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Optical Apprentice Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

America's Best

Licensed Optician

Harrisonburg, 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

Harrisonburg, 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

Harrisonburg, VA · On-site

$21 - $31.10/hr

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 - Part Time

Lynchburg, VA · On-site

$21 - $31.10/hr

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 ...

Prism Maritime

Fiber Optics Technician II

Chesapeake, VA · On-site

$24 - $30/hr

Be able to perform all prep work for the installation of blown optical fiber (BOF) and assist with ... A minimum of two (2) years' participation in an approved electronic/electrical apprenticeship ...

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Optical Apprentice information

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$12

$21

$36

How much do optical apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 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 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 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
Infographic showing various Optical Apprentice job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, and 13% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,413 per year, or $21.8 per hour.

Licensed Optician - Part Time

America's Best

Richmond, VA

Part-time

Retirement

Re-posted 7 days ago

America's Best rating

5.4

Company rating: 5.4 out of 10

Based on 227 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

28th of 40 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

We reward hard work with competitive pay, bonus opportunities, and a benefits package to support you and your family now and in the future.  

Our Benefits Include: 

  • 401k retirement savings with company match and stock purchase plan
  • Paid sick time 
  • Parental leave 
  • Employee eyewear discount 
  • College scholarship program 

Focus on Professional Growth and Career Fulfillment: 

  • Training programs available 
  • Access to educational courses 
  • Emphasis on internal promotions and career advancement

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.

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