PT framer

Michaels Stores
Full-time$18-21/hour (USD)San Diego, United States

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: PT Framer

Company: Michaels Stores

Location: San Diego, California, United States

Job Type: PART_TIME

Category: Retail Operations / Custom Framing

Date Posted: May 20, 2026

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

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

  • Custom Framing Expertise: Develop and execute custom framing solutions, acting as a design consultant for customer artwork and memorabilia.

  • Customer Engagement: Build strong customer relationships through personalized service, guiding them through design choices and ensuring a memorable experience.

  • Sales & Production: Drive sales of custom framing services and ensure high-quality, on-time production of framing orders.

  • Retail Operations: Contribute to overall store success by maintaining merchandising standards, managing inventory, and assisting with Omni-channel processes.

  • Operational Compliance: Adhere strictly to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company programs to ensure compliance and operational efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the job title is "PT Framer," the responsibilities extend beyond basic framing to encompass customer relationship management, sales, and general retail operations. This suggests a role focused on driving revenue through specialized services while contributing to the overall store environment. The "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodology implies a structured approach to customer interaction and sales.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

  • Customer Consultation & Design:

    • Act as a Personal Designer, utilizing the "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodology to build rapport and create impactful framing solutions for customer artwork and memorabilia.
    • Guide customers through material selection (mats, frames, glass types) to meet their aesthetic and preservation needs.
    • Accurately measure artwork and prepare custom framing orders.
  • Sales & Revenue Generation:

    • Drive custom framing sales by identifying customer needs and presenting compelling solutions.
    • Achieve and exceed personal sales and production targets for custom framing services.
    • Operate the cash register and execute cash handling procedures according to company standards.
  • Production & Quality Control:

    • Complete custom framing orders with a high degree of quality and precision, adhering to timelines.
    • Operate framing equipment and glass cutters safely and efficiently.
    • Maintain the ready-made frame department, including SISO (Ship-from-Store) and Directed Replenishment processes.
  • Store Operations & Merchandising:

    • Maintain a safe, clean, and clutter-free environment for customers and team members.
    • Ensure the ready-made frame department and other assigned areas are well-merchandised and in-stock.
    • Assist with truck unload and stocking processes, ensuring adherence to truck standards and budget.
    • Support shrink and safety programs.
  • Customer Service Excellence:

    • Deliver friendly and proactive customer service, assisting customers in locating products and providing solutions.

    • Acknowledge all customers entering the store.

    • Assist with Omni-channel processes, such as Buy Online, Pickup In Store (BOPIS).

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a dual focus on specialized framing services and general retail store operations. The emphasis on "Elevated ABC Deliver" and building customer relationships suggests a sales-driven approach within the framing department. The inclusion of Omni-channel processes indicates a need for adaptability to modern retail workflows.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Experience:

  • Minimum Experience:

    • Basic computer skills for order processing and system navigation.
    • Basic measuring skills for accurate framing order preparation.
    • Ability to operate framing equipment and a glass cutter safely and effectively.
  • Preferred Experience:

    • Retail experience, demonstrating familiarity with store environments and customer interaction.

Required Skills:

  • Custom Framing Knowledge: Understanding of framing materials, techniques, and design principles.

  • Customer Service: Ability to engage customers, understand their needs, and provide solutions with a positive attitude.

  • Sales Acumen: Aptitude for identifying sales opportunities and closing sales, particularly for custom services.

  • Measuring & Precision: Accurate measurement skills for precise order fulfillment.

  • Equipment Operation: Proficiency in using framing equipment and glass cutters.

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

  • Basic Computer Literacy: Familiarity with point-of-sale (POS) systems and basic computer applications.

  • Merchandising: Ability to maintain an organized and appealing retail display.

Preferred Skills:

  • Retail Sales Experience: Prior success in a retail sales environment.

  • Consultative Selling: Experience in guiding customers through product selections and solutions.

  • Inventory Management: Familiarity with stock replenishment and inventory control.

  • Omni-channel Operations: Experience with processes like BOPIS or Ship-from-Store.

📝 Enhancement Note: The skill requirements are a blend of technical framing abilities and core retail competencies. The emphasis on "selling products and/or services" suggests that sales performance will be a key metric for success in this role, beyond just production.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

  • Custom Framing Case Studies: While a formal portfolio may not be strictly required for an entry-level role, candidates with prior framing or design experience are encouraged to showcase examples of custom framing projects. This can include photos of completed work, descriptions of the design process, and client feedback.

  • Sales Performance Metrics: If available, be prepared to discuss quantifiable achievements in previous sales roles, such as exceeding targets or increasing average transaction value.

  • Process Improvement Examples: For candidates with retail operations experience, highlight instances where they identified and implemented process improvements to enhance efficiency or customer satisfaction.

  • System Familiarity: Be ready to discuss experience with POS systems, inventory management software, or any CRM tools used previously.

Process Documentation:

  • Workflow Design: Candidates with experience in framing or production environments may be asked to describe their approach to managing workflow, prioritizing tasks, and ensuring timely completion of orders.

  • Implementation & Automation: While this role is hands-on, understanding how processes are documented and potentially automated in larger retail settings can be beneficial.

  • Measurement & Analysis: Be prepared to discuss how you would track your own performance in sales and production, and how you would use data (e.g., sales reports) to identify areas for improvement.

📝 Enhancement Note: For this specific role, a formal "portfolio" might be less about polished documents and more about demonstrating practical skills and past achievements through discussion and examples. Highlighting any experience with custom work, sales success, or process efficiency will be key.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $18.00 - $21.20 per hour

Benefits:

  • Health Insurance: Comprehensive coverage including medical, dental, and vision insurance.

  • Paid Time Off (PTO): Accrued paid time off for rest and personal needs.

  • Tuition Assistance: Support for furthering education, beneficial for skill development.

  • Employee Discounts: Generous discounts on Michaels products, a significant perk for crafters and art enthusiasts.

  • 401(k) Plan: Retirement savings plan (specific details may vary).

  • Life Insurance: Coverage for peace of mind.

  • Disability Insurance: Short-term and long-term disability coverage.

Working Hours:

  • This is a PART_TIME position.

  • Work hours are flexible and include nights, weekends, and early mornings, aligning with retail operational needs.

  • The typical expectation for a full-time equivalent would be around 40 hours per week, though part-time hours will vary.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is competitive for entry-level retail positions, especially those requiring specialized skills like custom framing. The benefits package is robust for a part-time role, indicating Michaels' commitment to employee well-being. The mention of "interactive process" for reasonable accommodations suggests a commitment to inclusivity.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Retail (Arts, Crafts, and Framing)

Company Size: Large (Over 10,000 employees, based on LinkedIn data for The Michaels Companies Inc.)

Founded: 1973, headquartered in Irving, Texas. Michaels is a leading retailer for creative individuals and celebrations across North America.

Team Structure:

  • Store-Level Operations: This role is part of a store team, likely reporting to a Framing Department Manager or Store Manager.

  • Cross-functional Collaboration: While primarily focused on the framing department, collaboration with other store associates for customer service, inventory, and Omni-channel tasks is expected.

  • Specialized Departments: The store operates with specialized departments (e.g., framing, art supplies, craft supplies, seasonal) requiring distinct expertise.

Methodology:

  • Customer-Centric Approach: Emphasis on building customer relationships and providing personalized solutions, as highlighted by the "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodology.

  • Process Adherence: Strong focus on following Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for consistency, safety, and compliance.

  • Data-Driven Decisions: While not explicitly stated for this role, the company's scale suggests a reliance on sales data, inventory management, and performance metrics to drive operations.

  • Teamwork & Support: Encouragement of mutual support among team members to achieve store goals.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Michaels positions itself as a community hub for creativity. The culture likely balances a fast-paced retail environment with a passion for arts and crafts. The emphasis on SOPs suggests a structured operational framework, while the customer service aspect points to a friendly and engaging atmosphere.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Entry-Level / Junior Associate. This role is foundational within the retail operations of a Michaels store, specifically within the custom framing department. It requires developing core skills in sales, customer service, and specialized production.

Reporting Structure: Typically reports to a Framing Department Manager or the Store Manager. May also take direction from Assistant Store Managers or Shift Leaders.

Operations Impact:

  • Revenue Contribution: Directly impacts store revenue through the sale of custom framing services, which often have higher profit margins.

  • Customer Loyalty: Contributes to customer loyalty by providing exceptional service and high-quality custom products, encouraging repeat business.

  • Store Presentation: Maintains visual standards in the framing department and contributes to overall store appearance and customer experience.

  • Operational Efficiency: Supports efficient store operations through accurate order processing, inventory management, and adherence to SOPs.

Growth Opportunities:

  • Framing Specialist: Advance to a lead framer or department manager role within the framing department, taking on more responsibility for production, inventory, and team training.

  • Sales Leadership: Transition into a sales lead or assistant store manager role, focusing on broader store sales strategies and team management.

  • Cross-Departmental Expertise: Develop skills in other store departments, potentially leading to roles such as Merchandise Manager or Operations Manager.

  • Corporate Opportunities: With significant experience and demonstrated aptitude, opportunities within corporate roles (e.g., merchandising, operations support, training) may become available.

  • Continuous Learning: Opportunities to learn new framing techniques, materials, and sales strategies through ongoing training and mentorship.

📝 Enhancement Note: This PT Framer role serves as an excellent entry point into retail operations with a specialized focus. The growth path is clear, moving from individual contributor to team leadership within a large, established retail organization. Michaels' commitment to tuition assistance further supports career development.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Public retail store setting. The primary workspace is the retail floor and the dedicated custom framing shop within the store.

Office Location(s): San Diego, California (specifically the Mission Valley store at 1640 Camino Del Rio N, Ste 110). The company operates over 1,300 stores across North America.

Workspace Context:

  • Customer-Facing: Significant interaction with the public in a retail store environment.

  • Hands-On Production: The framing shop involves using tools, materials, and equipment for custom order creation.

  • Collaborative Team Space: Work alongside other store associates, requiring teamwork and clear communication.

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

  • Climate Control: Public areas are climate-controlled; some stock rooms may not be. Outdoor work may be required for tasks like retrieving shopping carts or during truck unloading.

Work Schedule:

  • Part-time position with flexible hours.

  • Must be available to work nights, weekends, and early mornings as dictated by store operating hours and customer traffic.

  • The role requires standing for extended periods and involves physical demands like bending, lifting, and reaching.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is dynamic and requires adaptability. The framing shop itself is a specialized workspace within a busy retail store, demanding both precision in craft and efficiency in customer interaction.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

  • Initial Application Review: Screening of resumes and applications for basic qualifications and experience.

  • Phone/Video Screen: A preliminary interview to assess general fit, communication skills, and understanding of the role.

  • In-Person Interview: Typically conducted by the store manager or framing department manager. This will involve:

    • Behavioral Questions: Discussing past experiences related to customer service, problem-solving, teamwork, and sales.
    • Situational Questions: Presenting hypothetical scenarios to gauge decision-making and approach (e.g., "How would you handle a customer unhappy with their framing?").
    • Skills Assessment: Discussion or demonstration of basic measuring skills or familiarity with framing concepts.
    • Company Culture Fit: Assessing alignment with Michaels' values (creativity, customer focus, teamwork).
  • Potential Skills Demonstration: For framing roles, there might be a practical assessment of measuring or basic tool handling.

  • Offer: Extension of a job offer to the selected candidate.

Portfolio Review Tips:

  • Highlight Relevant Experience: If you have prior framing, art, or design experience, be ready to discuss specific projects. Photos on a phone or a simple printed sheet can be effective.

  • Quantify Sales Success: Prepare to share specific examples of sales achievements, such as exceeding targets, increasing average sale value, or successfully upselling.

  • Showcase Customer Service Skills: Prepare stories that demonstrate your ability to handle difficult customers, build rapport, and go the extra mile.

  • Demonstrate Problem-Solving: Be ready to discuss a time you faced a challenge (e.g., a production issue, a customer complaint) and how you resolved it.

  • Prepare Questions: Have thoughtful questions ready about the team, the framing department's goals, training opportunities, and typical daily operations.

Challenge Preparation:

  • Customer Scenarios: Be prepared to role-play or discuss how you would handle common customer interactions, from initial greeting to closing a sale or resolving an issue.

  • Product Knowledge: While extensive framing knowledge may not be required initially, showing an interest in learning about different materials (mats, frames, glass) and their properties is beneficial.

  • Operational Awareness: Think about how you would ensure the framing area is clean, stocked, and organized, and how you would manage your time effectively between customer service and production tasks.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the entry-level nature, the interview process will likely focus heavily on assessing soft skills, customer service aptitude, and a willingness to learn. Demonstrating enthusiasm for art, crafts, and helping customers create is crucial.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

  • Custom Framing Equipment: Includes mat cutters, framing assembly tools, and potentially specialized machinery for mounting or finishing.

  • Glass Cutting Tools: Essential for custom glass sizing.

  • Heat Press: May be used for specific mounting or finishing techniques.

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

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

Analytics & Reporting:

  • Sales Reports: Generated from the POS system to track individual and departmental sales performance.

  • Inventory Management Systems: Used for tracking stock levels of ready-made frames, mat boards, and framing supplies.

CRM & Automation:

  • Customer Relationship Management (CRM): While not explicitly detailed, the "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodology suggests a structured approach to customer interaction that may involve CRM elements within the POS system or separate tracking.

  • Omni-channel Support Systems: Platforms that manage online orders for in-store pickup or ship-from-store fulfillment.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency with basic retail technology (POS systems) is essential. The role also requires hands-on use of specialized framing equipment, suggesting a need for technical aptitude and attention to detail in operating these tools.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

  • Creativity: A core value of Michaels, encouraging an environment where artistic expression and innovative solutions are celebrated.

  • Customer Focus: Prioritizing customer satisfaction through personalized service, helpfulness, and creating positive experiences.

  • Teamwork: Collaboration and mutual support among store associates to achieve collective goals and ensure smooth store operations.

  • Integrity: Adhering to company policies, ethical practices, and maintaining a safe and respectful workplace.

  • Efficiency: Striving for operational excellence through adherence to SOPs, effective time management, and accurate execution of tasks.

Collaboration Style:

  • Cross-functional Support: Associates are expected to assist in various store functions as needed, fostering a collaborative spirit across departments.

  • Direct Communication: Open communication is encouraged for resolving customer issues, managing workflow, and sharing information.

  • Process-Oriented: Working within established SOPs to ensure consistency and efficiency in tasks like order processing, merchandising, and customer service.

  • Learning Environment: A culture that supports learning from colleagues, managers, and through ongoing training to enhance skills in framing, sales, and operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: Michaels emphasizes a culture that blends a passion for creativity with the discipline required for successful retail operations. Team members are expected to be both individuals who can drive sales and contribute to a positive, collaborative store environment.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

  • Balancing Sales and Production: Effectively managing time to engage customers, close sales, and simultaneously complete custom framing orders accurately and on time.

  • Handling Diverse Customer Needs: Catering to a wide range of artistic tastes, budgets, and project complexities for custom framing.

  • Maintaining High Standards: Consistently delivering high-quality framing work while adhering to strict operational procedures and safety guidelines.

  • Adapting to Retail Pace: Thriving in a dynamic retail environment with varying customer traffic and operational demands, including busy holiday seasons.

  • Learning Specialized Skills: Acquiring proficiency in operating framing equipment and understanding the nuances of different framing materials.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

  • Framing Techniques: Comprehensive training on various framing methods, mat cutting, mounting, and preservation techniques.

  • Sales & Customer Service Skills: Development through company training programs, on-the-job coaching, and exposure to sales best practices.

  • Product Knowledge: Deep dive into frames, mats, glass types, and their applications for different types of artwork and memorabilia.

  • Retail Operations Management: Potential to learn about inventory control, merchandising, cash management, and Omni-channel processes.

  • Career Advancement: Clear pathways for growth into leadership roles within the store or specialized roles within the framing department.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role presents an excellent opportunity to develop specialized craft skills in a retail setting, coupled with valuable sales and customer service experience. Overcoming the challenge of balancing diverse tasks will be key to success and growth.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

  • Operations Strategy: "How would you prioritize your tasks on a busy day when you have multiple custom framing orders to complete, a customer waiting for design consultation, and a truck delivery arriving?" (Focus on time management, prioritization, and customer communication.)

  • Collaboration & Stakeholder Management: "Describe a time you had to work with a team member to resolve a customer issue or complete a project. What was your role, and what was the outcome?" (Assess teamwork and communication skills.)

  • Problem-Solving: "A customer is unhappy with the framing they received. How would you approach this situation to ensure customer satisfaction and uphold company standards?" (Evaluate conflict resolution, empathy, and process adherence.)

Company & Culture Questions:

  • "What interests you about Michaels, and specifically about working in the custom framing department?" (Gauge passion for art, crafts, and the company's mission.)

  • "How do you approach building relationships with customers?" (Assess customer service philosophy and sales approach.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

  • Showcase Custom Work: If you have examples of custom framing or related art/craft projects, be ready to briefly describe the project, your role, and the outcome.

  • Quantify Sales Achievements: Prepare to discuss specific sales figures, targets met or exceeded, or instances where you successfully upsold a product or service.

  • Highlight Process Improvement: If you've identified and implemented a process improvement in a previous role (even informally), be ready to explain it and its impact.

  • Articulate Your Skills: Clearly explain how your measuring, computer, or customer service skills make you a strong candidate for this role.

📝 Enhancement Note: Focus on demonstrating enthusiasm for creativity, a strong customer service orientation, and a willingness to learn and contribute to the team. Be prepared to provide concrete examples from past experiences.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this PT Framer position:

  • Submit Your Application: Complete and submit your application through the provided link on the Michaels Careers portal.

  • Tailor Your Resume: Highlight any experience in custom framing, art, design, sales, or customer service. Use keywords from the job description such as "custom framing," "customer service," "sales," "measuring skills," and "retail operations." Quantify achievements where possible (e.g., "exceeded sales targets by 15%").

  • Prepare for the Interview: Review common interview questions related to customer service, sales, problem-solving, and teamwork. Practice articulating your skills and experiences using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result).

  • Research Michaels: Familiarize yourself with Michaels' mission, values, and product offerings. Understand their commitment to creativity and customer experience. Be ready to discuss why you are a good cultural fit.

  • Portfolio (Optional but Recommended): If you have examples of custom framing work or related creative projects, have them ready to share or discuss during the interview. This can significantly strengthen your application.

⚠️ 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.

Application Requirements

Requires basic computer and measuring skills, with the ability to operate framing equipment and glass cutters. Physical ability to lift heavy boxes, stand for long periods, and use ladders is necessary.