or using tools?"
  • "How comfortable are you learning to operate new machinery like a mat cutter or glass cutter?"
  • "Describe your understanding of basic retail operations like stocking or cash handling."
  • "How would you ensure the quality and accuracy of a custom framing order?"

• Teamwork & Problem-Solving:

  • "Tell me about a time you worked effectively as part of a team."

  • "How do you handle working under pressure or during busy periods?"

  • "Describe a situation where you had to solve a problem on the spot."

  • "How do you stay organized when managing multiple tasks?" Company & Culture Questions:

• "Why are you interested in working for Michaels, specifically in Custom Framing?"

• "What do you know about Michaels and our commitment to creativity?"

• "How do you think your skills align with our company values?"

• "What are your thoughts on the importance of customer service in a retail environment?" Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Be Prepared to Discuss: If you have a framing portfolio, be ready to walk the interviewer through 1-2 key pieces, explaining your design choices, materials used, and any challenges overcome.

• Highlight Transferable Skills: If you lack a formal framing portfolio, use your resume and interview answers to showcase relevant skills:

  • Attention to Detail: Provide examples of how you ensure accuracy in tasks.
  • Problem-Solving: Describe situations where you found creative solutions for customers or operational issues.
  • Learning Aptitude: Express your eagerness and ability to quickly learn new skills, particularly technical ones.

• Enthusiasm for Craft: Convey genuine interest in art, design, and the craft of framing.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section provides concrete examples of interview questions and preparation strategies tailored to the PT Framer role. It emphasizes demonstrating customer service prowess, technical aptitude (or willingness to learn), and a positive attitude, which are critical for success in this position.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

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

• Tailor your resume: Highlight any experience in customer service, sales, working with tools, or creative arts. Quantify achievements where possible (e.g., "Increased framing sales by X%" or "Resolved Y customer issues per week").

• Prepare for behavioral questions: Think of specific examples from your past experiences that demonstrate your customer service skills, problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and adaptability. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers.

• Research Michaels: Familiarize yourself with Michaels' mission, values, and product offerings, especially their custom framing services. Understand their focus on creativity and customer experience.

• Practice your pitch: Be ready to articulate why you are a good fit for the PT Framer role and how your skills and enthusiasm will contribute to the store's success. If you have framing samples, have them organized and be ready to discuss them confidently.

⚠️ 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.