SARASOTA UTC-FT FRAMER

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: SARASOTA UTC-FT FRAMER

Company: Michaels Stores

Location: Sarasota, Florida, United States

Job Type: FULL_TIME

Category: Retail Operations / Custom Framing

Date Posted: June 02, 2026

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

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is focused on driving customer engagement and sales within the custom framing department of a retail environment.

• Key responsibilities include building customer relationships, providing design solutions, and ensuring operational efficiency in the framing area.

• The position requires a blend of sales acumen, artistic sensibility, and adherence to operational standards.

• The Framer will also support store operations by assisting with merchandising, inventory, and customer service across the store.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role, while titled "Framer," encompasses significant customer-facing responsibilities beyond just production. It's a hybrid sales and operations role within a specialized retail department, requiring strong interpersonal skills and a focus on delivering both a product and an experience. The "FT" likely denotes Full-Time status.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Customer Engagement & Sales:

  • Build strong customer relationships by understanding their needs and preferences for custom framing solutions.
  • Actively engage customers to promote custom framing services, driving sales and achieving departmental KPIs.
  • Utilize Elevated ABC Deliver methodology to offer personalized design consultations and create memorable customer experiences.

• Framing Production & Quality:

  • Accurately measure, cut, and assemble custom framing orders according to established standards and customer specifications.
  • Ensure all framing orders are completed with a high degree of quality and delivered on time.
  • Operate and maintain framing equipment, including specialized tools like glass cutters and heat presses, safely and efficiently.

• Store Operations Support:

  • Maintain the visual presentation and stock levels of the ready-made frame department, including SISO (Single Item, Single Order) and Directed Replenishment processes.
  • Assist with general store operations, including customer service, product location, and checkout processes, adhering to cash handling standards.
  • Participate in truck un-load and stocking activities to ensure efficient inventory management and adherence to store standards.

• Team Support & Leadership:

  • Act as a lead resource in the absence of the Framing Manager, demonstrating leadership potential and operational oversight.

  • Provide training and support to other team members on framing processes, customer service, and operational procedures.

  • Collaborate with the Framing Manager to support and drive key performance indicator (KPI) achievement for the department.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a dual focus: direct sales and design consultation within framing, and broader retail operations support. The mention of "Elevated ABC Deliver" suggests a specific sales training methodology the company employs, which candidates should research. The "lead capacity" aspect indicates potential for growth and requires individuals comfortable taking initiative.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• High school diploma or equivalent is typically expected for retail positions, though not explicitly stated.

• A background or keen interest in art, design, or visual merchandising would be beneficial. Experience:

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

• Experience in custom framing, art installation, or a related craft is highly desirable.

• Proven ability to engage with customers and provide solutions. Required Skills:

• Basic Computer Skills: Ability to operate point-of-sale (POS) systems, basic software for order entry, and potentially design software.

• Measuring Skills: Precision and accuracy in taking measurements for custom framing projects.

• Framing Equipment Operation: Proficiency or willingness to learn to operate specialized framing equipment and tools.

• Customer Service Excellence: Ability to build rapport, understand customer needs, and provide solutions with a friendly and positive attitude.

• Sales Acumen: Demonstrated ability to upsell, cross-sell, and drive sales through consultative selling techniques.

• Cash Handling: Adherence to established cash handling procedures and standards.

Preferred Skills:

• Retail Sales Experience: Prior experience in a retail sales environment, particularly in departments requiring consultative selling.

• Custom Framing Experience: Hands-on experience in designing, cutting, and assembling custom frames.

• Art & Design Knowledge: Understanding of art principles, color theory, and framing aesthetics to guide customer selections.

• Inventory Management: Familiarity with managing stock, merchandising displays, and replenishment processes.

• Team Training/Mentoring: Experience in assisting or training colleagues.

📝 Enhancement Note: While "basic computer skills" are listed, candidates should be prepared to discuss any experience with POS systems or order management software. The emphasis on "selling products and/or services" in the preferred experience suggests a strong sales component to this role, moving beyond just production.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Visual Design Examples: Showcase a portfolio of custom framing projects, demonstrating an eye for design, material selection, and aesthetic balance. Include before-and-after examples if possible.

• Customer Interaction Scenarios: Prepare to discuss scenarios where you successfully translated a customer's vision into a framed piece, highlighting your consultation process and problem-solving skills.

• Sales Process Documentation: If applicable, include examples of how you've met or exceeded sales targets or contributed to revenue growth in previous roles. Quantify achievements whenever possible.

• Operational Efficiency Examples: Be ready to describe how you've contributed to efficient workflows, maintained organization, or implemented improvements in a retail or production setting.

Process Documentation:

• Candidates should be prepared to discuss their understanding of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and how they apply them to ensure consistency and compliance in their work.

• Ability to articulate how they would document and communicate framing processes to new team members.

• Showcase an understanding of how to measure and report on key performance indicators (KPIs) within a retail or production context.

📝 Enhancement Note: For this role, a traditional "operations portfolio" might not be strictly required in a digital format. However, candidates should prepare a concise summary of relevant projects, sales achievements, and examples of their design sensibility. The ability to articulate process and demonstrate problem-solving skills during the interview will be crucial.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on industry standards for a Full-Time Framer/Sales Associate in Sarasota, Florida, with 0-2 years of experience, the estimated annual salary range is between $30,000 - $40,000. This would typically translate to an hourly rate of $14.42 - $19.23, assuming a 40-hour work week. Benefits:

• Health Insurance: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage.

• Paid Time Off (PTO): Accrued paid time off for vacation, sick days, and personal needs.

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

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

• Retirement Savings Plan: Potential for 401(k) or similar retirement savings options.

• Additional Benefits: May include life insurance, disability insurance, and employee assistance programs.

Working Hours:

• This is a full-time position, typically involving 40 hours per week.

• The role requires flexibility to work nights, weekends, and early mornings, as dictated by store operating hours and customer traffic.

• Occasional outdoor work may be assigned, such as retrieving shopping carts or during truck unloads.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on common retail pay scales for specialized roles in a mid-sized metropolitan area like Sarasota, FL. Benefits are directly drawn from the provided text, emphasizing the comprehensive package offered by Michaels. The working hours clearly indicate the need for flexibility.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Retail (Arts & Crafts, Home Decor, Custom Framing)

Company Size: Michaels operates over 1,300 stores in North America, indicating a large-scale retail organization with significant operational complexity.

Founded: 1973. With decades of experience, Michaels has established a strong presence and deep understanding of the arts and crafts market.

Team Structure:

• The role operates within a retail store environment, likely reporting to a Framing Manager or Store Manager.

• The Framer is part of a broader store team, collaborating with sales associates, cashiers, and potentially department specialists.

• Cross-functional collaboration is essential, involving interaction with customers across various departments and supporting store-wide operational tasks. Methodology:

• Data-Driven Sales & Operations: The emphasis on KPIs, sales targets, and adherence to SOPs indicates a structured approach to managing performance and ensuring consistency.

• Customer-Centric Approach: The "Elevated ABC Deliver" methodology and focus on building customer relationships highlight a commitment to delivering exceptional customer experiences.

• Process Optimization: Adherence to SOPs and participation in truck unloads and stocking suggests a focus on efficient store operations and inventory management.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Michaels positions itself as a leader in the creative industry, emphasizing innovation and customer engagement. The company culture likely values creativity, customer service, and operational efficiency, with a strong emphasis on teamwork within the store environment.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as an entry to mid-level individual contributor within the retail operations framework. It involves specialized skills in custom framing combined with general retail operational duties.

Reporting Structure: The Framer typically reports to a Framing Manager or a Store Manager, who oversees the overall store operations and departmental performance.

Operations Impact: The Framer directly impacts store revenue through custom framing sales and contributes to overall customer satisfaction by providing excellent service and creative solutions. Efficient execution of framing orders and store operational tasks also supports the smooth running of the business.

Growth Opportunities:

• Advancement within Framing: Potential to move into a Framing Manager role by developing leadership, sales, and operational management skills.

• Specialization: Deepening expertise in custom framing techniques, design, and customer consultation.

• Cross-Departmental Growth: Opportunities to move into other sales or operational roles within the store, leveraging transferable skills.

• Leadership Development: Gaining experience in leading a team, training new hires, and acting in a supervisory capacity in the absence of management.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a clear path for growth within a large retail organization. The combination of specialized craft skills and retail sales/operations experience provides a solid foundation for future career development, particularly for individuals interested in management or specialized retail functions.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The work environment is a public retail store with a dedicated custom framing area. The store is climate-controlled, but stock rooms may not be.

Office Location(s): The specific store is located at 127 N Cattleman Rd, Sarasota, Florida. This is a retail location accessible to customers.

Workspace Context:

• Customer Interaction Hub: The framing area is a primary point of customer interaction, requiring a professional and welcoming demeanor.

• Production Space: The framing shop is equipped with tools such as a glass cutter and heat press, requiring adherence to safety protocols.

• Team Collaboration: Opportunities to interact with and assist other team members throughout the store, fostering a collaborative atmosphere.

• Dynamic Environment: The retail setting involves constant customer flow, stock replenishment, and dynamic task management.

Work Schedule:

• The role is full-time (40 hours/week) and requires significant flexibility.

• Availability for nights, weekends, and early mornings is essential to meet store operating needs and customer demand.

• Occasional outdoor duties may be required for tasks like retrieving carts or during truck unloads.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is typical of a busy retail store with a specialized department. Candidates should be comfortable with a fast-paced, customer-centric setting that requires both individual focus on craft and collaborative engagement with the broader store team.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Application review and potential phone screen to assess basic qualifications and interest.

• In-Person Interview: Typically involves meeting with the Hiring Manager (Framing Manager or Store Manager). This interview will likely focus on:

  • Customer Service & Sales Skills: Behavioral questions about past customer interactions, handling difficult customers, and driving sales.
  • Framing Knowledge & Aptitude: Questions about your understanding of framing principles, materials, and your ability to learn quickly. Be prepared to discuss your design sensibility.
  • Operational Awareness: Questions about your understanding of retail operations, inventory, and adherence to procedures.
  • Teamwork & Leadership: How you collaborate with colleagues and your willingness to take initiative.

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

• Final Interview (if applicable): May involve a broader store management team.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Select Pieces: Bring 3-5 examples of your best framing work, or if you lack direct framing experience, present examples of design projects, color palettes, or mood boards that showcase your aesthetic sensibility.

• Tell the Story: For each piece, be ready to explain the design choices, the materials used, the customer's needs, and any challenges overcome. Quantify sales impact if possible.

• Focus on Process: Since this is also an operations role, be prepared to discuss the workflow of a custom framing order from consultation to completion.

• Professional Presentation: Ensure your portfolio is organized, clean, and easy to present. A digital portfolio on a tablet can also be effective.

Challenge Preparation:

• Framing Consultation Simulation: Practice walking a "customer" (interviewer) through the process of selecting a frame for a piece of art or memorabilia. Discuss matting options, glass types, and budget considerations.

• Problem-Solving Scenarios: Be ready to address hypothetical situations, such as a customer unhappy with a finished product or a challenging design request.

• Sales Pitch: Prepare a brief pitch on why a customer should choose Michaels for their custom framing needs, highlighting unique selling propositions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will likely assess both technical/craft skills and soft skills (sales, customer service, teamwork). A portfolio, even if not extensive, demonstrating design aptitude and an understanding of consultative selling will be a significant advantage.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Custom Framing Equipment: This includes specialized tools such as:

  • Glass Cutter: For precise cutting of glass or acrylic.
  • Mat Cutters: For cutting mats to size and shape.
  • Frame Moulding Cutters/Choppers: For cutting frame pieces accurately.
  • Jointers/Vises: For assembling frame corners.
  • Heat Press: Potentially used for mounting or applying finishes.

• Measuring Tools: Tape measures, rulers, calipers for accurate dimensions.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Point-of-Sale (POS) System: For processing transactions, managing sales data, and potentially customer loyalty programs.

• Inventory Management Software: Used for tracking stock levels, managing replenishment (Directed Replenishment), and potentially SISO processes.

• Basic Computer Software: For order entry, email communication, and potentially internal training modules.

CRM & Automation:

• Customer Relationship Management (CRM) System: Likely used to track customer preferences, order history, and manage customer loyalty programs (e.g., Rewards enrollment).

• Order Management System: Integrated with the POS and/or CRM to manage custom framing orders from placement to completion.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency with specialized framing equipment is essential. Familiarity with retail POS systems and basic inventory management software is expected. While not explicitly stated, experience with any CRM or order management system that facilitates personalized customer service and efficient order processing would be beneficial.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Creativity & Passion: A core value at Michaels, encouraging innovation and a love for arts and crafts.

• Customer Focus: Dedication to providing excellent customer service and creating memorable experiences.

• Teamwork & Collaboration: Working together to achieve store goals and support colleagues.

• Integrity & Accountability: Adhering to company policies, SOPs, and ethical standards.

• Efficiency & Quality: Striving for operational excellence in both production and service delivery.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Support: Team members are expected to assist each other across departments to ensure smooth store operations and meet customer needs.

• Open Communication: Encouraging feedback and open dialogue to resolve issues and improve processes.

• Shared Goals: Working collectively towards common objectives like sales targets, customer satisfaction scores, and operational efficiency.

• Mentorship & Development: A culture that supports learning from more experienced team members and contributing to the growth of others.

📝 Enhancement Note: Michaels' culture is likely built around fostering creativity while maintaining the discipline required for large-scale retail operations. Candidates should demonstrate an ability to balance artistic expression with practical execution and a strong commitment to teamwork.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Sales and Production: Effectively managing customer consultations and sales while also meeting production deadlines for custom framing orders.

• Customer Expectations Management: Handling diverse customer needs and design requests, sometimes with tight timelines or budget constraints.

• Maintaining Quality Standards: Consistently delivering high-quality framing work that meets customer satisfaction and company standards.

• Adapting to Retail Demands: Thriving in a fast-paced retail environment that requires flexibility in hours, tasks, and customer interactions.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Framing Techniques: Opportunities to learn new framing methods, material applications, and design trends.

• Sales & Customer Service Training: Access to company-provided training on consultative selling, customer engagement, and conflict resolution.

• Leadership Skills Development: Potential to gain experience in team leadership, training, and operational oversight.

• Product Knowledge Expansion: Deepening understanding of art supplies, craft trends, and related products offered by Michaels.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents opportunities to develop a unique skill set combining craft, design, sales, and retail operations. Overcoming the challenge of balancing multiple demands will be key to success and growth within the company.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Consultative Selling: "Describe a time you helped a customer find the perfect solution for their needs. How did you approach the consultation, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on listening, proposing solutions, and closing the sale).

• Problem-Solving in Framing/Retail: "Imagine a customer is unhappy with their custom frame. How would you handle this situation to ensure customer satisfaction and uphold company standards?" (Demonstrate empathy, problem-solving, and adherence to policy).

• Operational Efficiency: "How would you ensure your framing station is organized and efficient to meet production deadlines? What steps would you take to maintain inventory accuracy?" (Highlight organizational skills and process thinking).

Company & Culture Questions:

• Motivation for Michaels: "Why are you interested in working for Michaels, specifically in a custom framing role?" (Showcase passion for creativity, art, or customer service).

• Teamwork Experience: "Describe your ideal team environment and how you contribute to a positive team dynamic." (Emphasize collaboration and support for colleagues).

• Handling Fast-Paced Environments: "How do you prioritize tasks and manage your time effectively in a busy retail setting?" (Demonstrate adaptability and time management skills).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Highlight Design Process: For each portfolio piece, explain the "why" behind your design choices. Discuss the materials, colors, and aesthetics considered.

• Quantify Impact: If possible, link your framing work to sales success. For example, "This type of consultation led to an average order value of $X."

• Showcase Versatility: If you have diverse examples (e.g., different art styles, memorabilia framing, shadow boxes), present them to show your range.

• Focus on Customer Benefit: Frame your skills around how they benefit the customer and contribute to Michaels' success.

📝 Enhancement Note: Be prepared to articulate your design thinking and sales approach clearly. For any operational questions, relate your answers back to efficiency, accuracy, and adherence to company standards. Research Michaels’ core values and recent marketing campaigns to tailor your responses.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

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

• Tailor Your Resume: Highlight relevant experience in customer service, sales, art/design, and any operational tasks (e.g., inventory, merchandising). Use keywords from the job description like "custom framing," "sales," "customer service," and "operations."

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Gather examples of your best framing work, design projects, or visual presentations that showcase your aesthetic and problem-solving skills. Be ready to discuss your process and the impact of your work.

• Practice Interview Responses: Rehearse answers to common interview questions focusing on customer service, sales, teamwork, problem-solving, and your understanding of the framing process. Prepare specific examples from your experience.

• Research Michaels: Familiarize yourself with Michaels' mission, values, products, and current marketing initiatives. Understand their commitment to creativity and customer 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.

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