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Optical Apprentice Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

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Senior Signal Processing Researcher

Arlington, VA

$139K - $170K/yr

The Optical & Novel Sensing (ONS) Group within the Sensors Division pursues physics-driven research across multiple domains to provide warfighter and intelligence mission performance unachievable ...

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Optical Apprentice information

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$13

$24

$42

How much do optical apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical apprentice in Washington, DC is $24.94, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.62 and $27.21 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Optical jobs in Washington, DC?

The most popular types of Optical jobs in Washington, DC are:

What are popular job titles related to Optical Apprentice jobs in Washington, DC?

For Optical Apprentice jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Optical Apprentice jobs in Washington, DC look for?

The top searched job categories for Optical Apprentice jobs in Washington, DC are:

Optical Apprentice jobs near you

Licensed Optician

Costco Wholesale Corporation

Wheaton, MD • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago

Costco rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 1,921 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

2nd of 39 rated national retailers

Job description

Job Description

California applicants: Please click here to review the Costco Applicant Privacy Notice.

The jobs listed are examples of the typical kinds of positions that Costco may hire for when openings exist. The listing does not mean that any positions are currently open or available at Costco.

Position Summary

Assists members in choosing and ordering eyeglasses. 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 service.

Job Duties

  • Assists members to choose eyeglass frames and lens options appropriate to the lens prescription. 
  • Measures member for pupillary distance using pupilometer and observes line of sight to determine bifocal placement.
  • Keys member order into computer. Places special orders to outside vendors by telephone.
  • Rings up orders and over-the-counter merchandise. Receives accurate payment, makes change, processes checks, credit, and debit charges according to proper procedures for paperwork, cash handling, and performance of duties.
  • Checks contact lenses and completed eyeglasses against prescription prior to dispensing to members. Fits and adjusts eyeglasses to members using hand tools and frame warmer and bending with fingers.
  • Orders equipment, merchandise, and supplies by keying into the computer. Keys receipt of special orders from outside vendors. Follows safety and security procedures.
  • Stocks merchandise and supplies. Follows department procedures and standards for production, record keeping, merchandising, and product storage.
  • Cleans department by spraying, wiping, and mopping. Empties trash, operates trash compactor and cardboard baler.
  • Oversees apprentices as required for certification qualification.
  • Ensures proper cleanup and disposal of hazardous materials.
  • Ability to operate vehicles, equipment or machinery.
  • Assists with department duties as necessary.
  • Assists in other departments of the warehouse as necessary.

For additional information about pay ranges, click here.

We offer a comprehensive package of benefits including paid time off, health benefits - medical/dental/vision/hearing aid/pharmacy/behavioral health/employee assistance, health care reimbursement account, dependent care assistance plan, short-term disability and long-term disability insurance, AD&D insurance, life insurance, 401(k), stock purchase plan to eligible employees.

Apart from any religious or disability considerations, open availability is needed to meet the needs of the business. If hired, you will be required to provide proof of authorization to work in the United States.

Job Description Posting Updated: July 2026                                           Job Code: 1503

Qualifications:UNAVAILABLEEducation:UNAVAILABLEEmployment Type: UNAVAILABLE

What Costco employees say

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Benefits

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Workplace

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About Costco

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Costco is a membership warehouse club, dedicated to bringing our members the best possible prices on quality brand-name merchandise. With more than 800 locations worldwide, Costco provides a wide selection of merchandise, plus the convenience of specialty departments and exclusive member services, all designed to make your shopping experience a pleasurable one. Today, as the company evolves, it stays true to the qualities that helped attract and retain millions of loyal members around the globe: Commitment to quality. Costco warehouses carry about 4,000 SKUs (stock keeping units) compared to the 30,000 found at most supermarkets. By carefully choosing products based on quality, price, brand, and features, the company can offer the best value to members.

Industry

Retail

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Issaquah, WA, US

Year founded

1983

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