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Optical Apprentice Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

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

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 - 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 ...

Millennium Print Group

CNC Machinist

Raleigh, NC

$20 - $27.25/hr

Perform first-article inspections using CMM, micrometers, calipers, height gauges, and optical ... Trade school certification or formal machining apprenticeship How You Will Be Successful

U.S. Navy

Aviation Electrician's Mate

Durham, NC · On-site

... optics, radar, laser electronics, infrared detection, and communications and navigation suites ... apprenticeships, and other Navy College Program opportunities. Specific options depend on the ...

U.S. Navy

Aviation Electrician's Mate

Princeton, NC · On-site

... optics, radar, laser electronics, infrared detection, and communications and navigation suites ... apprenticeships, and other Navy College Program opportunities. Specific options depend on the ...

U.S. Navy

Aviation Electronics Technician

Coats, NC · On-site

... optics, radar, laser electronics, infrared detection, and communications and navigation suites ... apprenticeships, and other Navy College Program opportunities. Specific options depend on the ...

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All JobsOptical Apprentice JobsOptical Apprentice Jobs in Raleigh, NC

Optical Apprentice information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$11

$21

$36

How much do optical apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical apprentice in Raleigh, NC is $21.41, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $23.37 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is becoming an optician hard?

Becoming an optician typically requires completing a certification or training program and gaining practical experience, which can take several months to a year. The job involves learning about optical products, customer service, and sometimes passing a licensing exam, making it accessible with proper training and dedication.

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 is the highest paid apprenticeship job?

The highest paid apprenticeships often include roles such as electrical, plumbing, or HVAC apprenticeships, which can lead to high-paying skilled trades careers. Some specialized technical apprenticeships in fields like engineering or information technology also offer competitive wages, especially with certifications and experience.

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.

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.

Do opticians do apprenticeships?

Opticians can pursue apprenticeships to gain practical experience while learning about eyewear fitting, lens crafting, and customer service. These apprenticeships often combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction and may lead to certification or licensing in some regions.

Can you be an optical assistant with no experience?

Optical assistants can often start with little or no prior experience, as on-the-job training is common. Basic skills in customer service, attention to detail, and familiarity with optical equipment can be helpful, but many employers provide training to new hires. Certification or coursework in optical assisting may improve job prospects but are not always required initially.

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 Raleigh, NC? The most popular types of Optical jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What are popular job titles related to Optical Apprentice jobs in Raleigh, NC? For Optical Apprentice jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Optical Apprentice jobs in Raleigh, NC look for? The top searched job categories for Optical Apprentice jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Optical Apprentice jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Optical Apprentice job openings:
Optical Apprentice jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Apprentice job openings in Raleigh, NC as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $44,527 per year, or $21.4 per hour.
Licensed Optician

Licensed Optician

America's Best

Raleigh, NC

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Posted 23 days ago

America's Best rating

5.2

Company rating: 5.2 out of 10

Based on 219 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

31st 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 America's Best employees say

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