Retail Custom Framer PT

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Retail Custom Framer PT

Company: Michaels Stores

Location: Oakville, Ontario, Canada

Job Type: Part Time

Category: Retail Operations / Customer Service & Design

Date Posted: July 28, 2026

Experience Level: Entry Level (0-2 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This part-time retail role focuses on providing exceptional customer service and expert custom framing solutions within a busy retail environment.

• Responsibilities include building strong customer relationships through personalized design consultations and ensuring timely, high-quality completion of framing orders.

• Key operational duties involve maintaining store presentation, managing inventory, operating point-of-sale systems, and adhering to company standards for safety and operational efficiency.

• The position requires hands-on engagement with framing equipment and materials, as well as participation in general store operations such as stocking and merchandising.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title "Retail Custom Framer" suggests a specialized design and production role, the description also emphasizes broad retail responsibilities. This indicates a hybrid role where the individual will be a general retail associate with a specific focus and expertise in custom framing services. The "PT" (Part-Time) designation means the role will likely require flexibility across various shifts, including weekends and potentially evenings.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Customer Consultation & Design:

  • Engage customers to understand their framing needs and artistic vision, acting as a trusted design consultant.
  • Utilize elevated selling techniques (Elevated ABC Deliver) to build rapport and identify opportunities for custom framing solutions.
  • Guide customers through material selection (mats, frames, glass) and design options to create memorable framing experiences.

• Production & Quality Control:

  • Accurately measure artwork and select appropriate materials for custom framing projects.
  • Operate specialized framing equipment, including mat cutters and potentially heat presses, with a focus on precision and safety.
  • Execute framing orders to meet high-quality standards and ensure on-time completion for customer pickup.
  • Maintain a meticulous approach to all production tasks to minimize errors and rework.

• Store Operations & Merchandising:

  • Maintain the ready-made frame department and other assigned areas to ensure visual appeal and stock availability.
  • Support directed replenishment and planogram adherence for assigned sections.
  • Assist with truck un-loads and stocking processes, ensuring adherence to company standards and efficient inventory management.
  • Operate the cash register, handle transactions accurately, and manage cash handling procedures according to company standards.

• Customer Engagement & Support:

  • Provide friendly and proactive customer service, assisting shoppers in locating products and offering solutions.
  • Help maintain a safe, clean, and clutter-free environment for customers and team members.
  • Support omni-channel processes, which may include assisting with online order fulfillment or customer inquiries.

• Compliance & Teamwork:

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

  • Participate in shrink and safety programs, reporting any potential hazards or security concerns.

  • Interact positively and respectfully with colleagues, contributing to a collaborative and supportive team environment.

  • Uphold organizational values and serve as a role model for professional conduct and customer engagement.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities are diverse, blending customer-facing sales and design with hands-on production and general retail tasks. The emphasis on "Elevated ABC Deliver" and "personal designer" suggests a structured sales process for framing services that candidates should be prepared to learn and execute.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• No specific degree requirement, but a strong educational foundation in art, design, or a related field can be advantageous.

• High school diploma or equivalent is generally expected for retail positions. Experience:

• 0-2 years of experience in a customer-facing role, preferably within a retail environment.

• Demonstrated experience in sales or service-oriented positions is preferred.

• Prior experience with custom framing or art installation is a strong asset but not strictly required. Required Skills:

• Basic Measuring Skills: Ability to take precise measurements for framing projects.

• Equipment Operation: Proficiency or willingness to learn to operate framing equipment, including mat cutters and glass cutters.

• Customer Service Excellence: Proven ability to provide friendly, helpful, and proactive customer service.

• Sales Acumen: Ability to engage customers, understand their needs, and recommend suitable products and services.

• Basic Computer Skills: Familiarity with point-of-sale (POS) systems and general computer applications.

• Adherence to Procedures: Ability to follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company guidelines accurately.

• Team Collaboration: Capacity to work effectively as part of a retail team.

Preferred Skills:

• Retail Experience: Previous work in a retail store setting, particularly in a specialized department.

• Sales Experience: Proven track record of selling products or services, with an ability to close sales.

• Art & Design Knowledge: Understanding of art presentation, design principles, and framing aesthetics.

• Inventory Management: Familiarity with stock management, merchandising, and inventory control processes.

• Cash Handling: Experience with POS systems and accurate cash management.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Minimum Type of experience" and "Preferred Type of experience" directly translate to required and preferred skills. The emphasis on "basic computer skills and basic measuring skills" combined with the preference for "retail experience" and "selling products and/or services" clearly defines the foundational requirements.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• While a formal portfolio isn't explicitly requested for this entry-level role, candidates are encouraged to prepare examples of their customer service approach and any design-related work.

• Customer Interaction Examples: Be ready to describe how you've successfully assisted customers, resolved issues, or exceeded expectations in previous roles.

• Design Sensibility: If you have personal projects or examples of design work (even non-professional), be prepared to discuss your creative process and aesthetic choices.

• Process Improvement Ideas: Think about how you might approach improving customer flow, framing order accuracy, or in-store merchandising based on your understanding of retail operations.

Process Documentation:

• The role requires adherence to established Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for all framing, sales, and store operations.

• Candidates should demonstrate an understanding of how to follow documented processes for tasks such as:

  • Customer consultation and order taking for custom framing.

  • Accurate measurement and material selection.

  • Operation of framing equipment and tools.

  • Cashiering and transaction processing.

  • Stocking, merchandising, and inventory management.

  • Maintaining store cleanliness and safety standards.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an entry-level, part-time retail position, a formal portfolio is uncommon. The "Portfolio Essentials" section focuses on demonstrating relevant skills and mindset through discussion and hypothetical scenarios rather than formal documentation. The emphasis is on understanding and applying existing processes.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Estimated Range: $17.85 - $20.75 CAD per hour.

• Explanation: This range is directly provided in the job posting. It reflects an entry-level to intermediate pay scale for a part-time retail associate with specialized duties in custom framing in the Oakville, Ontario, Canada region. This rate aligns with typical retail wages in the Greater Toronto Area for positions requiring specific skills and customer interaction.

Benefits:

• Health Insurance: Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage.

• Paid Time Off (PTO): Accrued time off for vacation, personal days, or sick leave.

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

• Employee Discounts: Generous discounts on Michaels products and services.

• Other Benefits: Additional benefits are available, as detailed on mikbenefits.com.

Working Hours:

• Estimated Hours: Approximately 40 hours per week, as indicated by ai_working_hours. However, as this is a "Part time" role, actual hours may vary based on business needs and scheduling.

• Flexibility: The role requires availability for nights, weekends, and early mornings to meet operational demands and customer traffic.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided salary range is specific and indicates the employer's compensation strategy for this role. The benefits listed are comprehensive for a part-time position, with tuition assistance and discounts being particularly attractive for individuals looking for career development and cost savings. The mention of "nights, weekends and early mornings" is critical for candidates to assess scheduling compatibility.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Arts & Crafts Retail / Home Decor / Custom Framing

Company Size: Large (Michaels operates over 1,300 stores in North America). This scale offers stability and established operational frameworks.

Founded: 1973. With a long history, Michaels has developed robust retail processes and a strong brand presence.

Team Structure:

• Store Level: The custom framer will be part of a store team consisting of a Store Manager, Assistant Store Manager(s), and fellow Team Members (sales associates, framers, etc.).

• Reporting: This role likely reports directly to a department lead or Assistant Store Manager responsible for custom framing and potentially other store operations.

• Collaboration: Expect close collaboration with other retail associates for customer service, stock management, and general store upkeep. The custom framing aspect may involve collaboration with other framers or designers if the store is large enough to have multiple.

Methodology:

• Customer-Centric Approach: The company emphasizes building customer relationships and providing memorable experiences, particularly through the "Elevated ABC Deliver" method for custom framing.

• Process Standardization: Michaels relies on Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to ensure consistency in sales, production, and store operations across all locations.

• Data Utilization: While not explicitly detailed for this role, a large retail organization like Michaels likely uses sales data, inventory metrics, and customer feedback to inform operational decisions and merchandising strategies.

Company Website: www.michaels.com

📝 Enhancement Note: Michaels' long history and large store footprint suggest a well-defined organizational structure and established operational processes. The focus on customer relationships and a structured sales approach for framing indicates a company that invests in training and customer experience.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Entry-Level Retail Associate with Specialized Functionality. This role serves as a foundational position within the retail operations of Michaels, specifically focusing on the custom framing department. It offers exposure to both direct customer interaction and hands-on production.

Reporting Structure: Typically reports to a Store Manager or Assistant Store Manager responsible for the custom framing department or overall store operations. This provides a clear line of management and direct feedback.

Operations Impact:

• Revenue Generation: Directly contributes to store revenue through custom framing sales and general retail product sales.

• Customer Loyalty: Plays a crucial role in customer retention and positive brand perception through exceptional service and quality framing solutions.

• Operational Efficiency: Contributes to store operations through accurate order fulfillment, effective merchandising, and adherence to SOPs, which impacts overall store performance and profitability.

Growth Opportunities:

• Advancement within Framing: Potential to become a lead custom framer or designer, taking on more complex projects and potentially training new team members.

• Retail Management Track: Opportunity to move into supervisory roles (e.g., Assistant Store Manager) by demonstrating leadership, operational proficiency, and sales success.

• Cross-Departmental Experience: Gain experience in other store departments, broadening skill sets for future retail roles.

• Skill Development: Continuous learning in design, sales techniques, and operational processes, supported by company training programs and tuition assistance.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers clear pathways for growth within the retail sector, leveraging specialized skills in custom framing while building a strong foundation in general retail operations and customer service. The combination of direct sales, production, and operational duties makes it a well-rounded entry point.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Public Retail Store Setting. The primary work environment is the sales floor and the dedicated custom framing area within a Michaels store.

Office Location(s):

• The specific location is Oakville, Ontario, Canada, at the 200 N Service Rd W store.

• This is a typical suburban retail location, likely situated in a shopping plaza or mall, accessible via public transit and with ample parking. Workspace Context:

• Customer-Facing Areas: Climate-controlled, designed for customer comfort and browsing. This includes the sales floor, ready-made frame displays, and design consultation areas.

• Frame Shop: This area contains specialized equipment like glass cutters and heat presses. It may have varying climate control compared to public areas. Safety protocols are paramount here.

• Stock Rooms: May not always be climate-controlled, requiring adaptability during stocking and inventory tasks.

• Collaboration: Frequent interaction with customers and fellow team members is expected, fostering a dynamic and communicative work environment.

Work Schedule:

• The role is part-time, requiring flexibility.

• Availability for nights, weekends, and early mornings is essential to meet business demands and customer traffic patterns.

• Standard 40-hour work week is listed, but for part-time, this signifies the total operational hours the team might cover, with individual schedules being less.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is typical for retail, combining customer interaction spaces with back-of-house operational areas. The frame shop itself presents unique environmental considerations due to the tools and materials used. Flexibility in scheduling is a critical aspect of this on-site role.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Likely a brief phone or online screening to assess basic qualifications and interest.

• In-Person Interview: A face-to-face interview at the store location is probable. This will involve:

  • Behavioral Questions: Assessing customer service skills, problem-solving abilities, and teamwork (e.g., "Tell me about a time you dealt with a difficult customer").
  • Situational Questions: Presenting hypothetical scenarios related to customer interactions, framing dilemmas, or operational challenges.
  • Skills Assessment: Discussion of your experience with measuring, basic computer skills, and any prior framing or design work.
  • Tour & Introduction: A walk-through of the store, including the framing area, and introductions to potential team members.

• Skills Demonstration (Potential): You may be asked to demonstrate basic measuring skills or discuss how you would approach a framing consultation.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Focus on Transferable Skills: Since a formal portfolio isn't required, emphasize your resume and cover letter.

Highlight achievements and responsibilities that demonstrate key skills like customer service, sales, attention to detail, and problem-solving.

• Prepare Anecdotes: Have specific examples ready from previous work or personal experiences that showcase your ability to:

  • Build rapport with customers.
  • Solve problems creatively.
  • Work efficiently and accurately.
  • Manage time effectively, especially in a fast-paced environment.

• Discuss Design Sensibility: If you have any background or interest in art, design, or aesthetics, be prepared to discuss it. This shows enthusiasm and potential for the custom framing aspect of the role.

• Showcase Understanding of the Role: Demonstrate that you understand the dual nature of the job – both customer service/sales and production/operations.

Challenge Preparation:

• Customer Service Scenarios: Be ready to role-play or discuss how you would handle common customer service situations, such as a customer being unhappy with a framing choice or needing urgent assistance.

• Problem-Solving: Prepare to discuss how you would approach a challenging framing order or a situation where materials might be unavailable.

• Operational Awareness: Think about how you would contribute to maintaining store standards, assisting with stock, and ensuring a safe work environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for this role will likely focus on assessing personality, customer service aptitude, and basic technical/operational understanding rather than extensive prior experience or a formal portfolio. Candidate preparation should center on articulating relevant experiences and demonstrating a proactive, customer-focused attitude.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Custom Framing Equipment:

  • Mat cutters (e.g., Logan, Fletcher)
  • Glass cutters
  • Framing saws/miter boxes
  • Possibly heat presses (for specific mounting or finishing)
  • Measuring tapes and rulers

• Point of Sale (POS) System: For processing transactions, managing customer orders, and potentially inventory lookup.

• Basic Computer Applications: For internal communications, training modules, and accessing company information.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While this role is entry-level, understanding basic sales performance metrics and inventory levels might be part of the job.

• POS Reports: Access to sales data related to custom framing and overall store performance.

CRM & Automation:

• Customer Relationship Management (CRM): The POS system likely includes basic CRM functionalities to track customer orders, preferences, and contact information. The "Elevated ABC Deliver" system is a form of customer engagement strategy likely integrated into the sales process.

• Inventory Management Systems: Used for tracking stock levels of frames, mats, glass, and other framing supplies.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency with specialized framing tools is a core requirement. Familiarity with POS systems is essential for transaction processing and order management. While advanced analytics tools are unlikely to be directly used by this role, an understanding of how their work contributes to broader store metrics is beneficial.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Customer Focus: Prioritizing customer needs and satisfaction is paramount, driving sales and loyalty.

• Creativity & Joy: As a company centered around arts and crafts, fostering a creative and joyful atmosphere for both customers and employees is key.

• Quality & Craftsmanship: Commitment to delivering high-quality custom framing solutions that meet customer expectations.

• Teamwork & Respect: Working collaboratively with colleagues, valuing diverse perspectives, and maintaining a respectful work environment.

• Efficiency & Accountability: Adhering to operational procedures, managing time effectively, and taking ownership of responsibilities.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: While primarily focused on custom framing, team members are expected to support other store functions and collaborate with all store associates.

• Customer-Centric Collaboration: Associates work together to ensure customers have a positive experience from initial consultation through to purchase and pickup.

• Supportive Environment: Encouragement to share knowledge, assist colleagues, and contribute to a positive team dynamic. Feedback is likely shared constructively to improve processes and individual performance.

📝 Enhancement Note: Michaels emphasizes a culture that blends creativity with operational efficiency and strong customer service. The values suggest an environment where individual contributions are recognized within a supportive team structure.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Multiple Roles: Juggling customer consultations, production tasks, sales, and general store duties can be demanding.

• Customer Expectations: Managing diverse customer expectations regarding design, cost, and turnaround time for custom framing.

• Production Demands: Meeting production deadlines while maintaining high quality, especially during peak seasons.

• Learning Curve: Mastering the operation of framing equipment and understanding the nuances of different materials can take time.

• Physical Demands: The role involves standing for long periods, lifting, and repetitive motions, which can be physically taxing.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Framing & Design Skills: Intensive training on custom framing techniques, material selection, and design principles.

• Sales & Customer Service: Development of consultative selling skills and advanced customer engagement strategies.

• Retail Operations: Exposure to inventory management, merchandising, POS operations, and store management principles.

• Career Progression: Opportunities to move into leadership roles within Michaels stores, or to specialize further within the framing domain.

• Tuition Assistance: Financial support for pursuing further education relevant to retail, design, or business.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents a valuable opportunity for individuals interested in a hands-on craft within a retail setting. The challenges are typical of busy retail environments, while the growth opportunities are well-defined within both specialized and general retail career paths.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your experience with custom framing or art presentation."

  • Preparation: Even if you have no direct framing experience, highlight any artistic background, design interest, or experience with handling delicate items. Discuss your understanding of aesthetics and attention to detail.

• "How would you approach a customer who is unsure about their framing design?"

  • Preparation: Focus on active listening, asking clarifying questions, offering suggestions based on their artwork and stated preferences, and demonstrating knowledge of available materials and styles. Mention the "Elevated ABC Deliver" approach if you can infer its principles (building rapport, understanding needs, offering solutions).

• "Tell me about a time you had to work under pressure to meet a deadline."

  • Preparation: Provide a specific example from previous work, school, or personal projects. Focus on your time management, prioritization, and ability to remain calm and focused.

• "How do you ensure accuracy when taking orders or performing tasks?"

  • Preparation: Discuss your methods for double-checking work, attention to detail, and adherence to procedures. Mention using checklists or confirming details with customers. Company & Culture Questions:

• "Why are you interested in working for Michaels?"

  • Preparation: Research Michaels' brand, its commitment to creativity, and its community presence. Mention your passion for art, crafting, or providing excellent customer service.

• "What do you know about our custom framing services?"

  • Preparation: Review the Michaels website for their framing offerings. Understand the types of items they frame, the materials they use, and the general process.

• "How do you handle constructive feedback from a supervisor or colleague?"

  • Preparation: Express an open and receptive attitude towards feedback, viewing it as an opportunity for growth and improvement. Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Verbal Presentation is Key: Since a formal portfolio is unlikely, be prepared to verbally "walk through" your resume and highlight key experiences.

• Use the STAR Method: For behavioral questions, structure your answers using Situation, Task, Action, Result to provide clear and concise examples of your skills and achievements.

• Showcase Enthusiasm: Demonstrate genuine interest in the role, the company, and the craft of custom framing. Your positive attitude and willingness to learn will be crucial.

• Ask Insightful Questions: Prepare 2-3 thoughtful questions about the team, the role's day-to-day, or opportunities for learning and development. This shows engagement and initiative.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating core retail competencies, a passion for creativity, and a strong customer service mindset. The ability to articulate past experiences using the STAR method will be highly effective.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application: Complete and submit your application through the provided link on the Michaels careers portal.

• Tailor your resume: Highlight any relevant customer service, sales, artistic, or hands-on experience. Use keywords from the job description such as "custom framing," "customer service," "sales," "merchandising," and "attention to detail."

• Prepare for the interview: Be ready to discuss your experience using the STAR method for behavioral questions and articulate your understanding of the role's responsibilities.

• Research Michaels: Familiarize yourself with Michaels' brand, products (especially custom framing), and values to demonstrate genuine interest.

• Practice your pitch: Be prepared to briefly and enthusiastically explain why you are a good fit for the role and the company culture.

⚠️ 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.