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Optical Associate Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

AEG Vision

Licensed Optician

Carrboro, NC · On-site

Collaborates with technicians, front desk associates, Managers, and Optometrist * Sells ... Optical dispensing experience * Minimum of one-year experience working as an Optician strongly ...

Walmart

Licensed Optician - Manager

Garner, NC · On-site

$38.50 - $50/hr

... Optical equipment Upholds the Companys Open Door Policy: by meeting with Associates and listening to concerns researching issues reviewing Company policies and procedures and suggesting resolution ...

JCPenney

Specialty Associate - Strts Of Southpoint

Durham, NC · On-site

$12.50 - $15.63/hr

... optical. The Company and its 50,000 associates worldwide serve customers where, when, and how they ... want to shop - from jcp.com to more than 650 stores in the U.S. and Puerto Rico. In 2022, JCPenney ...

Corning

Maintenance Support Associate

Durham, NC · On-site

$15.50 - $21.25/hr

Optical fiber, wireless technologies, and connectivity solutions to carry information and ideas at ... Trains and mentors other associates within maintenance and operations. * Monitor output quality and ...

Corning

Maintenance Support Associate

Durham, NC · On-site

$15.50 - $21.25/hr

Optical fiber, wireless technologies, and connectivity solutions to carry information and ideas at ... Trains and mentors other associates within maintenance and operations. * Monitor output quality and ...

Corning

Maintenance Support Associate

Durham, NC · On-site

$15.50 - $21.25/hr

Optical fiber, wireless technologies, and connectivity solutions to carry information and ideas at ... Trains and mentors other associates within maintenance and operations. * Monitor output quality and ...

Hotwire Communications

Lead Fiber Splicer

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$24.25 - $29/hr

Prep and splice fiber optic cables, locate problem areas and perform other repairs as needed. This ... Associates degree or recognized equivalent required. * Excellent oral and written communications ...

Hotwire Communications

Lead Fiber Splicer

Raleigh, NC

$24.25 - $29/hr

Prep and splice fiber optic cables, locate problem areas and perform other repairs as needed. This ... Associates degree or recognized equivalent required. * Excellent oral and written communications ...

Hotwire Communications Ltd

Lead Fiber Splicer

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$24.25 - $29/hr

Prep and splice fiber optic cables, locate problem areas and perform other repairs as needed. This ... Associates degree or recognized equivalent required. * Excellent oral and written communications ...

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All JobsOptical Associate JobsOptical Associate Jobs in Raleigh, NC

Optical Associate information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$11

$17

$21

How much do optical associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical associate in Raleigh, NC is $17.09, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.95 and $18.46 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 highest paid optometry job?

The highest paid optometry jobs are typically in specialized fields such as ocular disease, vision therapy, or in leadership roles like clinic directors or private practice owners. These positions often require advanced certifications, extensive experience, and may involve managing multiple locations or teams, leading to higher compensation.

What jobs make $3,000 a month without a degree?

Optical associates typically earn less than $3,000 per month, but roles such as commercial truck drivers, sales representatives, or skilled trades like electricians and HVAC technicians can reach or exceed this income without requiring a college degree. These jobs often rely on vocational training, certifications, or on-the-job experience rather than formal higher education.

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 are Optical Associates?

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.

Can you be an optical assistant with no experience?

Optical assistants can often start with little or no prior experience, as on-the-job training is common. Basic skills in customer service, attention to detail, and familiarity with optical equipment can be helpful, and some employers may require or prefer certification or training programs. Experience requirements vary by employer, but entry-level positions are typically accessible to newcomers.

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.

Do I need a degree to be an optical assistant?

Optical assistants typically do not need a college degree but should have a high school diploma or equivalent. On-the-job training or certification in optical dispensing or customer service can be beneficial, and some employers may prefer candidates with relevant certifications or experience. Strong communication skills and familiarity with optical products are also important for the role.
What are the most commonly searched types of Optical jobs in Raleigh, NC? The most popular types of Optical jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Optical Associate jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Optical Associate job openings:
Optical Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Associate job openings in Raleigh, NC as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, 31% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,553 per year, or $17.1 per hour.
Licensed Optician

Licensed Optician

AEG Vision

Carrboro, NC • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 24 days ago

AEG Vision rating

5.1

Company rating: 5.1 out of 10

Based on 50 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

33rd of 39 rated optical retailers

Job description

Licensed Opticians are responsible for selling & dispensing eyewear and eyewear accessories to patients. They ensure patients are fitted with the right-size frames that fit their needs and lifestyle and dispense lenses with correct prescription and measurements. Licensed Opticians are at the heart of our business. Their technical and customer service skills ensure patient satisfaction and repeat business.


  • Delivers extraordinary experience to each patient. Provides patients with a complete understanding of our customized recommendations for products and services
  • Custom fits glasses & precisely places prescription in lenses
  • Develops own clientele from providing outstanding service and obtaining referrals
  • Assists co-workers with difficult or complex areas of product needs & prescriptions
  • Keeps current on company/industry products and procedures, manufacturer rebates, and types of lenses and frames available
  • Takes and returns patient calls, updating patients on the status of their order and resolving order issues should they arise. Escalates any issues with the Store Manager, as necessary
  • Retrieves patient charts and electronic health records
  • Assists patients in selecting frames, lens type, and lens treatments including tints and coatings; depending on specific patient needs and facial measurements
  • Educates patients on proper eyeglass and contact lens care
  • Collects eye and face measurements to ensure proper fit
  • Interprets prescriptions written by optometrist and ophthalmologist
  • Creates work orders for lab technicians, specifying information on lenses needed
  • Follows-up on all pending orders. Verifies all orders are within the time guidelines given and informs patients of status if delays occur. Notifies patient when orders arrive from lab/manufacturer
  • Dispenses glasses by inspecting the product, checking for proper fit, adjusting if necessary, and asking for feedback
  • Adjusts eyewear to ensure visual acuity, proper fit, and patient comfort. Using various tools, performs eyewear adjustments and repairs
  • Proficient in using tools such as pupilometers, PD Sticks, lensometers, pliers, wrenches, frame warmers, etc.
  • Regularly communicates with technicians and/or store managers, providing additional patient information, or asking for an order status
  • Inspects the final product ensuring there are no flaws; Cleans and polishes lenses using cloths and solvents
  • Cleans and organizes frame boards, displays, mirrors, work bench, office area, bathroom, and breakroom, maintaining overall cleanliness and visual appeal of the store
  • Restocks retail boards with new merchandize
  • Understands product issues and analyzes any problems. Thoroughly and accurately answers patients' questions regarding insurance, warranty, products, materials, services, pricing, upgrades, promotions, etc.
  • Collaborates with technicians, front desk associates, Managers, and Optometrist
  • Sells miscellaneous products such as cleaners, contact lens supply, sunglasses, safety glasses, etc.

Qualifications

  • High School Diploma
  • State Licensure
  • Optical dispensing experience
  • Minimum of one-year experience working as an Optician strongly preferred
  • Experience with HIPAA requirements preferred
  • Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
  • Strong communication skills (verbal and written)
  • Excellent customer service skills and pleasant demeanor, experience with sales preferred
  • Manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination
  • Dependability and punctuality
  • Ability to lift up to 30lbs, bend, kneel, and stand up to 8 hrs a day

Benefits

  • 401(k) with Match
  • Medical/Dental/Life/STD/LTD
  • Vision Service Plan
  • Employee Vision Discount Program
  • HSA/FSA
  • PTO
  • Paid Holidays

*Benefits applicable to full Time Employees only.

Physical Demands

  • This position requires the ability to communicate and exchange information, utilize equipment necessary to perform the job, and move about the office.

What AEG Vision employees say

Pay

Benefits

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