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Optical Engineer Jobs in Columbia, SC (NOW HIRING)

Stanton Optical

Licensed Optician

Columbia, SC · On-site

At Stanton Optical, our Licensed Opticians are charged with creating a superior customer experience by teaching patients and facilitating the dispense process. Our Licensed Opticians have a genuine ...

Stanton Optical

Licensed Optician

Columbia, SC · On-site

At Stanton Optical, our Licensed Opticians are charged with creating a superior customer experience by teaching patients and facilitating the dispense process. Our Licensed Opticians have a genuine ...

Stanton Optical

Licensed Optician

Lexington, SC · On-site

At Stanton Optical, our Licensed Opticians are charged with creating a superior customer experience by teaching patients and facilitating the dispense process. Our Licensed Opticians have a genuine ...

Stanton Optical

Licensed Optician

Columbia, SC · On-site

At Stanton Optical, our Licensed Opticians are charged with creating a superior customer experience by teaching patients and facilitating the dispense process. Our Licensed Opticians have a genuine ...

Stanton Optical

Licensed Optician

Lexington, SC · On-site

At Stanton Optical, our Licensed Opticians are charged with creating a superior customer experience by teaching patients and facilitating the dispense process. Our Licensed Opticians have a genuine ...

Stanton Optical

Licensed Optician

Lexington, SC · On-site

At Stanton Optical, our Licensed Opticians are charged with creating a superior customer experience by teaching patients and facilitating the dispense process. Our Licensed Opticians have a genuine ...

Now Optics

Licensed Optician

Lexington, SC · On-site

At Stanton Optical, our Licensed Opticians are charged with creating a superior customer experience by teaching patients and facilitating the dispense process. Our Licensed Opticians have a genuine ...

Now Optics

Licensed Optician

Lexington, SC

At Stanton Optical, our Licensed Opticians are charged with creating a superior customer experience by teaching patients and facilitating the dispense process. Our Licensed Opticians have a genuine ...

Now Optics

Licensed Optician

Columbia, SC

At Stanton Optical, our Licensed Opticians are charged with creating a superior customer experience by teaching patients and facilitating the dispense process. Our Licensed Opticians have a genuine ...

Now Optics

Licensed Optician

Columbia, SC · On-site

At Stanton Optical, our Licensed Opticians are charged with creating a superior customer experience by teaching patients and facilitating the dispense process. Our Licensed Opticians have a genuine ...

Now Optics

Licensed Optician

Columbia, SC · On-site

At Stanton Optical, our Licensed Opticians are charged with creating a superior customer experience by teaching patients and facilitating the dispense process. Our Licensed Opticians have a genuine ...

PrysmianGroup

Lexington Process Engineer

Lexington, SC · On-site

We also produce a comprehensive range of optical fibers, copper cables and connectivity for voice ... The engineer will work closely with production, quality, and maintenance teams to troubleshoot ...

Walmart

Licensed Optical Manager

Columbia, SC · On-site

$30.50 - $43/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 ...

Walmart

Optical Center Manager

Columbia, SC · On-site

$30.50 - $43/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 ...

Walmart

Manager - Optical Center

Columbia, SC · On-site

$30.50 - $43/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 ...

Eyes on the Lake

Be Seen First

Licensed Optician

Irmo, SC · On-site

$18 - $28/hr

Maintain inventory of frames, lenses, and optical supplies * Educate patients on lens technology and eyewear care * Ensure a clean, organized, and professional optical dispensary * Use EHR and ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsOptical Engineer JobsOptical Engineer Jobs in Columbia, SC

Optical Engineer information

See Columbia, SC salary details

$67.8K

$117.3K

$137.6K

How much do optical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical engineer in Columbia, SC is $117,265.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $105,300.00 and $136,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an optical engineer do?

An optical engineer oversees the scientific application of optics and light in an industrial, research, or manufacturing setting. As an optical engineering professional, your responsibilities include the design of instruments and products that rely on optics, from space telescopes to DVD players. You also may work in research and development to create new technologies and applications for optical science. Your specific duties and the level of education you need varies depending on the field in which you work

What does an optical engineer do?

An optical engineer designs and develops devices and systems that use the properties of light, such as lenses, lasers, microscopes, and fiber optics. They use principles of physics and engineering to solve problems related to the generation, transmission, and detection of light. Optical engineers work in a variety of industries, including telecommunications, aerospace, healthcare, and manufacturing. Their work often involves research, testing, and improving optical components and systems to enhance performance and efficiency.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an optical engineer?

To thrive as an Optical Engineer, you need a solid background in physics, optics, and mathematics, typically supported by a degree in optical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with optical design software (such as Zemax or Code V), CAD tools, and laboratory equipment is commonly required, along with relevant certifications like SPIE or OSA membership. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills for success in this field. These skills and qualifications are vital for designing precise optical systems, solving complex technical challenges, and collaborating on innovative projects.

What are some typical challenges optical engineers face when working on new product development?

Optical Engineers involved in new product development often encounter challenges such as balancing optical performance with manufacturability and cost constraints. They must collaborate closely with mechanical and electrical engineers to ensure system integration meets all technical requirements. Additionally, they need to troubleshoot issues that arise during prototyping, such as unexpected aberrations or alignment difficulties, and iterate designs rapidly to meet project timelines. Effective communication and creative problem-solving are essential in overcoming these hurdles.

What is the difference between Optical Engineer vs Optical Technician?

AspectOptical EngineerOptical Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's or higher in optical engineering, physics, or related fieldAssociate's degree or technical certification in optics or related field
Work EnvironmentDesign, development, and testing of optical systems in labs or R&D settingsAssembly, alignment, and maintenance of optical equipment in manufacturing or labs
Employer & Industry UsageResearch institutions, tech companies, aerospace, defenseManufacturers, optical labs, production facilities

Optical Engineers focus on designing and developing optical systems, requiring higher education and involved in R&D. Optical Technicians handle the assembly, alignment, and maintenance of optical devices, often with technical certifications. Both roles are essential in the optics industry but differ in responsibilities and qualifications.

Are optical engineers in high demand?

Optical engineers are in high demand due to advancements in fields like telecommunications, medical devices, and defense technology. They often require strong skills in optics, laser systems, and CAD software, with employment opportunities growing as industries increasingly rely on optical technologies.

How much do optical engineers make?

Optical engineers in California typically earn between $80,000 and $130,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and specific industry. Senior roles or those with specialized skills in optics design, laser systems, or photonics may offer higher salaries and additional benefits.
More about Optical Engineer jobs

What are popular job titles related to Optical Engineer jobs in Columbia, SC?

For Optical Engineer jobs in Columbia, SC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Optical Engineer jobs in Columbia, SC look for?

The top searched job categories for Optical Engineer jobs in Columbia, SC are:

What cities near Columbia, SC are hiring for Optical Engineer jobs?

Cities near Columbia, SC with the most Optical Engineer job openings:

Optical Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Engineer job openings in Columbia, SC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 71% Full Time, and 29% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $117,265 per year, or $56.4 per hour.

Licensed Optician

Stanton Optical

Columbia, SC • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Re-posted 27 days ago

Stanton Optical rating

5.1

Company rating: 5.1 out of 10

Based on 30 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

34th of 40 rated optical retailers

Job description

Reports to: Brand (Store) Manager
Location: Store Location
Are you passionate about helping others see the world more clearly? Would you enjoy a role in which you can improve lives by creating an easy eye care experience for everyone? At Stanton Optical, our Licensed Opticians are charged with creating a superior customer experience by teaching patients and facilitating the dispense process. Our Licensed Opticians have a genuine care for the customer's needs, the ability to resolve issues that may arise and the willingness to assist in the sales process. They do this all while matching patient needs with our services and products.
About us:
Stanton Optical is among the nation's fastest growing, full-service retail optical centers. We are dedicated to offering customer service and quality eyewear at affordable prices to our patients and customers. As a leading optical retailer, we offer some of the nation's most desirable optical brands.
Our team members share and support the Vision, Mission and Values of our parent company, Now Optics. These include:
Vision: Modernizing the eye care experience for all people
Mission: Making eye care easy
Values: iCARE
  • Integrity: We see integrity as building a foundation of trust with our customers, employees and stakeholders by communicating honestly, ensuring consistency and delivering on our commitments.
  • Collaboration: We see collaboration as combining the talents of a diverse group, offering proactive communication and being open-minded to new ideas.
  • Accountability: We see accountability as taking initiative, delivering our best in all we do, accepting responsibility for our actions and taking ownership of results.
  • Respect: We see respect as prioritizing human relationships, being present, connecting with transparency and empathy.
  • Empowerment: We see empowerment as making purpose-driven decisions to support the company vision, showing appreciation for others, and taking care of the individuals we serve.

Why join our winning team?
  • We are the fastest growing, founder-led, and privately owned eye care provider in the United States. We believe quality eye care should be easy, accessible, and affordable for all people. Stanton Optical, consistently rank among the nation's top optical retailers.
  • We offer a flexible, dynamic work environment where we foster innovation and creativity. We encourage you to be proactive in sharing the great ideas you have to improve the business.
  • Eligible employees enjoy great benefits such as medical, dental, and prescription drug coverage, company paid life and short-term disability coverage and free eyeglasses. We also offer identity theft protection, pet insurance, and much more.
  • Paid time off that increases with seniority
  • Professional development and promotion opportunities
  • Employee recognition programs
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Employees get 2 free eyeglasses (no dollar limit) every year, and Friends and Family discounts on our products!
  • We offer competitive variable compensation opportunities and commission on sales.
  • Work with an amazing team!

Responsibilities
  • Greet all patients and customers as they enter the store, identifying patient needs to ensure an easy and memorable experience
  • Provides recommendations on products and services available.
  • Attain sales goals established by management team while complying with company and local policies and procedures.
  • Assists patients and customers to choose products and services that suit their budget and eyecare needs.
  • Identify and troubleshoot problems related to prescriptions to resolve customer complaints, diffuse unsatisfied patients, and provide solutions to remedy situations.
  • Measure, fit, and adapt lenses and frames for clients according to written optical prescription or specification, determining the specifications of lenses, making minor repairs or adjustments to eyewear, etc.
  • Ensure brand standards by performing basic housekeeping duties when necessary
  • Other duties as assigned and required.

Qualifications
  • Experience delivering outstanding customer service to patients as a Licensed Optician
  • You have the ability to multitask, prioritize and be flexible with changing business needs in a team environment
  • You have the skills necessary to communicate effectively with a diverse group of people

Are you the perfect fit?
  • Do you share our vision of modernizing eye care for all people and making eye care easy?
  • Do you have a valid ABO and NCLE and/or license in the applicable State?
  • Do you have a high school diploma or equivalent required?
  • Are you passionate about outstanding customer/patient care and eager to share that passion with others?
  • Do you have a strong interest in learning, embracing and fostering innovation among your team?
  • Are you consistently promoting high work standards while empowering others to have an entrepreneurial mentality with our company?
  • Do you have schedule flexibility? Work hours will be determined based on business needs
  • Are you knowledgeable about MS Word, Google Docs, etc?

Now Optics d/b/a Stanton Optical Brand is an Equal Opportunity Employer and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any kind. All employment decisions at our company are based on business needs, job requirements and individual qualifications, without regard to actual or perceived race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), national origin, age, disability or certain classifications based on genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws, regulations or ordinances.
If you have a disability and believe you need a reasonable accommodation to search for a job opening or apply for a position, email retailcareers@stantonoptical.com with your request. This email address is not for general employment inquiries or correspondence. We will only respond to those requests that are related to the accessibility of the online application system due to a disability.

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