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Optical Associate Jobs in Leland, NC (NOW HIRING)

Fiber Products Associate

Wilmington, NC

$14.50 - $18/hr

Our Optical Communications segment has recently evolved from being a manufacturer of optical fiber ... Fiber Products Associate Responsibilities: * Operates production equipment used in the ...

Fiber Products Associate

Wilmington, NC

$15 - $18.50/hr

And so much more.​   ​Come break through with us.  Our Optical Communications segment has ... Fiber Products Associate Responsibilities: * Operates production equipment used in the ...

Fiber Products Associate

Wilmington, NC · On-site

$14.50 - $18/hr

Our Optical Communications segment has recently evolved from being a manufacturer of optical fiber ... Fiber Products Associate Responsibilities: * Operates production equipment used in the ...

Sales Associate

Wilmington, NC

$12 - $16.25/hr

Because continuing our legacy of the highest optical standards helps us innovate the future in ... GENERAL FUNCTION The Sales Associate sets the standard of quality in eye care and eyewear by ...

Sales Associate

Wilmington, NC

$13 - $17.75/hr

Because continuing our legacy of the highest optical standards helps us innovate the future in ... GENERAL FUNCTION The Sales Associate sets the standard of quality in eye care and eyewear by ...

Sales Associate

Wilmington, NC · On-site

$12 - $16.25/hr

Because continuing our legacy of the highest optical standards helps us innovate the future in ... GENERAL FUNCTION The Sales Associate sets the standard of quality in eye care and eyewear by ...

While engaging in Optical Fiber Manufacturing, the Associate Production manager will lead critical, plantwide projects focused on labor optimization, new technology receivership, and capacity ...

Our Optical Communications segment has recently evolved from being a manufacturer of optical fiber ... Role Purpose The Associate Production Manager will support manufacturing operations departments to ...

Our Optical Communications segment has recently evolved from being a manufacturer of optical fiber ... Role Purpose The Associate Production Manager will support manufacturing operations departments to ...

Our Optical Communications segment has recently evolved from being a manufacturer of optical fiber ... Associate's degree in mechanical or industrial technical degree (design/drafting, mechanical ...

And so much more.​   ​Come break through with us.  Our Optical Communications segment has ... Associate's degree in mechanical or industrial technical degree (design/drafting, mechanical ...

Our Optical Communications segment has recently evolved from being a manufacturer of optical fiber ... Associate's degree in mechanical or industrial technical degree (design/drafting, mechanical ...

And so much more.​   ​Come break through with us.  Our Optical Communications segment has ... Associate degree in Electrical Engineering Technology + 3+ years experience preferred, or * High ...

Our Optical Communications segment has recently evolved from being a manufacturer of optical fiber ... Associate degree in Electrical Engineering Technology + 3+ years experience preferred, or * High ...

Mechanical Designer

Wilmington, NC · On-site

$80K - $111K/yr

Our Optical Communications segment has recently evolved from being a manufacturer of optical fiber ... Associate's degree (AAS) in Mechanical Engineering Technology or a Bachelor's degree (BS) in ...

Our Optical Communications segment has recently evolved from being a manufacturer of optical fiber ... Associate's degree (AAS) in Mechanical Engineering Technology or a Bachelor's degree (BS) in ...

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Optical Associate information

See Leland, NC salary details

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How much do optical associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical associate in Leland, NC is $15.20, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.32 and $16.39 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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.

Is an optical associate a good career?

An optical associate is a healthcare support role that involves assisting optometrists and ophthalmologists with patient care, lens fitting, and eyewear adjustments. It can be a stable career with opportunities for certification and skill development, often requiring good customer service and technical skills. The job typically offers regular hours and a supportive work environment in retail or clinical settings.

What are the most commonly searched types of Optical jobs in Leland, NC?

The most popular types of Optical jobs in Leland, NC are:

What cities near Leland, NC are hiring for Optical Associate jobs?

Cities near Leland, NC with the most Optical Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Optical Associate job openings in Leland, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 68% Full Time, 29% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $31,612 per year, or $15.2 per hour.

Fiber Products Associate

Corning

Wilmington, NC

$14.50 - $18/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago


Corning rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 129 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

66th of 545 rated manufacturers


Job description

Requisition Number: 73954

The company built on breakthroughs. 
Join us.                           
         

Corning is one of the world's leading innovators in glass, ceramic, and materials science. From the depths of the ocean to the farthest reaches of space, our technologies push the boundaries of what's possible. 

How do we do this? With our people. They break through limitations and expectations- not once in a career, but every day. They help move our company,and the world, forward. 

At Corning, there are endless possibilities for making an impact. You can help connect the unconnected, drive the future of automobiles, transform at-home entertainment, and ensure the delivery of lifesaving medicines. And so much more. 

Come break through with us. 


Our Optical Communications segment has recently evolved from being a manufacturer of optical fiber and cable, hardware and equipment to being a comprehensive provider of industry-leading optical solutions across the broader communications industry.This segment is classified into two main product groupings - carrier network and enterprise network. The carrier network product group consists primarily of products and solutions for optical-based communications infrastructure for services such as video, data and voice communications. The enterprise network product group consists primarily of optical-based communication networks sold to businesses, governments and individuals for their own use.

Company Overview: 

Corning is vital to progress - in the industries we shape and in the world we share. We invent life-changing technologies using materials science. Our scientific and manufacturing expertise, boundless curiosity, and commitment to purposeful invention place us at the center of the way the world interacts, works, learns, and lives. Our sustained investment in research, development, and invention means we're always ready to solve the toughest challenges alongside our customers.

Corning's businesses are ever evolving to best serve our customers, industries, and consumers. Today, we accelerate and transform life sciences, mobile consumer electronics, optical communications, display, and automotive markets. We are changing the world with trusted products that accelerate drug discovery, development, and delivery to save lives; damage-resistant cover glass to enhance the devices that keep us connected; optical fiber, wireless technologies, and connectivity solutions to carry information and ideas at the speed of life; precision glass for advanced displays to deliver richer experiences; and auto glass and ceramics to drive cleaner, safer, and smarter transportation. 

Fiber Products Associate
Responsibilities:

  • Operates production equipment used in the manufacturing of optical fiber. Equipment certification, setup, operations, process monitoring and troubleshooting according to Standard Operating Procedures (SOP).
  • Operates equipment used to produce, transport, test or measure quality of fiber, store, ship or otherwise handle optical fiber within the department.
  • Specific activities can include but are not limited to setups, cleans, monitors, loads/unloads, inspects, and/or audits.
  • Visually inspects fiber for defects, makes pass/fail decisions and interfaces with computer to record and track production information.
  • Performs first level troubleshooting as defined by area documentation.
  • Identifies and/or eliminates specific process and equipment problems by following documented procedures. 
  • Limited knowledge of equipment to include: identifying defects, determining solutions and notifying appropriate level of support to troubleshoot the problems.
  • Performs miscellaneous tasks such as replenishing supplies, staging, and managing ware flow. 
  • Communicates open equipment and safety issues through pass down entry and shift huddles. 
  • Maintains and performs housekeeping to specified department standards.
  • Participates in quality and manufacturing audits and other related activities as required.
  • Must meet department production output metrics.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
  • Adhere to plant attendance policy, as well as the Plant Operational Guidelines

Safety Activities

  • Follows all safety, health and environmental procedures and actively participates in maintaining and improving department safety. 
  • Actively participates in team and plant safety initiatives including department and plant wide safety audits, Job Safety Analysis' (JSA), incident investigation and implementation of corrective action.

Work Environment:

  • Work occurs within a clean manufacturing environment, with adequate workspace and lighting.
  • Some work areas may require hearing protection.
  • Occasionally lifts up to 50+ pounds.
  • Position requires associates to be on their feet for majority of the shift.
  • Specific safety equipment (e.g., safety glasses, lab coats) is required and provided in all plant areas.

Schedule: 

  • This position follows a rotating shift pattern to provide 24/7 coverage.
  • Shifts will be 12 hours in duration (7:00AM - 7:00PM, and 7:00 PM - 7:00 AM) and will cover weekdays, weekends, and holidays.
  • Mandatory overtime may be required.

Benefits:

  • Benefits Start on Day One of Employment: Medical, dental, vision and more! 
  • Paid Vacation.
  • Annual profit-sharing plan.
  • Fitness reimbursement program.
  • Legal and Financial resources.
  • Employee Assistance Program.
  • 401(k) match and Pension (at no cost to you).

Education & Experience:

  • High School Diploma or GED required.
  • Candidate must be 18 years of age to be considered.

This is an hourly entry level position into Corning's Wilmington facility. In an effort to encourage growth within the company, and the individual, opportunities for advancement are available based on the individuals' performance, abilities, education, and work background.

We prohibit discrimination on the basis of race, color, gender, age, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, veteran status or any other legally protected status.

We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us to request accommodation.

This position does not support immigration sponsorship. 


The starting pay for this position is $23.10 hourly rate.  Compensation and benefits available for this position are dictated by the appropriate Collective Bargaining Agreement.

A job that shapes a life. 

Corning offers you the total package. 

Your well-being is our priority. Our compensation and benefits package supports your health and wellness, financial aspirations, and career from day one.

  • Company-wide bonuses and long-term incentives align with key business results and ensure you are rewarded when the company performs well. When Corning wins, we all win.
  • As part of our commitment to your financial well-being, we provide a 100% company-paid pension benefit with fixed contributions that grow throughout your career. Combined with matching contributions to your 401(k) savings plan, Corning's total contributions to your retirement accounts can reach between 7% and 12% of your pay, depending on your age and years of service.
  • Our health and well-being benefits include medical, dental, vision, paid parental leave, family building support, fitness, company-paid life insurance, disability, disease management programs, paid time off, and an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) to support you and your family.  
  • Getting paid for our work is important, but feeling appreciated and recognized for those contributions motivates us much more. That's why Corning offers a recognition program to celebrate successes and reward colleagues who make exceptional contributions. 

We prohibit discrimination on the basis of race, color, gender, age, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, veteran status or any other legally protected status.

We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. To request an accommodation, please contact us at accommodations@corning.com.


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