PT Framer
π Job Overview
Job Title: PT Framer
Company: Michaels Stores
Location: Vienna, Virginia, United States
Job Type: PART_TIME
Category: Retail Operations / Custom Framing Specialist
Date Posted: June 18, 2026
Experience Level: 0-2 Years
Remote Status: On-site
π Role Summary
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This role focuses on delivering exceptional customer service within a retail environment, specifically in the custom framing department.
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Key responsibilities include building customer relationships, providing creative framing solutions, and ensuring sales and production targets are met.
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The position requires adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for sales, production, and store maintenance, including inventory management and cash handling.
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It involves creating a welcoming and well-organized store environment, assisting with Omni channel processes, and contributing to overall store operations.
π Enhancement Note: While the title is "PT Framer," the responsibilities clearly indicate a customer-facing retail role with a specialization in custom framing. This is not purely an operations or back-end role but heavily involves customer interaction and sales, requiring a blend of sales skills, operational execution, and technical framing knowledge. The "PT" signifies part-time employment.
π Primary Responsibilities
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Customer Engagement & Sales:
- Build strong customer relationships by actively engaging with shoppers and understanding their needs for custom framing solutions.
- Utilize "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodology to foster loyalty and drive sales within the Custom Framing department.
- Provide expert consultation on framing options, materials, and design to meet customer expectations and project requirements.
- Achieve individual sales and production targets for custom framing orders.
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Framing Production & Quality:
- Accurately complete custom framing orders, ensuring high-quality craftsmanship and timely delivery.
- Operate framing equipment and tools safely and efficiently, including glass cutters and heat presses.
- Maintain the ready-made frame department, ensuring it is well-organized, stocked, and visually appealing.
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Store Operations & Maintenance:
- Adhere strictly to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company programs to ensure compliance and operational efficiency.
- Maintain a safe, clean, and clutter-free store environment, including designated areas and stock rooms.
- Participate actively in truck unloading and stocking processes, ensuring adherence to truck standards and inventory management.
- Manage assigned areas, including SISO (Sales In, Stock Out) and Directed Replenishment, to optimize product availability.
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Customer Service & Omni Channel Support:
- Deliver friendly and proactive customer service, assisting shoppers in locating products and offering solutions.
- Operate the cash register and execute cash handling procedures accurately and according to standards.
- Support and execute Omni channel processes, such as buy online, pick up in-store (BOPIS) or ship-from-store, as required.
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Teamwork & Compliance:
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Interact positively and respectfully with colleagues, promoting a collaborative and supportive work environment.
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Uphold company values, maintain a positive attitude, and serve as a role model for team members.
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Support shrink prevention and safety programs within the store.
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π Enhancement Note: The responsibilities emphasize a blend of direct customer sales, hands-on production, and general retail operational duties. Emphasis on "Elevated ABC Deliver" suggests a structured approach to customer engagement and sales, which candidates should be prepared to discuss.
π Skills & Qualifications
Education:
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No specific degree is mandated, but a strong understanding of basic arithmetic and measurement is essential for framing tasks. Experience:
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Experience in a customer-facing retail role is highly desirable, demonstrating an ability to interact with diverse customer needs.
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Prior experience in sales, particularly in consultative selling or custom product environments, is beneficial. Required Skills:
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Basic Computer Skills: Proficiency in using computer systems for order entry, customer lookups, and potentially inventory management.
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Basic Measuring Skills: Accurate measurement is critical for custom framing orders.
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Framing Equipment Operation: Ability to safely and effectively operate framing machinery and tools.
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Glass Cutting: Competency in using a glass cutter for custom framing applications.
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Customer Service Excellence: Proven ability to provide friendly, helpful, and solution-oriented service.
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Cash Handling: Accuracy and integrity in processing transactions and managing cash.
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Merchandising: Understanding of how to present products attractively and maintain visual standards.
Preferred Skills:
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Retail Experience: Previous experience in a retail setting, ideally within a craft or home dΓ©cor store.
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Sales Experience: Proven track record of selling products or services, particularly in a consultative or custom-build environment.
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Art/Design Aptitude: A natural inclination or basic understanding of aesthetics, color theory, and design principles relevant to art framing.
π Enhancement Note: The "0-2 Years" experience level suggests that the company is willing to train candidates with the foundational skills, particularly in customer service and basic technical abilities. However, any prior retail or sales experience will be a significant advantage.
π Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements
Portfolio Essentials:
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While a formal portfolio is not explicitly requested, candidates are encouraged to prepare examples of how they have handled customer interactions, solved problems, or contributed to a well-organized retail environment.
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For individuals with framing experience, demonstrating examples of past framing projects (photos, descriptions of customer needs met) would be highly beneficial.
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Candidates should be ready to discuss their understanding of sales processes and how they contribute to achieving targets. Process Documentation:
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Candidates should be prepared to discuss their understanding of and adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for sales, production, and store operations.
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The ability to follow established workflows for order taking, production, and customer service is crucial.
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Discussions may involve how to maintain efficiency in framing production and order fulfillment.
π Enhancement Note: Given the entry-level nature and retail focus, a traditional "operations portfolio" might not be expected. However, demonstrating an understanding of process adherence and practical examples of customer service and sales success will be key.
π΅ Compensation & Benefits
Salary Range:
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As a part-time retail position with entry-level requirements, the hourly wage is expected to be competitive within the retail industry for the Vienna, Virginia area. Based on industry benchmarks for similar roles (e.g., Sales Associate, Custom Framer Assistant), the estimated range is likely between $12.00 - $16.00 per hour. This can vary based on experience and specific store needs. Benefits:
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Health Insurance: Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance are available.
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Paid Time Off: Accrued paid time off for eligible team members.
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Tuition Assistance: Support for continuing education.
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Employee Discounts: Generous discounts on Michaels products.
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Other Benefits: Potential for additional benefits as detailed by the company.
Working Hours:
- This is a part-time position. The typical work schedule may involve 20-30 hours per week, including nights, weekends, and early mornings, as dictated by store operating hours and customer traffic. Specific daily hours will vary.
π Enhancement Note: The provided information explicitly lists several benefits. The salary range is an estimation based on industry standards for part-time retail roles in the specified geographic location and the indicated experience level.
π― Team & Company Context
π’ Company Culture
Industry: Retail (Arts and Crafts, Home Decor, Custom Framing)
Company Size: Large (Over 10,000 employees globally, over 1,300 stores)
Founded: 1973
Team Structure:
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The role is part of a store-level team, reporting to a Store Manager or an Assistant Manager, with direct supervision from a Framing Department Lead or Manager.
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Collaboration is expected with fellow sales associates, framers, and potentially other department specialists.
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Cross-functional interaction primarily occurs within the store to support customer needs across different departments and fulfill Omni channel orders. Methodology:
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The company emphasizes a customer-centric approach, focusing on building relationships and providing solutions ("Elevated ABC Deliver").
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Operations are guided by Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to ensure consistency, quality, and compliance across all stores.
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Data-driven decisions are likely made at a corporate level, but store-level execution relies on adherence to established processes and performance metrics.
Company Website: https://www.michaels.com/
π Enhancement Note: Michaels positions itself as a leader in creativity and celebration. The culture is likely focused on customer engagement, teamwork, and a passion for arts and crafts. The store-level operations are highly structured due to the SOPs.
π Career & Growth Analysis
Operations Career Level: Entry-Level Retail Associate / Specialist
Reporting Structure: Reports to Store Management (Store Manager/Assistant Manager), with direct guidance from Framing Department leadership.
Operations Impact: Direct impact on store revenue through custom framing sales and customer satisfaction. Contributes to overall store operational efficiency, inventory accuracy, and adherence to brand standards.
Growth Opportunities:
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Skill Development: Opportunity to gain expertise in custom framing techniques, sales consultation, and retail operations.
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Advancement: Potential to move into roles like Framing Department Lead, Assistant Store Manager, or explore opportunities in other areas of Michaels' operations or corporate functions.
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Cross-Training: Possibility of cross-training in other store departments to broaden retail experience.
π Enhancement Note: While this is an entry-level role, Michaels often provides pathways for advancement for dedicated employees who demonstrate strong customer service, sales ability, and operational acumen.
π Work Environment
Office Type: Public retail store setting.
Office Location(s): Vienna, Virginia (specific store location: 311 Maple Ave E).
Workspace Context:
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The work environment is a dynamic retail store with customer interaction zones, a dedicated custom framing shop, and stock room areas.
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The framing shop environment involves tools and machinery like glass cutters and heat presses, requiring attention to safety protocols.
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Collaboration with team members is frequent, both in customer service interactions and operational tasks.
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Access to store technology for POS, inventory, and customer management systems. Work Schedule:
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Part-time schedule, requiring flexibility to work nights, weekends, and early mornings. Specific hours will depend on store needs and employee availability.
π Enhancement Note: The environment is typical of a specialty retail store, requiring employees to be comfortable in a public-facing role with varying demands throughout the day and week.
π Application & Portfolio Review Process
Interview Process:
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Initial Screening: Likely an online application followed by a brief phone or video screening to assess basic qualifications and interest.
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In-Person Interview: A face-to-face interview at the store location to assess customer service skills, enthusiasm for framing and art, and cultural fit. This may involve a practical demonstration or discussion of framing knowledge.
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Practical Assessment/Role Play: Candidates may be asked to demonstrate basic measuring skills or engage in a customer interaction role-play scenario.
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Final Interview/Offer: Potential follow-up with the store manager for final assessment and offer.
Portfolio Review Tips:
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Since a formal portfolio isn't explicitly required, focus on verbally presenting examples of your customer service successes, sales achievements, and any relevant framing or artistic projects.
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Be prepared to discuss your understanding of the framing process and why you are passionate about it.
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If you have photos of past framing projects or examples of your artistic work, bring them to showcase your skills and aesthetic sense. Challenge Preparation:
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Customer Interaction: Prepare to answer questions about how you would handle a difficult customer or a unique framing request.
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Problem-Solving: Be ready to discuss how you've solved issues related to customer satisfaction, inventory discrepancies, or operational challenges.
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Sales Approach: Articulate your approach to selling custom products and building customer loyalty.
π Enhancement Note: The interview process will likely assess not only practical skills but also personality traits like customer empathy, problem-solving ability, and a genuine interest in art and crafting.
π Tools & Technology Stack
Primary Tools:
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Point of Sale (POS) System: For processing sales, returns, and managing customer transactions.
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Framing Equipment: Standard framing tools, including mat cutters, saws, and assembly tools.
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Glass Cutter: Specialized tool for cutting glass to size for frames.
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Heat Press: Used in some framing processes.
Analytics & Reporting:
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Basic reporting on sales performance may be accessed through the POS system.
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Inventory management systems for tracking stock levels and replenishment. CRM & Automation:
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Customer Relationship Management (CRM) capabilities within the POS system to track customer purchases and preferences.
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Omni channel fulfillment systems to manage online orders and in-store pickups.
π Enhancement Note: The technology stack is primarily focused on retail operations and customer transactions, with specialized tools for the framing department. Proficiency with POS systems and a willingness to learn specific framing equipment are key.
π₯ Team Culture & Values
Operations Values:
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Customer Focus: Prioritizing customer needs and delivering exceptional service to build loyalty.
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Creativity & Passion: Encouraging a love for arts, crafts, and creative expression.
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Teamwork: Collaborating effectively with colleagues to achieve store goals and support each other.
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Integrity: Upholding honesty and ethical practices in all transactions and interactions.
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Efficiency: Adhering to SOPs to ensure smooth operations and timely order fulfillment.
Collaboration Style:
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The work environment fosters a collaborative spirit where team members assist each other in serving customers and completing operational tasks.
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Open communication is encouraged for problem-solving and sharing best practices within the store team.
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Cross-functional support is essential, especially for Omni channel fulfillment and ensuring a seamless customer experience.
π Enhancement Note: Michaels emphasizes a culture that supports creativity, customer engagement, and teamwork. Employees are expected to be positive, helpful, and contribute to a welcoming atmosphere.
β‘ Challenges & Growth Opportunities
Challenges:
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Balancing Multiple Roles: Effectively managing customer service, sales, production, and general store duties simultaneously.
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Handling Diverse Customer Needs: Catering to a wide range of customer expectations, budgets, and artistic visions for framing.
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Learning Technical Skills: Mastering the operation of framing equipment and techniques for high-quality results.
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Maintaining Standards: Consistently adhering to SOPs for safety, quality, and customer service in a fast-paced environment.
Learning & Development Opportunities:
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Framing Certification: Potential to develop advanced framing expertise and potentially earn certifications.
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Sales Training: Opportunity to hone consultative sales skills, particularly in custom product sales.
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Retail Management Path: For high performers, there are opportunities for advancement into leadership roles within the store.
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Industry Knowledge: Continuous learning about art, framing trends, and new materials.
π Enhancement Note: This role offers a solid foundation in retail operations and specialized skills. Challenges are often tied to the learning curve of new skills and the demands of a customer-facing role, with clear growth potential for motivated individuals.
π‘ Interview Preparation
Strategy Questions:
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Customer Service: "Describe a time you went above and beyond to help a customer." or "How would you handle a customer who is unhappy with their framing order?"
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Sales Skills: "How would you approach a customer to offer custom framing services?" or "What's your strategy for upselling or cross-selling framing services and materials?"
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Problem-Solving: "Tell me about a time you encountered a challenge at work and how you resolved it." or "How would you prioritize tasks if you had multiple framing orders due and customers waiting?"
Company & Culture Questions:
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"Why are you interested in working for Michaels, specifically in the framing department?"
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"What do you know about Michaels' commitment to creativity and customer service?"
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"How do you handle working in a team environment?" Portfolio Presentation Strategy:
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Prepare to verbally walk through any relevant past experiences. For example, if you've done custom framing for friends or family, describe the project, customer needs, and your solution.
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If you have artistic or design experience, be ready to discuss your creative process and how you apply it.
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Highlight any specific achievements in customer satisfaction or sales from previous roles.
π Enhancement Note: Focus on demonstrating enthusiasm for art and creativity, strong customer service skills, and a proactive approach to learning and problem-solving.
π Application Steps
To apply for this operations position:
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Submit your application through the provided link on the Michaels careers portal.
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Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight any customer service, sales, crafting, or technical skills relevant to framing, even if from non-retail contexts. Emphasize achievements with quantifiable results where possible (e.g., "Increased customer satisfaction by X%").
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Portfolio Preparation: Mentally prepare examples of your customer interactions, problem-solving skills, and any experience with art, design, or hands-on projects. If you have photos of framing work, be ready to discuss them.
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Interview Practice: Practice answering common retail interview questions, focusing on your ability to provide excellent customer service, your interest in art and framing, and your willingness to learn. Research Michaels' values and mission.
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Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Michaels' product offerings, brand image, and commitment to creativity. Understand the role of the framing department within the larger retail operation.
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 lift heavy boxes, stand for long periods, and use ladders is necessary.