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Optical Apprentice Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

National Vision

Licensed Optician

Harrisonburg, VA

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

Roanoke, VA · 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 ...

America's Best

Licensed Optician

Roanoke, VA · 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

Roanoke, VA

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 ...

America's Best

Licensed Optician

Harrisonburg, VA

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

Fredericksburg, VA · 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 Virginia salary details

$12

$21

$36

How much do optical apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical apprentice in Virginia is $21.83, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.16 and $23.85 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an apprentice optician do?

An apprentice optician assists licensed opticians and optometrists by preparing and fitting eyeglasses and contact lenses, adjusting frames, and helping customers select eyewear. They learn to use tools and equipment, gain knowledge of eye prescriptions, and often work under supervision to develop their skills in optical retail or clinical settings.

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 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.

How much does a non licensed optician make at Costco?

A non-licensed optician at Costco typically earns between $12 and $16 per hour, depending on experience and location. The role involves assisting licensed opticians with frame selection, lens ordering, and customer service, often requiring basic optical knowledge and good communication skills.

What qualifications do you need to be an optical assistant?

To become an optical assistant, a high school diploma or equivalent is typically required. Relevant skills include good communication, customer service, and basic knowledge of optical products; some employers may prefer or require certification or training in optical dispensing or related areas.

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 highest salary for an apprentice?

The highest salary for an optical apprentice varies depending on location, experience, and employer, but it can range from $20,000 to $40,000 annually. Some apprentices may earn higher wages with specialized skills or certifications as they gain experience in optical retail or healthcare settings.

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 Virginia? The most popular types of Optical jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Optical Apprentice jobs in Virginia? For Optical Apprentice jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Optical Apprentice jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Optical Apprentice jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Optical Apprentice jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Optical Apprentice job openings:
Optical Apprentice jobs near you
Licensed Optician

Licensed Optician

National Vision

Harrisonburg, VA

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago

National Vision rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 150 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

13th of 39 rated optical retailers

Job description

Company Description

America's Best is part of National Vision, one of the largest optical retail companies in the United States. With over 1,000 locations nationwide, we are focused on treating every eye with the attention and expertise it deserves. America's Best believes in great care, for every kind of eye - because every eye deserves better.

For more details about America's Best, visit AmericasBest.com.

Job Description

At America's Best, we combine value, expertise, and exceptional service to ensure every customer leaves seeing and feeling their best. As an Optician, you'll play a key role in delivering outstanding patient care while supporting store performance.   

What You'll Do

  • Assist customers with eyeglass and contact lens dispensing, including contact lens insertion and removal training and product education.
  • Deliver exceptional customer service while meeting sales goals and company objectives.
  • Maintain accurate patient records and manage order follow-up, including customer notifications and weekly outreach.
  • Support quality and operational excellence by reducing remakes, following safety standards, and adhering to company policies.
  • Maintain inventory control, merchandising standards, and a clean, organized work environment.
  • Mentor Apprentice Opticians as permitted by law.

How would you like Sundays off? Yes, every Sunday we're closed!

Qualifications
  • Hold an active dispensing license as required by the state
  • 3+ years related experience or training (required)
  • Previous retail experience (preferred)
  • Strong customer service and clear communication abilities.
  • Confident selling skills with the ability to meet store goals.
  • Organized, detail-minded, and able to multitask in a busy setting.
  • Professional, friendly, and comfortable working with a variety of people.
Additional Information

Our Benefits Include:

  • Health & Dental Insurance
  • 401k retirement savings with company match and stock purchase plan
  • Flex Spending Account
  • Generous Paid Time Off & Company Holidays
  • Parental leave
  • Employee eyewear discount
  • Overtime pay when applicable
  • Short- and Long-Term Disability
  • Life Insurance
  • College scholarship program

Focus on professional growth and long-term career fulfillment:

  • Training programs: Develop your skills and knowledge with our comprehensive training offerings.
  • Educational Courses: Gain access to courses that support both your personal and professional development.
  • Emphasis on internal promotions and career advancement so you have opportunities to grow with us long-term.

Join us today and see your future clearly!

We are an equal opportunity employer.  We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, genetic information, disability, veteran status, and other legally protected characteristics.

What National Vision employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

National Vision logo

About National Vision

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At National Vision we believe everyone deserves to see their best to live their best. We help people by making quality eye care and eyewear more affordable and accessible. National Vision is one of the largest optical retail companies in the United States with over 1,300 stores in 44 states plus the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico. We operate five retail brands: America's Best Contacts & Eyeglasses, Eyeglass World, Vision Centers inside select Walmart stores and Vista Optical inside Fred Meyer stores and on select military bases. We employ over 14,000 people including a network of over 2,000 optometrists. We offer an innovative culture where training is a priority, hard work is praised, and career growth is a reality.

Industry

Retail

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Duluth, GA, US

Year founded

1990

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