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Optical Apprentice Jobs in Cary, NC (NOW HIRING)

National Vision

Licensed Optician

Raleigh, NC · On-site

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 ...

National Vision

Licensed Optician - Part Time

Cary, NC · On-site

Mentor Apprentice Opticians as permitted by law. How would you like Sundays off? Yes, every Sunday we're closed! Hold an active dispensing license as required by the state 3+ years related experience ...

National Vision

Licensed Optician

Raleigh, NC · 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

Raleigh, NC

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

Raleigh, NC · 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 - Part Time

Cary, NC · 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 - Part Time

Cary, NC · 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 ...

Costco Wholesale Corporation

Licensed Optician

Apex, NC · On-site

Uses computer to process orders, fits eyeglasses, dispenses eyeglasses and contacts and oversees apprentices. Follows department procedures for stocking and cleaning. Provides a high level of member ...

U.S. Navy

Electronics Technician

Knightdale, NC

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

U.S. Navy

Fire Controlman

Knightdale, NC

... 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 Cary, NC

Optical Apprentice information

See Cary, NC salary details

$12

$22

$37

How much do optical apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical apprentice in Cary, NC is $22.44, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.64 and $24.52 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 Cary, NC?

The most popular types of Optical jobs in Cary, NC are:

What are popular job titles related to Optical Apprentice jobs in Cary, NC?

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

What job categories do people searching Optical Apprentice jobs in Cary, NC look for?

The top searched job categories for Optical Apprentice jobs in Cary, NC are:

What cities near Cary, NC are hiring for Optical Apprentice jobs?

Cities near Cary, NC with the most Optical Apprentice job openings:

Optical Apprentice jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Apprentice job openings in Cary, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,684 per year, or $22.4 per hour.

Licensed Optician

National Vision

Raleigh, NC • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 18 days ago

National Vision rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 153 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

12th of 40 rated optical retailers

Job description

Licensed Optician

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.

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

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Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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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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