PT. Framer
π Job Overview
Job Title: PT. Framer
Company: Michaels Stores
Location: Annapolis, Maryland, United States
Job Type: PART_TIME
Category: Retail Operations / Custom Framing Specialist
Date Posted: 2026-05-18
Experience Level: Entry-Level (0-2 years)
Remote Status: On-site
π Role Summary
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Custom Framing Expertise: Design and execute custom framing solutions, acting as a primary point of contact for customers seeking personalized art and fotoΔraf preservation. This involves understanding customer needs, recommending materials, and ensuring high-quality production.
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Customer Engagement & Sales: Build strong customer relationships through elevated service, driving sales of custom framing services and related products. This includes active selling, problem-solving, and creating a memorable shopping experience.
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Store Operations & Merchandising: Maintain the visual standards of the ready-made frame department and other assigned areas, ensuring a clean, safe, and well-merchandised environment that supports customer discovery and purchasing.
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Process Adherence & Efficiency: Strictly follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company programs for all operational tasks, including cash handling, inventory management, and omni-channel processes, to ensure compliance and operational efficiency.
π Enhancement Note: This role, while titled "PT. Framer," involves significant customer-facing responsibilities beyond just framing production. It requires a blend of artistic consultation, sales acumen, and operational execution within a retail environment. The "PT" designation indicates part-time employment, suggesting flexibility in hours but requiring consistent on-site presence. The focus on "Elevated ABC Deliver" and "personal designer" points to a sales-driven approach where building relationships is key to closing custom framing orders.
π Primary Responsibilities
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Customer Consultation & Design:
- Engage customers to understand their custom framing needs, offering expert advice on matting, framing materials, and display options to create personalized solutions.
- Utilize design principles and product knowledge to guide customers towards aesthetically pleasing and functional framing choices that enhance their artwork or memorabilia.
- Act as a "personal designer," leveraging sales techniques to build rapport and drive sales of custom framing services.
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Framing Production & Quality Control:
- Accurately measure, cut, and assemble custom framing orders according to design specifications and quality standards.
- Operate specialized framing equipment, including mat cutters, saws, and assembly tools, safely and efficiently.
- Ensure all completed framing orders are delivered on time and meet the highest standards of craftsmanship and durability.
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Sales & Transaction Management:
- Operate the cash register and execute all cash handling procedures accurately and in compliance with company standards.
- Process customer transactions, including sales, returns, and exchanges, with efficiency and attention to detail.
- Support omni-channel processes, such as buy online, pick up in-store (BOPIS) and ship-from-store, to enhance customer convenience and sales channels.
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Store Presentation & Inventory Management:
- Maintain the visual merchandising standards of the ready-made frame department, ensuring it is attractive, organized, and fully stocked.
- Manage assigned areas, including SISO (Shop In, Ship Out) and Directed Replenishment, to optimize inventory levels and product availability.
- Participate actively in truck un-load and stocking processes, adhering to established standards and timelines to ensure efficient inventory flow.
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Operational Compliance & Safety:
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Adhere to all Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company programs to ensure legal compliance and operational integrity.
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Support and actively participate in company shrink reduction and safety programs to maintain a secure and hazard-free work environment.
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Maintain a safe, clean, and clutter-free store environment for both customers and team members.
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π Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a dual focus on skilled craft (framing production) and customer-facing sales/service. The emphasis on "Elevated ABC Deliver" and "personal designer" suggests a proactive sales approach is expected, where building trust and rapport leads to higher-value custom framing sales. The inclusion of omni-channel processes indicates the need for adaptability to modern retail fulfillment methods.
π Skills & Qualifications
Education:
- No specific degree is listed, implying that practical skills and experience are prioritized over formal education.
Experience:
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Required:
- Minimum of 0-2 years of experience in a role requiring basic computer skills and precise measuring skills.
- Demonstrated ability to operate framing equipment and a glass cutter safely and effectively.
- Experience in a customer-facing role requiring direct interaction and problem-solving.
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Preferred:
- Prior retail experience, particularly in a sales or customer service capacity.
Required Skills:
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Custom Framing Production: Proficiency in operating framing equipment, glass cutting, and assembly techniques.
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Customer Service Excellence: Ability to engage customers, understand needs, offer solutions, and provide a positive shopping experience.
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Sales Acumen: Skills in upselling, cross-selling, and closing custom framing orders through effective consultation and relationship building.
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Measuring & Precision: Strong attention to detail and accuracy in measuring for framing and production.
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Cash Handling & POS Operation: Competence in operating a cash register, managing transactions, and adhering to cash handling protocols.
Preferred Skills:
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Retail Merchandising: Ability to maintain visually appealing product displays and store organization.
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Inventory Management: Familiarity with stock replenishment and inventory control procedures.
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Omni-channel Fulfillment: Understanding and ability to execute processes like BOPIS and ship-from-store.
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Basic Computer Proficiency: Ability to use in-store computer systems for sales, inventory, or customer management.
π Enhancement Note: The qualifications lean towards practical, hands-on skills and customer interaction abilities rather than extensive formal education or advanced technical certifications. The preference for retail and sales experience underscores the role's commercial aspect. The requirement to operate framing equipment suggests a need for dexterity and comfort with tools.
π Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements
Portfolio Essentials:
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Custom Framing Case Studies: Showcase examples of diverse custom framing projects, detailing the customer's initial request, the design process, materials selected, and the final framed product. Highlight how your solutions met or exceeded customer expectations.
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Sales Performance Metrics: If available, present data demonstrating your ability to meet or exceed sales targets, particularly for custom framing services. Quantify achievements related to average order value, conversion rates, or upselling success.
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Process Improvement Examples: Document instances where you identified an opportunity to improve a framing or store process, detailing the steps taken and the positive outcome (e.g., increased efficiency, reduced errors, improved customer satisfaction).
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Customer Service Scenarios: Provide examples of how you handled challenging customer interactions or resolved issues effectively, demonstrating your problem-solving skills and commitment to customer satisfaction.
Process Documentation:
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Workflow Design: Illustrate your understanding of the custom framing workflow from initial consultation to final delivery, highlighting key decision points and quality assurance steps.
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System Usage: Detail your experience with point-of-sale (POS) systems, inventory management tools, or any specific framing software used. Explain how you leveraged these systems to enhance efficiency or accuracy.
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Performance Analysis: Describe how you would track and report on key metrics related to framing sales, production turnaround times, and customer feedback.
π Enhancement Note: For an entry-level role focused on custom framing and retail sales, a formal portfolio might not be strictly required. However, candidates are strongly advised to prepare examples that demonstrate their framing skills, sales successes, and customer service capabilities. This could include a visual presentation of past framing projects (personal or professional), specific examples of sales achievements, and well-articulated customer service scenarios. The ability to discuss processes clearly during an interview will be crucial.
π΅ Compensation & Benefits
Salary Range:
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Estimated Range: $16.25 - $19.10 per hour.
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Explanation: This range is explicitly provided in the job posting for the Annapolis, MD location. It reflects entry-level to slightly experienced retail associate compensation for specialized roles like custom framing, considering the local cost of living and the specific skill set required.
Benefits:
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Health Insurance: Comprehensive coverage including medical, dental, and vision insurance plans.
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Paid Time Off (PTO): Accrued time off for vacation, sick leave, or personal days.
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Tuition Assistance: Support for continuing education and skill development.
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Employee Discounts: Generous discounts on Michaels products, fostering a connection with the brand and its offerings.
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Other Benefits: The company website (mikbenefits.com) suggests a robust benefits package, which may include retirement savings plans (401k), life insurance, disability insurance, and employee assistance programs, depending on eligibility and employment status.
Working Hours:
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Part-Time: This is a part-time position.
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Flexibility: Work hours are expected to include nights, weekends, and early mornings to meet operational needs and customer demand. The exact schedule will vary based on store needs and employee availability.
π Enhancement Note: The provided salary range is specific and competitive for a part-time, on-site retail role requiring specialized skills. The benefits package is a significant draw, particularly for a part-time position, offering substantial support for health and personal development. The flexible scheduling is typical for retail but requires candidates to be available during peak times, including weekends and evenings.
π― Team & Company Context
π’ Company Culture
Industry: Arts and Crafts Retail. Michaels is the leading specialty retailer of arts and crafts supplies in North America.
Company Size: Large Enterprise. Michaels operates over 1,300 stores across the US and Canada, with a significant online presence. This scale implies structured processes, established training programs, and opportunities for advancement within a large corporate framework.
Founded: 1973. With a long history, Michaels has established brand recognition and a deep understanding of the creative consumer market. Headquartered in Irving, Texas.
Team Structure:
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Store-Level Operations: This role is part of a local store team, likely reporting to a Store Manager, Assistant Store Manager, or a dedicated Framing Department Manager.
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Cross-functional Collaboration: While primarily focused on the framing department, this role will collaborate with other store associates for general customer service, inventory, and operational tasks. There will also be interaction with customers from various backgrounds and with diverse creative projects.
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Specialization: The role emphasizes specialization in custom framing, requiring dedicated focus on design, production, and sales within that specific area of the store.
Methodology:
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Customer-Centric Approach: The company emphasizes building customer relationships and providing solutions, particularly through the "Elevated ABC Deliver" and "personal designer" approach in custom framing.
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Process-Driven Operations: Adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) is a key aspect, ensuring consistency, quality, and compliance across all stores.
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Data-Informed Merchandising: While not explicitly detailed for this role, retail operations generally rely on data for inventory management, sales tracking, and visual merchandising strategies.
Company Website: https://www.michaels.com/
π Enhancement Note: Michaels' culture is centered around creativity, customer engagement, and operational efficiency. The company's long history and large footprint suggest a stable work environment with structured career paths. The emphasis on customer relationships and personalized service within the framing department indicates a strong focus on consultative selling and craftsmanship.
π Career & Growth Analysis
Operations Career Level: Entry-Level Specialist. This role is positioned at the foundational level for individuals interested in retail operations, specifically within a specialized department like custom framing. It requires practical skills and customer interaction rather than extensive prior experience.
Reporting Structure: Typically reports to a store-level management team, such as a Framing Department Manager, Assistant Store Manager, or Store Manager. Direct reports are unlikely for this position.
Operations Impact: The PT Framer directly impacts store revenue through custom framing sales and contributes to overall customer satisfaction by providing high-quality products and excellent service. Their work influences customer loyalty and repeat business, particularly for valuable custom framing projects. Efficient operations in the framing department also contribute to overall store productivity and visual appeal.
Growth Opportunities:
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Framing Specialist Advancement: Potential to become a Senior Framer or Framing Department Lead, taking on more complex projects, mentoring new staff, and managing department operations.
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Retail Management Path: Progression into Assistant Store Manager or Store Manager roles, requiring broader retail management skills, P&L responsibility, and team leadership.
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Specialized Retail Roles: Opportunities in visual merchandising, inventory management, or corporate roles within Michaels, leveraging retail experience gained in the store.
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Skill Development: Continuous learning in custom framing techniques, design principles, sales strategies, and retail operations through company training programs and on-the-job experience.
π Enhancement Note: While entry-level, this role offers a clear pathway for growth within Michaels, both within the framing specialization and into broader retail management. The company's size provides ample opportunities for career advancement and skill diversification. The focus on sales and customer service provides transferable skills valuable across many retail and service industries.
π Work Environment
Office Type: Retail Store Environment. This role operates within a public retail store setting.
Office Location(s): Annapolis, Maryland (specifically at 2309 B Forest Dr). The store is a climate-controlled public space, a common feature for retail establishments.
Workspace Context:
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Customer-Facing Areas: Primarily involves direct interaction with customers on the sales floor and within the custom framing design area.
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Production Area: The frame shop is a dedicated workspace where framing equipment and tools are used. This area may have specific safety protocols and material handling requirements.
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Stock Rooms: Some stock room areas may not be climate-controlled, requiring adaptability to varying temperatures.
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Collaborative Environment: Works closely with other store associates, requiring teamwork, communication, and mutual support to ensure smooth store operations and excellent customer service.
Work Schedule:
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Part-Time: Flexible schedule that includes nights, weekends, and early mornings. Availability during peak retail hours is essential.
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Physical Demands: The role requires extended periods of standing, regular bending, lifting (up to 50 lbs for boxes and frames), carrying, reaching, and stretching. Occasional ladder use may be necessary for accessing high shelves.
π Enhancement Note: The work environment is typical of a busy retail store, with a specific focus on the custom framing department. Candidates should be prepared for a physically active role that involves both customer interaction and hands-on production work in a dynamic, on-site setting. The schedule flexibility is a key consideration for applicants.
π Application & Portfolio Review Process
Interview Process:
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Initial Screening: Likely a brief phone or online screening to assess basic qualifications and interest.
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In-Person Interview: This will be the primary interview stage, conducted at the Annapolis store. It will likely involve:
- Behavioral Questions: Assessing customer service skills, problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and handling of past retail situations.
- Situational Questions: Presenting hypothetical scenarios related to custom framing design, customer objections, or operational challenges to gauge decision-making.
- Skills Demonstration: Discussion or practical demonstration of measuring skills, understanding of framing materials, and ability to operate equipment (if feasible within the interview setting).
- Cultural Fit Assessment: Evaluating alignment with Michaels' values of creativity, customer focus, and teamwork.
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Potential Second Interview: May involve meeting with a higher-level manager or a panel for final assessment.
Portfolio Review Tips:
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Visual Presentation: If you have a portfolio (digital or physical), focus on high-quality images of your framing work. Clearly label each piece with the type of project, materials used, and any unique challenges overcome.
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Process Explanation: Be prepared to walk through the steps of a custom framing project, from initial customer consultation to final product delivery. Highlight your design thought process and problem-solving approach.
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Sales & Customer Service Stories: Have 2-3 concise stories ready that demonstrate your ability to build customer relationships, close sales, and handle difficult customer situations effectively. Quantify results where possible.
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Company Alignment: Show you've researched Michaels' brand, values, and customer base. Explain how your skills and approach align with the company's mission to "fuel the joy of creativity."
Challenge Preparation:
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Framing Design Exercise: You might be asked to sketch a framing solution for a specific item (e.g., a photograph, a diploma, a piece of art) given certain constraints or customer preferences.
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Sales Scenario Role-Play: Practice role-playing a sales consultation for custom framing, focusing on active listening, asking probing questions, and presenting solutions.
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Problem-Solving Challenge: Be ready to discuss how you would handle a scenario like a customer unhappy with a completed framing order, or a situation where a desired material is out of stock.
π Enhancement Note: While a formal portfolio might not be a strict requirement for an entry-level retail role, preparing examples of your framing work and sales successes will significantly differentiate you. The interview process will likely be hands-on, assessing practical skills and customer interaction abilities directly.
π Tools & Technology Stack
Primary Tools:
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Custom Framing Equipment: Mat cutters (e.g., Logan, Fletcher), framing saws, assembly tools (e.g., V-nailers, staple guns), possibly heat presses for specific applications. Proficiency and safety in operating these are key.
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Glass Cutting Tools: Essential for custom glass and acrylic sizing.
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Measuring Tools: Tape measures, rulers, calipers for precise measurements.
Analytics & Reporting:
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Point-of-Sale (POS) System: For processing transactions, managing sales data, and potentially customer lookup. Familiarity with retail POS systems is beneficial.
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Inventory Management Systems: Likely used for tracking stock levels, managing replenishment, and processing truck receipts.
CRM & Automation:
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Internal Systems: Michaels likely uses proprietary or standard retail CRM tools for customer data management and loyalty programs. Experience with such systems is a plus.
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Omni-channel Platforms: Systems supporting Buy Online, Pick Up In-Store (BOPIS) and ship-from-store processes.
π Enhancement Note: The core technical requirements revolve around the specialized tools and equipment used in custom framing production. Basic computer skills for POS and inventory systems are also essential. While advanced CRM or automation tools are less likely to be primary responsibilities, understanding how these systems support retail operations is advantageous.
π₯ Team Culture & Values
Operations Values:
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Creativity & Inspiration: Michaels values fostering creativity in both their customers and employees. This role should embody a passion for art, design, and helping others bring their creative visions to life.
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Customer Focus: Prioritizing customer needs, building relationships, and delivering exceptional service is paramount. The "personal designer" aspect highlights this commitment to personalized customer experiences.
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Teamwork & Collaboration: Working effectively with fellow store associates to achieve common goals, support each other, and create a positive work environment.
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Integrity & Accountability: Adhering to company policies, SOPs, and ethical standards in all aspects of work, including cash handling, production quality, and customer interactions.
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Efficiency & Quality: Balancing the need for timely production with a commitment to high-quality craftsmanship in custom framing.
Collaboration Style:
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Cross-functional Integration: Works closely with other sales floor associates to assist customers across departments and manage overall store flow.
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Process-Oriented: Regular collaboration on inventory management, stocking, and maintaining store standards.
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Feedback Exchange: Open to receiving and providing constructive feedback to improve individual performance and team operations, especially within the framing department.
π Enhancement Note: The culture at Michaels is geared towards inspiring creativity and fostering a supportive, customer-centric retail environment. Employees are expected to be team players who can also work independently on specialized tasks like custom framing, all while upholding quality and operational standards.
β‘ Challenges & Growth Opportunities
Challenges:
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Balancing Sales and Production: Effectively managing time to meet both custom framing sales targets and production deadlines for orders.
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Customer Expectations: Handling diverse customer needs and expectations, from simple framing requests to complex artistic visions, and ensuring satisfaction.
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Physical Demands: The role requires significant physical stamina, including prolonged standing, lifting, and repetitive motions.
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Technical Skill Acquisition: Learning to operate specialized framing equipment and mastering precise cutting and assembly techniques.
Learning & Development Opportunities:
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Framing Mastery: Deepen expertise in custom framing techniques, materials, and design principles through on-the-job training and potential specialized workshops.
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Sales & Customer Service Skills: Develop advanced consultative selling techniques, customer relationship management, and conflict resolution skills.
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Retail Operations Knowledge: Gain comprehensive understanding of retail store operations, inventory management, visual merchandising, and omni-channel fulfillment.
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Career Advancement: Clear pathways exist for internal promotion into leadership roles within the store or specialized departments.
π Enhancement Note: The challenges are typical for a specialized retail role that combines skilled labor with customer service and sales. The growth opportunities are substantial, offering a well-defined career progression within a large, established retail organization.
π‘ Interview Preparation
Strategy Questions:
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"Tell me about a time you helped a customer find the perfect solution for a unique project." (Focus on consultative selling, understanding needs, and creative problem-solving.)
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"How do you ensure accuracy and quality when working with detailed measurements and materials?" (Highlight your attention to detail, process adherence, and commitment to craftsmanship.)
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"Describe your experience with custom framing or similar hands-on production work. What equipment are you familiar with?" (Showcase practical skills and comfort with tools/machinery.)
Company & Culture Questions:
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"Why are you interested in working for Michaels, specifically in a custom framing role?" (Connect your passion for creativity, art, or design with Michaels' mission.)
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"How do you stay motivated in a retail environment, especially during busy periods?" (Highlight your work ethic, resilience, and ability to maintain a positive attitude.)
Portfolio Presentation Strategy:
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Showcase Your Best Work: If you have photos of framing projects you've completed (even personal ones), be ready to share them. Explain the design choices, materials, and challenges.
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Quantify Sales Success: If you have sales experience, be prepared with specific examples of how you met or exceeded targets, or how you successfully upsold products/services.
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Articulate Your Process: Clearly describe your approach to custom framing, from initial customer interaction through production and delivery.
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Enthusiasm for Creativity: Convey genuine passion for art, design, and helping customers express their creativity.
π Enhancement Note: Interviews for this role will likely focus on practical skills, customer interaction, and a genuine interest in art and creativity. Be prepared to discuss specific examples from past experiences that demonstrate your capabilities in these areas.
π Application Steps
To apply for this operations position:
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Submit your application through the provided Workday job portal link.
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Resume Customization: Tailor your resume to highlight any experience with custom framing, art, design, sales, or customer service. Use keywords like "custom framing," "sales," "customer service," "measuring skills," and "retail operations."
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Prepare Your "Portfolio": Even without a formal portfolio, mentally prepare specific examples of your framing work (if any), your approach to customer service interactions, and any sales achievements. Be ready to discuss these with concrete details.
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Research Michaels: Understand the company's mission, values, and product offerings, particularly their commitment to creativity and customer experience. Familiarize yourself with the types of framing services they offer.
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Practice Interview Responses: Rehearse answers to common retail interview questions, focusing on behavioral and situational scenarios relevant to this role, and practice articulating your skills and enthusiasm.
β οΈ 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 stand for long periods and lift heavy boxes is necessary.