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Optical Apprentice Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Optician Apprentice - VNPCC

Wasilla, AK · On-site

$16.50 - $21.50/hr

Optician Apprentice I Hiring Range $21.72 to $28.24 Optician Apprentice II Hiring Range $24.60 to $32.80 Summary of Job Responsibilities: The Southcentral Foundation (SCF) Optician is responsible for ...

Optician Apprentice - VNPCC

Wasilla, AK · On-site

$16.50 - $21.50/hr

Optician Apprentice I Hiring Range $21.72 to $28.24 Optician Apprentice II Hiring Range $24.60 to $32.80 Summary of Job Responsibilities: The Southcentral Foundation (SCF) Optician is responsible for ...

Certified optician or optical apprentice credential a plus * Experience working with dry-eye, myopia management, or diabetic eye care is an advantage * Frame adjustment / repair skills * Experience ...

Certified optician or optical apprentice credential a plus * Experience working with dry-eye, myopia management, or diabetic eye care is an advantage * Frame adjustment / repair skills * Experience ...

Apprentice Optician

Cuyahoga Falls, OH · On-site

$15.75 - $20.25/hr

Target Optical is part of EssilorLuxottica, a global leader in the design, manufacture and ... GENERAL FUNCTION The Apprentice Optician drives profitable sales growth, attracts and retains ...

Apprentice Optician

Canton, GA · On-site

$16.50 - $21.25/hr

Target Optical is part of EssilorLuxottica, a global leader in the design, manufacture and ... GENERAL FUNCTION The Apprentice Optician drives profitable sales growth, attracts and retains ...

Apprentice Optician

Cuyahoga Falls, OH

$15.75 - $20.25/hr

Target Optical is part of EssilorLuxottica, a global leader in the design, manufacture and ... GENERAL FUNCTION The Apprentice Optician drives profitable sales growth, attracts and retains ...

Apprentice Optician

Canton, GA · On-site

$15.75 - $20.25/hr

Target Optical is part of EssilorLuxottica, a global leader in the design, manufacture and ... GENERAL FUNCTION The Apprentice Optician drives profitable sales growth, attracts and retains ...

Apprentice Optician

Charlotte, NC · On-site

$16 - $20.75/hr

Target Optical is part of EssilorLuxottica, a global leader in the design, manufacture and ... GENERAL FUNCTION The Apprentice Optician drives profitable sales growth, attracts and retains ...

Apprentice Optician

Inglewood, CA · On-site

$17.75 - $23/hr

Target Optical is part of EssilorLuxottica, a global leader in the design, manufacture and ... GENERAL FUNCTION The Apprentice Optician drives profitable sales growth, attracts and retains ...

Apprentice Optician

Inglewood, CA · On-site

$17.75 - $23/hr

Target Optical is part of EssilorLuxottica, a global leader in the design, manufacture and ... GENERAL FUNCTION The Apprentice Optician drives profitable sales growth, attracts and retains ...

Apprentice Optician

Canton, GA · On-site

$16.25 - $21/hr

Target Optical is part of EssilorLuxottica, a global leader in the design, manufacture and ... GENERAL FUNCTION The Apprentice Optician drives profitable sales growth, attracts and retains ...

Apprentice Optician

Canton, GA · On-site

$15.75 - $20.25/hr

Target Optical is part of EssilorLuxottica, a global leader in the design, manufacture and ... GENERAL FUNCTION The Apprentice Optician drives profitable sales growth, attracts and retains ...

Optician - Optical - Full Time

Bath, NY · On-site

$21.89 - $35.16/hr

Minimum of two years' experience in an optical setting as an optician apprentice or optician. Essential Functions: 1. Accurately interprets optical prescriptions (lenses and contacts) and takes all ...

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Optical Apprentice information

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$12

$22

$37

How much do optical apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical apprentice in the United States is $22.02, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $24.04 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an optical apprentice?

An Optical Apprentice is an individual who is training to become a qualified optical technician or optician. They work under the supervision of experienced professionals to learn how to fit, adjust, and repair eyeglasses and contact lenses, as well as assist customers in choosing frames and lenses. The apprenticeship typically combines on-the-job training with classroom instruction, helping apprentices gain the knowledge and skills necessary for certification or licensure. This role is ideal for those interested in eye care and customer service, providing a pathway to a rewarding career in the optical industry.

What are the typical responsibilities and learning opportunities for an optical apprentice during their first year?

As an Optical Apprentice, your first year will typically involve hands-on training in customer service, frame selection, and basic lens fitting under the supervision of licensed opticians. You’ll learn how to interpret prescriptions, adjust and repair eyewear, and understand lens materials and coatings. Apprentices are often exposed to both front-of-house retail duties and behind-the-scenes lab work, which provides a well-rounded introduction to the optical field. Collaboration with experienced opticians and other healthcare professionals is common, offering mentorship and a path toward certification or licensure as your skills grow.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an optical apprentice, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Optical Apprentice, you need a basic understanding of optical principles, strong attention to detail, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with lens fitting equipment, optical measurement tools, and practice management software is typically required. Excellent communication, customer service, and teamwork skills help you build rapport with clients and support experienced opticians. These skills ensure accurate eyewear preparation, positive patient experiences, and effective collaboration in a clinical environment.

What is the difference between Optical Apprentice vs Optical Technician?

AspectOptical ApprenticeOptical Technician
Required CredentialsOn-the-job training, sometimes certification programsCertification or associate degree in optical technology
Work EnvironmentEntry-level, supervised settings in optical stores or labsMore independent work in labs or retail settings
Employer & Industry UsageOptical stores, eye clinics, retail optical chainsOptical labs, manufacturing, retail optical stores

Optical Apprentices typically undergo on-the-job training and may have certification programs, working under supervision. Optical Technicians usually have formal education or certification, performing more independent technical tasks. Both roles are common in optical retail and lab environments, but technicians often have more advanced skills and responsibilities.

Can I do an optical apprenticeship?

Yes, an optical apprenticeship is a training program that allows individuals to learn the skills needed to become an optician or optical technician. Apprentices typically work under the supervision of licensed professionals and may need to complete specific hours or certifications depending on local regulations.

What can you do with an optical apprentice apprenticeship?

An optical apprentice apprenticeship provides hands-on training in optical retail or clinical settings, allowing individuals to learn skills such as lens fitting, frame selection, and basic eye care procedures. Apprentices often gain experience working with optical instruments, assisting licensed opticians or optometrists, and may prepare for certification or licensing exams in the field.

What does an optical apprentice do?

An optical apprentice assists licensed opticians by learning to measure, fit, and adjust eyeglasses and contact lenses. They may handle customer service, prepare eyewear, and gain skills in using optical tools and equipment under supervision. The role often involves gaining practical experience to become a licensed optician.
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Infographic showing various Optical Apprentice job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 90% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,806 per year, or $22 per hour.

Optical Apprentice - Southborough, MA

Southborough, MA • On-site

Medical Eyeglass Center Inc
Health Care and Social Assistance • 51 - 200 employees

$22 - $26/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 28 days ago


Job description

About Medical Eyeglass Center (MEC)

At MEC, we partner with leading medical/ophthalmology practices to provide patients with high-quality vision care and eyewear services. Our employees work directly inside medical offices, helping patients select and fit eyewear while creating a positive, professional experience. We pride ourselves on accuracy, customer service, and a patient-first approach that sets us apart.

Position Overview

MEC is seeking a skilled, patient-focused Optical Associate to join our team. In this position, you’ll play a key role in the successful operation of the optical dispensary, deliver outstanding service, and work closely with both patients and clinic staff. This is a great opportunity for someone who enjoys combining technical expertise with patient care in a supportive and professional setting.

What You’ll Do
  • Provide patients with an outstanding eyewear experience, from selection to fitting and adjustments.
  • Accurately process and complete orders through MEC’s pointofsale systems.
  • Maintain detailed records of prescriptions, orders, payments, and insurance claims.
  • Review and track lab orders to ensure timely and accurate completion.
  • Submit insurance claims, post payments, and follow up on outstanding receivables.
  • Dispense prescription and nonprescription eyewear (and contact lenses where applicable.)
  • Assist patients with eyewear adjustments, repairs, and cleaning.
  • Maintain frame inventory, keeping displays organized, clean, and fully stocked.
  • Review daily patient schedules to anticipate volume, insurance eligibility, and sales opportunities.
  • Support inoffice promotions and marketing materials.
  • Build positive working relationships with providers, technicians, and administrative staff.
  • Maintain a professional and welcoming environment for patients and staff.
  • What We’re Looking For
  • A friendly, professional, and patientfocused personality.
  • Ability to read and interpret spectacle prescriptions (and contact lenses where applicable).
  • Skilled in eyewear fitting, adjustments, and repairs or willing to learn.
  • Strong customer service and sales skills, including handling objections.
  • Clear and professional verbal and written communication.
  • Proficiency with MS Excel, email, and insurance portals (preferred).
  • Strong organization and time management skills.
  • Teamoriented with the ability to build effective relationships.
  • Attention to detail and problemsolving mindset.
  • Receptive to feedback and committed to continuous learning.
  • Requirements
  • High School Diploma or GED
  • Minimum 6 months of experience in optical
  • Knowledge of frame adjustments and frame repairs
  • Experience taking accurate measurements (PD, seg height, optical center)
  • Familiarity with optical lab processes and lens types (single vision, bifocal, progressive)
  • Experience reading lenses using manual lensometer
  • Ability to handle insurance eligibility checks and authorizations
  • Strong attention to detail and accuracy when filling prescriptions
  • Ability to multitask in a fastpaced environment
  • Basic computer skills and experience with EHR or optical POS systems
  • Job Type: Full-time

    Benefits:
  • 401(k)
  • Health insurance
  • Dental insurance
  • Vision insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Employee discount
  • Paid time off
  • Referral program