PT Framer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: PT Framer

Company: Michaels Stores

Location: Colorado Springs, CO (3040 N Powers Blvd)

Job Type: Part Time

Category: Retail Operations / Creative Services

Date Posted: 2026-09-05

Experience Level: Entry Level (0-2 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Deliver exceptional customer experiences by building strong relationships and providing personalized custom framing solutions.

• Drive sales and production targets within the Custom Framing department by leveraging sales techniques and product knowledge.

• Maintain visual merchandising standards and ensure product availability across the store, including Ready Made Frames and SISO (Store-In-Store Operations).

• Adhere to all Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company programs to ensure operational efficiency, safety compliance, and shrink reduction.

• Assist with omni-channel processes, contributing to a seamless customer journey across online and in-store experiences.

📝 Enhancement Note: While this role is in a retail setting, the "Framer" title and focus on "custom framing solutions" and "art" suggest a specialized operational function within retail that requires attention to detail, precision, and a creative understanding, akin to operations roles in niche product environments. The emphasis on building relationships and consultative selling indicates a high-touch customer operations aspect.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Build and nurture customer relationships through proactive engagement and by utilizing the "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodology to understand customer needs and recommend tailored custom framing solutions.

• Execute custom framing orders with a high degree of quality and within established production timelines, ensuring customer satisfaction.

• Manage and maintain the Ready Made Frame department, ensuring it is well-merchandised, fully stocked, and visually appealing to customers.

• Support inventory management initiatives, including SISO and Directed Replenishment, to optimize stock levels and minimize out-of-stocks.

• Provide friendly and efficient customer service, assisting customers in locating products, offering solutions, and ensuring a positive shopping experience.

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

• Participate actively in truck unloading and stocking processes, adhering to truck standards and completing tasks within budget constraints.

• Uphold safety and shrink reduction programs by following SOPs and company policies, creating a secure and efficient work environment.

• Interact positively and respectfully with colleagues and customers, promoting a collaborative and inclusive team environment that aligns with company values.

• Assist with omni-channel fulfillment processes, ensuring timely and accurate processing of online orders for in-store pickup or shipping.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core responsibilities highlight a blend of direct customer engagement, sales execution, operational execution (inventory, stocking, safety), and process adherence (SOPs). For an operations-focused candidate, demonstrating how their experience in these areas leads to efficiency, reduced errors, and improved customer satisfaction would be key.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While no specific degree is mandated, a strong foundation in basic math and measurement is essential. High school diploma or equivalent is typically expected for entry-level retail positions.

Experience: 0-2 years of experience in a customer-facing role, preferably within a retail environment. Experience with custom product sales or service-oriented roles is beneficial.

Required Skills:

• Basic computer skills for operating point-of-sale systems and potentially basic design software.

• Basic measuring skills for accurate order taking and production.

• Ability to operate framing equipment and glass cutters safely and effectively.

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

• Ability to build customer relationships and engage in consultative selling.

• Proficiency in cash handling and operating a cash register accurately.

• Understanding and adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).

• Physical stamina to stand for long periods, lift heavy items, and perform bending and reaching tasks. Preferred Skills:

• Prior retail sales experience, particularly in a custom or specialized product environment.

• Experience in selling products and/or services, demonstrating an ability to close sales and meet targets.

• Familiarity with visual merchandising principles to maintain store and department appearance.

• Basic understanding of inventory management principles.

• Experience with omni-channel retail operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "basic" nature of the required skills suggests that this role is designed for individuals early in their careers or those transitioning into specialized retail operations. The preferred skills point towards candidates who can quickly learn and adapt to more complex sales and operational tasks. For operations professionals, highlighting transferable skills in process adherence, customer management, and inventory accuracy will be crucial.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• While a formal portfolio isn't explicitly requested for this entry-level role, candidates with prior custom sales or detailed production experience are encouraged to showcase examples of:
  • Customer Interaction Case Studies: Briefly describe a situation where you successfully identified a customer's needs and provided a tailored solution, leading to a sale and positive feedback.
  • Production Accuracy Examples: If applicable, provide examples of projects where precision and adherence to specifications were critical, demonstrating your ability to minimize errors.
  • Process Improvement Suggestions: If you've identified ways to improve a process in a previous role (e.g., faster customer checkout, better inventory organization), be prepared to discuss them.

Process Documentation:

• Candidates are expected to understand and follow established Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for all tasks, including:
  • Customer Order Intake: Documenting customer specifications, measurements, and material choices accurately.
  • Production Workflow: Understanding the steps involved in custom framing production, from cutting to assembly.
  • Point-of-Sale (POS) Operations: Executing transactions accurately and efficiently.
  • Inventory Management: Following procedures for receiving, stocking, and merchandising products.
  • Safety Protocols: Adhering to safety guidelines for equipment operation and general store maintenance.

📝 Enhancement Note: For this role, the "portfolio" is less about formal documents and more about demonstrating practical experience and understanding of operational processes through interview discussions and examples. Operations candidates should focus on articulating their experience with SOPs, workflow execution, and customer transaction accuracy.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $15.25 - $17.90 per hour. This range reflects the starting pay for a part-time position, with potential for advancement within the hourly range based on performance and demonstrated proficiency in custom framing and sales.

Benefits:

• 401(k) with employer match: Retirement savings plan with company contributions.

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

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

• Telemedicine Services: Convenient access to healthcare professionals remotely.

• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs): Pre-tax accounts for healthcare and dependent care expenses.

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

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

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

• Various Voluntary Insurance Options: Additional insurance products available for purchase.

• 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. The exact number of hours will vary based on business needs, but the role requires flexibility to work nights, weekends, and early mornings. The stated "40" hours in the input data is likely a maximum or an average for a full-time equivalent, not a guarantee for this part-time role.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is competitive for entry-level part-time retail positions in Colorado Springs. The comprehensive benefits package, especially for a part-time role, is a significant advantage. Operations professionals should note the flexibility required in working hours, which is common in retail operations roles that support extended business hours.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Retail (Arts, Crafts, and Framing). Michaels operates as a leading destination for creativity and celebration, offering a wide array of products and services for DIY enthusiasts and professionals alike. The framing service is a key component of their in-store offerings, blending retail operations with specialized craft services.

Company Size: Over 1,300 stores across North America. This indicates a large, established retail organization with standardized operational procedures and a significant workforce.

Founded: 1973, headquartered in Irving, Texas. Michaels has a long history and a well-established brand presence, suggesting a stable work environment with established processes and culture.

Team Structure:

• Store-Level Operations: The PT Framer will be part of a store team, likely reporting to a Store Manager or Assistant Manager.

• Departmental Focus: While part of the broader store team, the role has a specific focus on the Custom Framing department, working closely with other sales associates and potentially a dedicated framer or department lead.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Collaboration will occur with other sales associates for general store coverage, stock associates for replenishment, and potentially with online fulfillment teams for omni-channel orders.

Methodology:

• Customer-Centric Approach: The company emphasizes building customer relationships and providing solutions, reflected in the "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodology.

• Process Adherence: Strong reliance on Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for consistent execution of tasks, quality control, and compliance.

• Data-Driven Insights (Store Level): While not explicitly detailed for this role, store operations generally leverage sales data, inventory metrics, and customer feedback to drive performance.

• Efficiency and Safety: Focus on operational efficiency through stocking, merchandising, and safety programs to minimize shrink and ensure a safe working environment.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture is geared towards customer engagement, creativity, and operational execution within a structured retail environment. For operations professionals, this means understanding and optimizing within established frameworks rather than creating them from scratch. The scale of the company implies opportunities for learning standardized operational best practices.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Entry Level (0-2 years experience). This role serves as a foundational position within the retail operations and customer service spectrum at Michaels. It's an opportunity to gain hands-on experience in sales, customer interaction, and operational tasks within a specialized department.

Reporting Structure: The PT Framer typically reports to the Store Manager or an Assistant Manager, who oversees daily store operations and team performance. There may also be a direct supervisor for the Custom Framing department.

Operations Impact: The PT Framer directly impacts store revenue through custom framing sales and contributes to customer loyalty by providing excellent service and high-quality products. Efficient operations in framing, merchandising, and inventory management also contribute to overall store profitability by minimizing waste and maximizing sales opportunities.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Development: Opportunity to become proficient in custom framing techniques, sales, and customer relationship management.

• Advancement to Senior Framer/Sales Associate: With demonstrated success and experience, growth into a more senior role within the framing department or as a key sales associate.

• Leadership Potential: Potential progression to roles like Key Holder, Assistant Manager, or Store Manager, requiring broader operational and leadership skills.

• Cross-Training: Opportunities to learn about other areas of store operations, such as visual merchandising, inventory management, or omni-channel fulfillment.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is an entry point into retail operations. Growth is typically organic within the store structure, focusing on mastering the specific operational functions of the framing department and then expanding to broader store management responsibilities. For operations professionals looking to move into management, this provides a solid foundation in customer-facing operations and process execution.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Public Retail Store Setting. The primary work environment is within a customer-facing retail store.

Office Location(s): Colorado Springs, CO (3040 N Powers Blvd). This specific store location will be the primary work environment.

Workspace Context:

• Customer Interaction Areas: This includes the sales floor, front end (cashier), and potentially designated areas for displaying ready-made frames and consulting with customers on custom framing.

• Framing Shop: A dedicated area within the store where framing orders are processed. This space contains specialized equipment like a glass cutter and heat press, requiring adherence to specific safety protocols.

• Stock Rooms: Areas for storing inventory. Some stock rooms may be climate-controlled, while others might not be, requiring adaptability.

• Collaborative Environment: The role involves working closely with other store team members, fostering a collaborative atmosphere to ensure smooth store operations and customer service delivery.

Work Schedule: The role requires flexibility to work nights, weekends, and early mornings. This schedule is typical for retail operations to cover all operating hours and peak customer traffic times. The part-time nature means hours will vary.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is dynamic and customer-centric, with a dedicated workspace for framing operations. Operations professionals accustomed to fast-paced, interactive environments will find this familiar. The need for flexibility in scheduling is a key consideration for managing personal and professional commitments.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

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

• In-Person Interview: A more in-depth interview at the store location with the Store Manager or Assistant Manager. This will focus on:

  • Customer Service Skills: Behavioral questions about handling customer interactions, problem-solving, and building relationships.
  • Operational Understanding: Questions about following procedures, attention to detail, and handling tasks like cash handling or merchandising.
  • Framing Aptitude: Discussion about interest in custom framing, ability to learn new skills, and comfort with specialized equipment.
  • Availability and Fit: Confirming availability for required shifts and assessing cultural fit with the team.

• Skills Assessment (Informal): You may be asked to demonstrate basic measuring skills or discuss how you would approach a customer service scenario.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Verbalize Experience: Since a formal portfolio isn't required, be prepared to verbally describe relevant past experiences. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to detail accomplishments in customer service, sales, or operational tasks.

• Highlight Transferable Skills: For operations candidates, emphasize experience with process adherence, accuracy in data entry or transactions, inventory management, and customer management.

• Showcase Enthusiasm for Craft: Express genuine interest in custom framing and the creative aspect of the role. This demonstrates a passion that can translate into better customer engagement.

• Discuss Problem-Solving: Be ready to share examples of how you've resolved customer issues or improved efficiency in a previous role.

Challenge Preparation:

• Customer Scenario: Prepare to discuss how you would handle a demanding customer, a customer unsure about their framing needs, or a situation requiring you to upsell.

• Operational Task: Think about how you would ensure accuracy when taking a complex framing order or how you would maintain merchandising standards in a busy store.

• Teamwork: Be ready to discuss how you collaborate with colleagues to achieve store goals.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is designed to assess practical skills, customer orientation, and adherence to operational standards. Candidates should focus on demonstrating their ability to learn, follow procedures, and engage positively with customers, highlighting any relevant operational experience.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Point-of-Sale (POS) System: For processing transactions, managing customer accounts, and potentially order entry.

Proficiency in cash handling and using a POS is essential.

• Custom Framing Equipment: Includes specialized tools such as:

  • Mat Cutters/Frame Cutters: For precise cutting of materials.
  • Glass Cutters: For shaping glass or acrylic.
  • Heat Press: For applying adhesives or mounting.
  • Assembly Tools: For constructing frames.

• Basic Computer Systems: For accessing company information, training modules, and potentially basic order management or inventory lookup.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While this role does not directly manage analytics, understanding that store performance is tracked via sales data, conversion rates, and inventory turnover is beneficial. Associates contribute to these metrics through their daily performance. CRM & Automation:

• Customer Relationship Management (CRM): The POS system likely has basic CRM capabilities for tracking customer purchases and preferences within the framing department.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: This role heavily relies on specialized physical tools and a standard retail POS system. For operations professionals, the key is demonstrating an ability to learn and operate specialized equipment safely and efficiently, and to accurately manage customer transactions and order details within the provided systems.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Customer Focus: Prioritizing customer needs and satisfaction through excellent service and tailored solutions.

• Creativity & Passion: Embracing the joy of creativity and supporting customers in their artistic endeavors.

• Integrity & Respect: Conducting business ethically, treating all individuals with respect, and fostering a positive work environment.

• Efficiency & Accuracy: Striving for precision in all tasks, from order taking to production and transaction processing.

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

Collaboration Style:

• Supportive Team Environment: Encouraging mutual support among team members to ensure all operational tasks are completed and customer needs are met.

• Process-Oriented Communication: Clear communication regarding order details, customer requests, and operational updates to ensure smooth workflow.

• Learning Culture: Openness to sharing knowledge and learning from colleagues, especially regarding framing techniques and customer service best practices.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture emphasizes creativity, customer satisfaction, and operational integrity. For operations candidates, aligning with these values means demonstrating reliability, attention to detail, and a proactive approach to customer service and process execution.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Multiple Responsibilities: Juggling customer service, sales, production, and general store duties in a fast-paced retail environment.

• Mastering Custom Framing Skills: Learning the intricacies of custom framing, including material selection, precise measurements, and equipment operation.

• Handling Diverse Customer Needs: Catering to a wide range of customer expectations, from simple requests to complex artistic visions.

• Maintaining Quality and Speed: Ensuring high-quality framing while meeting production deadlines and customer expectations for timely completion.

• Adapting to Seasonal Demands: Managing workflow fluctuations based on holidays and seasonal craft trends.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Custom Framing Expertise: Becoming a skilled artisan in custom framing, a valuable trade skill.

• Sales and Customer Relationship Skills: Developing advanced consultative selling and customer retention techniques.

• Retail Operations Knowledge: Gaining a comprehensive understanding of store operations, inventory management, and visual merchandising.

• Potential for Management Training: For high performers, opportunities to develop leadership skills and advance into management roles.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role presents opportunities to develop specialized craft skills alongside core retail operations competencies. Overcoming challenges requires a blend of technical aptitude, customer service excellence, and efficient workflow management.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

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

• Sales Approach: "How would you approach a customer who is browsing the framing samples but hasn't asked for help?" or "What steps would you take to understand a customer's needs for custom framing?"

• Operational Execution: "How do you ensure accuracy when taking detailed measurements or orders?" or "Describe your experience with handling cash and operating a register."

• Teamwork: "Tell me about a time you worked with a team to achieve a common goal."

Company & Culture Questions:

• "Why are you interested in working for Michaels, specifically in the framing department?"

• "What do you know about Michaels' commitment to creativity and customer service?"

• "How do you align with our company values of integrity, respect, and teamwork?" Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Verbalize Relevant Experience: Be ready to clearly articulate your experience with customer service, sales, and any operational tasks that required attention to detail and accuracy. Use specific examples.

• Demonstrate Problem-Solving: For any operational role, highlighting your ability to identify and resolve issues is key. Discuss a time you improved a process or handled a challenging situation effectively.

• Express Enthusiasm: Show genuine interest in the craft of framing and assisting customers with their creative projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on behavioral questions, demonstrating transferable operational skills, and expressing enthusiasm for the creative aspect of the role. Highlighting experience with processes, accuracy, and customer interaction will be crucial for operations candidates.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

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

• Prepare to discuss your customer service experience: Be ready to provide specific examples of how you have built customer relationships and resolved customer issues.

• Highlight your attention to detail: Emphasize any experience where accuracy in measurements, order taking, or transaction processing was critical.

• Research Michaels' framing services: Understand the types of framing offered and be prepared to discuss your interest in this specialized area.

• Practice your availability: Confirm your flexibility to work nights, weekends, and early mornings, as this is a requirement for the role.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.

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