PT Framer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: PT Framer

Company: Michaels Stores

Location: Middletown, CT, United States

Job Type: Part time

Category: Retail Operations / Custom Framing Specialist

Date Posted: August 31, 2026

Experience Level: Entry Level (0-2 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is critical for driving in-store revenue through expert custom framing consultations and sales, directly impacting store performance.

• Responsibilities include maintaining visual merchandising standards and ensuring an optimal customer shopping experience within the retail environment.

• The position requires hands-on operation of specialized framing equipment and adherence to operational efficiency protocols.

• Candidates will engage in building strong customer relationships, fostering loyalty and repeat business through personalized service and product solutions.

• This role contributes to the overall operational efficiency of the store, including inventory management and supporting omni-channel initiatives.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "PT Framer," the responsibilities and required skills indicate a role that blends direct sales, customer service, and specialized production within a retail setting. This is not a typical "operations" role in the sense of back-office process optimization, but rather a customer-facing operations role focused on a specific department's success. The "operations" aspect here refers to the efficient management of the framing department's workflow, inventory, and customer interactions.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Customer Engagement & Sales:

  • Build and maintain strong customer relationships by providing Elevated ABC Deliver, fostering a memorable framing experience.
  • Act as a personal designer, guiding customers through custom framing solutions to meet their art and display needs.
  • Drive sales and production targets within the Custom Framing department.
  • Acknowledge customers promptly, assist with product location, and offer tailored solutions.

• Production & Quality Control:

  • Complete custom framing orders with a high degree of quality and within established timelines.
  • Operate framing equipment, including glass cutters and heat presses, safely and efficiently.
  • Ensure all finished products meet company standards for craftsmanship and presentation.

• Store Operations & Merchandising:

  • Maintain the ready-made frame department, SISO (Sale In, Store Out), and directed replenishment areas to high visual standards.
  • Ensure a safe, clean, and clutter-free store environment for customers and team members.
  • Assist with truck un-loading and stocking processes, adhering to established truck standards and completing tasks within budget.
  • Operate the cash register and execute cash handling procedures accurately and according to standards.

• Process Adherence & Compliance:

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

  • Support and participate in shrink and safety programs, promoting a secure and risk-averse environment.

  • Participate in Omni-channel processes, supporting online order fulfillment and in-store pickup.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities emphasize a dual focus on direct sales/customer interaction and hands-on production/merchandising. For an operations-focused candidate, highlighting experience with process adherence (SOPs), inventory management (replenishment, truck unloads), and efficiency in production (timely orders, equipment operation) will be key.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• No formal education requirements are specified, suggesting that on-the-job training will be provided for technical skills. Experience:

• 0-2 years of experience is ideal, indicating an entry-level position open to individuals new to retail or specialized craft roles. Required Skills:

• Basic Computer Skills: Ability to navigate point-of-sale systems, potentially order management software, and basic digital tools.

• Basic Measuring Skills: Precision and accuracy in taking measurements for framing projects are essential.

• Framing Equipment Operation: Proficiency or ability to learn to operate framing equipment, glass cutters, and heat presses safely and effectively.

• Customer Service Excellence: Ability to engage customers, understand their needs, and provide solutions in a friendly and helpful manner.

• Sales Acumen: Aptitude for identifying sales opportunities and guiding customers toward purchasing custom framing solutions.

• Adherence to Procedures: Willingness and ability to follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company guidelines.

Preferred Skills:

• Retail Experience: Prior experience in a retail environment, understanding customer flow, merchandising, and sales floor operations.

• Sales Experience: Proven ability to sell products or services, demonstrating persuasive communication and closing skills.

• Visual Merchandising: An eye for detail and ability to maintain attractive and organized displays.

• Art/Design Aptitude: A basic understanding or appreciation for art and design principles can be beneficial for framing consultations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Required Skills" focus heavily on practical, hands-on abilities and customer interaction. For operations candidates, emphasizing the "Adherence to Procedures" and any experience with inventory management or process flow (even in a basic retail context) would be valuable. The "Preferred Skills" highlight a desire for candidates who can hit the ground running with customer-facing responsibilities.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Customer Interaction Case Studies: Examples of how you've built rapport with customers, understood their needs, and provided solutions, ideally leading to a sale or positive outcome.

• Process Adherence Examples: Documentation or descriptions of how you've followed specific procedures or SOPs in previous roles, demonstrating reliability and attention to detail.

• Visual Merchandising Examples: Photos or descriptions of displays you've created or maintained, showcasing an understanding of presentation standards.

• Efficiency Improvement Contributions (if applicable): Any instances where you've identified a way to streamline a task or improve workflow, even in a small capacity.

Process Documentation:

• While a formal portfolio isn't explicitly requested, demonstrating an understanding of how to document and follow processes is crucial. Be prepared to discuss:
  • Workflow Design: How you would approach a new framing order from consultation to completion.
  • Implementation & Automation: How you ensure tasks are completed efficiently, using available tools (e.g., POS system, order forms).
  • Measurement & Analysis: How you would track your personal sales performance or production turnaround time.

📝 Enhancement Note: For this role, a traditional "operations" portfolio demonstrating complex system implementations or large-scale process re-engineering is not expected. Instead, the emphasis should be on showcasing an understanding of operational excellence within a customer-facing, production-oriented retail environment. Focus on how you manage your daily tasks, interact with customers, ensure quality, and follow established procedures.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Estimated Range: $16.75 - $19.70 per hour.

• Explanation: This range is provided directly in the job posting and aligns with entry-level retail positions in the Middletown, CT area, considering the part-time nature and specialized skill set (framing). Regional cost of living and typical retail wages for similar roles were considered.

Benefits:

• Core Benefits (Eligibility may vary based on hours/tenure):

  • 401(k) with employer match
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Medical coverage
  • Dental coverage
  • Vision coverage
  • Telemedicine services
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)
  • Commuter benefits

• Additional Perks:

  • Tuition assistance

  • Adoption assistance

  • Various voluntary insurance options

  • Employee discounts on Michaels products

  • Access to partner discount programs Working Hours:

• This is a part-time position. Specific hours will vary and may include nights, weekends, and early mornings, as is typical for retail environments. The total weekly hours are not explicitly defined but are expected to be less than full-time (40 hours).

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is explicitly stated, so no estimation is needed. The benefits listed are comprehensive for a retail position, with many options available depending on eligibility. Highlighting the employee discount can be a strong selling point for candidates interested in crafting and art supplies.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Arts & Crafts Retail. Michaels is the largest specialty arts and crafts retail chain in North America.

Company Size: Over 1,300 stores in the US and Canada, indicating a large, established retail operation with significant logistical and operational frameworks.

Founded: 1973, headquartered in Irving, Texas. This long history suggests a stable company with established processes and a strong brand presence.

Team Structure:

• Store Level: The Framer will be part of a store team, likely reporting to a Store Manager or Assistant Manager. They will work alongside other sales associates and potentially a dedicated framing department lead or manager.

• Departmental Focus: The framing department operates as a specialized unit within the larger store, requiring collaboration with other departments for general store tasks.

• Cross-functional Collaboration: Expected to collaborate with team members on truck unloads, stocking, customer service across departments, and omni-channel fulfillment.

Methodology:

• Customer-Centric Approach: Emphasis on building customer relationships and providing personalized solutions (Elevated ABC Deliver).

• Process-Driven Operations: Strict adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for consistency, compliance, and efficiency.

• Data-Informed Merchandising: Utilizing directed replenishment and SISO to maintain optimal stock levels and visual appeal.

• Efficiency and Productivity: Focus on completing orders on time and supporting overall store operational flow.

Company Website: www.michaels.com

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's scale and history suggest a structured environment with well-defined operational procedures. For an operations candidate, this means an opportunity to learn and apply established best practices in a high-volume retail setting. Understanding the company's mission ("fuel the joy of creativity and celebration") is key to aligning with their culture.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Entry-Level Retail Specialist. This role is designed for individuals starting their careers or transitioning into a retail operational capacity with a specialized function. It involves direct customer interaction and production tasks rather than high-level strategic operations planning.

Reporting Structure: Typically reports to a Store Manager or Assistant Manager, with potential direct oversight from a Framing Department Manager or Lead if the store structure includes one. The role involves working as part of the broader store team.

Operations Impact:

• Direct Revenue Generation: The Framer directly contributes to store sales through custom framing consultations and order fulfillment.

• Customer Experience: Plays a vital role in shaping the customer's perception of Michaels' quality and service, particularly in the framing department.

• Operational Efficiency: Efficiently managing framing orders, maintaining department standards, and assisting with general store operations contributes to the overall smooth functioning of the retail location.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Develop expertise in custom framing techniques, design consultation, and operating specialized equipment.

• Retail Management Track: Potential to move into roles like Key Holder, Assistant Manager, or Store Manager by demonstrating strong performance, leadership potential, and operational understanding.

• Cross-Departmental Experience: Gain exposure to various retail operations, from merchandising and inventory to customer service and sales.

• Training and Development: Access to company training programs for product knowledge, sales techniques, and operational procedures.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a candidate coming from a more traditional operations background, this role represents a shift towards customer-facing operational execution. Growth opportunities are primarily within the retail management structure of Michaels, leveraging the operational skills gained in the framing role.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Public Retail Store Setting. The primary work environment is the sales floor and the dedicated framing shop within a Michaels store.

Office Location(s): Middletown, CT (88-5 Dunning Rd). The role is tied to a specific physical location.

Workspace Context:

• Customer Interaction Hub: The framing area is a customer-facing space where consultations and order placements occur.

• Production Area: The framing shop is equipped with specialized tools and machinery (glass cutter, heat press), requiring a focus on safety and organization.

• Collaborative Atmosphere: Works as part of a larger store team, requiring interaction with colleagues for various tasks and customer assistance.

• Tools & Technology: Access to point-of-sale (POS) systems for transactions and order management, as well as framing-specific equipment.

Work Schedule:

• Part-time hours.

• Must be available for nights, weekends, and early mornings.

• The work environment is climate-controlled in public areas, with potential for less controlled conditions in stock rooms. Some outdoor work may be required for tasks like retrieving carts or during truck unloads.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is dynamic and customer-focused. Candidates should be comfortable with a fast-paced retail setting, direct customer interaction, and hands-on production work. The mention of potential non-climate-controlled stock rooms or outdoor work is relevant for operations candidates accustomed to varied work environments.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Application: Submit resume and complete the online application.

• Screening Call: A brief phone call with an HR representative or hiring manager to discuss qualifications, availability, and basic fit.

• In-Person Interview: This will likely involve a discussion about your customer service philosophy, sales approach, and how you handle common retail scenarios. Be prepared to discuss your experience with the required skills (measuring, computer basics).

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

• Store Walkthrough/Observation: You might be asked to walk the store, observe merchandising, or assist with a customer interaction to gauge your aptitude.

• Final Offer: Based on interview performance and assessment.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Focus on Customer Service & Sales: Since this is a customer-facing role, highlight instances where you've provided excellent customer service, resolved issues, or driven sales.

• Demonstrate Process Following: If you have examples of following SOPs, managing inventory, or ensuring order accuracy, present them.

• Highlight Technical Aptitude: Mention any experience with tools, equipment, or technical tasks that demonstrate your ability to learn and operate framing machinery.

• Visual Examples (Optional but helpful): If you have photos of displays you've created or organized, or examples of projects where you've paid attention to detail, these can be beneficial.

• Tailor to Michaels: Research Michaels' brand, customer base, and framing services to show you understand their specific market.

Challenge Preparation:

• Scenario-Based Questions: Be ready for questions like:

  • "A customer wants a frame for a very unusual piece of art. How would you help them?"
  • "How do you handle a situation where a customer is unhappy with a completed order?"
  • "How would you prioritize tasks if you had a framing order due, a truck to unload, and customers needing assistance on the floor?"

• Sales Pitch Practice: Practice articulating the value of custom framing and how it enhances artwork.

• Process Adherence Discussion: Be prepared to discuss why following SOPs is important in a retail environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will likely be geared towards assessing customer service, sales aptitude, and the ability to learn technical skills. A "portfolio" here is less about formal documentation and more about being able to speak to specific examples of your skills and experiences that align with the role's requirements.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Point-of-Sale (POS) System: For processing transactions, managing customer orders, and potentially inventory lookups. Proficiency with retail POS systems is expected.

• Framing Equipment:

  • Glass Cutter: For precise cutting of glass or acrylic for frames.
  • Heat Press: Used in some framing processes, likely for applying adhesives or mounting materials.
  • Mat Cutters & Framing Tools: Various tools for cutting mats, assembling frames, and finishing products.

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

Analytics & Reporting:

• Sales Reporting: While likely managed by store leadership, the Framer will be responsible for their individual sales performance, which contributes to store-level reports.

• Inventory Management Systems: Used for tracking stock levels of frames, mats, and supplies (e.g., SISO, Directed Replenishment).

CRM & Automation:

• Customer Relationship Management (CRM): Basic CRM functionalities are integrated into the POS system for customer order history and contact information. The "Elevated ABC Deliver" approach suggests a focus on personalized customer interactions that build loyalty.

• Omni-channel Support: Systems to manage online orders for in-store pickup or custom fulfillment.

📝 Enhancement Note: A candidate with experience on any retail POS system will have a strong advantage. Familiarity with custom framing software or design tools would be a significant plus, though not explicitly required. The emphasis is on hands-on tool usage and basic digital literacy for transactional purposes.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Customer Focus: Prioritizing customer needs and creating positive, memorable experiences is central to the role and company mission.

• Quality & Craftsmanship: Commitment to delivering high-quality custom framing solutions that meet customer expectations.

• Efficiency & Productivity: Striving to complete tasks accurately and on time, contributing to smooth store operations and sales targets.

• Teamwork & Collaboration: Working effectively with colleagues to support store-wide goals, including sales, stocking, and customer service.

• Integrity & Compliance: Adhering to company policies, SOPs, and safety standards to ensure a secure and ethical work environment.

Collaboration Style:

• Team-Oriented: The role requires close collaboration with other store associates to ensure seamless customer service and operational flow.

• Customer-Led Interaction: While part of a team, the Framer primarily interacts with customers to fulfill their specific needs in the framing department.

• Process-Driven Communication: Clear communication of order details, customer requirements, and any operational issues is essential for smooth workflow.

• Feedback Exchange: Openness to receiving feedback on performance, sales techniques, and production quality to drive continuous improvement.

📝 Enhancement Note: Michaels emphasizes a culture that is both customer-centric and process-oriented. For an operations candidate, understanding how to balance individual task completion with team support and adhering to standardized procedures will be key to success. The company's commitment to inclusion and diversity ("We are here for all Team Members and all customers") is also a significant cultural aspect.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Multiple Demands: Juggling customer consultations, order production, merchandising, and general store support simultaneously.

• Technical Skill Acquisition: Quickly learning to operate framing equipment and mastering custom framing techniques.

• Customer Expectations Management: Effectively guiding customers on design choices, timelines, and pricing for custom framing to ensure satisfaction.

• Sales Performance Pressure: Meeting or exceeding individual sales targets within the framing department.

• Physical Demands: The role requires standing for long periods, lifting, and repetitive motions.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Framing Expertise: Deepen knowledge in various framing styles, matting techniques, glass types, and preservation methods.

• Sales & Design Skills: Develop consultative selling skills and an understanding of design principles applicable to custom framing.

• Retail Operations Fundamentals: Gain practical experience in merchandising, inventory management, cash handling, and customer service within a large retail chain.

• Career Advancement: Potential pathway into retail management roles within Michaels, leveraging operational and customer service skills.

• Product Knowledge: Extensive learning about the wide range of arts and crafts products offered by Michaels.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an operations professional, the challenge lies in adapting to a customer-facing, production-heavy role. The growth opportunities are primarily within the retail sector, focusing on building a foundation in sales, customer service, and specialized production.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you helped a customer find the perfect solution for their needs." (Focus on your consultative approach, problem-solving, and successful outcome.)

• "How would you approach a customer who is unsure about the design or cost of custom framing?" (Highlight your ability to guide, educate, and manage expectations.)

• "Imagine you have a framing order due today, a new shipment of frames to unpack, and a customer asking for help on the sales floor. How would you prioritize?" (Demonstrate your ability to multitask, prioritize based on urgency and impact, and communicate effectively.)

• "Why are Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) important in a retail environment like Michaels?" (Emphasize consistency, quality control, safety, and customer experience.)

• "How do you ensure the quality of your work, especially when dealing with custom products?" (Discuss attention to detail, adherence to specifications, and quality checks.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Michaels Stores and our custom framing services?" (Research their website, focus on their mission, and the importance of framing.)

• "How do you contribute to a positive team environment?" (Share examples of collaboration, helpfulness, and positive attitude.)

• "What does 'customer service excellence' mean to you in a retail setting?" (Connect it to building relationships, providing solutions, and creating memorable experiences.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Verbal Examples: Since a formal portfolio is unlikely, be prepared to verbally present specific examples from your past experiences that align with the job requirements.

• STAR Method: Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers to behavioral questions, showcasing concrete achievements.

• Highlight Relevant Skills: Emphasize any experience with tools, precise work, customer interaction, sales, or following instructions.

• Showcase Enthusiasm: Express genuine interest in custom framing, art, and helping customers bring their visions to life.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview will likely assess your customer service skills, sales aptitude, ability to follow procedures, and technical learning potential. Prepare specific examples that demonstrate these qualities, using the STAR method for behavioral questions.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this PT Framer position at Michaels Stores:

• Submit Your Application: Navigate to the provided job link and complete the online application thoroughly.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight customer service, sales experience, any technical or hands-on skills, and examples of following procedures. Quantify achievements where possible (e.g., "Assisted X customers daily," "Maintained visual standards for Y department").

• Portfolio Preparation (Verbal): Prepare to discuss specific examples from your work history that demonstrate your ability to build customer relationships, sell products/services, follow instructions, and perform precise tasks. Think about 2-3 strong examples using the STAR method.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Michaels' mission, values, product offerings (especially custom framing), and their commitment to customers and team members. Understand their brand positioning in the arts and crafts market.

• Interview Practice: Practice answering common retail interview questions, focusing on your customer service approach, problem-solving skills, and ability to learn new technical skills. Be ready to discuss your availability for nights, weekends, and early mornings.

⚠️ 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.