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Optical Associate Jobs in Buffalo, NY (NOW HIRING)

Medical Eyeglass Center Inc

Optical Associate - Buffalo

Buffalo, NY · On-site

$20 - $23/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Position Overview MEC is seeking a skilled, patient-focused Optical Associate to join our team. In this position, you'll play a key role in the successful operation of the optical dispensary, deliver ...

Now Optics

Sales Manager (Optical Retail)

Tonawanda, NY · On-site

$20/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • PTO

As a Stanton Optical Sales Manager you would be our sales leader, assisting the Brand Manager in ... coach associates, foster a strong partnership with the Clinical team and Lab Staff, leading to ...

Stanton Optical

Sales Manager (Optical Retail)

Tonawanda, NY · On-site

$20/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • PTO

... coach associates, foster a strong partnership with the Clinical team and Lab Staff, leading to ... Stanton Optical is among the nations fastest growing, full-service retail optical centers. We are ...

National Vision

Sales Associate - Optical

Blasdell, NY · On-site

$15.50 - $19.25/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Company Description America's Best is part of National Vision, one of the largest optical retailers ... As a Sales Associate , you'll play a key role in delivering an exceptional experience for our ...

Now Optics

Sales Manager (Optical Retail)

Tonawanda, NY · On-site

$20/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • PTO

... coach associates, foster a strong partnership with the Clinical team and Lab Staff, leading to ... Stanton Optical is among the nations fastest growing, full-service retail optical centers. We are ...

Stanton Optical

Store (Brand) Manager

Tonawanda, NY · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • PTO

At Stanton Optical we call our store managers Brand Managers because we empower our store leaders ... You have an associates degree or 2 years of store management experience. * Having a valid ABO/NCLE ...

Stanton Optical

Store (Brand) Manager

Tonawanda, NY · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • PTO

At Stanton Optical we call our store managers Brand Managers because we empower our store leaders ... You have an associates degree or 2 years of store management experience. * Having a valid ABO/NCLE ...

Essilor

Optometrist- Amherst, NY- Target Optical

Amherst, NY · On-site

  • Medical

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Target Optical is part of EssilorLuxottica, a global leader in the design, manufacture and ... GENERAL FUNCTION The Associate Optometrist (OD) ensures all patients receive the highest quality ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsOptical Associate JobsOptical Associate Jobs in Buffalo, NY

Optical Associate information

See Buffalo, NY salary details

$11

$17

$21

How much do optical associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical associate in Buffalo, NY is $17.03, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.90 and $18.41 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Optical jobs in Buffalo, NY?

The most popular types of Optical jobs in Buffalo, NY are:

What cities near Buffalo, NY are hiring for Optical Associate jobs?

Cities near Buffalo, NY with the most Optical Associate job openings:

Optical Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Associate job openings in Buffalo, NY as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,428 per year, or $17 per hour.

Optical Associate - Buffalo

Medical Eyeglass Center Inc

Buffalo, NY • On-site

$20 - $23/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

  • This position is based in Buffalo, NY

    • About Medical Eyeglass Center (MEC)

    At MEC, we partner with leading medical/ophthalmology practices to provide patients with high-quality vision care and eyewear services. Our employees work directly inside medical offices, helping patients select and fit eyewear while creating a positive, professional experience. We pride ourselves on accuracy, customer service, and a patient-first approach that sets us apart.

    Position Overview

    MEC is seeking a skilled, patient-focused Optical Associate to join our team. In this position, you’ll play a key role in the successful operation of the optical dispensary, deliver outstanding service, and work closely with both patients and clinic staff. This is a great opportunity for someone who enjoys combining technical expertise with patient care in a supportive and professional setting.

    What You’ll Do
  • Provide patients with an outstanding eyewear experience, from selection to fitting and adjustments.
  • Accurately process and complete orders through MEC’s pointofsale systems.
  • Maintain detailed records of prescriptions, orders, payments, and insurance claims.
  • Review and track lab orders to ensure timely and accurate completion.
  • Submit insurance claims, post payments, and follow up on outstanding receivables.
  • Dispense prescription and nonprescription eyewear (and contact lenses where applicable.)
  • Assist patients with eyewear adjustments, repairs, and cleaning.
  • Maintain frame inventory, keeping displays organized, clean, and fully stocked.
  • Review daily patient schedules to anticipate volume, insurance eligibility, and sales opportunities.
  • Support inoffice promotions and marketing materials.
  • Build positive working relationships with providers, technicians, and administrative staff.
  • Maintain a professional and welcoming environment for patients and staff.
    • What We’re Looking For
  • A friendly, professional, and patientfocused personality.
  • Ability to read and interpret spectacle prescriptions (and contact lenses where applicable).
  • Skilled in eyewear fitting, adjustments, and repairs or willing to learn.
  • Strong customer service and sales skills, including handling objections.
  • Clear and professional verbal and written communication.
  • Proficiency with MS Excel, email, and insurance portals (preferred).
  • Strong organization and time management skills.
  • Teamoriented with the ability to build effective relationships.
  • Attention to detail and problemsolving mindset.
  • Receptive to feedback and committed to continuous learning.
    • Requirements
  • High School Diploma or GED
  • Minimum 6 months of experience in optical
  • Knowledge of frame adjustments and frame repairs
  • Experience taking accurate measurements (PD, seg height, optical center)
  • Familiarity with optical lab processes and lens types (single vision, bifocal, progressive)
  • Experience reading lenses using manual lensometer
  • Ability to handle insurance eligibility checks and authorizations
  • Strong attention to detail and accuracy when filling prescriptions
  • Ability to multitask in a fastpaced environment
  • Basic computer skills and experience with EHR or optical POS systems

    • Job Type: Full-time

    Benefits:
  • 401(k)
  • Health insurance
  • Dental insurance
  • Vision insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Employee discount
  • Paid time off
  • Referral program

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