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

KBR

Optical Technician

Greenbelt, MD

$62K - $93K/yr

... * Assist with assembly, inspection, cleaning, bonding, and handling of precision optical components ... Support logistics and facility readiness for integration and testing activities * Travel to off ...

KBR, Inc.

Optical Technician

Greenbelt, MD · On-site

$62K - $93K/yr

... * Assist with assembly, inspection, cleaning, bonding, and handling of precision optical components ... Support logistics and facility readiness for integration and testing activities * Travel to off ...

QinetiQ US

Principal Optical Engineer

Lorton, VA · On-site

$130K - $168K/yr

Provide optical subject matter expertise to program managers and manufacturing staff. * Assist in creating manufacturing work instructions. * Transition relevant fabrication or test benches from the ...

QinetiQ US

Principal Optical Engineer

Lorton, VA · On-site

$130K - $168K/yr

Provide optical subject matter expertise to program managers and manufacturing staff. * Assist in creating manufacturing work instructions. * Transition relevant fabrication or test benches from the ...

QinetiQ

Principal Optical Engineer

Lorton, VA · On-site

$164K - $213K/yr

Provide optical subject matter expertise to program managers and manufacturing staff. * Assist in creating manufacturing work instructions. * Transition relevant fabrication or test benches from the ...

QinetiQ

Principal Optical Engineer

Lorton, VA

$164K - $213K/yr

Provide optical subject matter expertise to program managers and manufacturing staff. * Assist in creating manufacturing work instructions. * Transition relevant fabrication or test benches from the ...

QinetiQ US

Principal Optical Engineer

Lorton, VA · On-site

$164K - $213K/yr

Provide optical subject matter expertise to program managers and manufacturing staff. * Assist in creating manufacturing work instructions. * Transition relevant fabrication or test benches from the ...

Intuitive Machines LLC

Jr Optical Engineer

Greenbelt, MD · On-site

$82K - $91K/yr

Working under the guidance of senior engineers, this role will assist in alignment, integration, testing, data analysis, and reporting activities while supporting flight projects and optical system ...

QinetiQ US

Principal Optical Engineer

Lorton, VA · On-site

$130K - $168K/yr

Provide optical subject matter expertise to program managers and manufacturing staff. * Assist in creating manufacturing work instructions. * Transition relevant fabrication or test benches from the ...

SAIC

Optical Engineer

Chantilly, VA

$200K - $240K/yr

Optical Engineering and Fiber Optics: * Design, develop, and test optical components and systems, including fiber optic networks and devices * Perform characterization and analysis of optical systems ...

SAIC

Optical Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$200K - $240K/yr

Optical Engineering and Fiber Optics: * Design, develop, and test optical components and systems, including fiber optic networks and devices * Perform characterization and analysis of optical systems ...

SAIC

Optical Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$200K - $240K/yr

Optical Engineering and Fiber Optics: * Design, develop, and test optical components and systems, including fiber optic networks and devices * Perform characterization and analysis of optical systems ...

Actalent

Optical Engineer

Lorton, VA · Hybrid

$180K - $200K/yr

Principal Optical Engineer We are seeking a Principal Optical Engineer to lead the design, integration, and validation of electro-optical and infrared (EO/IR) systems across the full product ...

Fibertek

Optical Communication Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$80K - $145K/yr

As an optical communications engineer, you will be responsible for designing and building optical space terminals. Work includes optical space lasercom design, hand-on building space flight optical ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsOptical JobsOptical Assistant JobsOptical Assistant Jobs in Silver Spring, MD

Optical Assistant information

See Silver Spring, MD salary details

$9

$17

$20

How much do optical assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical assistant in Silver Spring, MD is $17.27, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.91 and $18.89 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

What are Optical Assistants?

Optical Assistants are professionals who work in optician practices or eye care clinics, supporting optometrists and dispensing opticians. They assist customers with selecting and fitting eyewear, perform basic eye tests, and handle administrative tasks such as booking appointments and managing patient records. Optical Assistants also provide advice on lens options, frame styles, and eyewear care. Their role is essential in ensuring patients receive excellent service and the right vision solutions.

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 are the typical daily tasks for an Optical Assistant, and how do they interact with other team members in an optometry practice?

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 do you do as an optical assistant?

An optical assistant helps customers select and fit eyeglasses or contact lenses, takes measurements, and assists with frame adjustments. They often perform administrative tasks, prepare prescriptions, and support optometrists or ophthalmologists in clinical settings. Good communication skills and knowledge of optical products are important for this role.

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.

Do you need qualifications to be an optical assistant?

Optical assistants typically do not require formal qualifications, but having a relevant qualification such as a Level 2 or Level 3 diploma in optical retail or ophthalmic dispensing can improve job prospects. Employers often value good communication skills, basic math, and customer service experience. On-the-job training is common for new optical assistants.

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 requires knowledge of optical equipment and customer service skills.

Do I need a degree to be an optical assistant?

Optical assistants typically do not need a degree but should have good communication skills and basic knowledge of optical products. Many employers provide on-the-job training, and relevant certifications can enhance job prospects. Formal education requirements vary by employer and location.
More about Optical Assistant jobs
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 Assistant jobs in Silver Spring, MD? For Optical Assistant jobs in Silver Spring, MD, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Optical Assistant jobs in Silver Spring, MD look for? The top searched job categories for Optical Assistant jobs in Silver Spring, MD are:
What cities near Silver Spring, MD are hiring for Optical Assistant jobs? Cities near Silver Spring, MD with the most Optical Assistant job openings:
Optical Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Assistant job openings in Silver Spring, MD as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,932 per year, or $17.3 per hour.
Assistant Manager - Optical

Assistant Manager - Optical

National Vision

Montgomery Village, MD

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago

National Vision rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 153 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

12th of 39 rated optical retailers

Job description

Company Description

America's Best is part of National Vision, one of the largest optical retailers in the United States. The America's Best brand continues to grow with over 1,000 stores and counting. Each location combines both parts of the optical equation - eyewear and eye care - into one excellent experience at a single low price.

For more details about America's Best, visit AmericasBest.com.

At National Vision, we believe everyone deserves to see their best to live their best. We help people by making quality eye care and eyewear more affordable and accessible.

By overseeing the daily operations of our stores, including personnel management and inventory control, our Assistant Eyeglass Managers keep customers coming back by providing a positive experience from start to finish - and keeping associates happy, too.

How would you like Sundays off? Yes, every Sunday we're closed!

Job Description

What would you do? - The Specifics

  • Monitor and achieve profit, sales and performance goals (i.e. reviewing the P&L).
  • Optimize and oversee the eyeglass department to ensure efficiency and compliance with company's policies and operational guidelines.
  • Convey a commitment to providing outstanding customer service and ensure all associates do the same.
  • Ensure quality standards are met. Review remakes and enforce policies to ensure compliance.
  • Communicate with the General Manger, District Manager, and Corporate Office and provide store reporting as required.
  • Ensure store promotions, advertising, and visual merchandising are in place and all associates and doctors are aware of current promotions.
  • Supervise and motivate Opticians and CL Sales associates (in some stores the Receptionist) and ensures the timely completion of day-to-day functions.
  • Assist the General Manager with forecasting staffing needs, recruiting, selecting and retaining a high caliber staff.
  • Motivate associates to exceed performance standards.
Qualifications

 Are you the right fit? - The Suitable Talent

  • Optical sales experience. Supervising experience is preferred.
  • Proven ability to lead, coach and build associate relationships.
  • Sound understanding of store operations and standards for success.
  • Strong communication skills (both oral and written) for effective management of teams.
  • Exceptional customer service skills.
  • Strong organizational skills for planning work and continuously monitoring progress towards goals.
  • Ability to analyze, create, and understand financial reports.
  • Demonstrated ability to analyze and solve problems of varied scope.
Additional Information

At National Vision, we reward hard work with competitive pay, bonus opportunities, and a comprehensive benefits package to support you and your family now and in the future. 
Our Benefits Include: 

  • Health & Dental Insurance 
  • 401k Retirement Savings 
  • Flex Spending Account 
  • Generous Paid Time Off & Company Holidays 
  • Parental Leave
  • Employee Eyewear Discount
  • Overtime pay when applicable

Focus on Professional Growth and Career Fulfillment: 

  • Training programs available 
  • Access to educational courses 
  • Emphasis on internal promotions and career advancement

At National Vision, you'll enjoy more than just a job - you'll have the chance to thrive in a rewarding career, surrounded by a supportive team and endless opportunities for growth. Join us today and see your future clearly! 

We are an equal opportunity employer.  We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, genetic information, disability, veteran status, and other legally protected characteristics.

What National Vision employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

National Vision logo

About National Vision

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At National Vision we believe everyone deserves to see their best to live their best. We help people by making quality eye care and eyewear more affordable and accessible. National Vision is one of the largest optical retail companies in the United States with over 1,300 stores in 44 states plus the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico. We operate five retail brands: America's Best Contacts & Eyeglasses, Eyeglass World, Vision Centers inside select Walmart stores and Vista Optical inside Fred Meyer stores and on select military bases. We employ over 14,000 people including a network of over 2,000 optometrists. We offer an innovative culture where training is a priority, hard work is praised, and career growth is a reality.

Industry

Retail

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Duluth, GA, US

Year founded

1990

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