Retail Custom Framer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Retail Custom Framer

Company: Michaels Stores

Location: Woodside, California, United States

Job Type: Part time

Category: Retail Operations / Sales

Date Posted: 2026-08-24

Experience Level: Entry Level (0-2 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Drive customer engagement and sales by providing expert custom framing solutions and personalized design consultations.

• Execute high-quality framing production and ensure timely order fulfillment, adhering to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).

• Contribute to overall store operations, including merchandising, inventory management, and maintaining a safe, clean retail environment.

• Operate the cash register, handle transactions accurately, and support omni-channel fulfillment processes to enhance the customer shopping experience.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is focused on a specialized retail function (custom framing) within a larger retail organization. While it involves direct customer interaction and sales, the "operations" aspect is primarily centered around production efficiency, inventory management of framing materials, and adherence to in-store operational standards. The title "Retail Custom Framer" suggests a blend of sales, customer service, and production.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Build strong customer relationships by leveraging design consultation skills and utilizing the "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodology to create memorable custom framing solutions.

• Achieve sales and production targets by effectively recommending and selling framing products and services tailored to customer needs.

• Complete custom framing orders with a high degree of quality, precision, and adherence to established timelines and production SOPs.

• Maintain the visual presentation and stock levels of the ready-made frame department, including SISO (Shop-In-Shop) and Directed Replenishment, to drive sales and customer satisfaction.

• Deliver friendly and efficient customer service, assisting customers with product location, offering solutions, and ensuring a well-merchandised and in-stock store environment.

• Adhere strictly to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company programs to ensure compliance and operational excellence.

• Actively support loss prevention and safety initiatives, contributing to a secure and safe working environment for both team members and customers.

• Operate the cash register, process transactions accurately, and manage cash handling according to company standards.

• Assist with omni-channel processes, such as online order fulfillment and in-store pickup, to provide a seamless customer experience.

• Participate in truck unloading and stocking processes, ensuring adherence to truck standards and budget compliance.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a dual focus on direct customer sales/design and operational tasks. The emphasis on "Elevated ABC Deliver" and "personal designer" suggests a consultative sales approach. The inclusion of "SISO and Directed Replenishment" points to inventory management and visual merchandising responsibilities within the framing department.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

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

Experience:

• 0-2 years of experience in a retail or customer-facing role.

• Demonstrated ability to learn and operate specialized equipment. Required Skills:

• Basic computer skills for point-of-sale (POS) systems and order entry.

• Proficiency in basic measuring skills for accurate custom framing.

• Ability to operate framing equipment and glass cutters safely and effectively.

• Strong customer service orientation with excellent interpersonal communication skills.

• Basic cash handling and transaction processing abilities.

• Ability to follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company guidelines. Preferred Skills:

• Previous retail sales experience, particularly in a consultative or design-oriented environment.

• Experience selling products and/or services, with a proven ability to upsell and meet sales targets.

• Familiarity with visual merchandising principles.

• Basic understanding of inventory management concepts.

📝 Enhancement Note: The required skills are practical and directly related to the core functions of custom framing and retail sales. The preferred skills indicate a preference for candidates who can quickly contribute to sales performance and potentially take on more responsibility within the department. The "0-2 years" experience level suggests that extensive prior framing knowledge may not be a prerequisite, but a willingness to learn is essential.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• While a formal portfolio might not be required for an entry-level role, candidates are encouraged to prepare examples of their work or demonstrate their understanding of design principles.

• Candidates should be ready to discuss how they would approach a customer consultation for custom framing, showcasing their problem-solving and solution-oriented mindset.

• Demonstrate an understanding of quality control in production, highlighting attention to detail and commitment to delivering a superior product.

• Be prepared to articulate how their efforts contribute to customer satisfaction and repeat business, linking their work to positive business outcomes. Process Documentation:

• Candidates should be familiar with or able to quickly learn and document workflow processes for custom framing orders, from initial customer consultation to final product delivery.

• Demonstrate an understanding of how to implement and potentially automate steps within the framing production process to improve efficiency and reduce errors.

• Show an aptitude for understanding how to measure the success of framing services through customer feedback and sales metrics.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an entry-level retail role like this, a traditional "operations portfolio" is less common. The emphasis shifts to demonstrating practical skills, customer interaction capabilities, and an understanding of process through examples and discussion rather than formal documentation. The "Process Documentation" section is framed more as an expectation of learning and applying processes rather than a pre-existing requirement.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $17.25 - $20.30 per hour.

• This range is based on the provided information and reflects typical hourly wages for specialized retail roles in the United States, considering the specified experience level and location. Regional cost of living and market demand for skilled framers can influence the precise offer. Benefits:

• 401(k) with employer match: Financial planning support for retirement.

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Confidential counseling and support services for personal and work-related issues.

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Coverage: Comprehensive health insurance options for team members and potentially their families.

• Telemedicine Services: Convenient access to healthcare professionals remotely.

• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs): Pre-tax accounts for healthcare and dependent care expenses.

• Commuter Benefits: Assistance with transportation costs to and from work.

• Tuition Assistance: Support for continuing education and skill development.

• Adoption Assistance: Financial support for team members growing their families through adoption.

• Voluntary Insurance Options: Additional insurance coverage for life, disability, and other needs.

• Employee Discounts: Significant discounts on Michaels products and services, a key perk for creative individuals.

• Potential for overtime compensation: In accordance with applicable state and local laws.

Working Hours: Part-time employment is specified, with the possibility of working nights, weekends, and early mornings as required by retail operational needs. The total working hours are not explicitly defined beyond "Part time," but the job description implies flexibility is needed to cover store operating hours.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is clearly stated. The benefits listed are comprehensive for a part-time retail position, indicating Michaels' commitment to supporting its team members. The "working hours" note emphasizes the typical demands of a retail environment.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Arts and Crafts Retail. Michaels operates as the leading specialty retailer for arts, crafts, and home décor in North America, with a significant presence in custom framing through its stores and Artistree division.

Company Size: Over 1,300 stores across 49 states and Canada, indicating a large, established retail footprint. This size implies standardized operational processes and a structured approach to team management.

Founded: 1973, with headquarters in Irving, Texas. This long history suggests a stable company with established brand recognition and operational experience.

Team Structure:

• The operations team within a Michaels store is typically structured around functional areas like sales, customer service, framing, and stock management.

• The Retail Custom Framer likely reports to a Store Manager or an Assistant Store Manager, who oversees daily operations and team performance.

• Cross-functional collaboration is essential, with the Framer interacting daily with sales associates, cashiers, and potentially visual merchandisers to ensure a cohesive customer experience and efficient store flow. Methodology:

• Data Analysis: While not a data-heavy role, the Framer will utilize sales data from the POS system to track performance and identify opportunities for upselling custom framing.

• Workflow Planning: Adherence to SOPs for framing production and customer service is critical, ensuring consistent quality and efficiency.

• Automation: The role involves using POS systems and potentially other store-specific software, representing a level of technological integration in daily tasks.

Company Website: www.michaels.com

📝 Enhancement Note: The company context provides a strong foundation for understanding the operational environment. The scale of Michaels means that processes are likely well-defined, and there's a focus on standardized execution. The "Methodology" section is tailored to how operations principles apply in a retail setting, focusing on practical application rather than complex analytics.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned at an entry-level to early-career stage within retail operations, specifically focusing on a specialized skill set (custom framing) within a sales and service context. It requires hands-on execution of production and customer-facing tasks.

Reporting Structure: Typically reports to a Store Manager or Assistant Store Manager, with direct interaction with other sales floor associates. This structure offers exposure to various aspects of retail management.

Operations Impact: The Retail Custom Framer directly impacts store revenue through custom framing sales and enhances customer loyalty by providing high-quality, personalized solutions. Their efficiency in production also contributes to the store's overall operational flow and ability to handle customer demand effectively.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Opportunity to become a subject matter expert in custom framing, potentially leading to roles with greater design or production responsibility within Michaels or the Artistree division.

• Retail Management Path: Potential to advance into roles such as Key Holder, Assistant Store Manager, or Store Manager, gaining broader operational and leadership experience across all store functions.

• Cross-Training: Possibility of cross-training in other store departments (e.g., visual merchandising, inventory) to develop a more comprehensive understanding of retail operations.

• Sales Development: Continuous development in sales techniques and customer relationship management, applicable across various retail environments.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Growth Opportunities" are framed within the context of a retail career path. The emphasis is on developing specialized skills and then leveraging that experience for broader retail management opportunities.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Public retail store setting. The primary workspace is the sales floor and the dedicated custom framing area within the store.

Office Location(s): Woodside, California (5106 Northern Blvd). This specific location serves a local customer base.

Workspace Context:

• The environment is dynamic and customer-focused, requiring constant interaction with shoppers.

• The framing shop is equipped with specialized tools (glass cutter, heat press) and materials, necessitating adherence to safety protocols.

• Opportunities for team interaction occur daily with fellow store associates, fostering a collaborative retail atmosphere.

Work Schedule: Part-time, requiring flexibility to work nights, weekends, and early mornings. This schedule is typical for retail roles and allows for coverage during peak shopping hours and operational needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The description of the work environment is practical, highlighting the customer-facing nature and the specific tools and safety considerations of a framing shop within a retail store.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Application: Submit resume and complete the online application. Focus on highlighting relevant customer service, sales, and any crafting/artistic experience.

• Screening Interview: Likely a brief phone or video call with an HR representative or hiring manager to assess basic qualifications, availability, and interest in the role. Be prepared to discuss your understanding of custom framing and customer service.

• In-Person Interview: This will likely involve meeting with the Store Manager or Assistant Manager. Expect questions about your customer service approach, problem-solving skills, ability to handle pressure, and your experience with tools or crafting. You may be asked to demonstrate basic measuring skills or discuss how you would handle a specific customer scenario.

• Practical Assessment (Potential): Depending on the store's process, there might be a brief practical demonstration of using a measuring tape, basic computer skills (POS simulation), or discussing how to approach a framing design.

• Final Offer: Based on the interview and assessment, an offer will be extended.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Visual Examples: If you have any personal projects or past work related to art, crafts, or custom framing, be prepared to show photos or bring examples. This is particularly important for demonstrating your artistic eye and technical aptitude.

• Case Study Discussion: Prepare to discuss a time you helped a customer solve a problem or find the perfect solution. Frame this around how you would approach a custom framing consultation – understanding the customer's vision, material options, and delivering a result.

• Process Explanation: Be ready to explain your understanding of a production process, such as how you would ensure accuracy and quality from order taking to final product.

• Company Alignment: Research Michaels' brand and values. Think about how your approach to customer service and creativity aligns with their mission.

Challenge Preparation:

• Customer Scenario: Be ready for hypothetical questions like, "A customer wants to frame a valuable piece of art but is on a tight budget. How would you assist them?" Focus on offering solutions, explaining options, and managing expectations.

• Tool Familiarity: While you'll be trained, showing initiative in understanding how tools work (even conceptually) can be beneficial.

• Sales Motivation: Be prepared to discuss your motivation for sales and how you approach achieving targets.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is tailored to a retail role. The "Portfolio Review Tips" and "Challenge Preparation" focus on practical demonstrations of skills and customer-centric problem-solving rather than formal operations documentation.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Point of Sale (POS) System: Essential for processing sales, managing transactions, and potentially entering custom framing orders. Proficiency with cash registers and payment processing is key.

• Framing Equipment: Includes specialized tools such as mat cutters, frame saws, jointers, and potentially a heat press for mounting. Training will be provided, but a willingness to learn and operate these safely is crucial.

• Glass Cutter: Used for precisely cutting glass or acrylic to size for framed items.

• Measuring Tools: Tape measures, rulers, and potentially specialized framing jigs for accurate measurements.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Sales Reports (POS-generated): Used by management to track individual and store performance, including custom framing sales.

• Inventory Management Systems: For tracking stock levels of mat boards, frames, glass, and hardware.

CRM & Automation:

• Customer Relationship Management (CRM) elements: Building customer relationships through personalized service and design consultations. While not a formal CRM system for this role, the "Elevated ABC Deliver" suggests a structured approach to customer interaction.

• Order Management System: Integrated within the POS or a separate system for tracking custom framing orders through production.

📝 Enhancement Note: The tools and technology are specific to a retail and custom framing environment. The emphasis is on practical, hands-on equipment and standard retail POS systems.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Creativity & Celebration: Michaels' core purpose is to fuel the joy of creativity and celebration. This translates into a culture that values artistic expression and helping customers achieve their creative goals.

• Customer Focus: A strong emphasis on providing excellent customer service, building relationships, and creating memorable experiences, especially through personalized design solutions.

• Teamwork: Collaboration is key in a retail environment. Associates are expected to support each other to ensure smooth store operations and a positive shopping experience.

• Efficiency & Quality: While fostering creativity, there's also a need for efficient production and high-quality craftsmanship in custom framing to meet customer expectations and maintain brand reputation.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: The Framer will work closely with sales associates to ensure a seamless customer journey, from initial inquiry on the sales floor to the completed custom order.

• Process Review: While not formal, an environment that encourages feedback on production processes or customer service interactions to improve efficiency and customer satisfaction.

• Knowledge Sharing: Team members are encouraged to share tips on sales techniques, product knowledge, and best practices for custom framing.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture and values are derived from Michaels' stated mission and the nature of a customer-centric retail environment. The focus is on how these values translate into daily interactions and operational responsibilities for a Framer.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Sales and Production: Effectively managing time to meet both customer design consultation/sales goals and production deadlines for custom framing orders.

• Technical Skill Acquisition: Learning to operate framing equipment and mastering the techniques for high-quality custom framing can be challenging but rewarding.

• Customer Expectations: Meeting diverse customer expectations for art preservation, design aesthetics, and budget constraints requires strong communication and problem-solving skills.

• Pace of Retail: Adapting to the fast-paced nature of a retail store, especially during peak seasons or busy weekends.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Framing Expertise: Comprehensive training provided by Michaels to develop proficiency in custom framing techniques, materials, and design principles.

• Sales and Customer Service Skills: Opportunities to hone consultative selling abilities, build customer rapport, and enhance overall customer service expertise.

• Retail Operations Exposure: Gaining hands-on experience in various aspects of store operations, including merchandising, inventory, and POS management.

• Potential for Advancement: Clear pathways for career progression within Michaels, from specialized roles to management positions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges and growth opportunities are specific to the role of a custom framer in a retail setting, highlighting both the learning curve and the potential for development.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you helped a customer find the perfect product or solution. How did you approach it?" (Focus on consultative selling and problem-solving for custom framing.)

• "How do you prioritize tasks when you have multiple customer orders and deadlines?" (Demonstrate time management and ability to work under pressure.)

• "What does quality craftsmanship mean to you in the context of custom framing?" (Show understanding of attention to detail and customer satisfaction.)

• "How would you handle a situation where a customer is unhappy with their custom framing order?" (Focus on de-escalation, problem-solving, and finding a resolution.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "Why are you interested in working for Michaels and specifically in custom framing?" (Connect your passion for art/crafts or customer service to the role.)

• "What do you know about Michaels' commitment to creativity and customer experience?" (Show you've researched the company's mission and values.)

• "How do you contribute to a positive team environment?" (Highlight collaboration and support for colleagues.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Visual Aids: If you have photos of past framing projects or artwork you've created, be ready to share them to showcase your aesthetic sense and technical skills.

• Scenario-Based Answers: For questions about handling customer issues or design challenges, use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses, illustrating your problem-solving capabilities.

• Enthusiasm for Craft: Convey genuine interest in the art of custom framing and helping customers bring their visions to life.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview questions are designed to assess practical skills, customer service aptitude, and alignment with Michaels' culture, rather than deep operational strategy.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

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

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight any experience in retail, customer service, sales, art, or crafting. Quantify achievements where possible (e.g., "Assisted X customers daily," "Contributed to Y% increase in framing sales").

• Portfolio Preparation: Gather photos of any custom framing, art, or craft projects you have completed. Be prepared to discuss your design process and the techniques used. If you don't have framing-specific work, focus on transferable skills like attention to detail and artistic ability.

• Interview Practice: Rehearse answers to common retail interview questions, focusing on your customer service approach, problem-solving skills, and ability to learn new technical skills. Practice describing how you'd consult with a customer for custom framing.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Michaels' mission, values, and the importance of custom framing to their business. Understand their target customer and how you can contribute to their experience.

⚠️ 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.