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Optical Apprentice Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Uses computer to process orders, fits eyeglasses, dispenses eyeglasses and contacts and oversees apprentices. Follows department procedures for stocking and cleaning. Provides a high level of member ...

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Optical Apprentice information

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$11

$20

$35

How much do optical apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical apprentice in Indiana is $20.96, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.49 and $22.88 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.

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

The most popular types of Optical jobs in Indiana are:

What are popular job titles related to Optical Apprentice jobs in Indiana?

For Optical Apprentice jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Optical Apprentice jobs in Indiana look for?

The top searched job categories for Optical Apprentice jobs in Indiana are:

What cities in Indiana are hiring for Optical Apprentice jobs?

Cities in Indiana with the most Optical Apprentice job openings:

Infographic showing various Optical Apprentice job openings in Indiana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,587 per year, or $21 per hour.

NineStar Connect - Outside Plant Technician (Fiber Optic Technician)

Greenfield, IN • On-site

Wabash Valley Power Alliance
Utilities • 51 - 200 employees

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 6 days ago


Job description

Company Description
NineStar Connect is an innovative community-minded, communications, energy, water, and sewer cooperative. We provide the infrastructure that empowers thoughtful development and improves quality of place in Central Indiana. We believe that no matter where you choose to live or work, you should have access to high quality utility services that allow you an opportunity to thrive.
Career Development:
- We value employees that have a desire to learn and provide reimbursement funds for continuing education. We're also committed to in-house training and ongoing development.
Company Benefits:
- At NineStar Connect we offer a competitive array of benefits that include medical, dental, and vision insurance, 401k matching, paid parental leave, short term disability, long term disability, and life insurance along with profit sharing and various service discounts.
Wellness:
- We offer a variety of wellness programs with paid incentives as well as on-site fitness centers available at each office location.
Core Values:
- We're guided by our core values - Act with Integrity, Embrace Differences, Committed to Community, Be Innovative, Make Each Day Meaningful, and Seek Quality Results and we're looking for team members who share these values!
Job Description
NineStar Connect is seeking a highly motivated Outside Plant Technician to join our growing team. In this role, you'll play a vital part in building, maintaining, and troubleshooting the fiber-optic network that delivers our high-speed services. This is a Bargaining Unit position with an Apprenticeship Program.
What you'll do:
  • Perform a variety of tasks to ensure the efficient transport and delivery of NineStar Connect services, including installation, splicing, termination, testing, and maintenance of OSP/ISP fiber-optic and shielded-twisted-pair (STP) cables.
  • Troubleshoot and repair damaged or non-compliant network components to guarantee optimal network performance and reliability.
  • Maintain and repair both aerial and underground network infrastructure, demonstrating proficiency in safe work practices and adherence to industry standards.
  • Collaborate with colleagues to install equipment and devices at customer locations and network cabinet sites.
  • Participate in a mandatory on-call rotation to ensure network uptime.

Qualifications
Knowledge of:
  • Fiber-optic and STP cable structure, uses, and network components, as well as, "best-practices".
  • Various OSP/ISP network architecture and topology.
  • Operating various types of vehicles and construction equipment.

Ability to:
  • Effectively read, comprehend, and follow engineering specification schematic staking sheets and diagrams.
  • Follow oral and written instructions.
  • Professionally communicate with coworkers and various business contacts.
  • Work independently while making technical decisions.
  • Lift a minimum of 60 lbs.

Education and Experience:
  • High school diploma or equivalent with 1-3 years in network construction, operations / maintenance, or installation used for the delivery of data, video, and voice over various media.
  • Possessing or ability to obtain a Class A CDL with Air Break Endorsement along with maintaining a clean driving record.
  • Possession of BICSI Installer 2 Optical Fiber or Copper (INSTC or INSTF) or Technician (TECH) certifications are preferred.

Additional Information
NineStar Connect does not discriminate in employment opportunities or practices on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, marital status, sexual preference, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law.
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