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Entry Level Optician Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Peraton

Image Scientist (Entry-level)

Springfield, VA · On-site

$80K - $128K/yr

US Citizenship with the ability to obtain and maintain a TS/SCI security clearance and polygraph prior to starting. * BS/BA degree in Physics, Electrical Engineering (or other engineering), Optics ...

Peraton

Image Scientist (Entry-level)

Springfield, VA

$80K - $128K/yr

US Citizenship with the ability to obtain and maintain a TS/SCI security clearance and polygraph prior to starting. * BS/BA degree in Physics, Electrical Engineering (or other engineering), Optics ...

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All JobsOptician JobsEntry Level Optician JobsEntry Level Optician Jobs in Washington

Entry Level Optician information

See Washington salary details

$13

$21

$30

How much do entry level optician jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level optician in Washington is $21.87, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.80 and $24.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 also require passing a licensing exam or obtaining certification from organizations like the American Board of Opticianry, which may extend the timeline slightly.

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 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 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 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 are the most commonly searched types of Optician jobs in Washington?

The most popular types of Optician jobs in Washington are:

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

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

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

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

Entry Level Optician jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Optician job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 74% Full Time, and 26% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,499 per year, or $21.9 per hour.

Optical Engineer / EO/IR & LiDAR Research Engineer with Security Clearance

Alaire Technologies, Inc

Alexandria, VA • On-site

$80K - $150K/yr

Other

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

Research Engineer / Engineering Physicist –
Sensors, Optics & Experimental Systems
Location: Alexandria, VA / Washington, DC Employment Type: Full-Time Experience Level: Entry-Level through Senior (BS, MS, or PhD) Salary: $80,000–$150,000 DOE Security Clearance: U.S. Citizenship required. Ability to obtain a DoD Secret Clearance.
Active Secret Clearance preferred. Join Alaire Technologies
Alaire Technologies develops advanced sensing, imaging, and signal processing technologies
that support the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps. We are seeking motivated Research Engineers and
Engineering Physicists to help develop, prototype, test, and validate next-generation sensing
systems used in national defense. This position offers opportunities for both recent graduates and experienced engineers or
scientists interested in experimental research, instrumentation, optics, electronics, and advanced
sensor development. Position Overview
The successful candidate will work on multidisciplinary teams developing advanced electro-
optical, infrared, laser, and sensor technologies supporting ISR, remote sensing, and defense
applications. Responsibilities include laboratory experimentation, prototype development, data acquisition,
instrumentation, signal processing, and system integration from concept through testing and
validation. This position is well suited for candidates with backgrounds in experimental physics,
engineering physics, electrical engineering, optical engineering, photonics, instrumentation, or
applied research. ,Key Responsibilities • Design, build, and test laboratory experiments and prototype hardware. • Develop and integrate data acquisition, instrumentation, and control systems. • Support development of electro-optical (EO), infrared (IR), laser, and advanced sensing technologies. • Perform experimental testing, system characterization, calibration, and validation. • Collect, process, and analyze experimental data using statistical and computational methods. • Develop software tools for automation, instrumentation, data acquisition, and analysis. • Support sensor integration, hardware troubleshooting, and laboratory operations. • Collaborate with physicists, engineers, software developers, and government customers. • Document experimental procedures, technical findings, engineering analyses, and test results. • Participate in laboratory demonstrations, field testing, and technology transition efforts. Required Qualifications • BS, MS, or PhD in: o Physics o Engineering Physics o Applied Physics o Electrical Engineering o Optical Engineering o Mechanical Engineering o Aerospace Engineering o Photonics o or a closely related STEM discipline. • Strong laboratory, research, or engineering experience through industry, government, or academic research. • Hands-on experience assembling, testing, troubleshooting, or integrating experimental systems. • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills. • U.S. Citizenship. • Ability to obtain and maintain a DoD Secret Clearance. Preferred Qualifications
Experience with one or more of the following: , • Electro-optics (EO) • Infrared (IR) • EO/IR sensors • Optical systems • Laser systems • Photonics • Instrumentation • Laboratory automation • Data acquisition systems • National Instruments • LabVIEW • Oscilloscopes • Spectrum analyzers • Signal generators • Embedded electronics • PCB integration • Sensors • Remote sensing • Signal processing • Digital Signal Processing (DSP) • Image processing • Computer vision • Control systems • Robotics • Experimental physics • Prototype development • Systems integration • Hardware validation • Verification and validation (V&V) Programming experience with one or more of: • Python • MATLAB • C • C++ • LabVIEW Ideal Candidate Background
We welcome candidates from: , • University research laboratories • National laboratories • Defense contractors • Government research organizations • Applied research organizations • Naval Research Laboratory (NRL) • Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) • MIT Lincoln Laboratory • Draper • AFRL • NASA • DOE National Laboratories Clearance Requirements • U.S. Citizenship required. • Ability to obtain and maintain a DoD Secret Clearance. • Active Secret Clearance preferred. • Active Top Secret or SCI clearance is a plus. Why Join Alaire?
At Alaire Technologies, you'll work on advanced technologies that directly support the U.S.
Navy and national defense. Whether you're an early-career engineer looking to build hands-on
experience or a senior researcher leading cutting-edge development, you'll have the opportunity
to contribute to meaningful, technically challenging programs alongside a highly collaborative
team.

Apply