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Entry Level Optician Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Field Technician I - MN

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$20.50 - $28.25/hr

Maintains tools, test sets, and electronic equipment including, but not limited to: fiber optic ... * Entry-level technician with experience and/or knowledge of at least one of the four major ...

Field Technician I - MN

Minnetonka, MN · On-site

$20 - $27.50/hr

Maintains tools, test sets, and electronic equipment including, but not limited to: fiber optic ... * Entry-level technician with experience and/or knowledge of at least one of the four major ...

Field Technician I - MN

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$20.50 - $28.25/hr

Maintains tools, test sets, and electronic equipment including, but not limited to: fiber optic ... * Entry-level technician with experience and/or knowledge of at least one of the four major ...

Technician II

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$39K - $50K/yr

Perform mechanical, electrical, electromechanical, and optical testing. * Conduct packaging ... May provide guidance to new or entry-level technicians. Required Qualifications * High School ...

Technician II

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$39K - $50K/yr

Perform mechanical, electrical, electromechanical, and optical testing. * Conduct packaging ... May provide guidance to new or entry-level technicians. Required Qualifications * High School ...

Technician II

Minneapolis, MN

$39K - $50K/yr

Perform mechanical, electrical, electromechanical, and optical testing. * Conduct packaging ... May provide guidance to new or entry-level technicians. Required Qualifications * High School ...

Tower Tech I

Fridley, MN · On-site

$21.25 - $28/hr

We are hiring entry level tower techs who want to learn and grow a career in the wireless ... Sweeps, PIM Testing, fiber Optic and electrical. • Periodically climb tower in order to perform ...

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Entry Level Optician information

See Minnesota salary details

$11

$18

$26

How much do entry level optician jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level optician in Minnesota is $18.92, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.25 and $20.96 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry level optician do?

An entry level optician helps customers select and fit eyeglasses and contact lenses according to prescriptions provided by optometrists or ophthalmologists. They assist with measurements, lens and frame selection, and educate customers about eyewear care. Entry level opticians also handle basic adjustments, repairs, and may help with administrative tasks like order processing and record keeping. Their role is important in ensuring customers receive the correct eyewear for their vision needs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level optician?

To thrive as an Entry Level Optician, you need a high school diploma or equivalent, basic math skills, and a strong understanding of eye anatomy and vision correction principles. Familiarity with lensometers, pupilometers, and practice management software is typically required, and certification from the American Board of Opticianry (ABO) is often preferred. Excellent communication, customer service, and attention to detail are vital soft skills for success in this role. These skills ensure accurate eyewear fitting, positive patient experiences, and efficient optical practice operations.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level opticians when assisting customers with eyewear selection?

Entry level opticians often encounter challenges such as understanding diverse customer preferences, interpreting prescriptions accurately, and explaining the benefits of various lens options. Additionally, they must balance customer service with technical tasks like fitting and adjusting frames for comfort and function. Over time, developing strong communication skills and product knowledge helps entry level opticians build confidence and provide personalized recommendations, making the eyewear selection process smoother for both the optician and the customer.

What is the difference between Entry Level Optician vs Licensed Optician?

AspectEntry Level OpticianLicensed Optician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingState license; completion of certification or apprenticeship
Work EnvironmentRetail optical stores, eyewear boutiquesRetail, hospitals, private practices
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting customers, measuring for glasses, basic fittingsAdvanced fittings, lens selection, patient education

Entry Level Opticians typically start with minimal certifications and focus on basic customer service and measurements. Licensed Opticians have completed required certifications and can perform more complex tasks, including advanced fittings and patient consultations. The main difference lies in licensing requirements and scope of practice, with licensed opticians having greater responsibilities and earning potential.

How fast can I become an entry level optician?

Becoming an entry-level optician typically requires completing a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by on-the-job training or a certification program, which can take several months to a year. Some states or employers may require or prefer certification from organizations like the American Board of Opticianry, which involves passing an exam and gaining practical experience.

How much do entry level opticians make?

Entry-level opticians typically earn around $15 to $20 per hour, which equates to approximately $31,200 to $41,600 annually, depending on experience and location. Starting salaries may increase with certification, such as completing an ABO certification, and working in retail or healthcare settings.

Is an entry level optician an entry level job?

An entry level optician is a position suitable for individuals starting their career in optical retail or healthcare, often requiring basic knowledge of eyewear and customer service skills. It typically involves on-the-job training and may require certification or licensing depending on the region. This role is considered an entry level job within the optician profession.

What are the most commonly searched types of Optician jobs in Minnesota?

The most popular types of Optician jobs in Minnesota are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Optician jobs in Minnesota?

For Entry Level Optician jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Optician jobs in Minnesota look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Optician jobs in Minnesota are:

What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Entry Level Optician jobs?

Cities in Minnesota with the most Entry Level Optician job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Optician job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 72% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $39,345 per year, or $18.9 per hour.

Entry Level Light Manufacturing (Optical)-3rd Shift Full Time

National Vision

Saint Cloud, MN • On-site

$17.55 - $19.65/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

New


National Vision rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 153 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

12th of 40 rated optical retailers


Job description

Company Description

At National Vision, we believe everyone deserves to see their best to live their best. We help people by making quality eye care and eyewear more affordable and accessible.

National Vision is one of the largest optical retail companies in the United States with over 1,200 stores. We operate four retail brands: America's Best Contacts & Eyeglasses, Eyeglass World, and Vista Opticals inside select Fred Meyer stores and on select military bases. We offer an innovative culture where training is a priority, hard work is praised, and career growth is a reality.


We have new open positions to join our growing team at our optical manufacturing lab in St. Cloud Minnesota.  The most technologically advanced Optical lab in the St. Cloud area.  Come work smarter not harder!   

We continue to grow and have never closed a facility or layed off workers in the MN area.  This is not just another job, it is a career! 

Job Description

Starting pay $17.55-$19.65 includes shift differential and perfects attendance bonus

Higher pay with relevant experience.

Winter is on the doorstep!  Work here at a comfy 71 degrees.

Duties vary based on the department and lab needs and include all duties as assigned. Generally, associates will perform a variety of tasks, such as described below, based on department functions:

  • Inspection: Inspect frames for defects. Inspect lenses optically (ANSI Standards) and for visual imperfections. Check for cosmetic issues, prism and standards.
  • Surface: Taping, blocking, generating, backside coating, deblocking, polishing.
  • AR: Read invoices, sorting, pre-inspection, operate AR Coating Machine, load and unload lenses in sectors and machines, return lenses to trays and sort, clean and dry lenses, visually inspect to ensure ANSI Standards are met.
  • Shipping: Scan completed jobs, bag jobs, sort to waves, prepare boxes for daily shipments, follow procedures and processes for tracking and shipping orders.

Shift Available:

  • Sunday through Thursday 10:00PM to 6:00AM
  • Seasonal Overtime available and may extend hours
  • Hours may vary slightly by department
Qualifications

NO EXPERIENCE REQUIRED

  • We will pay you while you are being trained.
  • No specific education level required.
  • No specific experience required but previous related optical or manufacturing experience is a plus.
  • Must be able to read, write and communicate in English.
Additional Information

Very Clean climate controlled facility.

What are the benefits?
National Vision offers a competitive benefits package including Health and Dental Insurance, 401k with company match, Flex Spending Account, Short Term and Long Term Disability Insurance, Life Insurance, Paid Personal Time Off, and much more. Please see our website www.nationalvision.com to learn more.

Perks

  • PTO starts after 90 days, 2-weeks PTO and 1-week Sick Time in first full year
  • Company Holidays off with pay.
  • Overtime Opportunity
  • Opportunity for Bonus each pay period
  • Full Benefit Package 
  • Very casual work environment
  • Opportunity for advancement
  • Headphones allowed at most operations
  • $500 referral Bonus program
  • No Licenses or Certificates needed
  • Break room comes with full size refrigerators, microwaves, and meals drinks and snacks available for purchase

We are an equal opportunity employer.  We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, genetic information, disability, veteran status, and other legally protected characteristics.


What National Vision employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


National Vision logo

About National Vision

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At National Vision we believe everyone deserves to see their best to live their best. We help people by making quality eye care and eyewear more affordable and accessible. National Vision is one of the largest optical retail companies in the United States with over 1,300 stores in 44 states plus the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico. We operate five retail brands: America's Best Contacts & Eyeglasses, Eyeglass World, Vision Centers inside select Walmart stores and Vista Optical inside Fred Meyer stores and on select military bases. We employ over 14,000 people including a network of over 2,000 optometrists. We offer an innovative culture where training is a priority, hard work is praised, and career growth is a reality.

Industry

Retail

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Duluth, GA, US

Year founded

1990