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Optical Apprentice Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

National Vision

Assistant Manager - Bilingual

Riverside, CA · On-site

$17.60 - $21.97/hr

Mentor potential Apprentice Opticians as permitted by law. Qualifications Are you the right fit? - The Suitable Talent * Maintain Optical license as required by the state. * Optical sales experience.

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Optical Apprentice information

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$12

$22

$38

How much do optical apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical apprentice in Riverside, CA is $22.98, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.08 and $25.10 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 Riverside, CA?

The most popular types of Optical jobs in Riverside, CA are:

What are popular job titles related to Optical Apprentice jobs in Riverside, CA?

For Optical Apprentice jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Optical Apprentice jobs in Riverside, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Optical Apprentice jobs in Riverside, CA are:

What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Optical Apprentice jobs?

Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Optical Apprentice job openings:

Optical Apprentice jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Apprentice job openings in Riverside, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $47,788 per year, or $23 per hour.

Optician- Full Time

LUXE Optometry

Claremont, CA • On-site

$17 - $22/hr

Other

Posted 2 days ago

New

Job description

Job Overview:

We are seeking a skilled Optician to join our team. As an Optician, you will assist customers in selecting eyewear, writing insurance estimates (VSP/Eyemed), fitting frames, and providing exceptional customer service. If you have a passion for eye care and enjoy helping individuals find the perfect eyewear, we would love to hear from you.


Responsibilities:

- Assist customers in selecting eyeglasses based on prescription, lifestyle, and fashion preferences

- Take accurate measurements to ensure proper fit of frames.

- Adjust and repair eyewear as needed.

- Educate customers on lens options and coatings.

- Attention to detail. Process orders and maintain accurate/well notated patient records through EHR systems.

- Provide exceptional customer service throughout the frame selection and fitting process.

Skills:

- Experience in Optical, Optometry, or Ophthalmology

- Knowledge of optics, lenses, frames, and contact lenses.

- Familiarity with optical systems and retail management.

- Strong sales skills to effectively recommend products based on patient needs.

- Understanding of HIPAA regulations for patient privacy.

- Ability to manage medical records accurately.

- Experience in Private Practice Optometry is a plus.

If you possess these skills and are passionate about eye care, we invite you to apply for this rewarding position as an Optician with our team. We are willing to train for those who have a passion for learning this trade/industry. Optician Apprenticeship available!


Experience:

  • Optical: 1 year (Required)

Work Location: In person

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