PT Framer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: PT Framer

Company: Michaels Stores

Location: Tustin-2807 Park Ave, Tustin, California, United States

Job Type: PART_TIME

Category: Retail Operations / Customer Service

Date Posted: 2025-10-03

Experience Level: 0-2 Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

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

• The PT Framer will be responsible for building customer relationships, understanding their creative needs, and translating those into tangible framing solutions.

• Key operational aspects include managing the framing order process from consultation to completion, ensuring quality and timeliness, and maintaining specific retail operational standards.

• This position requires hands-on engagement with framing equipment and materials, alongside basic retail functions like sales, cash handling, and inventory management.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "PT Framer," the role encompasses broader retail operations responsibilities beyond just framing, including customer engagement, sales, and store maintenance. The focus on "revenue generation" through custom framing solutions is a critical operational driver.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Customer Consultation & Design:

  • Engage customers to understand their art, framing needs, and design preferences.
  • Act as a "personal designer" using sales techniques to guide customers toward optimal framing solutions that meet their aesthetic and budget requirements.
  • Utilize elevated selling techniques to build rapport and drive sales within the custom framing department.

• Order Fulfillment & Quality Control:

  • Accurately measure, cut, and assemble custom framing orders according to established Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and quality standards.
  • Operate framing equipment, including mat cutters and potentially heat presses, safely and efficiently.
  • Ensure all framing orders are completed with a high degree of quality and delivered on time to meet customer expectations.

• Sales & Revenue Generation:

  • Achieve personal sales and production targets for custom framing.
  • Process customer transactions accurately using the cash register and adhere to all cash handling procedures.
  • Support sales initiatives and promotions within the store.

• Store Operations & Merchandising:

  • Maintain the ready-made frame department, ensuring it is well-organized, stocked, and visually appealing.
  • Assist with in-store merchandising, including SISO (Single Item, Single Out) and Directed Replenishment processes.
  • Contribute to efficient truck un-load and stocking processes, adhering to store standards.

• Customer Experience & Store Environment:

  • Provide friendly and helpful customer service, assisting shoppers in finding products and offering solutions.

  • Maintain a safe, clean, and clutter-free store environment, including designated work areas and public spaces.

  • Support company shrink and safety programs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of specialized framing skills and general retail operations. The emphasis on "Elevated ABC Deliver" and "personal designer" suggests a structured approach to customer engagement and sales, crucial for driving custom framing revenue.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Experience:

• 0-2 years of experience in a customer-facing role, with a focus on developing relationships and providing solutions.

Required Skills:

• Customer Service Excellence: Proven ability to engage customers, build rapport, and provide solutions that meet their needs. This includes active listening and problem-solving skills.

• Basic Measuring & Math Skills: Proficiency in taking accurate measurements and performing basic calculations for order preparation and sales transactions.

• Basic Computer Skills: Familiarity with point-of-sale (POS) systems and potentially basic office software for order entry or inventory management.

• Manual Dexterity & Precision: Steady hands and attention to detail for precise cutting and assembly of framing materials.

• Adaptability: Ability to learn and operate specific framing equipment and adhere to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).

Preferred Skills:

• Retail Sales Experience: Previous experience in a sales-driven retail environment, particularly in custom or specialized product sales.

• Framing Equipment Operation: Prior experience or demonstrated aptitude for operating framing equipment, such as mat cutters and potentially heat presses.

• Visual Merchandising: Understanding of how to present products effectively in a retail setting.

• Art/Design Aptitude: A basic understanding or appreciation for art, design, and creative presentation can enhance customer consultations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "0-2 years" experience level suggests that while some foundational skills are required, significant on-the-job training will be provided. The emphasis on "basic" skills indicates that comprehensive training on framing equipment and advanced sales techniques will be a core component of the role's development.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Customer Consultation Examples: Showcase instances where you effectively understood customer needs and proposed tailored solutions, ideally in a creative or service-oriented context.

• Sales Performance Metrics: If available, provide examples of sales targets met or exceeded, demonstrating an ability to drive revenue and achieve business objectives.

• Process Adherence Documentation: Evidence of following established procedures and SOPs to ensure consistent quality and efficiency in task completion (e.g., order processing flow).

• Problem-Solving Case Studies: Brief examples of how you resolved customer issues or operational challenges within a retail or service setting.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Optimization: While not expected to design workflows, candidates should demonstrate an understanding of following a defined process for framing orders, from initial customer interaction to final product delivery.

• System Implementation & Usage: Show familiarity with using POS systems for sales and order entry, and an ability to learn new operational software or tools for inventory management or customer relationship building.

• Measurement & Performance Analysis: Ability to track personal sales performance and contribute to store-level operational metrics.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an entry-level to junior role like this, a formal "portfolio" in the traditional sense might not be required. However, candidates are expected to articulate their experience through resume achievements and interview discussions, demonstrating how they've applied relevant skills in past roles. The emphasis is on showcasing potential and learned processes rather than pre-existing extensive documentation.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Benefits:

• Health Insurance: Medical, dental, and vision coverage, providing comprehensive care options for eligible team members.

• Paid Time Off (PTO): Accrued paid time off for rest, relaxation, and personal needs.

• Tuition Assistance: Support for continuing education, helping team members advance their skills and careers.

• Employee Discounts: Generous discounts on Michaels products, encouraging personal creativity and saving on supplies.

• Other Benefits: Additional benefits may include retirement savings plans, employee assistance programs, and opportunities for professional development.

Working Hours:

• This is a part-time position. Actual hours will vary based on store needs, customer traffic, and scheduling. The role may involve nights, weekends, and early mornings, typical for retail operations. While the description mentions "40" as a potential integer, it's crucial to understand this is likely an average or maximum, and actual part-time hours will be less.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range of $17.50 - $20.60 per hour is a strong indicator for a part-time retail associate role in California, reflecting the state's cost of living and minimum wage laws. The benefits package, especially tuition assistance and employee discounts, aligns with Michaels' strategy to attract and retain talent in the retail sector.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry:

Company Size:

Founded:

Team Structure:

• Operations Team: The PT Framer will be part of the in-store retail team, likely reporting to a Framing Department Manager or Store Manager. The team structure emphasizes cross-functional collaboration within the store, with associates supporting various departments as needed.

• Reporting Structure: Typically, PT Framers report to a Department Lead or Assistant Store Manager, who in turn reports to the Store Manager. This hierarchy ensures clear lines of communication and accountability for daily operations.

• Cross-functional Collaboration: Associates are expected to support each other across departments, from assisting customers in different sections to participating in stock replenishment and operational tasks. This fosters a team-oriented environment focused on overall store success.

Methodology:

• Data Analysis & Insights: While direct data analysis might not be a primary function for this role, understanding sales trends and customer preferences within the framing department is crucial for driving performance.

• Workflow Planning & Optimization: Adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for framing, sales, and store operations is paramount. The role involves executing these established workflows efficiently.

• Automation & Efficiency: The use of POS systems and potentially other retail management software contributes to operational efficiency. The focus is on effective execution of defined processes.

Company Website:

• https://www.michaels.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: Michaels' culture is built around "fueling the joy of creativity." This translates into a work environment that values creativity, customer engagement, and a supportive team atmosphere. For operations roles, this means executing processes that enable customer creativity and providing a seamless shopping experience.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level:

Reporting Structure:

Operations Impact:

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Advancement: Opportunities to become a subject matter expert in custom framing, mastering advanced techniques and design principles.

• Retail Leadership: Progression to roles like Framing Department Lead, Key Holder, Assistant Store Manager, or Store Manager, involving greater responsibility in operational management, team leadership, and strategic execution.

• Specialization: Potential to move into other specialized areas within Michaels retail operations or corporate functions, leveraging acquired retail experience.

• Continuous Learning: Access to training programs, including tuition assistance, to develop broader business acumen and operational skills.

📝 Enhancement Note: Growth within Michaels for an operations role like this is typically vertical (within the store structure) or lateral (to other operational functions). The emphasis is on demonstrating reliability, customer service skills, and a willingness to learn and take on more responsibility.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type:

Office Location(s):

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The store operates as a team-based environment where associates support each other. The framing area itself requires close work with customers, and stock rooms are shared spaces for inventory management.

• Operations Tools & Technology: Access to a Point-of-Sale (POS) system for transactions, basic computer terminals for order entry or information lookup, and specialized framing equipment (mat cutters, glass cutters, heat presses) within the frame shop.

• Team Interaction: Frequent interaction with fellow associates, department leads, and store management for task coordination, problem-solving, and customer assistance.

Work Schedule:

• Part-time. This role requires flexibility to work various shifts, including nights, weekends, and early mornings, as dictated by store operating hours and customer traffic patterns. The work schedule is designed to ensure adequate staffing during peak operational times.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is hands-on and fast-paced, typical of a busy retail store. The frame shop itself may have specific safety considerations due to the tools and materials used. Flexibility in scheduling is a key operational requirement for part-time associates.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Likely a brief phone or online screening to assess basic qualifications, availability, and interest in the role.

• In-Person Interview: A more in-depth interview with a store manager or department lead. This will focus on customer service experience, problem-solving abilities, understanding of retail operations, and enthusiasm for Michaels' brand.

• Skills Assessment/Demonstration: Potentially a practical demonstration of basic measuring skills, or discussion around how you would handle specific customer scenarios in the framing department.

• Background Check: Standard for retail positions, especially those involving cash handling.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Resume Focus: Highlight customer service achievements, any sales performance metrics, experience with tools or equipment, and examples of following procedures. Quantify achievements whenever possible (e.g., "Increased customer satisfaction by X%," "Managed X number of transactions daily").

• Scenario-Based Answers: Prepare to answer questions about how you would handle challenging customer interactions, de-escalate situations, or assist a customer with a complex framing request.

• Demonstrate Enthusiasm: Convey a genuine interest in Michaels, creativity, and helping customers bring their artistic visions to life. This shows cultural fit.

Challenge Preparation:

• Customer Scenario: Be ready to walk through how you would approach a customer who is unsure about framing options, or one who has a specific, perhaps unusual, request.

• Problem-Solving: Prepare an example of a time you encountered an operational issue (e.g., incorrect order, stock shortage) and how you resolved it.

• Learning Aptitude: Emphasize your ability and eagerness to learn new skills, operate machinery, and follow detailed instructions.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the role's entry-level nature, the "portfolio" will primarily consist of the resume and how the candidate articulates their experience and potential during the interview. Demonstrating a strong work ethic, customer focus, and willingness to learn are key to overcoming a lack of direct framing experience.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Custom Framing Equipment: Mat cutters, glass cutters, framing tools (e.g., staple guns, vises), potentially heat presses for specific applications. Proficiency will be trained.

• Point-of-Sale (POS) System: For processing sales, managing customer orders, and handling cash transactions.

• Basic Computer Terminal: For order entry, accessing product information, and potentially internal communication.

Analytics & Reporting:

CRM & Automation:

• The POS system may have basic CRM functionalities for tracking customer purchases. Automation primarily refers to the efficiency gains from using standardized processes and technology for order fulfillment and sales.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary "tools" are the specialized framing equipment and the POS system. The emphasis is on learning to use these efficiently and accurately, rather than on advanced technical proficiency with complex software suites.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Creativity: Fostering an environment where creativity is valued, both in customer projects and employee contributions.

• Customer Focus: Prioritizing customer needs, ensuring satisfaction through excellent service and tailored solutions.

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

• Integrity: Upholding company policies, ethical standards, and commitment to safety and quality.

• Efficiency: Executing tasks promptly and accurately, adhering to SOPs to maintain operational flow.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Associates are expected to support all store functions, including framing, sales floor, and stockroom duties, promoting a unified approach to store operations.

• Process Review: While not formal, feedback loops exist through management to ensure SOPs are followed and to identify areas for improvement in efficiency or customer service.

• Knowledge Sharing: Team members are encouraged to share best practices, particularly within specialized departments like custom framing, to improve collective skill and service quality.

📝 Enhancement Note: Michaels' culture emphasizes a positive and supportive environment that encourages creativity and teamwork. For operations, this means executing tasks with a focus on enabling customer creativity and contributing to a positive team atmosphere.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Mastering Framing Techniques: Learning to operate specialized equipment and execute precise framing processes to a high standard.

• Balancing Multiple Responsibilities: Juggling customer consultations, order creation, sales transactions, and general store upkeep in a fast-paced retail setting.

• Customer Expectations Management: Handling diverse customer needs, budgets, and design preferences, ensuring satisfaction with custom solutions.

• Adapting to Retail Demands: Working flexible hours and adapting to the dynamic nature of a retail environment, including peak seasons and promotional periods.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Framing Expertise: Intensive on-the-job training to develop advanced skills in custom framing design, production, and material knowledge.

• Sales & Customer Service Enhancement: Opportunities to hone sales techniques and deepen customer engagement skills through practical application and feedback.

• Retail Operations Fundamentals: Gaining a solid understanding of core retail operations, including inventory management, POS systems, and merchandising.

• Career Advancement: Clear pathways for promotion within the store structure, leading to roles with increased responsibility and leadership opportunities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary challenge is acquiring specialized framing skills, balanced with the need to perform general retail duties. Growth is strongly tied to mastering these skills and demonstrating reliability and customer focus.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Customer Service Scenarios: Be prepared to discuss how you would greet and assist a customer entering the framing department, handle a customer who is indecisive, or resolve an issue with a completed framing order.

• Problem-Solving: Think about a time you had to solve a problem independently in a previous role, or how you would approach a situation where you didn't know the answer to a customer's question.

• Motivation & Fit: Why Michaels? Why the framing department? What interests you about creativity and art? How do you handle repetitive tasks?

Company & Culture Questions:

• Brand Understanding: Research Michaels' mission ("fuel the joy of creativity") and its position in the market. Be ready to express how your personal values align with the company's.

• Teamwork: Discuss your experience working as part of a team and how you contribute to a positive and productive work environment.

• Adaptability: How do you handle changes in tasks, priorities, or work environment?

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Resume Walkthrough: Be prepared to elaborate on your resume, highlighting customer service, any sales achievements, mechanical aptitude (if applicable), and experience following instructions or procedures.

• Showcase Learning Aptitude: Emphasize your ability to learn quickly, follow instructions carefully, and eagerness to master new skills, especially those related to framing.

• Enthusiasm for Creativity: Convey a genuine interest in art, crafting, and helping customers achieve their creative visions through custom framing.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview will likely assess your customer service skills, problem-solving aptitude, manual dexterity (through discussion or observation), and cultural fit with Michaels' creative and team-oriented environment. Demonstrating a strong work ethic and willingness to learn is crucial.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

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

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight customer service experience, any sales achievements, manual dexterity, and experience following instructions or procedures. Use keywords like "customer engagement," "sales support," "detail-oriented," and "team player."

• Prepare for Scenario Questions: Think through how you would handle common retail customer interactions, especially within a framing or custom service context.

• Research Michaels: Familiarize yourself with Michaels' brand, values, and the importance of the framing department to their overall business strategy.

• Practice Articulation: Be ready to clearly and concisely explain your relevant experiences and your enthusiasm for learning the framing craft 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.

---