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Optical Apprentice Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

Apprentice Optician

Lexington, KY · On-site

$17.25 - $22/hr

Because continuing our legacy of the highest optical standards helps us innovate the future in ... GENERAL FUNCTION The Apprentice Optician creates exceptional value in the lives of customers by ...

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Apprentice Optician - Oxmoor Center

Louisville, KY · On-site

$16.50 - $21.25/hr

Apprentice Optician Warby Parker is searching for skilled and enthusiastic Apprentice Opticians to ... Optical Education Reimbursement * Free eyewear * And more (just ask!) Warby Parker will consider ...

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Optical Apprentice information

See Kentucky salary details

$10

$19

$32

How much do optical apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical apprentice in Kentucky is $19.13, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.05 and $20.87 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 Kentucky?

The most popular types of Optical jobs in Kentucky are:

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

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

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

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

What cities in Kentucky are hiring for Optical Apprentice jobs?

Cities in Kentucky with the most Optical Apprentice job openings:

Infographic showing various Optical Apprentice job openings in Kentucky as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,784 per year, or $19.1 per hour.

Target Optical - Apprentice Optician

EssilorLuxottica

Florence, KY • On-site

$21.77/hr

Other

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 29 days ago


EssilorLuxottica rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 295 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

8th of 40 rated optical retailers


Job description

Experience Required

None

Minimum Education Required

High School Diploma/G.E.D.

Compensation

$21.77 - $21.77 / hourly

Hours Per Week

20

Number Of Positions

1

Work Schedule and Shift Requirements

First (Day)

Job Description

Requisition ID:928619

Store #:006740 Target Optical

Position:Part-Time

Total Rewards:Benefits/Incentive Information

At Target Optical, we love the neighborhoods we belong to and that's why we care for them. By listening and building relationships with one another, we help our guests get quality eye care products and services at a great value. We help people see more clearly and confidently for less by offering a great selection of trusted brands. Through the relationships we build, we're proud and excited to help people look their best by carrying fashionable frames at a great value.

Together, we're on a mission to change the way people think about vision care. We keep things real, keep focused on people and keep to our mission to bring a WOW! experience to your life, our guests' lives and communities. See your future with Target Optical.

Target Optical is part of EssilorLuxottica, a global leader in the design, manufacture and distribution of world-class vision care products, including iconic eyewear, advanced lens technology and cutting-edge digital solutions. Join our global community of over 200,000 dedicated employees around the world in driving the transformation of the eyewear and eyecare industry. Discover more by following us on LinkedIn!

GENERAL FUNCTION

The Apprentice Optician drives profitable sales growth, attracts and retains guests for life by delivering exceptional Guest service. This is accomplished through development of a positive and productive retail-selling environment that ensures premier Guest Service, Guest retention, as well as outstanding Optical Team/Doctor satisfaction.

MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Drives profitable store sales by fostering a retail selling culture by practicing and role-playing effective retail sales skills.

Develops professional business relationships with other Team Members.

Verifies visual acuity.

Analyzes and interprets prescriptions and lens design.

Measures pupillary distances, bifocal, trifocal and progressive placement.

Selects and measures frame for facial contour, eye size, bridge size and temple length.

Fits and adjusts eyewear to the face and eyes.

Dispenses contact lenses.

Fills ophthalmic eyeglass prescriptions and fits and adapts lenses and frames, utilizing optical prescription, within the guidelines established by the state.

Ensures high quality/timely product manufacturing/fabrication.

Dispenses quality product, within the guidelines established by the state.

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS

High School Degree or equivalent

Actively enrolled in a state approved Optician Apprentice program

2+ years in retail or customer service position

Basic computer skills

Independent and self-motivated

Ability to grow sales through sales skills

Enthusiastic and concise communication

Attention to detail

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

Associates Degree

Pay Range:-21.77

This posting is for an existing vacancy within our business.Employee pay is determined by multiple factors, including geography, experience, qualifications, skills and local minimum wage requirements. In addition, you may also be offered a competitive bonus and/or commission plan, which complements a first-class total rewards package. Benefits may include health care, retirement savings, paid time off/vacation, and various employee discounts.

EssilorLuxottica complies with all applicable laws related to the application and hiring process. If you would like to provide feedback regarding an active job posting, or if you are an individual with a disability who would like to request a reasonable accommodation, please call the EssilorLuxottica SpeakUp Hotline at 844-303-0229 (be sure to provide your name, job id number, and contact information so that we may follow up in a timely manner) or email HRCompliance@luxotticaretail.com.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. ?All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to r ace, color, gender, national origin, social origin, social condition, being perceived as a victim of domestic violence, s exual aggression or stalking, r eligion, age, disability, s exual orientation, gender identity or expression, citizenship, ancestry, veteran or military status, marital status, pregnancy (including unlawful discrimination on the basis of a legally protected pregnancy or maternity leave), genetic information or any other characteristics protected by law. Native Americans in the US receive preference in accordance with Tribal Law.

Job Type

Part time

Benefits Offered

Not specified

Veteran Preference

No

Place of Work

On-site

Requisition ID

1394769933


What EssilorLuxottica employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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