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Optical Associate Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Maintenance Line Associate

Durham, NC · On-site

$15.50 - $21.25/hr

Using unique expertise in the fields of materials science, surface science, optics, biochemistry ... Trains and mentors other associates within maintenance and operations. * Monitor output quality and ...

Maintenance Line Associate

Durham, NC · On-site

$15.50 - $21.25/hr

Using unique expertise in the fields of materials science, surface science, optics, biochemistry ... Trains and mentors other associates within maintenance and operations. * Monitor output quality and ...

Maintenance Line Associate

Durham, NC · On-site

$15.50 - $21.25/hr

Using unique expertise in the fields of materials science, surface science, optics, biochemistry ... Trains and mentors other associates within maintenance and operations. * Monitor output quality and ...

Optical fiber, wireless technologies, and connectivity solutions to carry information and ideas at the speed of light * Precision glass for advanced displays to deliver richer experiences * Auto ...

Optical fiber, wireless technologies, and connectivity solutions to carry information and ideas at the speed of light * Precision glass for advanced displays to deliver richer experiences * Auto ...

Optical fiber, wireless technologies, and connectivity solutions to carry information and ideas at the speed of light * Precision glass for advanced displays to deliver richer experiences * Auto ...

Optical fiber, wireless technologies, and connectivity solutions to carry information and ideas at the speed of light * Precision glass for advanced displays to deliver richer experiences * Auto ...

Optical fiber, wireless technologies, and connectivity solutions to carry information and ideas at the speed of light * Precision glass for advanced displays to deliver richer experiences * Auto ...

Optical fiber, wireless technologies, and connectivity solutions to carry information and ideas at the speed of light * Precision glass for advanced displays to deliver richer experiences * Auto ...

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Showing results 1-20

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:
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.
Post-Doc Research Associate

$58K - $60K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Vision, PTO

Posted 11 days ago


University Of North Carolina At Chapel Hill rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 48 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

268th of 544 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Posting Information
Posting Details
Department
Geography - 315800
Posting Open Date
06/24/2024
Application Deadline
Open Until Filled
Yes
Position Type
Postdoctoral Scholar
Position Title
Post-Doc Research Associate
Vacancy ID
PDS004264
Full-time/Part-time
Full-Time Temporary
Hours per week
40
FTE
1
Work Location
Chapel Hill, NC
Position Location
North Carolina, US
Hiring Range
$58,700 - $60,000
Proposed Start Date
08/15/2024
Estimated Duration of Appointment
12 Months
Position Information
Be a Tar Heel!
A global higher education leader in innovative teaching, research and public service, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill consistently ranks as one of the nation's top public universities and is among is the top ten research universities in the nation for federal research expenditures as well as for federally funded social and behavioral sciences research and development.
Here at Carolina, our highly skilled postdocs play a vital role in our research enterprise and towards our overall commitment to research excellence. Across many disciplines, postdocs contribute to the intellectual vitality of the University. They provide innovative ideas and perspectives, foster a stimulating research environment and advance knowledge within their fields. Postdocs are crucial members of our scientific research workforce, contributors to our research outputs and an important reason why Carolina is one of the leading public research institutions in the country.
UNC-Chapel Hill offers postdocs comprehensive medical and vision coverage, paid leave, and benefits and services that support professional development and a healthy work/life balance. Chapel Hill regularly ranks as one of the best college towns and best places to live in the United States, a reputation guided by the diverse social, cultural, recreation and professional opportunities that span the campus and community.
Primary Purpose of Organizational Unit
The Department of Geography & Environment is a teaching and research department located in the College of Arts & Sciences at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
Position Summary
The Department of Geography and Environment is calling for application for two post-doctoral fellows to work on a project funded by the US Department of Agriculture under the supervision of Prof. Conghe Song. One post-doc will focuse on remote sensing of vegetation, and the other will focus on ecosystem modeling. The remote sensing post-doc will be working on characterize forest canopy structure, including canopy height, tree crown size, leaf area index and aboveground biomass, using multiple sources of remotely sensed data, including very high-resolution imagery, lidar, radar and medium resolution optical data along with ancillary data. This post-doc will work closely with the other post-doc to be hired for the project, whose specialization will be remote sensing.. Both the remotely sensing and the ecosystem modeling products will be rigorously validated with ground observed data. The two post-docs will collaborate closely as they eventually will reconcile the remotely sensed data carbon storage with the ecosystem model estimated carbon storage for the same locations.
Minimum Education and Experience Requirements
A Ph.D. with an emphasis on remote sensing.
Required Qualifications, Competencies, and Experience
Required Qualifications for Remote Sensing Post-doc: 1. A PhD degree with an emphasis on remote sensing. 2. Experience of using multiple sources of remotely sensed data, particularly optical, Lidar, and Radar data. 3. Sound statistical skills and use of Machine Learning/Geospatial AI tools for data analysis. 4. Computer programing skills for remotely sensed data analysis. 5. Sound knowledge of remote sensing physics. 6. Experience working with ArcGIS Pro and Google Earth Engine are welcome.
Preferred Qualifications, Competencies, and Experience
Preference with be given to application who have relevant publications in the respective fields.
Special Physical/Mental Requirements
Special Instructions
For information on UNC Postdoctoral Benefits and Services click here
Quick Link
https://unc.peopleadmin.com/postings/282989
Posting Contact Information
Department Contact Name and Title
Conghe Song, Dept. Chair
Department Contact Telephone or Email
csong@email.unc.edu
Postdoctoral Affairs Contact Information
If you experience any problems accessing the system or have questions about the application process, please contact the University's Office of Postdoctoral Affairs at (919) 962-9982 or send an email to opahr@unc.edu.
Please note: The Office of Postdoctoral Affairs will not be able to provide specific updates regarding position or application status.
Equal Opportunity Employer Statement
The University is an equal opportunity, employer and welcomes all to apply without regard to age, color, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or sexual orientation. We encourage all qualified applicants to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.

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About University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

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The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC-Chapel Hill), located in Chapel Hill, NC, US, is renowned for being one of the leading research institutes in the world. Operating within the education industry, this public research university offers a broad range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs across various disciplines. UNC-Chapel Hill was chartered in 1789 and has maintained its legacy of academic excellence and innovative research for more than two centuries. The institution operates under the core values of excellence, innovation, engagement, accessibility, diversity, and inclusivity. Their mission is to serve the people of North Carolina and the United States by teaching a diverse community of students to become the next generation of leaders.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Chapel Hill, NC, US

Year founded

1789