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Optical Apprentice Jobs in Albuquerque, NM (NOW HIRING)

... at CVI Laser Optics. This role serves as a technical escalation point for the maintenance team ... Technical education, apprenticeship, trade certification, or training in industrial maintenance ...

... at CVI Laser Optics. This role serves as a technical escalation point for the maintenance team ... Technical education, apprenticeship, trade certification, or training in industrial maintenance ...

Controls Technician

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$29 - $38.25/hr

Technical education, certification, apprenticeship, or training in controls, automation, electrical, instrumentation, or a related field is a plus. * Experience in cleanroom, semiconductor, optical ...

Controls Technician

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$29 - $38.25/hr

Technical education, certification, apprenticeship, or training in controls, automation, electrical, instrumentation, or a related field is a plus. * Experience in cleanroom, semiconductor, optical ...

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

... 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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Optical Apprentice information

See Albuquerque, NM salary details

$11

$21

$36

How much do optical apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical apprentice in Albuquerque, NM is $21.35, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.78 and $23.32 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 Albuquerque, NM?

The most popular types of Optical jobs in Albuquerque, NM are:

What are popular job titles related to Optical Apprentice jobs in Albuquerque, NM?

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

What job categories do people searching Optical Apprentice jobs in Albuquerque, NM look for?

The top searched job categories for Optical Apprentice jobs in Albuquerque, NM are:

Infographic showing various Optical Apprentice job openings in Albuquerque, NM as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,395 per year, or $21.3 per hour.

Structured Cabling Fiber Splicer - New Mexico

Los Lunas, NM • On-site


Mortenson
Manufacturing • 1 - 5K employees

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 19 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Great coworkers

People enjoy working here

Good employer


$24 - $28.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 27 days ago


Job description

Fiber Splicer

SUMMARY 

Mortenson is currently seeking an Fiber Splicer that will be responsible for providing skilled craftsmanship for maintenance and installation of low voltage electrical systems. 

RESPONSIBILITIES 

  • Assemble, install, test, and maintain electrical or electronic wiring, equipment, appliances, apparatus, and fixtures, using hand tools and power tools  
  • Complete physical installations of structured cabling components, cabinets, pathway systems (cable tray), move equipment, racks, and related communications infrastructure materials.
  • Perform installation and service of low voltage category cabling, fiber optic cabling, communications cabling, communication equipment and other various low voltage related systems such as Enhanced Category 5, Category 6 and Fiber Optic Structured Cable Distribution Systems.
  • Perform precise fusion splicing of high strand count fiber optic cables (including mass fusion techniques) While maintaining low loss performance and industry standard quality control.  
  • Conduct fiber testing, troubleshooting, and documentation using tools such as OTDR, power meters, and inspection scopes to ensure proper installation and signal integrity
  • Complete required documentation in a variety of written and electronic formats according to company standards such as time reporting, labor productivity tracking and material QC inspection
  • Test electrical systems and continuity of circuits in electrical wiring, equipment, and fixtures, using testing  
  • Study and interpret plans, drawings, wiring diagrams, specifications, and work orders to determine work requirements and sequence of repairs and/or installations  
  • Organize work by receiving and studying work orders; gather tools and supplies  
  • Read prints, layout work, and install new service  
  • Maintain low voltage electrical systems by conducting system tests; complete preventive maintenance requirements  
  • Keep supplies ready by placing orders  
  • Maintain safe work environment by following standards and procedures; comply with codes  
  • Update job knowledge by participating in educational opportunities; read technical publications  
  • Accomplish maintenance and organization mission by completing related results as needed  
  • Contribute to team effort by accomplishing related results as needed  
  • Effectively work and build relationships with those of diverse backgrounds and organizational levels  
  • All other duties as assigned

QUALIFICATIONS 

  • High school diploma or GED  
  • Minimum two years of related experience  
  • Data Center construction experience preferred but not required  
  • CNET CNCI Certification
  • BICSI Installer (INST 1)
  • BICSI Installer 2 copper/fiber (INSTC/INSTF)
  • Trade or technical school certification/diploma  
  • Apprentice aptitude test  
  • Current driver's license  
  • Ability to speak and understand English (Spanish is a plus); some ability to read plans; shown emotional intelligence; ability to operate equipment such as table saws, radial arm saws, belt & disc sanders, drill presses, fall protection equipment, rigging, and form systems  
  • Strong teamwork orientation, positive attitude, professional customer service skills, detail orientation, active listening skills, and effective communication including openness to diverse input and feedback  
  • Repetitive hand, arm, leg movements  
  • *Lifting, carrying, pushing, pulling: up to 50 lbs.  
  • Please note: this position description is not intended to be a comprehensive list of the duties and responsibilities of the position. The duties and responsibilities of this position may change without notice.
  • Ability to work weekends
  • 90-100% Travel 
     

*Lifting, carrying, pushing, or pulling over 50 lbs will be done with assistance of another team member or equipment. 

A few benefits offered include: 

**(for Non-Craft & Non-Union Craft working 25+ hours / week) 

  • Medical and prescription drug plans that includes no additional cost vision coverage 
  • Dental plan 
  • 401k retirement plan with a generous Mortenson match  
  • Paid time off, holidays, and other paid leaves 
  • Employer paid Life, AD&D, and disability insurance 
  • No-Cost mental health tool and conciergewith extensive work-life resources 
  • Tuition reimbursement 
  • Adoption Assistance 
  • Gym Membership Discount Program 

Please make note:  

  • Visa sponsorship is not offered for this position.  
  • Our postings are typically open a minimum of 5 days and an average of 44 days. 

ABOUT MORTENSON 

As a top builder, developer, and EPC (Engineering, Procurement, and Construction), our expertise spans markets like sports, renewable energy, data centers, healthcare, and more. We are builders at heart, working to ensure the built environment has a lasting positive impact. 

Let's Redefine Possible 

Equal Employment Opportunity 

Your uniqueness brings new and creative perspectives to the team. Mortenson is committed to providing equal opportunities of employment (EOE) to all individuals, regardless of your race, religion, gender, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, marital status or any other legally protected category. 

Other Items to Note 

  • Mortenson reserves the right to hire any individual without legal or financial obligation on unwanted solicitations.No agency emails, calls, or solicitations are accepted without a valid agreement. 
  • Must be currently legally authorized to work in the U.S. without sponsorship for employment visa status (e.g., H1B status, 0-1, TN, CPT, OPT, etc.). We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment Visa at this time. 

M. A. Mortenson logo

About M. A. Mortenson

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

M. A. Mortenson is a prominent name in the construction industry, based out of Minneapolis, MN, US. Established in 1954 by M.A. Mortenson Sr., the company has over six decades of experience offering construction services that have contributed to building lasting infrastructures across various sectors, including healthcare, energy, corporate, and sports. Mortenson has proven its exceptional expertise through a range of complex building and facility projects across the US fulfilling the customer's specifications and exceeding their expectations. Moreover, the company's core values are outlined as ‘Do the Right Thing’, ‘We Before I’, ‘Inspire What’s Possible’, and ‘In it for the long haul’.

Industry

Manufacturing and construction

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Minneapolis, MN, US

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