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Full Time Optical Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Staff Optical Engineer

Mountain View, CA ยท On-site +1

$166K - $223K/yr

About the role Muon seeks a Staff Optical Engineer to act as a technical lead on our team in ... In addition to salary, full-time employees receive equity compensation as well as benefits ...

Optical Technician

Moorpark, CA ยท On-site

$22 - $26/hr

Job Type Full-time Description Scope of the role: An Optical Technician must have an aptitude for mechanics and an eye for detail. Their function is to ensure that all parts and products under their ...

Join our fast-paced and passionate team as a Principal Optical Engineer. As we scale, you will be ... As a full-time employee, you will be eligible for Monarch's comprehensive benefits package, which ...

Optical Engineer Level 4

San Diego, CA ยท On-site

$150K - $200K/yr

Join our fast-paced and passionate team as a Principal Optical Engineer. As we scale, you will be ... As a full-time employee, you will be eligible for Monarch's comprehensive benefits package, which ...

Optical Engineer Level 2

San Diego, CA ยท On-site

$100K - $150K/yr

Join our fast-paced and passionate team as an Optical Engineer 2. As we scale, you will be ... As a full-time employee, you will be eligible for Monarch's comprehensive benefits package, which ...

Optical Engineer Level 2

San Diego, CA ยท On-site

$100K - $150K/yr

Join our fast-paced and passionate team as an Optical Engineer 2. As we scale, you will be ... As a full-time employee, you will be eligible for Monarch's comprehensive benefits package, which ...

Join our fast-paced and passionate team as an Optical Engineer 2. As we scale, you will be ... As a full-time employee, you will be eligible for Monarch's comprehensive benefits package, which ...

Optical Engineer Level 4

San Diego, CA ยท On-site

$150K - $200K/yr

Join our fast-paced and passionate team as a Principal Optical Engineer. As we scale, you will be ... As a full-time employee, you will be eligible for Monarch's comprehensive benefits package, which ...

Optical Test Engineer II

Redondo Beach, CA

$136K - $176K/yr

As an Optical Test Engineer at Impulse , you will be responsible for designing, procuring ... In addition to base salary, for full-time hires, you may also be eligible for long-term incentives ...

Optical Test Engineer II

Redondo Beach, CA ยท On-site

$115K - $165K/yr

Description As an Optical Test Engineer at Impulse , you will be responsible for designing ... In addition to base salary, for full-time hires, you may also be eligible for long-term incentives ...

Showing results 21-40

Full Time Optical information

See California salary details

$9

$26

$50

How much do full time optical jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for full time optical in California is $26.08, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.83 and $42.37 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Full Time Optical vs Full Time Optician?

AspectFull Time OpticalFull Time Optician
CredentialsHigh school diploma, certification in optical dispensingHigh school diploma, certification in optical dispensing
Work EnvironmentOptical stores, eyewear retailersOptical stores, eyewear retailers
Job RoleAssists customers, measures for glasses, repairsAssists customers, measures for glasses, repairs

Full Time Optical and Full Time Optician roles are similar, often used interchangeably. Both require comparable certifications and work in optical retail environments, focusing on customer service, eyewear fitting, and repairs. The main difference is terminology preference, but their responsibilities and credentials largely overlap.

What is a full time optical job?

Full-time optical jobs typically refer to positions in the eye care industry that require working 35-40 hours per week. These roles can include opticians, optical sales associates, lab technicians, and other staff who help fit and dispense eyeglasses and contact lenses, assist customers, and perform basic eye care services. Full-time optical employees may work in optometry offices, retail optical stores, or optical labs. Benefits often include health insurance, paid time off, and opportunities for professional development. A strong customer service orientation and attention to detail are important for these roles.

What are some common challenges faced by full time optical staff in a retail optical setting?

Full-time optical staff in a retail environment often encounter challenges such as balancing customer service with technical optical tasks, managing high patient volumes during peak times, and keeping up with frequent product updates in eyewear and lens technology. Additionally, they may need to coordinate with optometrists, insurance providers, and lab technicians to ensure seamless customer experiences. Developing strong communication skills and staying organized are key to navigating these challenges effectively.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a full time optical professional?

To thrive as a Full-Time Optician, you generally need a solid understanding of optical theory, lens fitting, and eye care, often backed by an associate degree or optician certification. Familiarity with lensometers, optical dispensing software, and insurance billing systems is typically required. Exceptional customer service, attention to detail, and strong communication skills help opticians build trust and assist clients effectively. These competencies are crucial for delivering accurate vision solutions, ensuring patient satisfaction, and maintaining efficient optical operations.

What are the most commonly searched types of Optical jobs in California?

The most popular types of Optical jobs in California are:

Infographic showing various Full Time Optical job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,256 per year, or $26.1 per hour.

Optical Lab Technician. Edging and finishing optical lenses

Eyes of the Marina Optometry

Los Angeles, CA โ€ข On-site

$55K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 22 days ago


Job description

Benefits:
  • 401(k) matching
  • Competitive salary
  • Health insurance
  • Paid time off

Eyes of the Marina Optometry is seeking a skilled, dependable Optical Lab Technician with Optician experience to join our growing, high-end practice. This is a dual-role position for someone who is technically strong in the lab and confident assisting patients on the optical floor.
About Us

We are a modern, boutique optometry practice known for exceptional patient care, premium eyewear, and advanced technology. We value teamwork, attention to detail, and a positive, supportive work environment.
Key Responsibilities

Optical Lab Duties

  • Edge, mount, and finish prescription lenses accurately and efficiently
  • Read and interpret optical prescriptions and lab work orders
  • Perform quality control checks (power, axis, cosmetics, fit)
  • Troubleshoot lab issues and perform remakes when necessary
  • Maintain lab equipment, tools, and a clean workspace
  • Manage lab inventory and supplies
Optician & Front-of-House Support

  • Assist patients with frame selection, lens options, and styling
  • Take accurate measurements (PD, seg height, OC, etc.)
  • Educate patients on lens materials, coatings, and upgrades
  • Adjust, fit, and repair eyewear
  • Support optical sales while maintaining patient-first care
  • Help with general optometry office tasks as needed (patient flow, organization, support during busy hours)
Qualifications

  • Minimum 2-5 years of optical lab experience preferred

  • Optician experience required

  • Comfortable working both in the lab and on the sales floor
  • Strong understanding of lens types, materials, and coatings
  • Excellent attention to detail and accuracy
  • Friendly, professional demeanor with patients
  • Team-oriented, reliable, and adaptable
Preferred (Not Required)

  • Experience with premium lenses and frame brands
  • ABO certification
  • Experience with VSP, EyeMed, or other vision plans
  • Boutique or high-volume optical background
Schedule & Compensation

  • Full-Time position

  • Competitive hourly pay (based on experience)
  • Growth opportunities within the practice
Why Join Us

  • Work with high-quality eyewear and modern lab equipment
  • Supportive, professional team culture
  • Stable, growing practice with long-term opportunity
  • A role that values both technical skill and patient interaction