PT Framer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: PT Framer

Company: Michaels Stores

Location: Carlsbad, New Mexico, United States

Job Type: Part time

Category: Retail Operations / Custom Framing Specialist

Date Posted: August 05, 2026

Experience Level: Entry Level (0-2 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is focused on providing exceptional customer service within a retail environment, specifically in the custom framing department.

• Key responsibilities include building customer relationships, understanding their needs, and designing memorable framing solutions for their art and memorabilia.

• The position involves operating specialized framing equipment and adhering to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for sales, production, and store maintenance.

• A strong emphasis is placed on maintaining a safe, clean, and well-merchandised store environment to enhance the customer shopping experience.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "PT Framer," the description clearly indicates a customer-facing retail role with specialized framing duties. This is not a back-office operations role but rather a front-line operations position within a retail setting, directly impacting customer satisfaction and sales. The "Operations" category is interpreted broadly to encompass the operational execution of sales, service, and production within the store.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Customer Engagement & Solution Design:

  • Actively engage with customers to build relationships and understand their framing needs using the "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodology.
  • Design and propose custom framing solutions that meet customer expectations for their art and cherished items.
  • Drive sales and production targets by effectively presenting framing options and closing orders.

• Production & Quality Assurance:

  • Accurately complete framing orders, ensuring high-quality craftsmanship and on-time delivery.
  • Operate framing equipment, including glass cutters and heat presses, safely and efficiently.

• Store Operations & Merchandising:

  • Maintain the ready-made frame department, ensuring it is well-organized and visually appealing.
  • Assist with SISO (Sales In Store, Order Out) and Directed Replenishment processes to ensure optimal stock levels.
  • Contribute to a safe, clean, and clutter-free environment throughout the store.

• Sales & Transaction Processing:

  • Operate the cash register and execute cash handling procedures according to company standards.
  • Assist customers in locating products and provide solutions to their needs.
  • Support Omni-channel processes, such as in-store pickup or online order fulfillment.

• Team Collaboration & Compliance:

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

  • Participate actively in truck unloading and stocking processes, following established standards and timelines.

  • Uphold shrink and safety programs, promoting a secure and efficient work environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities are framed around direct customer interaction and in-store operational execution. The emphasis on "Elevated ABC Deliver" suggests a structured sales and customer service approach, which is a key operational component in retail environments.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: No specific educational degree is listed as a minimum requirement. The focus is on practical skills and experience.

Experience:

• A minimum of 0-2 years of experience is generally expected for entry-level roles.

• Experience in retail environments is preferred.

• Prior experience in selling products or services to customers is highly advantageous. Required Skills:

• Basic computer skills for operating systems and potentially POS software.

• Basic measuring skills for accurate framing specifications.

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

• Strong customer service orientation and interpersonal skills for relationship building.

• Cash handling proficiency and experience with point-of-sale (POS) systems.

• Merchandising skills to maintain an appealing store presentation. Preferred Skills:

• Retail sales experience, with a proven track record of meeting sales targets.

• Experience in custom framing or a related artistic/craft field.

• Familiarity with operating a heat press for framing applications.

• Knowledge of inventory replenishment and stock management principles.

• Ability to adapt to Omni-channel retail processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirements emphasize practical, hands-on skills rather than formal education, typical for entry-level retail positions. The inclusion of specific equipment operation (framing equipment, glass cutter, heat press) highlights the technical aspects of the role.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• While a formal portfolio is not explicitly requested, candidates are encouraged to demonstrate their capabilities through examples of past work or projects that highlight their skills in:
  • Customer Interaction & Problem Solving: Examples of how you've addressed customer needs or resolved issues in a retail or service setting.
  • Design & Aesthetics: Showcase any personal projects or past work that demonstrates an eye for design, color, and composition, particularly relevant to framing.
  • Process Adherence: Ability to follow established procedures and standards, as demonstrated through past roles.
  • Sales Achievement: Quantifiable results from previous sales roles, if applicable, showing how you met or exceeded targets.

Process Documentation:

• Candidates are expected to understand and adhere to documented processes:
  • Workflow Design & Optimization: While not designing, understanding how the framing order process flows from customer consultation to completion is crucial.
  • Implementation & Automation: Familiarity with how equipment and systems (like POS) facilitate the workflow.
  • Measurement & Performance Analysis: Understanding how sales and production metrics are tracked and how individual performance contributes to overall store goals.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an entry-level retail role like this, a formal "portfolio" is less common. The emphasis will be on demonstrating skills and experience through resume details, interview discussions, and potentially a practical assessment during the interview process. The "portfolio" concept here translates to showcasing relevant past experiences and skills.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $17.00 - $20.00 per hour

Explanation: This range is based on the provided salary information and aligns with typical entry-level retail positions requiring specialized skills in the current US market, particularly in regions with a moderate cost of living. The range reflects varying levels of experience and performance within the specified parameters.

Benefits:

• Retirement Savings: 401(k) with employer match.

• Health & Wellness:

  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for confidential support.
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage options.
  • Telemedicine services for convenient healthcare access.

• Financial Flexibility:

  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) for healthcare and dependent care.
  • Commuter benefits to assist with transportation costs.

• Professional Development:

  • Tuition assistance for continued education.
  • Adoption assistance to support family growth.

• Employee Perks:

  • Employee discounts on Michaels products and services.

  • Access to partner discount programs. Working Hours: This is a part-time position. The total expected work hours are 40 hours per week, but as a part-time role, this would be allocated across multiple shifts. Work hours will include nights, weekends, and early mornings as required by retail operational needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided salary range is specific and actionable. The benefits listed are comprehensive and typical for a retail organization of Michaels' size. The working hours clarify the part-time nature while indicating the need for flexibility.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Retail (Arts and Crafts, Custom Framing)

Company Size: Large (Over 1,000 employees, operating over 1,300 stores)

Founded: 1973, headquartered in Irving, Texas. Michaels is a leading destination for creating and celebrating, operating stores across North America and online.

Team Structure:

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

• Cross-functional Collaboration: Will interact with various store associates, including sales floor staff, cashiers, and potentially inventory/stock associates. Collaboration is essential for maintaining store appearance and customer flow.

• Departmental Focus: The primary focus is on the Custom Framing department, requiring close collaboration with other framers or department specialists to manage workload and customer consultations.

Methodology:

• Customer-Centric Approach: The company emphasizes building customer relationships and providing memorable solutions ("Elevated ABC Deliver").

• Process-Oriented Operations: Adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) is critical for consistency in sales, production, and safety.

• Data-Driven Merchandising: While not directly analytical, the role contributes to maintaining a well-merchandised store, implying an understanding of visual standards and product placement.

Company Website: www.michaels.com

📝 Enhancement Note: The company context highlights Michaels as a major player in the arts and crafts retail sector. The culture is customer-focused with a strong emphasis on operational procedures and team collaboration within a store environment.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This "PT Framer" position represents an entry-level to early-career role within the retail operations framework. It's a hands-on position focused on customer service, sales, and specific production tasks within the custom framing department.

Reporting Structure: Typically reports to a Store Manager or an Assistant Store Manager, with direct supervision from a Framing Department Lead or Manager if one exists at the location.

Operations Impact: The role directly impacts store revenue through custom framing sales and customer loyalty through exceptional service. Efficient handling of framing orders and maintaining department presentation contributes to overall store operational efficiency and profitability.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Development: Opportunity to become highly skilled in custom framing techniques, design consultation, and operating specialized equipment.

• Retail Advancement: Potential to advance to roles such as Senior Framer, Framing Department Manager, Assistant Store Manager, or Store Manager within Michaels.

• Cross-Training: Possibility of cross-training in other store departments, expanding operational knowledge within the retail environment.

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in custom framing, potentially leading to specialized roles or responsibilities within larger operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a clear path for growth within Michaels' retail structure, starting with foundational customer service and production skills and potentially leading to management or specialized roles.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Public retail store setting.

Office Location(s): Carlsbad, California (specifically 3445 Via Montebello). The store environment is a climate-controlled public space.

Workspace Context:

• Customer-Facing Areas: Primarily working on the sales floor and within the custom framing department, interacting directly with customers.

• Production Area: The frame shop is a dedicated workspace equipped with specialized tools like a glass cutter and heat press.

• Stock Rooms: May involve working in stock rooms, which might not always be climate-controlled.

• Collaboration: Frequent interaction with other team members to support customer needs and operational tasks.

Work Schedule: This is a part-time position. Work hours will include nights, weekends, and early mornings, reflecting the demands of a retail environment. Flexibility is key to accommodate customer traffic and operational needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is dynamic and customer-focused, requiring adaptability to different tasks and times of day. The frame shop itself presents a unique, hands-on workspace.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of application and resume to assess basic qualifications, experience, and alignment with required skills.

• In-Person Interview: Typically involves a conversation with the hiring manager (Store Manager or Assistant Manager) to discuss experience, customer service philosophy, and problem-solving abilities. This may include situational questions related to customer interactions and handling difficult situations.

• Skills Assessment: Potential for a practical demonstration of measuring skills, basic computer proficiency, or a discussion about how they would approach a framing consultation.

• Team Interaction: May involve meeting other team members to assess cultural fit and collaborative potential.

• Final Offer: Based on interview performance, skills assessment, and cultural fit.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Resume Focus: Highlight specific achievements in customer service, sales, and any experience with design or craft-related tasks. Quantify results where possible (e.g., "Increased framing sales by X%").

• Showcase Relevant Skills: If you have any examples of past framing projects, design work, or strong customer service scenarios, be prepared to discuss them verbally.

• Demonstrate Understanding: Articulate your understanding of the "Elevated ABC Deliver" approach and how you would apply it to build customer relationships.

• Problem-Solving Scenarios: Prepare examples of how you have handled customer complaints or difficult sales situations effectively.

Challenge Preparation:

• Customer Consultation Simulation: Be ready to role-play a customer consultation for a framing project, demonstrating your ability to listen, ask clarifying questions, and propose solutions.

• Operational Scenarios: Prepare to discuss how you would ensure a clean and well-merchandised department, manage inventory tasks, or handle a busy period at the cash register.

• Company Values: Understand Michaels' mission and values and be prepared to explain how your approach aligns with them.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for this role will likely focus on practical skills, customer service aptitude, and cultural fit, rather than a formal portfolio review. Preparation should focus on behavioral questions and demonstrating relevant retail and customer-facing experience.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• POS System: For processing sales, returns, and managing customer transactions.

• Custom Framing Equipment: Including mat cutters, frame saws, jointers, and potentially specialized cutting tools.

• Glass Cutting Tools: For precise sizing of glass or acrylic for frames.

• Heat Press: Used in some framing processes.

• Basic Computer Systems: For accessing company information, training modules, and potentially inventory management.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not directly responsible for analytics, the role contributes to data through sales transactions.

• Understanding basic sales performance metrics (e.g., sales per hour, units per transaction) would be beneficial. CRM & Automation:

• Customer Relationship Management (CRM) aspect: Building customer relationships through personalized service and understanding their needs. The "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodology likely incorporates CRM principles.

• Inventory Management Systems: May be used for tracking stock of framing materials and ready-made frames.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is primarily focused on retail point-of-sale and specialized production equipment. Proficiency with basic computer systems and the ability to learn new equipment quickly are key.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Customer Focus: Prioritizing customer needs and delivering exceptional service is paramount.

• Creativity & Passion: Embracing the company's mission to fuel the joy of creativity.

• Teamwork & Collaboration: Working effectively with colleagues to achieve store goals and provide a seamless customer experience.

• Integrity & Accountability: Adhering to company policies, procedures, and ethical standards in all actions.

• Efficiency & Quality: Striving for high-quality work and efficient processes, particularly in custom framing production.

Collaboration Style:

• Supportive & Helpful: Team members are expected to assist each other in serving customers and completing tasks.

• Communication-Oriented: Open communication is encouraged to address customer needs, operational challenges, and share best practices.

• Process-Driven: Collaborating within established SOPs to ensure consistency and efficiency across the team.

📝 Enhancement Note: Michaels' culture appears to be a blend of creative passion, customer-centricity, and operational discipline, fostering a collaborative and supportive team environment.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Multiple Responsibilities: Juggling customer service, sales consultations, production tasks, and general store upkeep simultaneously.

• Managing Customer Expectations: Effectively meeting the diverse needs and expectations of customers seeking custom framing solutions.

• Learning Specialized Skills: Mastering the operation of framing equipment and developing design consultation skills.

• Adapting to Retail Demands: Working flexible hours, including nights and weekends, and handling the fast-paced retail environment.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Framing Expertise: Develop deep knowledge and skills in custom framing, design principles, and materials.

• Sales & Customer Service Training: Enhance abilities in consultative selling, relationship building, and conflict resolution.

• Operational Proficiency: Gain experience in retail operations, including inventory management, merchandising, and POS systems.

• Potential for Leadership: Opportunities to grow into supervisory or management roles within Michaels stores.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role presents opportunities for skill development in a specialized area (framing) while providing a solid foundation in customer service and retail operations. Challenges are typical for customer-facing retail roles.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Customer Service Philosophy: "Describe your approach to customer service. How do you build rapport with customers, especially those who may be undecided or have specific needs?" (Focus on active listening, empathy, and solution-oriented responses).

• Problem-Solving in Retail: "Tell me about a time you had to handle a difficult customer or resolve a challenging situation. What was your approach, and what was the outcome?" (Prepare a STAR method example).

• Sales Approach: "How would you approach selling custom framing to a customer who might be on a budget or unsure about the value?" (Emphasize understanding needs, highlighting quality, and offering options).

Company & Culture Questions:

• Company Mission: "What do you know about Michaels, and why are you interested in working here?" (Research their mission, values, and product offerings).

• Teamwork: "How do you contribute to a positive team environment? Give an example of when you collaborated effectively with colleagues." (Focus on support, communication, and shared goals).

• Adaptability: "This role requires working varied hours, including nights and weekends. How do you manage your schedule and prioritize tasks in a flexible work environment?" (Highlight flexibility and time management skills).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Resume Walkthrough: Be prepared to walk through your resume, highlighting experiences and skills most relevant to customer service, sales, and any creative or hands-on work.

• Scenario-Based Discussions: Instead of a formal presentation, be ready to discuss hypothetical scenarios related to customer consultations, design challenges, or operational tasks.

• Highlighting Achievements: Use specific examples to showcase your accomplishments, particularly in areas like customer satisfaction, sales performance, or efficient task completion.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on behavioral questions, situational judgment, and demonstrating a strong understanding of customer service and retail operations within the context of Michaels.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

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

• Resume Customization: Tailor your resume to highlight customer service experience, any sales achievements, and any relevant creative or hands-on skills (e.g., crafting, art, design, previous framing experience). Use keywords from the job description like "customer service," "sales," "framing," and "merchandising."

• Prepare for Behavioral Questions: Anticipate questions about your customer service approach, how you handle difficult situations, and your experience in sales. Practice using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers.

• Research Michaels: Familiarize yourself with Michaels' mission, values, product offerings, and their emphasis on creativity and customer experience. Understand their "Elevated ABC Deliver" approach.

• Highlight Practical Skills: Be ready to discuss your comfort level with operating equipment, basic computer skills, and your ability to learn new processes quickly. If you have any portfolio pieces (photos of past work, design projects), be prepared to describe them verbally during the interview.

⚠️ 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.

---