Seasonal Part-time Framer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Seasonal Part-time Framer

Company: Michaels Stores

Location: Chicago, Illinois, United States

Job Type: Part time, Temporary

Category: Retail Operations, Custom Framing

Date Posted: September 09, 2026

Experience Level: Entry Level (0-2 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is a seasonal, part-time position focused on providing exceptional customer service within a retail environment.

• Key responsibilities include assisting customers with product location, facilitating a fast and friendly checkout, and supporting various store operations.

• A significant aspect of the role involves cross-training in custom framing sales and production, requiring attention to detail and a willingness to learn new skills.

• The position demands active participation in inventory management, merchandise recovery, and adherence to operational standards to ensure a positive customer experience and efficient store functioning.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title specifies "Framer," the core responsibilities indicate a broader retail associate role with a specific emphasis on custom framing as a key function. This implies a need for both general retail skills and specialized framing knowledge acquisition.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Deliver friendly and efficient customer service, proactively assisting shoppers in locating products and offering solutions to meet their creative needs.

• Execute fast and friendly checkout procedures, including accurate cash handling and adherence to company standards for transaction processing.

• Engage customers to promote the benefits of the Rewards program and Private Label Credit Cards, driving enrollment and increasing customer loyalty.

• Educate customers on the Voice of Customer (VOC) survey to gather valuable feedback for service and operational improvements.

• Support omnichannel fulfillment processes, including Buy Online Pickup in Store (BOPIS) and Ship From Store (SFS), ensuring seamless customer experiences.

• Participate actively in the truck unloading process, stocking merchandise, and executing planogram (POG) setups to maintain product presentation and availability.

• Conduct merchandise recovery, including processing returns and "go-backs," and general store recovery to ensure a well-organized, visually appealing, and fully stocked sales floor.

• Perform Store In Stock Optimization (SISO) duties and assist with promotional display (AD set) execution as assigned to maximize product visibility and sales.

• Support company-wide initiatives related to shrink reduction and safety programs, adhering to all established protocols.

• Uphold Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and Company programs to ensure compliance with all applicable laws and regulations, demonstrating a commitment to ethical business practices.

• Foster a positive and respectful work environment by interacting constructively with team members and customers, promoting organizational values, and serving as a role model.

• Undertake cross-training in Custom Framing, encompassing both sales consultations and production tasks, to expand skill set and contribute to departmental goals.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a dual focus: core retail operations and specialized custom framing. The emphasis on "cross-trained" suggests that while framing is a key component, foundational retail skills are equally critical. This role requires adaptability and a willingness to learn diverse tasks within the store.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: High school diploma or equivalent preferred, though not strictly required for entry-level positions. Emphasis is placed on practical skills and customer interaction capabilities.

Experience: Previous retail or customer service experience is preferred, demonstrating a foundational understanding of customer engagement and store operations.

Required Skills:

• Customer Service Excellence: Ability to engage positively with customers, understand their needs, and provide solutions.

• Cash Handling Proficiency: Accurate and efficient processing of transactions, including cash, credit, and other payment methods.

• Merchandising & Recovery: Skills in maintaining product presentation, stocking shelves, and executing store recovery standards.

• Communication Skills: Clear and effective verbal communication for customer interactions and team collaboration.

• Adaptability & Willingness to Learn: Eagerness to be cross-trained in custom framing and other store functions.

• Physical Stamina: Ability to stand for extended periods, lift up to 50 lbs, and perform tasks requiring bending, reaching, and stretching.

Preferred Skills:

• Custom Framing Knowledge: Prior experience or aptitude for learning custom framing techniques, material selection, and production processes.

• Sales Acumen: Ability to identify sales opportunities and effectively promote store programs like the Rewards program and credit cards.

• Omnichannel Operations: Familiarity with BOPIS and SFS processes.

• Inventory Management Basics: Understanding of stock levels, replenishment, and product placement.

• Planogram Execution: Experience in setting up and maintaining product displays according to planograms.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the "entry-level" designation and the emphasis on "cross-training," the required skills lean towards foundational customer service and operational tasks. Preferred skills, particularly in custom framing, would significantly differentiate candidates and indicate a stronger potential for success in the specialized aspects of the role.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• While a formal portfolio is not explicitly required for this entry-level, seasonal role, candidates are encouraged to highlight relevant experiences in their resume or during interviews.

• Customer Interaction Examples: Be prepared to discuss specific instances where you provided excellent customer service, resolved issues, or contributed to a positive shopping experience.

• Operational Contributions: Highlight any experience with merchandising, stocking, inventory management, or store recovery that demonstrates attention to detail and efficiency.

• Learning Agility: Showcase instances where you quickly learned new skills or processes, especially if transitioning to a new area like custom framing.

• Sales Support: If applicable, provide examples of how you have supported sales initiatives, such as promoting loyalty programs or credit cards.

Process Documentation:

• As this is a seasonal, part-time role, formal process documentation is not expected from candidates.

• The focus will be on the candidate's ability to understand and follow existing Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for all tasks, including custom framing.

• Candidates should demonstrate an understanding of the importance of process adherence for consistency, quality, and safety, especially in the frame shop environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an entry-level, seasonal position, a formal portfolio is unlikely to be a requirement. The emphasis will be on practical experience and the ability to learn and follow established procedures. Candidates should prepare to discuss their past experiences in terms of customer service and operational tasks in a way that demonstrates their potential to succeed in this role, including the custom framing aspect.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $17.05 - $20.00 per hour. This range reflects the entry-level nature of the role, potential for seasonal work, and the specific location in Chicago.

Benefits:

• Employee Discounts: A significant perk for employees, offering discounts on Michaels products.

• 401(k) with Employer Match: Available for eligible team members, providing a retirement savings option with company contributions.

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

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

• 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 commuting costs for eligible employees.

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

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

• Voluntary Insurance Options: Additional insurance coverage choices available.

Working Hours: This is a part-time, seasonal position. Specific hours will vary based on store needs and scheduling, but the role is on-site. While the standard work week is typically 40 hours, part-time employees will have fewer hours. The job description mentions that work hours include nights, weekends, and early mornings, reflecting typical retail operating hours.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range provided is competitive for entry-level retail positions in a major metropolitan area like Chicago. The extensive list of benefits suggests Michaels aims to be a comprehensive employer, though eligibility for some benefits may depend on employment status (full-time vs. part-time) and tenure. The "Seasonal" aspect implies this role may have a defined end date.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Arts and Crafts Retail. Michaels is the leading destination for creating and celebrating in North America, offering a wide array of art supplies, craft materials, home décor, and custom framing services.

Company Size: Over 1,300 stores across 49 states and Canada, plus online presence. This indicates a large, established retail organization with significant operational scale.

Founded: 1973, headquartered in Irving, Texas. Michaels has a long-standing history and a well-defined brand identity.

Team Structure:

• Store-Level Operations: The role operates within a specific retail store, reporting to store management (e.g., Store Manager, Assistant Manager, or Department Specialist).

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Team members collaborate with colleagues across various departments, including general sales, visual merchandising, and customer service, and will work closely with experienced framers.

• Departmental Focus: While part of the larger store team, this role has a specific focus on the custom framing department, requiring interaction with customers seeking personalized framing solutions.

Methodology:

• Customer-Centric Approach: The company emphasizes delivering a positive customer experience through friendly service, product availability, and helpful assistance.

• Operational Efficiency: Focus on executing core retail processes such as stocking, merchandising, and inventory management efficiently to support sales and maintain store standards.

• Process Adherence: Emphasis on following Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for all tasks, ensuring consistency, quality, and safety, particularly critical in the custom framing area with specialized tools.

Company Website: www.michaels.com

📝 Enhancement Note: Michaels' culture is built around creativity, customer engagement, and operational execution within a large retail framework. The emphasis on a positive customer experience and adherence to SOPs is paramount. The "Seasonal Part-time Framer" role is integrated into this broader culture, with a specific departmental focus.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Entry-Level Retail Associate with Specialized Training. This role is positioned at the foundational level of retail operations, providing hands-on experience in customer service, store management, and a specific craft skill (custom framing). It's an excellent starting point for individuals interested in retail careers or creative arts professions.

Reporting Structure: Reports to store management, likely a Store Manager, Assistant Manager, or a designated Framing Department Lead. This structure provides direct supervision and guidance.

Operations Impact: Contributes to store revenue through direct sales, customer engagement, and efficient operational execution. Specifically, by supporting the custom framing department, the role directly impacts a high-value service offering and customer satisfaction in a specialized area.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Development: Opportunity to gain valuable skills in customer service, retail operations, and specialized custom framing, including sales and production techniques.

• Internal Advancement: Potential for promotion to roles like Custom Framing Specialist, Key Holder, Sales Associate, or even Assistant Manager within Michaels stores, based on performance and availability.

• Cross-Training: Exposure to various store functions can lead to broader retail experience and opportunities in other departments or roles within Michaels.

• Seasonal to Permanent: Strong performance in a seasonal role can sometimes lead to offers for permanent positions within the company.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role serves as a gateway into retail operations and the specialized field of custom framing. The growth path is clearly defined within the Michaels retail structure, offering opportunities for skill enhancement and career progression for motivated individuals who excel in customer service and operational tasks.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Public retail store setting. The primary work environment is the sales floor, stock rooms, and a dedicated custom framing area.

Office Location(s): Chicago-2490 N Elston Ave, Chicago, Illinois. This specific store location in Chicago serves the local community.

Workspace Context:

• Climate Controlled: Most public areas of the store are climate-controlled. Some stock rooms may not be.

• Dynamic Environment: Involves constant interaction with customers and team members, requiring adaptability and energy.

• Specialized Area: The frame shop environment includes specific tools like a glass cutter and heat press, requiring careful handling and adherence to safety protocols.

• Physical Demands: The role requires significant time on your feet, moving throughout the store, and performing tasks that involve bending, lifting, carrying, reaching, and stretching, including handling heavy boxes and using ladders for high shelves.

Work Schedule: This is a part-time, seasonal position. Work hours will vary based on business needs and scheduling. Availability for nights, weekends, and early mornings is essential, aligning with typical retail operating hours.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is a typical, busy retail setting with the added complexity of a specialized custom framing operation. Candidates should be prepared for a physically demanding role that requires constant customer interaction and adherence to safety procedures, particularly in the frame shop.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Application Review: Resumes and applications will be screened for basic qualifications (age, availability, preferred experience).

• In-Person Interview: Candidates will likely participate in one or more interviews at the store location. This may involve meeting with the Store Manager or Assistant Manager.

• Situational Questions: Expect questions about customer service scenarios, problem-solving, teamwork, and handling specific retail situations (e.g., dealing with a difficult customer, managing multiple tasks).

• Skills Assessment: For the framing aspect, there might be a brief discussion or practical demonstration (if feasible) of aptitude for detail-oriented work or ability to follow instructions precisely.

• Cultural Fit: Assessment of how well the candidate aligns with Michaels' values of creativity, customer focus, and teamwork.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Resume Focus: Highlight any previous retail, customer service, or hands-on craft/production experience. Quantify achievements where possible (e.g., "Assisted an average of 50 customers per shift," "Improved store recovery time by 10%").

• Showcase Relevant Skills: If you have any experience with custom framing, art, crafts, or detailed work, make sure to emphasize it. Even hobbies that demonstrate precision and creativity can be beneficial.

• Prepared Examples: Be ready to discuss specific examples of excellent customer service, problem-solving, teamwork, and learning new skills, as these are key to the role.

• Enthusiasm for Creativity: Express genuine interest in Michaels' products, the arts and crafts industry, and the opportunity to learn custom framing.

Challenge Preparation:

• Customer Service Scenarios: Prepare responses for how you would handle common customer inquiries, complaints, or requests.

• Operational Tasks: Be ready to describe how you would approach tasks like stocking shelves, recovering merchandise, or assisting with truck unloads.

• Learning Aptitude: Demonstrate your ability to learn new processes quickly by discussing past experiences where you had to master new skills.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for this role will likely be direct and practical, focusing on assessing customer service skills, operational capabilities, and potential for learning the custom framing trade. Candidates should be prepared to provide concrete examples from their past experiences.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Point of Sale (POS) System: Used for all customer transactions, including cash handling, credit card processing, and loyalty program enrollment. Proficiency in using POS systems is essential.

• Custom Framing Equipment: This includes specialized tools such as a mat cutter, glass cutter, staple gun, and heat press. Safe and effective use of these tools will be taught.

• Inventory Management Systems: Likely used for tracking stock levels, receiving merchandise, and managing product placement.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Sales Reporting: Basic understanding of sales figures and performance metrics may be beneficial, though direct reporting is unlikely for this role.

• Customer Feedback Systems: Familiarity with how customer feedback (VOC surveys) is collected and used to improve service.

CRM & Automation:

• Customer Relationship Management (CRM): The Rewards program and Private Label Credit Card enrollment processes utilize CRM functionalities. Understanding how to engage customers for these programs is key.

• Omnichannel Systems: Experience with systems supporting BOPIS and SFS processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack for this role is primarily focused on the point-of-sale system and specialized equipment for custom framing. While advanced analytics tools are not expected, familiarity with CRM aspects related to loyalty programs and omnichannel fulfillment is advantageous.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Creativity: Embracing and fostering a creative environment for both customers and team members.

• Customer Focus: Prioritizing customer satisfaction through excellent service, helpfulness, and problem-solving.

• Teamwork: Collaborating effectively with colleagues to achieve store goals and provide a seamless customer experience.

• Integrity: Upholding ethical standards, adhering to company policies, and ensuring safety and compliance.

• Efficiency: Performing tasks accurately and promptly to maintain store standards and support operational flow.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Support: Team members are expected to assist each other across departments as needed, especially during peak times or when specific skills are required (e.g., helping in framing).

• Open Communication: Encouraging clear communication between team members and management to address customer needs, operational challenges, and process improvements.

• Learning Environment: Fostering a culture where team members are encouraged to learn new skills, such as custom framing, and support each other in their development.

📝 Enhancement Note: Michaels' culture is built around a passion for creativity and a strong commitment to customer service. Team members are expected to be collaborative, adaptable, and willing to contribute to a positive and productive work environment. The emphasis on learning new skills, like custom framing, is a key cultural element.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Seasonal Workload: Managing peak seasonal demands, which can involve higher customer traffic and increased operational tasks.

• Learning Curve for Framing: Mastering the technical skills and customer consultation aspects of custom framing can be challenging but rewarding.

• Physical Demands: The role requires prolonged standing and physical exertion, which may be a challenge for some.

• Balancing Roles: Effectively switching between general retail duties and specialized custom framing tasks requires strong organizational and time management skills.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Custom Framing Expertise: Develop specialized skills in mat cutting, framing techniques, and design consultation, potentially leading to a career in custom framing.

• Retail Operations Proficiency: Gain comprehensive experience in various aspects of retail management, customer service, and merchandising.

• Customer Engagement Skills: Enhance abilities in sales, loyalty program promotion, and customer relationship building.

• On-the-Job Training: Receive structured training for all aspects of the role, including safety procedures for specialized equipment.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a valuable opportunity to learn a craft skill in a retail setting. The challenges are typical of seasonal retail roles, with an added emphasis on technical training for custom framing. The growth opportunities are focused on skill acquisition and potential advancement within the Michaels retail structure.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Customer Service Approach: "Describe a time you went above and beyond to help a customer." Prepare an example that highlights your problem-solving skills and commitment to customer satisfaction.

• Handling Difficult Situations: "How would you handle a customer who is unhappy with a product or service?" Focus on de-escalation, active listening, and finding solutions within company policy.

• Teamwork Experience: "Tell me about a time you worked effectively as part of a team to achieve a goal." Emphasize collaboration, communication, and shared responsibility.

Company & Culture Questions:

• Interest in Michaels: "Why do you want to work at Michaels?" Express your enthusiasm for creativity, customer service, and the opportunity to learn custom framing.

• Understanding of the Role: "What do you understand about the Seasonal Part-time Framer role?" Demonstrate you've read the description and understand the blend of retail and framing duties.

• Values Alignment: "How do your personal values align with Michaels' values?" Connect your own work ethic and approach to creativity, customer focus, and teamwork.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Resume as Portfolio: Ensure your resume clearly outlines relevant experience in customer service, retail, and any craft-related skills. Use action verbs and quantify achievements.

• Prepare Specific Examples: For behavioral questions, have 2-3 concise stories ready that demonstrate key skills like problem-solving, teamwork, and customer service.

• Framing Aptitude: If you have any framing or detailed craft experience, be ready to discuss it enthusiastically. If not, express your eagerness and ability to learn new, precise skills.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating strong customer service skills, a willingness to learn, and an understanding of the retail environment. Specific examples and enthusiasm for the Michaels brand will be key differentiators.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

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

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight customer service experience, any retail operations background, and any demonstrated interest or experience in crafts, art, or detailed work. Use keywords from the job description such as "customer service," "merchandising," "stocking," and "custom framing."

• Prepare Talking Points: Be ready to discuss specific examples of your customer service skills, problem-solving abilities, and teamwork experience. Think about situations where you demonstrated a strong work ethic and a capacity for learning new tasks.

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

• Highlight Availability: Clearly state your availability, particularly for nights, weekends, and early mornings, as this is crucial for a seasonal retail role.

⚠️ 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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