P/T Framer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: P/T Framer

Company: Michaels Stores

Location: Ajax, Ontario, Canada

Job Type: Part time

Category: Retail Operations / Custom Framing

Date Posted: 2026-09-09

Experience Level: Entry Level (0-2 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Responsible for building strong customer relationships through personalized service and expert custom framing solutions.

• Drive sales and production targets by effectively recommending and selling framing products and services.

• Maintain a visually appealing and well-organized retail environment through effective merchandising and stock management.

• Execute operational tasks including cash handling, truck unloading, stocking, and assisting with omni-channel processes to ensure smooth store operations.

• Uphold company standards for safety, compliance, and customer experience within a retail store setting.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is classified as Part-Time, focusing on direct customer interaction and operational support within a retail environment. The emphasis on "Elevated ABC Deliver" suggests a structured sales and service methodology aimed at increasing customer engagement and custom framing sales.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Customer Engagement & Sales:

  • Build lasting customer relationships by leveraging the "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodology to understand needs and propose tailored custom framing solutions.
  • Actively engage customers to assist with shopping, product location, and problem-solving, ensuring a positive and helpful experience.
  • Drive custom framing sales and production targets through consultative selling and product expertise.

• Custom Framing Execution:

  • Complete custom framing orders with a high degree of quality and within established timelines, adhering to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
  • Operate and maintain framing equipment and tools, including glass cutters and heat presses, safely and efficiently.

• Store Operations & Merchandising:

  • Maintain the ready-made frame department, SISO (Sales in Store Only), and Directed Replenishment areas to ensure optimal presentation and stock availability.
  • Ensure a safe, clean, and clutter-free environment throughout the store and stockroom.
  • Participate actively in truck un-loading and stocking processes, adhering to established standards and timelines.

• Transaction & Inventory Management:

  • Operate the cash register accurately and efficiently, executing cash handling procedures to company standards.
  • Assist with omni-channel processes, such as online order fulfillment or in-store pickup, as required.

• Teamwork & Compliance:

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

  • Support company shrink and safety programs, acting as a role model for positive behavior and adherence to values.

  • Interact positively and respectfully with colleagues, remaining constructive even in challenging situations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a dual focus on direct customer sales and service within the custom framing specialization, alongside general retail operations. The mention of specific programs like "Elevated ABC Deliver" and "SISO" indicates a need for candidates to quickly learn and apply company-specific sales and operational methodologies.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Not specified, but a strong aptitude for learning and following instructions is essential.

Experience:

• 0-2 years of experience in a customer-facing role or retail environment.

• Demonstrated ability to learn and apply new skills, particularly in sales and operational procedures. Required Skills:

• Basic computer skills for POS operations and potentially order management.

• Basic measuring skills for accurate framing measurements.

• Ability to operate framing equipment and a glass cutter safely and effectively.

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

• Ability to work effectively in a team environment and collaborate with colleagues.

• Capacity to adhere to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company policies.

• Basic understanding of inventory management and merchandising principles. Preferred Skills:

• Previous retail sales experience, particularly in a consultative sales environment.

• Experience selling products and/or services directly to customers.

• Familiarity with custom framing processes or art display techniques.

• Prior experience operating a cash register and handling monetary transactions.

• Knowledge of visual merchandising standards.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role is positioned as entry-level, with a clear emphasis on core retail competencies like customer service, basic technical skills for framing, and operational execution. Preferred skills indicate that candidates with prior sales or specific framing experience will have an advantage, though training is likely provided for essential functions.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• While a formal portfolio is not explicitly required for this entry-level role, candidates are encouraged to highlight relevant past experiences demonstrating:
  • Customer Service Excellence: Examples of positive customer interactions, problem resolution, and building rapport.
  • Sales Acumen: Instances where they successfully sold a product or service, met sales targets, or persuaded a customer.
  • Operational Efficiency: Contributions to maintaining store standards, managing inventory, or executing operational tasks accurately.
  • Technical Aptitude: Any experience with tools, equipment, or hands-on tasks that demonstrate an ability to learn and operate machinery.

Process Documentation:

• Candidates should be prepared to discuss their understanding of and approach to following established processes:
  • Workflow Adherence: Ability to follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for custom framing, sales transactions, and store operations.
  • Quality Control: Commitment to ensuring the quality and accuracy of custom framing orders.
  • Efficiency & Timeliness: Understanding the importance of completing tasks, including framing orders and stock replenishment, within designated timeframes.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an entry-level part-time position, a formal portfolio is less critical. The focus will be on how a candidate articulates their past experiences and demonstrates their aptitude for learning and adhering to established operational processes and sales methodologies. Highlighting instances of good customer service and successful sales interactions will be key.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $17.85 - $20.75 CAD per hour.

Benefits:

• Health insurance (medical, dental, and vision)

• Paid time off (PTO)

• Tuition assistance

• Generous employee discounts on Michaels products

• Additional benefits as detailed on mikbenefits.com

Working Hours: This is a Part-Time position. While the standard full-time work week is 40 hours, actual hours for this role will be less and will vary based on business needs. The role requires flexibility to work nights, weekends, and early mornings, as the store operates during these times.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided salary range is specific to CAD and aligns with typical entry-level retail positions in Canada, particularly for roles involving specialized skills like custom framing. The benefits package, even for part-time employees, is comprehensive and a significant draw for retail positions.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Arts and Crafts Retail. Michaels is a leading North American retailer focused on providing supplies and services for arts, crafts, framing, and seasonal decor.

Company Size: Over 1,300 stores in the US and Canada, indicating a large, established retail operation. This size implies structured processes, established training programs, and significant cross-functional support for store operations.

Founded: 1973. With decades of experience, Michaels has a well-defined brand identity, operational model, and customer base.

Team Structure:

• The role is based within a specific store location, reporting to store management (likely a Store Manager or Assistant Store Manager).

• The team will consist of other part-time and potentially full-time retail associates, including specialized roles like framers and potentially seasonal staff.

• Collaboration is expected with all store team members to ensure seamless customer service and operational efficiency. Methodology:

• Customer-Centric Approach: Strong emphasis on customer experience, relationship building, and providing solutions ("Elevated ABC Deliver").

• Process-Driven Operations: Reliance on Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for consistency in sales, production, merchandising, and safety.

• Data-Informed Merchandising: Use of programs like SISO and Directed Replenishment suggests a data-driven approach to maintaining optimal stock levels and store presentation.

Company Website: www.michaels.com and www.michaels.ca

📝 Enhancement Note: Michaels operates within a highly competitive retail landscape but holds a strong position in its niche. The culture likely balances creativity and artistic expression with the disciplined execution required in a large retail chain. For an operations-focused role like a framer, understanding and executing established processes is as crucial as creative problem-solving for customers.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Entry-Level Retail Associate with a specialization in Custom Framing. This role serves as a foundational position within the retail operations structure, offering exposure to sales, customer service, and specific production skills.

Reporting Structure: Typically reports to a Store Manager, Assistant Store Manager, or potentially a dedicated Framing Manager if the store structure supports it. This direct reporting line ensures clear guidance and performance feedback.

Operations Impact: The Framer directly impacts store revenue through custom framing sales and contributes to overall store performance by enhancing customer experience, maintaining visual standards, and supporting operational tasks. Efficient framing services can be a significant differentiator and revenue driver for Michaels.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Develop advanced custom framing techniques, material knowledge, and design consultation skills.

• Retail Leadership: Progress to roles such as Lead Framer, Sales Associate, Key Holder, Assistant Store Manager, or Store Manager, involving increased responsibility in team leadership, operational oversight, and sales management.

• Cross-Departmental Experience: Gain exposure to other areas of store operations, such as visual merchandising, inventory management, or customer service specialization.

• Continuous Learning: Access to training programs and potential tuition assistance can support ongoing professional development within the retail sector.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role provides a solid entry point into retail operations. Growth is primarily within the store management track or through developing specialized expertise in custom framing, which can lead to senior or lead positions within that department.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Public retail store setting. The work environment is dynamic, customer-facing, and requires constant interaction with shoppers and team members.

Office Location(s): Ajax, Ontario, Canada (specifically 100 Kingston Rd E, Unit L10). This location is a standard retail store environment.

Workspace Context:

• Customer-Facing Areas: Climate-controlled main store floor for customer interaction, sales, and merchandising.

• Framing Shop: A dedicated area within the store equipped with framing equipment, glass cutters, and heat presses. This area requires adherence to specific safety protocols due to the tools and materials used.

• Stock Rooms: May not always be climate-controlled, used for inventory storage and truck un-loading/stocking activities.

• Collaboration: Frequent interaction with other store associates for customer assistance, operational tasks, and team support.

Work Schedule: Flexible scheduling is required, including nights, weekends, and early mornings, aligning with store operating hours. This role is part-time, so scheduled hours will be less than a full 40-hour week, varying based on business needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is typical for a retail associate, with the added dimension of a specialized framing production area. Candidates should be comfortable with a fast-paced, customer-centric atmosphere and physically demanding tasks.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Likely an online application followed by a brief phone or video screening to assess basic qualifications and interest.

• In-Person Interview: A more in-depth interview at the store location, potentially including:

  • Behavioral Questions: To assess customer service skills, teamwork, problem-solving abilities, and adherence to company values (e.g., "Tell me about a time you dealt with a difficult customer").
  • Situational Questions: To gauge how candidates would handle specific scenarios related to framing, sales, or store operations (e.g., "How would you approach a customer interested in framing a valuable piece of art?").
  • Skills Assessment: Discussion or demonstration of basic measuring skills and comfort with operating equipment.

• Practical Exercise (Potential): May involve a brief task related to measuring, cutting mat board, or presenting framing options to the interviewer acting as a customer.

• Final Interview/Onboarding: If successful, an offer will be extended, followed by onboarding and initial training.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• For this role, a traditional portfolio is not expected. Instead, focus on preparing to discuss:
  • Customer Service Examples: Be ready to share specific instances where you provided excellent customer service, resolved issues, or went above and beyond.
  • Sales Experience: Highlight any experience in selling products or services, demonstrating your ability to understand customer needs and propose solutions.
  • Hands-On Aptitude: Discuss any experience with tools, equipment, or crafts that showcase your ability to learn and operate machinery like framing equipment.
  • Attention to Detail: Provide examples of how you ensure accuracy and quality in your work, especially relevant for custom framing.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared for questions that assess your ability to:
  • Learn and Adapt: How quickly can you learn new processes and equipment?
  • Problem-Solve: How would you handle a situation where a customer is unhappy with a framing order or a product is out of stock?
  • Sell Consultatively: How would you guide a customer through the framing process, considering their artwork, budget, and aesthetic preferences?
  • Follow Procedures: Demonstrate your understanding of why SOPs are important for consistency and safety.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for this part-time, entry-level role will likely be less formal than for senior operations positions. The emphasis will be on assessing core customer service, sales aptitude, and the ability to learn and follow instructions within a structured retail environment.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Custom Framing Equipment: Includes mat cutters, saws, assembly tools, and potentially a heat press for specific framing applications. Proficiency or demonstrated ability to learn these is key.

• Cash Register/Point of Sale (POS) System: For processing sales transactions, managing customer accounts, and potentially tracking orders.

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

Analytics & Reporting:

• While direct involvement in complex analytics is unlikely, understanding how sales and production data impacts store performance is beneficial.

• POS Reporting: Basic reports on sales, transactions, and inventory levels accessed through the POS system.

CRM & Automation:

• Customer Relationship Management (CRM): The POS system may have basic CRM functionalities for tracking customer purchases and preferences for custom framing.

• Inventory Management Systems: Used for tracking stock levels, managing directed replenishment, and processing truck un-loads.

• Omni-channel Support Tools: Systems or processes to handle online orders, in-store pickups, and ship-from-store initiatives.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack for this role is primarily focused on point-of-sale systems, specialized framing equipment, and basic inventory management tools. The emphasis is on operational efficiency and customer transaction processing rather than complex data analysis or automation platforms.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Creativity & Inspiration: Fostering a passion for arts, crafts, and creative expression.

• Customer Focus: Prioritizing customer satisfaction through personalized service and problem-solving.

• Quality & Craftsmanship: Commitment to delivering high-quality custom framing solutions.

• Teamwork & Collaboration: Working together to achieve store goals and support colleagues.

• Efficiency & Compliance: Adhering to company procedures and safety standards for smooth operations.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Working seamlessly with all store staff to ensure a cohesive customer experience, from initial greeting to final sale and product assistance.

• Process-Oriented Communication: Clear communication regarding order status, customer requests, and operational needs.

• Mutual Support: Willingness to assist colleagues with tasks, especially during peak periods or when managing multiple customer demands.

📝 Enhancement Note: Michaels likely promotes a culture that balances the creative spirit of its products with the operational discipline of a large retailer. For a Framer, this means being both artistically inclined and procedurally sound, contributing to a positive and productive store environment.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Production and Sales: Effectively managing custom framing production deadlines while also actively engaging customers and driving sales on the sales floor.

• Handling Diverse Customer Needs: Catering to a wide range of customer expectations, budgets, and artistic preferences for custom framing projects.

• Physical Demands: The role involves prolonged standing, lifting, and repetitive motions, which can be physically demanding over a part-time schedule.

• Learning Specific Equipment: Mastering the operation and maintenance of specialized framing equipment and tools requires attention and practice.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Framing Techniques: Opportunities to deepen expertise in various framing styles, materials, and conservation methods.

• Sales Training: Development in consultative selling, upselling, and understanding customer motivations for custom framing purchases.

• Retail Operations Exposure: Gaining practical experience in merchandising, inventory control, cash handling, and omni-channel processes.

• Company-Sponsored Training: Access to internal training modules and potentially tuition assistance for further education, supporting career advancement within Michaels or the broader retail industry.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents opportunities to develop specialized craft skills and foundational retail operational competencies. The challenges are typical of a hands-on retail position, with growth potential tied to mastering both the craft and the operational aspects of the business.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Customer Service/Sales: "Describe a time you helped a customer find the perfect solution for their needs. How did you approach it?" (Focus on understanding needs, proposing solutions, and closing the sale).

• Problem-Solving: "Imagine a customer is unhappy with their custom framing order. What steps would you take?" (Emphasize active listening, empathy, and following company procedures for resolution).

• Technical Aptitude: "What experience do you have with tools or equipment? How do you ensure safety when operating machinery?" (Highlight any hands-on experience and commitment to safety protocols).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about Michaels and specifically the Framer role?" (Connect your skills and interests to creativity, customer service, and the art of framing).

• "How do you handle working in a fast-paced retail environment with multiple demands?" (Showcase your ability to prioritize, multitask, and remain calm under pressure).

• "What does 'teamwork' mean to you in a retail setting?" (Emphasize collaboration, support, and contributing to shared goals). Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Since a formal portfolio isn't required, prepare to discuss specific examples from your resume or past experiences that demonstrate:

  • Your Customer Service Philosophy: Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to detail positive customer interactions.
  • Your Sales Approach: Explain how you identify customer needs and recommend products or services effectively.
  • Your Attention to Detail: Provide instances where accuracy and precision were critical to your work.
  • Your Adaptability: Discuss situations where you quickly learned a new skill or adapted to changing priorities.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparation should focus on articulating relevant experiences clearly, demonstrating enthusiasm for the role and company, and showcasing a strong understanding of customer service and operational responsibilities within a retail context.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided Workday job portal link.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight customer service experience, any sales achievements, and any experience with tools, equipment, or hands-on tasks. Quantify achievements where possible (e.g., "Increased custom framing sales by X% through proactive customer engagement").

• Prepare for Interview Questions: Practice answering behavioral and situational questions related to customer service, sales, problem-solving, and teamwork. Be ready to discuss your understanding of the Framer role and Michaels' commitment to creativity and customer satisfaction.

• Research Michaels: Familiarize yourself with Michaels' products, services (especially custom framing), and company values. Understand their position in the market and their focus on inspiring creativity.

• Highlight Relevant Skills: Be prepared to discuss your basic computer and measuring skills, and your ability to learn and operate framing equipment safely.

⚠️ 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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