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Optical Associate Jobs (NOW HIRING)

EyeSouth Partners LLC

Optical Assoc I

Valdosta, GA

$11.75 - $14.50/hr

Optical Associates bridge clinical eye care and retail service, providing both technical expertise and patient-centered support. An opticial associate should possess strong sales skills by ...

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How much do optical associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical associate in the United States is $17.58, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $18.99 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of an optical associate, and how do they collaborate with optometrists and other team members?

Optical Associates are responsible for assisting customers with frame selection, explaining lens options, fitting and adjusting eyewear, and processing sales transactions. They work closely with optometrists by preparing patients for eye exams, managing patient records, and ensuring a seamless handoff between the exam and eyewear selection. Collaboration with lab technicians and other associates is also essential to ensure timely and accurate fulfillment of eyewear orders. This team-oriented environment helps maintain a high level of customer service and operational efficiency.

What is the difference between Optical Associate vs Optical Technician?

AspectOptical AssociateOptical Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; certification may enhance prospectsHigh school diploma; specialized training or certification often required
Work EnvironmentOptical retail stores, eyewear clinics, optical departmentsLaboratories, manufacturing facilities, optical labs
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting customers, measuring for glasses, helping with frame selectionFabricating, repairing, and adjusting lenses and frames

Optical Associates typically work directly with customers in retail settings, focusing on sales and customer service, while Optical Technicians work behind the scenes in labs, handling lens fabrication and adjustments. Both roles require knowledge of eyewear and customer interaction, but differ mainly in technical versus sales responsibilities.

What is an optical associate?

Optical Associates are professionals who assist customers in optical stores or eye care clinics. They help clients select eyeglasses or contact lenses, perform basic vision screenings, and provide information about frame styles, lens options, and insurance coverage. Optical Associates also handle administrative tasks such as scheduling appointments, processing payments, and maintaining patient records. They play an important role in ensuring customers have a positive experience when purchasing eyewear and receiving eye care services.

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

To thrive as an Optical Associate, you need strong customer service skills, basic optical knowledge, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with point-of-sale (POS) systems, lens measurement tools, and sometimes certification such as ABO-NCLE can be beneficial. Excellent communication, attention to detail, and the ability to multitask are crucial soft skills for this role. These skills ensure accurate optical dispensing, positive customer experiences, and efficient workflow in a retail or clinical eye care environment.
More about Optical Associate jobs
What cities are hiring for Optical Associate jobs? Cities with the most Optical Associate job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Optical jobs? The most popular types of Optical jobs are:
What states have the most Optical Associate jobs? States with the most job openings for Optical Associate jobs include:
Optical Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Associate job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 28% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,574 per year, or $17.6 per hour.

Optical Associate

The Eye Center of North Florida

Panama City, FL • On-site

$13.75 - $17/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 15 days ago

Job description

Company Overview

Eye Center of north Florida was formed in 1999 and is the most established and trusted eye care practices in the Florida panhandle. (ECNF) offers Lipiflow Dry Eye Treatment, Low Vision Rehabilitation, Low Vision Rehabilitation,Optos Retinal Imaging, Macular Degeneration, Genetic Testing- Macula Risk Testing , Drop less Cataract Surgery, Refractive procedures along with cosmetic specialties, contact lenses and an optical shop.

Position Summary

An Optical Associate I is a trained eyewear specialist responsible for interpreting prescriptions, assisting patients in selecting frames and lenses, taking precise measurements, and ensuring that eyewear fits correctly. Optical Associates bridge clinical eye care and retail service, providing both technical expertise and patient-centered support. An optician should possess strong sales skills by demonstrating a high level of knowledge about our products and be able to recommend accessories or enhancements to the patient based on their prescription and lifestyle needs.

Responsibilities
  • Greets customers and assists with selecting frames based on prescription needs, fit, comfort, and style
  • Educates patients on lens materials, coatings, and technologies
  • Explains pricing, warranties, and insurance benefits related to eyewear
  • Reads and interprets prescriptions from optometrists or ophthalmologists
  • Takes precise optical measurements such as pupillary distance, segment height, multifocal alignment, bridge and temple measurements.
  • Ensures eyewear fits correctly by adjusting frames for comfort, balance, and proper optical alignment
  • Submits and tracks eyewear orders through in-house or external lab partners
  • Inspects completed glasses for accuracy, lens quality, and compliance with prescriptions
  • Performs minor repairs and adjustments, including replacing screws, pads, and temples
  • Instructs patients on eyewear care, cleaning, and adjustments
  • Educates about lens features and expected adaption periods for all lenses, especially progressive or specialized lenses
  • Enters eyewear and lens orders into optical software with precise details
  • Prepares orders for processing and maintain workflow efficiency
  • Maintains accurate patient records and order documentation
  • Communicates delays, remakes, and issues with orders.
  • Assists with inventory and organize lenses, frame parts, chemicals, coatings, and retail supplies
  • Participates in all daily huddles and team meetings as scheduled and required
  • Follows all safety protocols for equipment, chemicals, and lab procedures; report any concerns to leadership
  • Adheres to HIPAA guidelines when handling patient information
  • Ensures compliance with optical industry standards
  • Maintains positive attitude consisting of cooperation, self-motivation, courtesy, and professionalism
  • Contributes to the team effort by completing additional tasks and projects as needed.
  • All other duties as assigned
Qualifications
  • High School Diploma or the equivalent years related experience required
  • Degree from an accredited Opticianry Program / Completion of Opticianry Apprenticeship preferred
  • Optical lab / sales experience preferred; or experience working in an optometry office.
  • Strong reliability with good attendance and punctuality.

KEY SKILLS

  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills
  • Experience with optical lab equipment (edgers, lensometers, blockers)
  • Understanding lens materials, coatings, and measurements
  • Ability to read and interpret optical prescriptions
  • Attention to detail and precision
  • Problem-solving and troubleshooting abilities
  • Excellent customer service skills
Company Benefits

We offer a competitive benefits package to our employees:

  • Medical
  • Dental
  • Vision
  • 401k w/ Match
  • HSA/FSA
  • Telemedicine
  • Generous PTO Package

We also offer the following benefits for FREE:

  • Employee Discounts and Perks
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Group Life/AD&D
  • Short Term Disability Insurance
  • Long Term Disability Insurance

EyeSouth Partners is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

#IND

Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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