retail custom framer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Retail Custom Framer

Company: Michaels Stores

Location: Issaquah, WA, United States

Job Type: Part-time

Category: Retail Operations / Customer Service

Date Posted: 2026-09-05

Experience Level: Entry-Level (0-2 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Drive customer engagement and build strong relationships through personalized custom framing consultations and solutions.

• Execute sales and production targets by providing expert advice and delivering high-quality, on-time framing orders.

• Maintain operational excellence in the retail environment, ensuring a safe, clean, and well-merchandised store for an optimal customer shopping experience.

• Uphold Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company programs to ensure compliance and operational efficiency across all assigned duties.

• Support omni-channel processes, contributing to a seamless customer journey across online and in-store touchpoints.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role focuses on a specialized area within retail operations, emphasizing both customer-facing sales and in-store operational execution. The "retail custom framer" title indicates a blend of sales, customer service, and hands-on production responsibilities within a dedicated framing department. The "Elevated ABC Deliver" mentioned suggests a specific customer interaction methodology that candidates should be prepared to learn and implement.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Engage customers using the "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodology to build rapport, understand their needs, and propose tailored custom framing solutions.

• Achieve individual sales and production goals by effectively selling framing products and services, ensuring customer satisfaction and repeat business.

• Complete custom framing orders with a strong emphasis on quality craftsmanship and adherence to production timelines.

• Manage and maintain the ready-made frame department, including visual merchandising standards and inventory management (SISO - Single Item, Single Owner, and Directed Replenishment).

• Provide friendly and efficient customer service, assisting shoppers in locating products and ensuring a positive in-store experience.

• Adhere strictly to all Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company programs, ensuring consistent execution of store policies and operational standards.

• Actively participate in and support company-wide shrink and safety programs to maintain a secure and accident-free work environment.

• Foster positive and respectful interactions with colleagues and customers, embodying the company's vision and values, and serving as a role model for team behavior.

• Participate in the truck un-load and stocking processes, ensuring adherence to established truck standards and efficient inventory replenishment within budget.

• Operate the cash register accurately and execute cash handling procedures according to company standards, ensuring financial integrity.

• Assist with omni-channel processes, such as buy online, pick up in-store (BOPIS) or ship-from-store, to enhance customer convenience and expand sales channels.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a strong focus on customer interaction for sales and service, alongside essential retail operational tasks like merchandising and inventory. The emphasis on SOPs and specific programs like "Elevated ABC Deliver" suggests a structured operational environment where adherence to process is critical.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: High school diploma or equivalent is typically expected for entry-level retail positions; specific college degrees are not explicitly required for this role.

Experience: 0-2 years of experience in a customer-facing role, with a preference for retail environments.

Required Skills:

• Basic computer skills for POS operation, inventory lookups, and potential online order management.

• Basic measuring skills for accurate custom framing specifications.

• Ability to operate framing equipment safely and effectively.

• Proficiency in using a glass cutter.

• Demonstrated ability to handle cash transactions accurately.

• Strong customer service orientation with excellent interpersonal skills.

• Ability to maintain a clean, organized, and well-merchandised work area.

• Capacity to participate in stocking and inventory management processes.

• Adaptability to work in a fast-paced retail environment. Preferred Skills:

• Previous retail experience, providing familiarity with store operations and customer engagement.

• Experience in sales, particularly in consultative selling of products or services, to effectively present framing solutions.

• Familiarity with custom framing processes or an aptitude for learning them quickly.

• Experience with visual merchandising to maintain an attractive ready-made frame department.

• Basic understanding of inventory management principles.

📝 Enhancement Note: The required skills are foundational for entry-level retail roles, with a specific emphasis on the technical aspects of custom framing. Preferred skills indicate that candidates with prior sales or retail experience will have an advantage, particularly those who can demonstrate a consultative selling approach.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• While a formal portfolio may not be strictly required for this entry-level role, candidates are encouraged to showcase any relevant projects or experiences that demonstrate their skills in:
  • Customer Interaction & Sales: Examples of successful customer interactions, problem-solving scenarios, or sales achievements.
  • Process Adherence: Evidence of following instructions, SOPs, or specific guidelines in previous roles.
  • Quality Output: Any personal projects or work samples that highlight attention to detail and craftsmanship.
  • Operational Efficiency: Instances where you improved a process or contributed to a more efficient workflow.

Process Documentation:

• Candidates will be trained on specific company SOPs for custom framing, customer service, and store operations. While prior documentation is not expected, demonstrating an understanding of the importance of process documentation and adherence is beneficial.

• Ability to learn and follow detailed instructions for framing processes, equipment operation, and customer service protocols.

• Willingness to document personal learning progress or provide feedback on existing processes for continuous improvement.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an entry-level role like this, the emphasis is less on a formal portfolio of past operations projects and more on demonstrating foundational skills and a willingness to learn and adhere to established processes. Candidates can leverage examples from any previous work, volunteer, or even personal projects that showcase relevant abilities.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $17.25 - $20.30 per hour.

Benefits:

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

• Health & Wellness: Medical, dental, and vision coverage; Telemedicine services; Employee Assistance Program (EAP).

• Financial Flexibility: Flexible spending accounts (FSAs) for healthcare and dependent care.

• Commuting Support: Commuter benefits to assist with transportation costs.

• Education & Development: Tuition assistance and adoption assistance programs.

• Insurance: Various voluntary insurance options available.

• Employee Perks: Significant employee discounts on Michaels products and access to partner discount programs.

Working Hours: This is a part-time position. While the exact number of hours may vary, the role may require flexibility to work nights, weekends, and early mornings, as the store operates during these times. The stated "Working Hours" of 40 hours per week likely refers to the full-time equivalent or maximum potential hours, but as a part-time role, hours will be less than 40.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is competitive for entry-level retail positions, especially for a specialized role like custom framing. The benefits package is comprehensive for a part-time retail role, offering significant value beyond the hourly wage, particularly the 401(k) match and health coverage.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Arts & Crafts Retail. Michaels is a leading retailer in North America for arts, crafts, and home decor, with a significant presence in custom framing through its stores and Artistree division. This industry context means a focus on creativity, customer inspiration, and a diverse product offering.

Company Size: Michaels operates over 1,300 stores across North America and employs a large workforce. This large-scale retail operation suggests established processes, structured training programs, and opportunities for advancement within a significant corporate framework.

Founded: Founded in 1973 and headquartered in Irving, Texas. With decades of history, Michaels has a well-established brand and operational infrastructure.

Team Structure:

• Store Level: The custom framer will be part of a store team led by a Store Manager, Assistant Store Manager, and potentially department specialists. Collaboration with other sales associates and stock associates is expected.

• Department Focus: This role is specialized within the Custom Framing department, requiring close collaboration with other framers and potentially reporting to a Framing Manager or lead associate.

• Cross-functional Collaboration: While primarily focused on the framing department, the role involves interaction with the broader store team for general customer service, stocking, and operational tasks. Collaboration with the Artistree division may occur for specialized framing needs or production support.

Methodology:

• Customer-Centric Approach: Emphasis on building relationships and providing personalized solutions, as highlighted by "Elevated ABC Deliver."

• Process-Driven Operations: Adherence to SOPs for consistent quality, safety, and compliance across all stores.

• Data-Informed Merchandising: While less analytical for this role, understanding product placement and inventory management (SISO, Directed Replenishment) contributes to store performance.

• Efficiency Focus: Participation in stocking, truck unloads, and maintaining a clean environment contributes to overall store efficiency.

Company Website: https://www.michaels.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: Michaels' culture is likely to be creative, customer-focused, and process-oriented, given its retail nature and scale. The framing specialization suggests an environment that values craftsmanship and personalized customer service.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned at an entry-level or early-career stage within retail operations, specifically within the custom framing specialization. It's a hands-on position focused on executing defined processes and direct customer interaction.

Reporting Structure: Typically reports to a Store Manager, Assistant Store Manager, or a designated Framing Department Lead/Manager. The role is part of the in-store operational team.

Operations Impact: The Custom Framer directly impacts revenue through sales of framing services and products. They also influence customer loyalty and brand perception through the quality of their work and customer service. Efficient operations in the framing department contribute to overall store profitability and customer satisfaction.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization Advancement: Progress to a Senior Custom Framer or Framing Specialist role, taking on more complex projects or training new associates.

• Cross-Training & Departmental Growth: Opportunity to cross-train in other store departments, potentially leading to roles like Visual Merchandiser or Inventory Specialist.

• Leadership Development: Potential to move into Assistant Store Manager or Store Manager roles through demonstrated leadership, sales performance, and operational proficiency.

• Corporate Opportunities: For exceptional performers, potential pathways to roles within the Artistree division or corporate functions related to merchandising, operations, or training.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role serves as a solid foundation in retail operations and customer-facing sales within a specialized area. Growth potential is clear, starting from execution and moving towards specialization, broader operational responsibility, or leadership.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is a public retail store setting. The primary workspace will be within the Michaels store, including the sales floor, a dedicated custom framing area (frame shop), and stock rooms.

Office Location(s): Issaquah, WA - 1802 12th Ave NW Ste A. This specific store location will be the operational hub.

Workspace Context:

• Customer Interaction Zone: The sales floor and the custom framing counter will be primary areas for direct customer engagement, requiring a friendly and professional demeanor.

• Production Area: The frame shop is a workshop environment equipped with framing equipment, a glass cutter, and a heat press. This area requires attention to detail, safety protocols, and precision.

• Stock & Receiving Areas: Stock rooms and truck unloading areas may not always be climate-controlled, requiring adaptability to varying environmental conditions.

• Tools & Technology: Access to POS systems, basic computer terminals, and specialized framing tools.

Work Schedule: This is a part-time position. Work hours will include nights, weekends, and early mornings, reflecting the operational needs of a retail environment. Flexibility in scheduling is essential.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is dynamic and customer-facing, blending sales, service, and hands-on production. Candidates should be prepared for a typical retail pace, including physical demands and varied working hours.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Application review to assess basic qualifications and experience.

• In-Store Interview: Typically involves a conversation with the Store Manager or Framing Department Lead. This may include questions about customer service philosophy, problem-solving scenarios, and understanding of the role.

• Skills Assessment (Potential): A brief practical demonstration of basic measuring skills or an explanation of how they would approach a customer consultation for framing.

• Final Interview (if applicable): May involve a broader discussion about company values, teamwork, and career aspirations.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Focus on Transferable Skills: Since a formal portfolio may not be expected, prepare to discuss past experiences that demonstrate customer service, sales aptitude, problem-solving, attention to detail, and ability to follow instructions.

• Quantify Achievements: If discussing sales or customer service experience, use numbers where possible (e.g., "handled X customer transactions per shift," "achieved Y% of sales target").

• Highlight Craftsmanship Aptitude: If you have personal projects (e.g., DIY crafts, art projects, any form of making), be ready to briefly describe them to showcase your creative inclination and attention to detail.

• Demonstrate Process Understanding: Talk about how you approach learning new tasks or following procedures in previous roles.

Challenge Preparation:

• Customer Scenario: Be ready to role-play a customer interaction, focusing on active listening, problem-solving, and presenting solutions for custom framing.

• Operational Question: Prepare to answer questions about how you would maintain a clean and organized workspace or handle a busy period in the store.

• Teamwork Example: Have an example ready of a time you worked effectively as part of a team to achieve a common goal.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for this role is likely to be practical and focused on assessing core customer service, sales potential, and operational aptitude. Candidates should be prepared to demonstrate their ability to learn and apply new skills.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Point of Sale (POS) System: For processing transactions, managing sales data, and potentially looking up inventory.

• Custom Framing Equipment: Specialized tools for cutting mats, assembling frames, and finishing projects (e.g., mat cutters, framing saws, staple guns, heat presses).

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

Analytics & Reporting:

• While this role is not heavily analytical, basic reporting may involve:
  • Sales Performance Tracking: Monitoring personal sales against targets.
  • Inventory Management Systems: Used for tracking stock levels of ready-made frames and framing supplies.

CRM & Automation:

• Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Elements: The "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodology suggests a CRM-like approach to customer interaction, focusing on building relationships and personalized service.

• Order Management Systems: For tracking custom framing orders from placement to completion.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is a blend of standard retail POS systems and specialized equipment for the custom framing function. Proficiency in basic computer use is essential, along with the ability to learn and operate specific framing machinery.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Customer Focus: Prioritizing customer needs and satisfaction through exceptional service and personalized solutions.

• Creativity & Passion: Encouraging a love for arts, crafts, and creative expression, both in products and in customer solutions.

• Quality & Craftsmanship: Commitment to delivering high-quality custom framing that meets customer expectations and lasts.

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

• Integrity & Accountability: Adhering to company policies, ethical standards, and taking responsibility for assigned duties.

• Safety & Compliance: Maintaining a safe work environment and adhering to all operational procedures and regulations.

Collaboration Style:

• Customer-Facing Collaboration: Working with customers to understand their vision and translate it into a tangible framing solution.

• Peer-to-Peer Support: Assisting fellow team members with customer service, stocking, and operational tasks as needed.

• Process Adherence: Collaborating within the established framework of SOPs to ensure consistency and efficiency.

• Feedback Loop: Openness to providing and receiving feedback to improve individual performance and team operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture at Michaels is likely to be vibrant, encouraging creativity, and focused on delivering value to customers through both products and services. Teamwork and adherence to established processes are key for smooth store operations.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Sales and Production: Effectively managing time to meet both customer sales consultations and production demands for custom framing orders.

• Customer Expectations: Meeting diverse customer needs and aesthetic preferences for custom framing, sometimes with challenging or unique artwork.

• Learning Curve for Framing Skills: Mastering the technical aspects of custom framing, including equipment operation and precision cutting.

• Fast-Paced Retail Environment: Adapting to busy periods, managing multiple tasks simultaneously, and maintaining a positive attitude.

• Omni-channel Demands: Integrating online order fulfillment and support with in-store customer service.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Custom Framing Expertise: Deepen knowledge and skills in all aspects of custom framing, from design consultation to final assembly.

• Sales & Customer Service Skills: Enhance consultative selling techniques and customer relationship-building capabilities.

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

• Product Knowledge: Expand understanding of art supplies, display techniques, and framing materials.

• Potential for Leadership Training: Opportunities to develop leadership skills for future advancement within Michaels.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents opportunities to develop specialized craft skills alongside core retail competencies. The challenges are typical of a hands-on retail position but are balanced by clear paths for skill development and career progression within the company.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Customer Service Philosophy: "How do you approach building rapport with a new customer?" or "Describe a time you went above and beyond to help a customer." Be ready to connect this to the "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodology.

• Problem-Solving: "Imagine a customer is unhappy with their framing order. How would you handle it?" Focus on active listening, empathy, and finding a resolution within company guidelines.

• Sales Approach: "How would you guide a customer who is unsure about framing options for their artwork?" Emphasize asking questions, understanding their needs, and presenting suitable options.

Company & Culture Questions:

• Motivation: "Why are you interested in working for Michaels, specifically in custom framing?" Research Michaels' mission and values; highlight your interest in creativity and customer service.

• Teamwork: "Describe your ideal team environment." Focus on collaboration, mutual support, and a positive atmosphere.

• Adaptability: "How do you handle working in a fast-paced or high-pressure environment?" Mention your ability to prioritize and stay calm.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Highlight Relevant Experience: Even if not formal, be prepared to talk about any customer service, sales, or hands-on projects you've completed. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your examples.

• Showcase Aptitude for Detail: If you have any personal craft projects, be ready to briefly describe them to demonstrate your attention to detail and potential for quality workmanship.

• Discuss Learning Agility: Emphasize your eagerness to learn the specific framing techniques and operational processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating strong customer service skills, a proactive sales attitude, an aptitude for hands-on work, and a commitment to following procedures. Familiarity with the company's brand and values will also be beneficial.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

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

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight any customer service, sales, or hands-on experience. Use keywords from the job description such as "customer service," "sales," "framing," "detail-oriented," and "teamwork." Quantify achievements where possible.

• Prepare for a Practical Discussion: Be ready to discuss how you would approach customer interactions, handle operational tasks like merchandising, and your general understanding of retail environments. If you have any personal projects showcasing detail or craftsmanship, have them in mind to discuss.

• Research Michaels: Familiarize yourself with Michaels' products, services (especially custom framing), mission, and values. Understand their commitment to creativity and customer experience.

• Practice Interview Responses: Rehearse answers to common interview questions, focusing on demonstrating enthusiasm, a strong work ethic, and a customer-centric approach.

⚠️ 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.

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