Retail Part Time Framer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Retail Part Time Framer

Company: Michaels Stores

Location: Tarentum, Pennsylvania, United States

Job Type: Part time

Category: Retail Operations / Custom Framing Specialist

Date Posted: 2026-09-15

Experience Level: Entry Level (0-2 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Focus on building strong customer relationships through personalized design consultations for custom framing solutions.

• Drive sales and production targets by effectively presenting and selling custom framing products and services.

• Ensure high-quality execution of all framing orders, meeting production timelines and customer expectations.

• Maintain the visual presentation and stock levels of the ready-made frame department and other assigned retail areas.

• Provide exceptional customer service, assisting shoppers with product location, problem-solving, and creating a positive shopping experience.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is a hybrid of direct customer engagement, sales, and specialized production within a retail environment. The "Framer" title indicates a focus on the custom framing department, requiring both artistic/design sensibility and operational efficiency. The "Part Time" nature suggests flexibility in scheduling, likely including evenings and weekends.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Engage customers in personalized design consultations, leveraging the "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodology to build rapport and understand their framing needs.

• Proactively sell custom framing solutions, aiming to achieve individual sales and production goals.

• Accurately interpret customer orders and specifications to complete custom framing projects with a high degree of quality and within established timelines.

• Manage and maintain the visual merchandising standards for the ready-made frame department, including SISO (Shop In Shop Out) and Directed Replenishment processes.

• Deliver friendly and efficient customer service, assisting with product inquiries, locating items, and ensuring a well-merchandised and adequately stocked store.

• Adhere strictly to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company programs for all operational and customer-facing activities.

• Actively participate in shrink and safety programs, ensuring a secure and hazard-free store environment.

• Foster a positive and respectful work environment, demonstrating commitment to company values and serving as a role model for colleagues.

• Participate in inventory management tasks, including truck unloading and stocking, ensuring adherence to established standards and budgets.

• Operate the cash register accurately and efficiently, adhering to all cash handling and transaction processing standards.

• Assist customers by acknowledging their presence, helping them find products, and offering solutions to their needs.

• Support and execute omni-channel processes, such as buy online, pick up in-store (BOPIS) or ship-from-store, as required.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of sales, customer service, operational execution, and adherence to company policies. The emphasis on "Elevated ABC Deliver" suggests a structured sales approach focused on customer relationship building. "SISO" and "Directed Replenishment" point to specific inventory management and merchandising protocols.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: High school diploma or equivalent required.

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 proficiency for order entry and system navigation.

• Solid basic measuring skills for accurate framing specifications.

• Ability to operate framing equipment and a glass cutter safely and effectively.

• Strong customer service orientation with a focus on building relationships.

• Sales aptitude, with the ability to present products and close sales.

• Proficiency in cash handling and operating a point-of-sale (POS) system.

• Understanding of merchandising principles and ability to maintain visual standards.

• Competence in basic inventory management and stock replenishment.

• Awareness of safety protocols and ability to adhere to safety guidelines.

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for effective customer and team interaction.

• Ability to manage time effectively and prioritize tasks in a fast-paced retail environment.

• High degree of attention to detail for accurate order fulfillment and quality control. Preferred Skills:

• Previous retail experience, ideally in a specialty or custom service environment.

• Proven experience selling products and/or services to customers, with a consultative approach.

• Familiarity with custom framing processes or art display techniques.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirements are geared towards an entry-level position with a strong emphasis on customer interaction, sales, and foundational operational skills. The "basic" qualifiers for computer and measuring skills suggest that extensive prior expertise in these areas is not mandatory, but the ability to learn and perform them is crucial. The framing equipment and glass cutter proficiency is a core technical requirement.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Documentation of successful customer engagement strategies, particularly those leading to custom framing sales.

• Examples of how you have identified customer needs and translated them into tangible product solutions.

• Evidence of maintaining high standards for quality and accuracy in previous work, especially in production or order fulfillment.

• Demonstrations of effective time management and prioritization in a retail or service context. Process Documentation:

• Applicants are expected to articulate their understanding of standard retail operating procedures (SOPs) and how they apply them.

• Ability to describe how they would approach learning and mastering new equipment operation and safety protocols.

• Examples of how they have contributed to a clean, organized, and well-merchandised work environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: While a formal portfolio might not be strictly required for this entry-level role, candidates should be prepared to discuss their experience and skills through the lens of these operational and customer-centric processes. The emphasis is on demonstrating a foundational understanding of retail operations, customer service excellence, and a commitment to quality and efficiency.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Based on industry benchmarks for part-time retail associates with custom framing responsibilities in the Tarentum, PA area, the estimated hourly wage typically ranges from $12.00 to $16.00 per hour. This range can vary based on experience, specific skill set, and the store's performance.

Benefits:

• 401(k) with employer match: Opportunity to save for retirement with company contributions.

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

• Medical coverage: Health insurance options available for eligible team members.

• Dental coverage: Dental insurance plans to support oral health.

• Vision coverage: Vision insurance for eye care needs.

• 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 public transportation costs.

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

• Adoption assistance: Financial support for team members building their families through adoption.

• Various voluntary insurance options: Additional coverage for life, disability, and other needs.

• Employee discounts: Significant discounts on Michaels products and services.

• Partner discount programs: Access to discounts with affiliated companies.

Working Hours:

This is a part-time position. Working hours will vary and may include evenings, weekends, and potentially early mornings, especially during peak retail seasons or for truck un-loads. Flexibility in scheduling is expected.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on typical entry-level retail positions in the Pittsburgh metropolitan area, adjusted for specialized framing duties. The provided benefits list is extensive and typical for a large retail organization like Michaels, offering a comprehensive package for part-time employees.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Arts and Crafts Retail. Michaels is a leading retailer in North America for arts, crafts, and home decor.

Company Size: Large enterprise with over 1,300 stores across North America. This scale offers stability and structured processes.

Founded: 1973, headquartered in Irving, Texas. Michaels has a long-standing history and established brand presence.

Team Structure:

• The operations team within a Michaels store is typically led by a Store Manager, with Assistant Managers overseeing specific departments or functions.

• This role likely reports to a Framing Department Manager or a designated Supervisor responsible for custom framing and related retail operations.

• Collaboration is expected with other sales floor associates, cashiers, and potentially stockroom personnel. Methodology:

• Michaels emphasizes adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for consistency and compliance across all stores.

• A customer-centric approach is core, focusing on building relationships and providing solutions ("Elevated ABC Deliver").

• Data-driven decisions are implied through sales targets, inventory management (SISO, Directed Replenishment), and omni-channel integration.

• Efficiency and safety are key operational pillars, particularly in areas like truck unloading and equipment operation.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture is described as one that "fuels the joy of creativity and celebration," suggesting a positive, encouraging, and customer-focused environment. The emphasis on SOPs indicates a structured operational framework, while the "Elevated ABC Deliver" points to a sales methodology focused on personalized customer interaction.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This "Retail Part Time Framer" role is positioned at an entry-level to early-career stage within the retail operations and specialized services sector. It provides foundational experience in customer service, sales, and specific production skills.

Reporting Structure: Typically reports to a Store Manager, Assistant Store Manager, or a Department Lead responsible for the custom framing area. This structure allows for direct supervision and guidance in skill development and operational execution.

Operations Impact: The framer's impact is multifaceted:

• Revenue Generation: Directly contributes to sales through custom framing consultations and upselling.

• Customer Loyalty: Builds repeat business and positive brand perception through excellent service and quality custom framing.

• Operational Efficiency: Ensures smooth functioning of the framing department and contributes to overall store presentation and stock management.

• Brand Experience: Embodies the Michaels brand by fostering creativity and celebrating customer projects.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Develop expertise in custom framing design, production techniques, and material knowledge.

• Sales Advancement: Progress to roles with higher sales targets or management responsibilities within the framing department or store.

• Cross-Training: Gain experience in other store departments (e.g., merchandising, cash wrap) to broaden retail operational knowledge.

• Leadership Potential: With demonstrated performance and leadership qualities, opportunities may arise for Assistant Manager or Department Manager roles.

• Continuous Learning: Access to company training programs for product knowledge, sales techniques, and operational best practices.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role serves as a strong stepping stone within Michaels' retail operations. The growth path emphasizes developing specialized skills in framing, enhancing sales capabilities, and potentially moving into leadership positions within the store environment, supported by ongoing training and development initiatives.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is a role within a public retail store setting. The primary work environment is the sales floor and the dedicated custom framing shop area.

Office Location(s): Tarentum, Pennsylvania (specifically at 1030 Village Center Dr). This is a physical retail store location.

Workspace Context:

• The sales floor is a climate-controlled environment designed for customer browsing and interaction.

• The frame shop area will contain specialized equipment such as framing machinery and a glass cutter, requiring careful operation and adherence to safety protocols.

• Some stock rooms may not be climate-controlled, and occasional outdoor work might be required for truck unloads.

• The environment is dynamic, with constant customer interaction and varying task demands. Work Schedule:

• The schedule is part-time, requiring flexibility to work nights, weekends, and potentially early mornings. This is common in retail to ensure store coverage during operating hours and for operational tasks like stocking.

• The role involves extended periods of standing, bending, lifting, and reaching, reflecting the physical demands of a retail and production environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is typical for a retail associate, with specific considerations for the specialized nature of the framing shop. The need for flexibility in working hours, including weekends and evenings, is a standard expectation for part-time retail roles.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your application and resume to assess basic qualifications and alignment with the role's requirements.

• Phone/Video Interview: A discussion with a hiring manager to delve deeper into your customer service, sales, and technical aptitude. Be prepared to share examples of how you've handled customer interactions and learned new skills.

• In-Person Interview: This will likely involve a tour of the store and framing area, a practical demonstration of your interest and ability to interact with "customers" (potentially role-playing), and a discussion about your understanding of the role's responsibilities. You may be asked to demonstrate basic measuring skills or discuss how you would approach a framing consultation.

• Skills Assessment: Depending on the store's process, there might be a brief assessment of your basic computer skills or ability to follow instructions for operating equipment.

• Final Offer: Following successful interviews and assessment, a job offer will be extended.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• While a formal "portfolio" isn't explicitly required for this entry-level role, be prepared to discuss your experience using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for any relevant past work or projects.

• Highlight instances where you've provided excellent customer service, successfully sold a product or service, managed your time effectively, or demonstrated attention to detail.

• If you have any personal projects involving framing, art, or design, be ready to briefly describe them and your process.

• For framing-specific discussions, be ready to talk about your understanding of different frame materials, matting options, and how you would guide a customer through these choices. Challenge Preparation:

• Be ready to discuss how you would handle a challenging customer situation, such as a complaint about a framing order or a customer who is unsure about their design choices.

• Prepare to explain how you would prioritize tasks if you had multiple framing orders to complete, customers waiting for assistance, and a truck to unload.

• Practice articulating your understanding of safety procedures for operating framing equipment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is designed to assess practical skills, customer interaction abilities, and cultural fit. Candidates should focus on demonstrating enthusiasm, a willingness to learn, and a strong customer-centric mindset. For this role, showcasing past customer service successes and a proactive attitude will be more impactful than a formal portfolio.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Custom Framing Equipment: Specialized machinery for cutting frames, assembling corners, and finishing (e.g., mat cutters, underpinner, heat press). Proficiency will be trained.

• Glass Cutter: Essential tool for custom glass sizing.

• Measuring Tools: Tape measures, rulers, and potentially specialized measuring devices for accuracy.

• Computer/POS System: For order entry, customer lookup, inventory management, and transaction processing. Basic computer skills are required.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Point-of-Sale (POS) System: Tracks sales, inventory levels, and customer transactions.

• Inventory Management Software: Used for tracking stock, managing replenishment (e.g., Directed Replenishment), and monitoring SISO compliance.

CRM & Automation:

• Customer Relationship Management (CRM) elements: Integrated within the POS system to track customer preferences and order history for personalized service and sales ("Elevated ABC Deliver").

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is primarily focused on operational efficiency within the retail environment. The core tools are related to the custom framing process itself and the systems used for sales transactions and inventory management. Training will be provided for specialized framing equipment.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Customer Focus: Prioritizing customer needs and satisfaction through excellent service and creative solutions.

• Creativity & Passion: Fostering an environment that celebrates and supports artistic expression and DIY projects.

• Quality & Craftsmanship: Commitment to delivering high-quality custom framing and well-presented merchandise.

• Teamwork & Respect: Collaborating effectively with colleagues and treating everyone with acceptance and respect.

• Efficiency & Safety: Adhering to procedures to ensure smooth operations and a safe working environment.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Working seamlessly with other store team members to support overall store operations, sales, and customer experience.

• Process Adherence: Following established SOPs and company programs to ensure consistency and compliance.

• Knowledge Sharing: Willingness to share best practices and assist colleagues, particularly in customer service and framing consultation.

• Feedback Exchange: Openness to receiving and providing constructive feedback to improve individual and team performance.

📝 Enhancement Note: The team culture at Michaels is built around promoting creativity, customer engagement, and a supportive work environment. For this role, demonstrating a collaborative spirit, a commitment to quality, and a passion for helping customers bring their creative visions to life will be key.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Sales and Production: Effectively managing time to engage customers for custom framing sales while also meeting production deadlines for completed orders.

• Customer Expectations: Handling diverse customer needs and design preferences, some of which may be complex or require creative problem-solving.

• Physical Demands: The role requires standing for extended periods, lifting heavy items, and performing repetitive tasks, which can be physically demanding.

• Learning Specialized Equipment: Mastering the operation and maintenance of framing equipment and tools safely and efficiently.

• Adapting to Retail Pace: Thriving in a fast-paced retail environment with fluctuating customer traffic and multiple demands.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Custom Framing Expertise: Deepen knowledge of framing materials, design principles, preservation techniques, and advanced production methods.

• Sales & Customer Service Skills: Enhance consultative selling techniques, relationship building, and problem-solving skills through specialized training.

• Operational Proficiency: Gain experience in retail inventory management, visual merchandising, and omni-channel processes.

• Product Knowledge: Expand understanding of Michaels' diverse product offerings beyond framing.

• Potential for Advancement: Opportunities to grow into leadership roles within the store, leveraging acquired operational and sales expertise.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are typical for a retail role involving specialized services. The growth opportunities are clearly defined, focusing on skill development within the framing specialty and broader retail operations, with a clear path for career progression within the company.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Tell me about a time you helped a customer find the perfect solution for their needs." (Focus on active listening, problem-solving, and customer satisfaction.)

• "How would you approach a customer who is unsure about their custom framing design choices?" (Emphasize consultative selling, offering options, and guiding them through the process.)

• "Describe a situation where you had to manage multiple tasks with competing deadlines. How did you prioritize?" (Demonstrate organizational skills, time management, and ability to perform under pressure.)

• "What do you know about Michaels' custom framing services, and what interests you about this role?" (Show research and genuine enthusiasm for the product and company.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "How do you embody Michaels' value of 'fueling the joy of creativity' in your interactions?" (Connect your personal approach to creativity and customer assistance with company values.)

• "How would you ensure a safe and clean work environment in the framing shop?" (Discuss adherence to SOPs, awareness of equipment safety, and maintaining order.)

• "How do you handle constructive feedback from a supervisor or colleague?" (Show receptiveness to learning and improvement.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Since a formal portfolio isn't expected, prepare to verbally walk through specific examples from your past experiences that align with the job requirements.

• For any sales or customer service scenarios, use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to provide clear, concise, and impactful answers.

• Be ready to discuss your understanding of basic measuring, design principles, and how you would ensure the quality of a finished framing project.

• If you have any personal creative projects (even outside of framing), be prepared to briefly describe your process and the outcome.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating excellent customer service, sales aptitude, a proactive attitude, and a willingness to learn specialized skills. Highlighting any relevant experience in creative fields or detailed work will be beneficial.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

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

• Customize your resume: Highlight any customer service, sales, or hands-on/craftsmanship experience. Use keywords from the job description such as "customer service," "sales," "measuring skills," and "attention to detail."

• Prepare your "story": Be ready to discuss specific examples of your customer interactions, problem-solving abilities, and any experience with creative or detailed work using the STAR method.

• Research Michaels: Familiarize yourself with Michaels' custom framing services, product range, and company values to demonstrate genuine interest and cultural fit.

• Practice your "fit" conversation: Think about why you are a good candidate for this specific role and how your skills align with the company's mission to "fuel the joy of creativity."

⚠️ 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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