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Optical Apprentice Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

National Vision

Licensed Optician

Bartlett, TN · On-site

Company Description America's Best is part of National Vision, one of the largest optical retail ... Mentor Apprentice Opticians as permitted by law. Qualifications * Hold an active dispensing license ...

National Vision

Licensed Optician

Bartlett, TN · On-site

Company Description America's Best is part of National Vision, one of the largest optical retail ... Mentor Apprentice Opticians as permitted by law. Qualifications * Hold an active dispensing license ...

National Vision

Licensed Optician

Murfreesboro, TN · On-site

Company Description America's Best is part of National Vision, one of the largest optical retail ... Mentor Apprentice Opticians as permitted by law. How would you like Sundays off? Yes, every Sunday ...

National Vision

Licensed Optician

Murfreesboro, TN · On-site

Company Description America's Best is part of National Vision, one of the largest optical retail ... Mentor Apprentice Opticians as permitted by law. How would you like Sundays off? Yes, every Sunday ...

National Vision

Licensed Optician

Memphis, TN · On-site

Company Description America's Best is part of National Vision, one of the largest optical retail ... Mentor Apprentice Opticians as permitted by law. Qualifications * Hold an active dispensing license ...

America's Best

Licensed Optician

Bartlett, TN · On-site

Company Description America's Best is part of National Vision, one of the largest optical retail ... Mentor Apprentice Opticians as permitted by law. Qualifications * Hold an active dispensing license ...

America's Best

Licensed Optician

Murfreesboro, TN · On-site

Company Description America's Best is part of National Vision, one of the largest optical retail ... Mentor Apprentice Opticians as permitted by law. How would you like Sundays off? Yes, every Sunday ...

National Vision

Licensed Optician

Bartlett, TN · On-site

Company Description America's Best is part of National Vision, one of the largest optical retail ... Mentor Apprentice Opticians as permitted by law. Qualifications * Hold an active dispensing license ...

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Optical Apprentice information

See Tennessee salary details

$11

$19

$33

How much do optical apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical apprentice in Tennessee is $19.99, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.72 and $21.83 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 Tennessee?

The most popular types of Optical jobs in Tennessee are:

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

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

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

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

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Optical Apprentice jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Optical Apprentice job openings:

Optical Apprentice jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Apprentice job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full Time, and 3% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,574 per year, or $20 per hour.

2nd shift Test Lab Apprentice

Cookeville, TN • On-site

Flexial Corporation
Aerospace Product and Parts Manufacturing • 51 - 200 employees
Learn more about Flexial Corporationexternal

$17.80/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 18 days ago

Job description

 
 
 
 
 


Flexial is an EOE and Drug Free Workplace.

 “Rapidly Growing Employee-Owned Company”


 Our entry level position come explore your future with Flexial.  With our competitive pay rates and our Bracket Advancement Program, we will map out a customized Career Development Plan for you. As an employee-owned company, we understand your growth is our growth and at Flexial, you will be encouraged to improve your skills to increase your value and pay. Join a winning team and Level Up at Flexial. 



With general guidance and training, the Test Lab Apprentice must perform testing on production programs that utilize hydraulic and pneumatic test stations. Must learn how to use all measurement devices (pressure gages, calipers, gage blocks..). Must learn the operation of all specialty equipment such as the Thermal Chamber, Vacuum Pumps, Arbor Press, Optical Comparator, and Druck Pressure Regulator. Must make clean and effective hand-offs from shift-to shift.  Must perform all testing as instructed and report any issues in a safe and timely manner. Must learn to meet production standards, navigate FlexNet, and effectively uses Epicor. Meets expectations for safety and efficiency. 





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About Flexial

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Aerospace product and parts manufacturing

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

Cookeville, TN, US

Year founded

1994

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