PT Framer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: PT Framer

Company: Michaels Stores

Location: State College, Pennsylvania, United States

Job Type: Part Time

Category: Retail Operations / Customer Service

Date Posted: 2026-08-06

Experience Level: Entry Level (0-2 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Provide exceptional customer service by building relationships and delivering custom framing solutions.

• Drive sales and production targets through personalized design consultations and product recommendations.

• Maintain store presentation standards, including merchandising, stock replenishment, and a clean, safe environment.

• Support operational efficiency through adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and participation in inventory management.

• Operate point-of-sale systems and handle cash transactions accurately and efficiently.

📝 Enhancement Note: While this role is in a retail environment, the "Framer" title implies a specialized skill set in custom design and production, moving beyond general retail associate duties. The focus on building relationships and delivering "memorable framing solutions" suggests a consultative sales approach. The term "PT" indicates Part-Time employment.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Customer Engagement & Sales:

  • Proactively engage customers, build rapport, and understand their needs to offer tailored custom framing solutions.
  • Utilize the "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodology to enhance customer interactions and drive sales.
  • Achieve personal sales and production goals for custom framing orders.
  • Acknowledge customers promptly, assist them in locating products, and provide effective solutions to their creative needs.

• Custom Framing Operations:

  • Design and create high-quality custom framing orders, ensuring timely completion and adherence to company standards.
  • Operate framing equipment, including specialized machinery and tools like glass cutters and heat presses, with precision and safety.
  • Maintain the ready-made frame department, ensuring it is well-merchandised, organized, and stocked according to planograms.

• Store Operations & Merchandising:

  • Ensure a safe, clean, and clutter-free shopping environment for customers and team members.
  • Execute visual merchandising standards for assigned areas, including ready-made frames and in-store sales opportunities (SISO).
  • Participate actively in truck un-loading and stocking processes, adhering to established truck standards and timelines.
  • Manage directed replenishment tasks to maintain optimal inventory levels for key product categories.

• Operational Compliance & Teamwork:

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

  • Support and actively participate in company shrink and safety programs.

  • Collaborate effectively with team members, demonstrating respect, positivity, and commitment to organizational values.

  • Assist with Omni-channel processes, ensuring a seamless customer experience across all touchpoints.

  • Operate the cash register and execute cash handling procedures with accuracy and integrity.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of direct customer sales, specialized production/craftsmanship (framing), and general retail operations. The emphasis on "Elevated ABC Deliver" suggests a specific customer service and sales training program unique to Michaels.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• High school diploma or equivalent required.

• 📝 Enhancement Note: While not explicitly stated, a background or interest in art, design, or craft is often beneficial for custom framing roles and can be a strong point in applications.

Experience:

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

• Experience in sales or service-oriented positions is highly preferred. Required Skills:

• Customer Service Excellence: Proven ability to provide friendly, engaging, and effective customer service.

• Basic Computer Skills: Proficiency in using basic computer applications for POS systems and potentially design software.

• Measuring Skills: Accurate and precise measuring abilities essential for custom framing.

• Framing Equipment Operation: Ability to learn and safely operate framing equipment, including specialized tools.

• Glass Cutting: Proficiency in using a glass cutter for framing applications.

• Communication Skills: Clear and effective verbal communication to interact with customers and team members.

• Basic Math Skills: For cash handling and order calculations.

Preferred Skills:

• Retail Experience: Prior experience in a retail setting, understanding store operations and customer flow.

• Sales Experience: Proven track record of selling products or services, with an ability to upsell and cross-sell.

• Art/Design Aptitude: An eye for design, color, and aesthetics, beneficial for custom framing consultations.

• Inventory Management: Familiarity with stock replenishment and merchandising principles.

• Visual Merchandising: Understanding of how to present products effectively to customers.

📝 Enhancement Note: The required skills are foundational for a retail role, with specific additions for the framing aspect. The "preferred" skills align with advancing within the role or contributing more significantly to sales and store presentation. The mention of "framing equipment" and "glass cutter" implies hands-on technical ability is a key component.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Customer Interaction Case Studies: Examples showcasing how you built rapport with customers, understood their needs, and provided solutions, particularly in a sales or service context.

• Sales Performance Metrics: If available, quantifiable achievements related to sales targets, upsells, or customer satisfaction scores.

• Design/Creative Work Samples: While not explicitly required, any examples of creative projects, design work, or visual displays you've contributed to can be beneficial.

• Process Adherence Examples: Descriptions of how you have followed SOPs or specific company programs in previous roles to ensure consistency and compliance.

Process Documentation:

• The role requires adherence to defined Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for customer service, sales, framing production, and operational tasks.

• Candidates are expected to document their learning and application of these processes through on-the-job training and performance.

• 📝 Enhancement Note: For an entry-level part-time role like this, a formal portfolio is unlikely to be required. However, candidates should be prepared to discuss their past experiences and how they align with the responsibilities, especially concerning customer service, sales, and any creative or technical aptitudes. The "process" here refers more to demonstrated ability to follow established procedures.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on industry standards for part-time retail associates with specialized duties in the State College, PA area, the estimated hourly wage is likely between $12.00 - $16.00 per hour.

• 📝 Enhancement Note: This estimate is derived from general retail wage data for Pennsylvania and considers the added skill requirement of custom framing. Actual compensation will be determined by experience, skills, and Michaels' internal pay scales.

Benefits:

• For eligible part-time team members, benefits may include:

  • 401(k) with employer match
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Telemedicine services
  • Employee discounts on Michaels products
  • Access to partner discount programs

• 📝 Enhancement Note: While a comprehensive list of benefits is provided, eligibility for specific benefits like medical, dental, vision coverage, FSAs, commuter benefits, tuition assistance, and adoption assistance often depends on the number of hours worked and length of employment.

Working Hours:

• This is a part-time position.

• Work hours will include nights, weekends, and potentially early mornings.

• The standard full-time work week is 40 hours, but part-time hours will be less and vary based on business needs.

• 📝 Enhancement Note: Flexibility in scheduling is crucial for this role, as retail operations require coverage during peak customer times, including evenings and weekends.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Arts and Crafts Retail

Company Size: Large (Over 10,000 employees globally, with over 1,300 stores in North America). This indicates a well-established company with structured processes and opportunities for diverse roles.

Founded: 1973, headquartered in Irving, Texas. Michaels has a long-standing history and significant market presence.

Team Structure:

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

• They will work closely with other Sales Associates, potentially a dedicated Framing Specialist or Manager, and stock associates.

• Collaboration is key, especially with sales associates to drive overall store performance and customer satisfaction. Methodology:

• Data-Driven Customer Service: Utilizing customer insights and sales data to personalize recommendations and improve the shopping experience.

• Process Optimization: Adherence to SOPs and continuous improvement in workflow for framing production and store operations.

• Automation & Efficiency: Leveraging technology for tasks like POS transactions, inventory management, and potentially design software to streamline processes.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Michaels positions itself as a leader in creativity and celebration, fostering a culture that values artistic expression and customer engagement. The company's scale suggests robust training programs and career development pathways within the retail sector.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is classified as an Entry-Level, Part-Time position within the retail operations framework. It serves as a foundational role for individuals interested in retail sales, customer service, and potentially specialized craft areas.

Reporting Structure: The PT Framer typically reports to the Store Manager or an Assistant Store Manager, who oversee daily store operations and team performance.

Operations Impact: The Framer directly impacts store revenue through custom framing sales and contributes to overall customer satisfaction by providing expert design advice and service. Efficient operations in framing and store presentation also support the company's profitability and brand image.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Potential to become a full-time Framer or lead Custom Framing Specialist, taking on more complex projects and sales targets.

• Retail Leadership: Advancement into roles like Key Holder, Assistant Store Manager, or Store Manager, with increased responsibility for team leadership and store performance.

• Cross-Training: Opportunity to gain experience in other store departments, such as visual merchandising or inventory management, broadening skill sets.

• Craft Skill Development: Continuous learning and improvement in framing techniques, design, and materials.

📝 Enhancement Note: While part-time, this role offers a clear path for growth within Michaels, particularly for those who excel in customer interaction, sales, and creative tasks. The company's extensive retail footprint provides numerous opportunities for career progression.

🌐 Work Environment

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

Office Location(s): State College, Pennsylvania.

Workspace Context:

• The environment is customer-facing, requiring constant interaction with the public.

• Climate-controlled public areas, though some stock rooms may not be.

• The frame shop area involves specialized equipment, including glass cutters and heat presses, which require careful handling and adherence to safety protocols.

• Opportunities for collaboration with fellow team members during daily operations, stocking, and customer assistance. Work Schedule:

• Flexible scheduling is a key aspect of this part-time role.

• Availability for nights, weekends, and early mornings is essential to meet business demands.

• 📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is dynamic, with a focus on customer engagement and hands-on creative work. The specific tools and materials used in framing mean a dedicated workspace with safety considerations is paramount.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

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

• Phone Screen/Initial Interview: A brief conversation to assess general fit, availability, and basic understanding of the role.

• In-Person Interview: This will likely involve meeting with the Store Manager or Assistant Store Manager. Expect questions about:

  • Customer service scenarios and how you handle challenging situations.
  • Your understanding of sales and how you would approach custom framing consultations.
  • Your experience with tools or creative processes, and your willingness to learn.
  • Availability and scheduling flexibility.
  • Your interest in Michaels and the arts/crafts industry.

• Practical Assessment (Potential): You may be asked to demonstrate basic measuring skills or discuss how you would approach a customer design consultation.

• Final Offer: Based on the interview and assessment.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• For this role, a formal portfolio is generally not required. Instead, be prepared to discuss:

  • Specific examples of customer service interactions where you went above and beyond.

  • Instances where you successfully sold a product or service, highlighting your approach.

  • Any personal projects or experiences that demonstrate creativity, attention to detail, or experience with tools (even if not framing-specific).

  • Your understanding of Michaels' products and services, particularly custom framing. Challenge Preparation:

• Be ready to discuss hypothetical customer scenarios:

  • "A customer wants to frame a valuable piece of art but is on a tight budget. How would you help them?"
  • "How would you approach a customer who seems unsure about their framing design choices?"
  • "Describe a time you had to learn a new skill quickly. How did you approach it?"

• Research Michaels' custom framing services and general store offerings to demonstrate genuine interest.

📝 Enhancement Note: While a formal portfolio isn't expected, candidates should prepare to articulate their skills and experiences using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) when discussing past achievements in customer service, sales, and any relevant creative or technical endeavors.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

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

• Custom Framing Equipment: Specific machinery for cutting mats, assembling frames, and finishing orders. This includes:

  • Mat cutters (e.g., Logan, Fletcher)
  • Framing saws/choppers
  • Heat presses (for certain mounting or finishing techniques)
  • Staplers, jointers, and other assembly tools

• Glass Cutter: Essential for custom-cut glass or acrylic for frames.

• Measuring Tools: Tape measures, rulers, calipers for precise measurements.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Basic reporting capabilities within the POS system for sales performance.

• Inventory management software for stock tracking and replenishment. CRM & Automation:

• Customer Relationship Management (CRM) features within the POS system for tracking customer orders and preferences.

• 📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency is not expected for all these tools, but a willingness to learn and adapt to Michaels' specific systems is crucial. The core requirement is the ability to operate framing equipment and glass cutters safely and effectively.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Customer Focus: Prioritizing the customer experience through friendly service, helpfulness, and providing creative solutions.

• Creativity & Passion: Encouraging a love for arts, crafts, and design, and applying it to customer projects.

• Teamwork & Respect: Fostering a collaborative environment where team members support each other and treat everyone with respect.

• Accountability & Integrity: Taking ownership of tasks, adhering to procedures, and handling transactions honestly.

• Efficiency & Quality: Striving for both speed and excellence in framing production and store operations.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Working seamlessly with other sales associates to assist customers across different departments and fulfill Omni-channel orders.

• Process Review & Feedback: Openness to receiving and providing constructive feedback to improve team performance and operational efficiency.

• Knowledge Sharing: Willingness to share best practices and assist colleagues, particularly in learning framing techniques or store procedures.

📝 Enhancement Note: Michaels emphasizes a positive, inclusive culture that celebrates creativity. Team members are expected to be approachable, helpful, and contribute to a welcoming atmosphere for both customers and colleagues.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Sales and Production: Effectively managing customer consultations and sales while also meeting production deadlines for custom framing orders.

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

• Learning Specialized Skills: Mastering the operation of framing equipment and techniques for high-quality results.

• Maintaining Store Standards: Ensuring consistent merchandising, cleanliness, and stock availability alongside framing duties.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Framing Skill Development: Comprehensive training on custom framing techniques, design principles, and equipment operation.

• Sales & Customer Service Training: Programs like "Elevated ABC Deliver" to enhance consultative selling and customer relationship-building skills.

• Product Knowledge: Deepening understanding of various framing materials, art conservation, and display techniques.

• Retail Operations Exposure: Gaining insights into inventory management, visual merchandising, and POS system operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role presents opportunities to develop specialized craft skills and advance in a retail career, with a focus on creative problem-solving and customer engagement.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your approach to helping a customer who is unsure about what they want for their custom framing project."

• "How do you balance customer service demands with production tasks in a busy retail environment?"

• "Tell me about a time you had to learn a new technical skill or operate new equipment. How did you approach it?"

• "What does excellent customer service mean to you, especially in a creative retail setting?" Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about working at Michaels, and specifically in custom framing?"

• "How do you contribute to a positive team environment?"

• "What do you know about Michaels' commitment to creativity and customer inspiration?" Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Since a formal portfolio is not expected, focus on:

  • Articulating your experiences clearly: Use the STAR method to describe relevant situations and your actions.
  • Highlighting transferable skills: Emphasize customer service, problem-solving, attention to detail, and any hands-on experience.
  • Demonstrating enthusiasm: Show genuine interest in the arts, crafts, and helping customers bring their creative visions to life.
  • Asking thoughtful questions: Inquire about the training process for framers, team dynamics, and opportunities for skill development.

📝 Enhancement Note: Prepare to speak confidently about your customer service philosophy and your ability to learn and apply new skills. Demonstrating a positive attitude and a willingness to engage with the creative aspects of the role will be key.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

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

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight any customer service, sales, retail, or hands-on/craft experience. Use keywords from the job description such as "customer service," "sales," "merchandising," "inventory," and "detail-oriented."

• Interview Preparation: Practice answering common retail interview questions, focusing on your ability to handle customer interactions, learn new processes, and work as part of a team. Be ready to discuss your availability for nights and weekends.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Michaels' mission, values, and its custom framing services. Understand the company's commitment to creativity and its role in the arts and crafts market.

• Portfolio Readiness (Verbal): Be prepared to verbally describe instances from your past experience that demonstrate the skills and responsibilities outlined in the job description, particularly customer engagement, problem-solving, and any creative aptitudes.

⚠️ 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.