1

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

Showing results 21-40

Optical Apprentice information

See Silver Spring, MD salary details

$12

$22

$38

How much do optical apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 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 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 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 June 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,353 per year, or $22.8 per hour.

Electronic Technician I

Springfield, VA

Chenega Sentinel 360
IT Services • 5 - 10K employees

$35.18/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 21 days ago


Job description

Summary
The Electronic Technician I supports Chenega’s mission by assisting with the installation, setup, and basic maintenance of electronic security systems and related equipment. Working under the guidance of senior technicians, this entry‑level role contributes to the successful deployment of low‑voltage, surveillance, access control, and security technologies across customer sites.
 

**This recruitment is intended to establish a qualified candidate pipeline for current and future vacancies**


Responsibilities
  • Assist in preparations for cable pulling.
  • Assist in cable pulling (i.e. 18-2, RG 6, Cat5e, Fiber Optics).
  • Assist in cable terminations. (i.e. butt splices, insulated connectors, terminal strips/blocks and BNC).
  • Assist in cable testing. (i.e. VOM, Continuity tester, TDR, OTDR).
  • Assist in mounting devices. (i.e. Readers, Door Contacts, REXs, Cameras).
  • Locate TSS field devices on a blueprint. (i.e. Readers, Door Contacts, REXs, Cameras).
  • Accurately interpret elevation & mounting details on a blueprint to install field devices.
  • Identify the differences between ESS codes and standards to complete a given task. (i.e. pulling cables, mounting field devices, terminating cables).
  • Identify different types of cables and their usages. (i.e. Cable Markings, Class 2 & 3, Communication, Plenum, Shielded, High Performance).
  • Identify different types of connectors and their usages. (i.e. butt splices, insulated connectors, terminal strips/blocks and BNC).
  • Assist in installing raceways and pathways.
  • Assist in simple conduit bends as needed. (i.e. 90 & Off sets to connect head end devices).
  • Assist in terminating devices. (i.e. Readers, Door Contacts, REXs, Cameras).
  • Repair and maintain electronic security system equipment.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications
  • At least one year of related experience.
  • High School Diploma or G.E.D along with reading, writing, and analytic skills.
  • Must be able to speak, write, and understand the English language.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret clearance.
  • Active Secret clearance is preferred.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

  • Knowledge in the following areas: Apprenticeship Core Curriculum, Apprenticeship Level One Curriculum, OSHA 10, Ethic Training, First Aid/CPR, Powder Actuated Tools, VA DCJS.
  • Prior experience in construction and or electronic security work preferred.
  • OEM Electronic Security System certifications are a plus, but not required for this position.

While performing the duties of this Job, the employee is regularly required to sit and talk or hear. The employee may use repeated motions that include the arms, wrists, hands and/or fingers. The employee is occasionally required to walk, stand, climb, balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 85 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision.


Estimated Salary/Wage
USD $35.18/Hr.