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Optical Apprentice Jobs in Rhode Island (NOW HIRING)

Vision Associates Inc

Apprentice Optician

Wakefield, RI

$17.25 - $22.25/hr

An Apprentice Optician is responsible for all facets of the dispensary while maintaining the ... Previous experience in retail and/or optical industry * State registration, licensure and ...

Vision Associates Inc

Apprentice Optician

Warwick, RI

$17.25 - $22.25/hr

An Apprentice Optician is responsible for all facets of the dispensary while maintaining the ... Previous experience in retail and/or optical industry * State registration, licensure and ...

A/Z Corp

Telecommunications Apprentice

North Kingstown, RI

$16.50 - $21.25/hr

The Apprentice Telecom Technician will participate in the installation or maintenance and ... Assists with termination data, voice, coaxial, control and fiber optic cables. * Test cables to TIA ...

A/Z Corp

Telecommunications Apprentice

Smithfield, RI

$15 - $22/hr

The Apprentice Telecom Technician will participate in the installation or maintenance and ... Assists with termination data, voice, coaxial, control and fiber optic cables. * Test cables to TIA ...

Essilor

KOCH EYE ASSOCIATES - Optician FT

Wakefield, RI · On-site

$17.25 - $22.25/hr

Must be registered as an apprentice in the appropriate state and maintain all state requirements in pursuit of optical licesning * Strong customer service skills to include communication (listening ...

U.S. Navy

Computer Field Technician

Providence, RI · On-site

$19.25 - $23.25/hr

... Apprentice Technical Training at Great Lakes, Illinois, covering basic electronics, circuitry, safety, digital theory, microcomputers, fiber optics, test equipment, and troubleshooting; strand ...

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All JobsOptical Apprentice JobsOptical Apprentice Jobs in Rhode Island

Optical Apprentice information

See Rhode Island salary details

$12

$21

$36

How much do optical apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical apprentice in Rhode Island is $21.57, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.97 and $23.56 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is becoming an optician hard?

Becoming an optician typically requires completing a certification or training program and gaining practical experience, which can take several months to a year. The job involves learning about optical products, customer service, and sometimes passing a licensing exam, making it accessible with proper training and dedication.

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.

What is the highest paid apprenticeship job?

The highest paid apprenticeships often include roles such as electrical, plumbing, or HVAC apprenticeships, which can lead to high-paying skilled trades careers. Some specialized technical apprenticeships in fields like engineering or information technology also offer competitive wages, especially with certifications and experience.

What are some 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.

Do opticians do apprenticeships?

Opticians can pursue apprenticeships to gain practical experience while learning about eyewear fitting, lens crafting, and customer service. These apprenticeships often combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction and may lead to certification or licensing in some regions.

Can you be an optical assistant with no experience?

Optical assistants can often start with little or no prior experience, as on-the-job training is common. Basic skills in customer service, attention to detail, and familiarity with optical equipment can be helpful, but many employers provide training to new hires. Certification or coursework in optical assisting may improve job prospects but are not always required initially.

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 most commonly searched types of Optical jobs in Rhode Island? The most popular types of Optical jobs in Rhode Island are:
What are popular job titles related to Optical Apprentice jobs in Rhode Island? For Optical Apprentice jobs in Rhode Island, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Optical Apprentice jobs in Rhode Island look for? The top searched job categories for Optical Apprentice jobs in Rhode Island are:
What cities in Rhode Island are hiring for Optical Apprentice jobs? Cities in Rhode Island with the most Optical Apprentice job openings:
Optical Apprentice jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Apprentice job openings in Rhode Island as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $44,858 per year, or $21.6 per hour.
Apprentice Optician

Apprentice Optician

Vision Associates Inc

Wakefield, RI

$17.25 - $22.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

An Apprentice Optician is responsible for all facets of the dispensary while maintaining the highest level of customer service. Ensuring our patients have the best experience is a priority. A successful candidate will be self-motivated, organized and detail-oriented with an ability to multitask while working in a fast-paced environment. This position requires a commitment to teamwork and provides a great opportunity to join a growing and successful company. The Apprentice Optician will be expected to learn and support the policies and procedures necessary for opening, closing, and operating the dispensary.Responsibilities
  • Meet and/or exceed pre-established company goals for Sales, Collections, KPIs and Patient Experience expectations
  • Must perform all responsibilities as an Apprentice Optician
  • Listen and respond immediately with an appropriate level of concern to all patient and practice issues
  • Analyze, solve, and correct customer service issues
  • Ensure best practices are being delivered so that patients are satisfied and make their purchases with the optical dispensary
  • Communicate directly and promptly any concerns related to patient or practice satisfaction to their District Manager
  • Foster positive working relationships with the practice doctors, leadership and staff
  • You may from time to time be required to perform tasks not specifically listed here, but the company will ensure that you have received adequate training and support to facilitate such assigned tasks
Required Skills
  • Previous experience in retail and/or optical industry
  • State registration, licensure and certifications (where applicable)
  • Effective interpersonal skills
  • Excellent problem solving abilities
  • Strong communication skills (verbal & written), including strong relationship building skills
  • Ability to adjust priorities and manage time wisely in a fast-paced environment
  • Ability to communicate in a clear concise and understandable manner