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Optical Assistant Jobs in Hamden, CT (NOW HIRING)

CACI

Optical Mechanical Technician

Danbury, CT · On-site

$41K - $82K/yr

Optical Mechanical Technician Job Category: Engineering and Technical Support Time Type: Full time ... Fabricate hardware, equipment, tools or prototypes from drawing or sketches. Assist in maintaining ...

CACI

Optician

Danbury, CT · On-site

$50K - $101K/yr

... Optical Manufacturing Technicians to develop basic machining and manufacturing skills along with developing an area of specialization Assist in maintaining productivity and efficiency and meeting ...

CACI International, Inc.

Optician

Danbury, CT · On-site

$50K - $101K/yr

Work with other Optical Manufacturing Technicians to develop basic machining and manufacturing skills along with developing an area of specialization * Assist in maintaining productivity and ...

Danbury Mission Technologies

Optician {D}

Danbury, CT · On-site

$17.50 - $22.75/hr

Work with other Optical Manufacturing Technicians to develop basic machining and manufacturing skills along with developing an area of specialization * Assist in maintaining productivity and ...

Danbury Mission Technologies

Optician {D}

Danbury, CT · On-site

$17.50 - $22.75/hr

Work with other Optical Manufacturing Technicians to develop basic machining and manufacturing skills along with developing an area of specialization * Assist in maintaining productivity and ...

ARKA Group

Optician {D}

Danbury, CT · On-site

$17.50 - $22.75/hr

Work with other Optical Manufacturing Technicians to develop basic machining and manufacturing skills along with developing an area of specialization * Assist in maintaining productivity and ...

ARKA Group

Optician {D}

Danbury, CT · On-site

$17.50 - $22.75/hr

Work with other Optical Manufacturing Technicians to develop basic machining and manufacturing skills along with developing an area of specialization * Assist in maintaining productivity and ...

CACI

Optical Mechanical Technician

Danbury, CT · On-site

$39K - $68K/yr

Ability to maintain a high degree of flexibility and assist others as needed. Solid written and verbal communication skills. Desired: Experience with optics is a plus - What You Can Expect: A culture ...

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Optical Assistant information

See Hamden, CT salary details

$9

$16

$20

How much do optical assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical assistant in Hamden, CT is $16.61, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.29 and $18.17 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an optical assistant?

An optical assistant is a vision care customer’s first point of contact, as you work in the retail or sales departments or optometrist’s offices. In this career, you are responsible for greeting patients and helping them select the right eyewear as well as repairing and making adjustments to the eyewear. Assistants perform duties such as fitting eyeglasses or contacts under supervision, measuring an eye or bridge of the nose, scheduling appointments, gathering important patient information, and maintaining medical files. Customer service is an important part of the job.

What does an optical assistant do?

As an Optical Assistant, your daily responsibilities include greeting patients, assisting with frame selection, taking basic eye measurements, and handling administrative duties such as booking appointments and managing patient records. You’ll work closely with optometrists, opticians, and other support staff to ensure smooth patient flow and excellent customer service. Collaboration is key, as Optical Assistants often communicate patient needs to clinical staff and help coordinate care. This role offers valuable exposure to both clinical and retail aspects of optometry, making it a great starting point for career growth within the industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an optical assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Optical Assistant, you need a solid understanding of basic optometry, customer service, and retail sales, often supported by on-the-job training or a relevant certification. Familiarity with dispensing optical instruments, using lens measuring devices, and practice management software is typically required. Outstanding communication, attention to detail, and the ability to work well with both customers and team members distinguish top performers in this role. These skills ensure accurate prescription fulfillment, excellent customer experiences, and smooth optical practice operations.

What is the difference between Optical Assistant vs Optical Technician?

AspectOptical AssistantOptical Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma, optical assistant certificationCertification or diploma in optical technology or related field
Work EnvironmentOptical retail stores, clinicsLaboratories, manufacturing, or repair facilities
Employer & Industry UsageOptical retail chains, optometristsOptical labs, manufacturing companies
Common Search & Comparison IntentCustomer service, assisting with frame selectionLens fitting, equipment operation, technical repairs

Optical Assistants primarily focus on customer service, frame selection, and assisting optometrists, often working directly with patients. Optical Technicians handle more technical tasks like lens fitting, equipment operation, and repairs. Both roles are essential in the optical industry but differ in technical complexity and responsibilities.

Do you need a qualification to be an optical assistant?

Optical assistants typically do not require formal qualifications, but having relevant training or certifications in optical care or customer service can be beneficial. Employers may also provide on-the-job training to develop necessary skills for working with optical equipment and assisting customers.

How much does an optical assistant get paid?

An optical assistant typically earns between $25,000 and $40,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and employer. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced assistants or those with specialized skills can earn higher wages. The role often involves customer service, lens fitting, and using optical equipment.
More about Optical Assistant jobs

What are popular job titles related to Optical Assistant jobs in Hamden, CT?

For Optical Assistant jobs in Hamden, CT, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Hamden, CT are hiring for Optical Assistant jobs?

Cities near Hamden, CT with the most Optical Assistant job openings:

Optical Assistant jobs near you

Optics Machinist - Polishing (2nd shift)

Ametek

Middlefield, CT • On-site

$45K/yr

Full-time, Other

Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Program, set up, and operate multi-axis CNC and polishing machines according to lens specifications from blueprints, drawings, and work instructions.

  • Polish optics to required specifications, test the accuracy of settings and programs, and inspect parts using precision measuring tools and software.

  • Perform process and equipment troubleshooting, monitor machine operation, and maintain records to support continuous improvement and quality assurance.

AMETEK rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 45 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

93rd of 161 rated electronics manufacturers

Job description

At Zygo, your skills and insights will be integral to our core values of curiosity, collaboration, and persistence. For over 50 years, Zygo Corporation in Middlefield, CT, has been a global leader in designing and manufacturing advanced optical metrology systems, ultra-precise optical components, and complex electro-optical systems and assemblies. Join our team, where your expertise will drive cutting-edge solutions, address complex technical challenges, and uphold the highest standards of precision and safety. We are seeking an Optician - Polishing to join our Middlefield Optics team.
As an Optician - Polishing, you will be responsible for crafting ultra-precision optical components into high-performance optics that enable world-class metrology and optical systems.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Programs, sets up, and operates multi-axis CNC machines, polishing machines according to lens specifications from blueprints, drawings and work instructions.
  • Selects, mounts, attaches and calibrates work and tooling pieces on holding fixtures and machines, using adhesive, friction or vacuum.
  • Selects premixed compounds or mixes polishing compounds according to a formula
  • Polishes optics to required specifications.
  • Tests the accuracy of settings and programs; inspect parts using precision measuring tools and software
  • Operates machines and monitors operation and controls panel displays to detect malfunctions and adjusts as required.
  • Interfaces with plant systems (document control, other manufacturing systems)
  • Responsible for cleaning and autonomous maintenance.
  • Actively engages in continuous improvement
  • Communicates, documents and maintains records to contribute to documentation of best practices, knowledge transfer, optimization of cycle time, and continuous improvement
  • Performs process and equipment troubleshooting, owning quality at the bench to identify defects early to minimize rework and scrap
  • Follow prescribed safety rules and regulations

REQUIRED SKILLS AND COMPETENCIES:
  • High School Diploma or GED
  • 3-5 years of hands-on production manufacturing/operations or a working knowledge of one or more: mechanics, order of operations processes, computers or applications
  • Enjoys hands-on work and takes pride in craftmanship
  • Solid mathematical aptitude
  • Ability to consistently read and interpret complex technical drawings, written specifications, and verbal instructions
  • Excellent manual dexterity, patience and persistence, and attention to detail to handle delicate optical components
  • Collaborative team player with a focus on problem-solving
  • Ability to take initiative and to be flexible/adaptable with shifting priorities
  • Organized, conscientious and focused
  • Computer skills for data entry, documentation, and communication
  • Capable to lift and move up to 70 lbs. and standing for extended periods of time
  • Driven to achieve with a commitment to quality with a safety-first mindset
  • Resilient, resourceful and responsive

Bring your passion and commitment to Zygo, where we are curious, collaborative, persistent, and confident, where safety and quality guide every step of our journey. Grow with us as we solve complex challenges, inspire confidence, and drive excellence in manufacturing.
Are you ready to expand the boundaries of possibility, simplify the complex, and embody the values that define our success? We welcome your unique perspective and invite you to join us!
We offer competitive compensation, benefits, retirement (401k) and paid time off programs. Compensation and position level will be set based on experience.
Due to the nature of Zygo Navitar's programs and products, applicants must have the legal right to work in the US and additionally must be legally authorized to access export-controlled information and source code.
Compensation
Employee Type: Hourly
Currency: USD
Salary Minimum: 45,000
Salary Maximum: 65,000
Incentive: No
Disclaimer: Where a specific pay range is noted, it is a good faith estimate at the time of this posting. The actual salary offered will be based on experience, skills, qualifications, market / business considerations, and geographic location.
For more information on AMETEK's competitive benefits, please click here.
AMETEK, Inc. is a leading global provider of industrial technology solutions serving a diverse set of attractive niche markets with annual sales over $7.5 billion.
AMETEK is committed to making a safer, sustainable, and more productive world a reality. We use differentiated technology solutions to solve our customers' most complex challenges. We employ 22,000 colleagues, in 35 countries, that are grounded by our core values: Ethics and Integrity, Respect for the Individual, Inclusion, Teamwork, and Social Responsibility. AMETEK is a component of the S&P 500. Visit https://www.ametek.com/careers for more information.
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and do not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a veteran, and basis of disability or any other federal, state or local protected class. Individuals who need a reasonable accommodation because of a disability for any part of the employment process should call 1 (866) 263-8359.
Nearest Major Market: Hartford

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