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Optical Apprentice Jobs in Silver Spring, MD (NOW HIRING)

Optical Stylist, Part-Time

Washington, DC · On-site

$19.75 - $25.50/hr

If you are applying for a position in one of these states, you may be required to be a licensed dispensing optician or a registered apprentice under supervision. In states without such requirements ...

Optical Stylist, Part-Time

Washington, DC · On-site

$19.50 - $25.25/hr

If you are applying for a position in one of these states, you may be required to be a licensed dispensing optician or a registered apprentice under supervision. In states without such requirements ...

Communication Apprentice

Tysons, VA · On-site

$17.25 - $22.25/hr

Apprentices with experience assisting with Fiber Optics is a plus. * Vocational Training is a plus. Abilities: * The position requires the ability to lift, carry, and move objects weighing up to [50 ...

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Optical Apprentice information

See Silver Spring, MD salary details

$12

$22

$38

How much do optical apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical apprentice in Silver Spring, MD is $22.77, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.88 and $24.86 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 are the most commonly searched types of Optical jobs in Silver Spring, MD? The most popular types of Optical jobs in Silver Spring, MD are:
What are popular job titles related to Optical Apprentice jobs in Silver Spring, MD? For Optical Apprentice jobs in Silver Spring, MD, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Optical Apprentice jobs in Silver Spring, MD look for? The top searched job categories for Optical Apprentice jobs in Silver Spring, MD are:
Infographic showing various Optical Apprentice job openings in Silver Spring, MD as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,353 per year, or $22.8 per hour.
Optical Stylist, Part-Time

Optical Stylist, Part-Time

SEE Eyewear

Washington, DC • On-site

$19.75 - $25.50/hr

Part-time

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

OPTICAL STYLIST

SEE Eyewear is addicted to uncovering hidden gems—and not just within our product assortment.

We believe that finding the perfect frames starts with finding the perfect people. At SEE, we’re curating more than exclusive, fashion-forward eyewear made just for us—we’re building a team of passionate, style-savvy professionals who bring expertise, creativity, and personality to everything they do. From Optical Stylists to Field Leaders, we’re cultivating a community of best-in-class talent where growth, individuality, and excellence are the standard.

Who You Are:

You’re passionate about style and driven by performance. You thrive in a boutique environment where your voice matters, your contributions are seen, and your creativity has space to shine. You don’t just sell eyewear—you build relationships, offer expert styling advice, and deliver personalized service that keeps clients coming back.

Licensing Requirement (Multi-State):
Please note: In certain states, including but not limited to Washington, California, New York, Florida, Ohio, and others that require a licensed dispensing optician or registered apprentice, candidates may be required meet state requirements to perform optical fitting and dispensing duties. This includes fitting, adjusting, and dispensing prescription eyewear. If you are applying for a position in one of these states, you may be required to be a licensed dispensing optician or a registered apprentice under supervision. In states without such requirements, licensing may not be mandatory, but prior optical experience or certification is preferred.

What You’ll Do:

As a SEE Optical Stylist, you’ll be the face of the SEE brand—merging fashion, optical expertise, and personalized service in every customer interaction.

Sales & Client Experience

  • Deliver a high-touch, fashion-forward client experience grounded in SEE’s styling and selling standards.
  • Maintain an active client book and practice intentional clienteling, building long-term relationships through follow-ups, outreach, styling recommendations, and personalized communication that drives repeat business and VIP experiences.
  • Consistently meet or exceed individual sales goals and KPIs.
  • Partner with teammates to team-sell and deliver a seamless customer experience.
  • Share knowledge of fashion trends and styling techniques to create unforgettable eyewear moments.
  • Partner with an optometrist several days a week to support a seamless patient experience while driving sales.

Product & Brand Ambassadorship

  • Become an expert on SEE’s exclusive frame collections, lens offering and enhancements.
  • Style clients with confidence and creativity, positioning eyewear as a personal fashion statement.
  • Maintain merchandising and visual standards that reflect SEE’s elevated boutique experience.

Operations & Professionalism

  • Efficiently and accurately process sales and insurance information using POS and practice management systems.
  • Perform daily operational tasks, including but not limited to opening/closing procedures, register balancing, and deposits.
  • Follow all SEE policies related to pricing, discounts, remakes, returns, and promotional offers.
  • Utilize downtime to complete daily operational tasks and support store upkeep.

Security Awareness

  • Remain alert to potential security risks, shoplifting, or suspicious behavior.
  • Know how to respond to and report theft or safety-related incidents.

What You Bring:

  • A passion for fashion, eyewear, and personal styling.
  • Confidence in a sales-driven environment with measurable goals.
  • A proactive, entrepreneurial mindset—self-motivated with a drive to succeed.
  • Strong communication skills, both with customers and within your team.
  • Comfort working with medical records and insurance portals.
  • Openness to feedback and a hunger for professional growth.
  • A team-first attitude and a willingness to step up where needed.

Requirements:

  • Night & weekend availability required
  • Retail experience preferred
  • Retail optical experience a plus, but not required—we’ll train the right candidate
  • Able to stand for extended periods (up to 8 hours) and lift up to 30 lbs
  • Must comply with SEE’s dress code and fashion-forward presentation
  • Tech-savvy and comfortable using POS systems, insurance portals, Microsoft Office (including Excel), Teams, and OneDrive
  • Licensed dispensing optician or registered apprentice may be required in states with licensing laws (see Licensing Requirement above)

About SEE Eyewear:

SEE (Selective Eyewear Elements) is a revolutionary concept in optical retail. Voted “Best Eyewear” in readers’ polls in major publications from coast to coast, SEE is consistently recognized for its innovative product and unparalleled customer service. With fashion-forward exclusives made in partnership with the world’s finest frame artisans, SEE delivers the most original eyewear on the planet.

Are you ready to help people SEE and be seen?

Apply now to join a brand that doesn’t just follow trends—we define them.