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Optical Engineer Jobs in Columbia, SC (NOW HIRING)

Because continuing our legacy of the highest optical standards helps us innovate the future in optical care. At LensCrafters, we want every person who enters our doors to feel our passion for care.

More than 50 years of experience in medical, aerospace, energy, automotive, fiber optics, and more ... Engineering Degree in Engineering Technology or Mechanical Engineering * Experience with Lean ...

Engineering Technologists support research and development activities within a field or ... More than 50 years of experience in medical, aerospace, energy, automotive, fiber optics, and more ...

More than 50 years of experience in medical, aerospace, energy, automotive, fiber optics, and more ... Engineering Degree in Engineering Technology or Mechanical Engineering * Experience with Lean ...

Because continuing our legacy of the highest optical standards helps us innovate the future in optical care. At LensCrafters, we want every person who enters our doors to feel our passion for care.

Because continuing our legacy of the highest optical standards helps us innovate the future in optical care. At LensCrafters, we want every person who enters our doors to feel our passion for care.

Because continuing our legacy of the highest optical standards helps us innovate the future in optical care. At LensCrafters, we want every person who enters our doors to feel our passion for care.

Engineer will develop designs to support requests and develop high-level CAPEX which are ... Segra owns and operates a wide and dense fiber-optic infrastructure footprint that provides ...

ECC Chapin-Optician

Chapin, SC · On-site

$17 - $19/hr

Description We are seeking a highly skilled and customer-focused Optician to join our dynamic team committed to providing exceptional eye care services. As a vital member of our clinic, you will play ...

ECC Chapin-Optician

Chapin, SC · On-site

$15.25 - $19.50/hr

Description We are seeking a highly skilled and customer-focused Optician to join our dynamic team committed to providing exceptional eye care services. As a vital member of our clinic, you will play ...

Quality Engineer

Lexington, SC · On-site

$61K - $79K/yr

The Quality Engineer reports to the Quality Manager and supports quality assurance activities ... Support Optical Cable testing and inspection processes to ensure product quality * Assist in ...

Essential Duties and Responsibilities The Quality Technician will perform optical, physical ... Other duties within Quality Engineering may be assigned to meet organizational objectives ...

Showing results 21-40

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 10, 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 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.

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 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 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.

Are optical engineers in high demand?

Optical engineers are in high demand due to their expertise in designing and developing optical systems for industries such as telecommunications, healthcare, and defense. The field offers strong job growth prospects, especially for those with skills in laser technology, photonics, and optical design software. Continuous advancements in technology contribute to sustained employment opportunities for optical engineers.

What do optical engineers work on?

Optical engineers design, develop, and test optical systems and components such as lenses, lasers, and imaging devices. They work on projects related to telecommunications, medical instruments, imaging systems, and laser technology, often using tools like CAD software and requiring knowledge of physics and optics principles.
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:
Infographic showing various Optical Engineer job openings in Columbia, SC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $117,265 per year, or $56.4 per hour.

Licensed Optician

EssilorLuxottica SA

Columbia, SC • On-site

Other

Medical, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago


EssilorLuxottica rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 295 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

8th of 39 rated optical retailers


Job description

Licensed Optician

Brand: LensCrafters Location: Columbia, SC, US, 29204 Store #: 000354 LensCrafters Position: Full-Time Total Rewards: Benefits/Incentive Information

LensCrafters is a place for visionaries. We've got a vision for pairing state-of-the-art technology with a truly personal approach to eye care. Everything we do is centered around sight. Because quality care helps us see the joy in life. Because learning from the best, makes us all better. Because continuing our legacy of the highest optical standards helps us innovate the future in optical care. At LensCrafters, we want every person who enters our doors to feel our passion for care. And that's why we're committed to taking care of you, so you can bring the best quality experience to our patients and customers. LensCrafters is part of EssilorLuxottica, a global leader in the design, manufacture and distribution of world-class vision care products, including iconic eyewear, advanced lens technology and cutting-edge digital solutions. Join our global community of over 200,000 dedicated employees around the world in driving the transformation of the eyewear and eyecare industry.

Job Description

The Licensed Optician delivers the brand value proposition & helps establish LensCrafters as the premier destination for all vision needs within the community. Creates exceptional value in the lives of customers by delivering legendary customer service & perfectly crafted high quality eyewear which exceeds our customers' expectations.

Major Duties & Responsibilities
  • Welcome all customers, set expectations with customers
  • Custom fit glasses & precisely place prescription in lenses
  • Acts as a leader in optical acumen
  • Take & record measurements, accurately adjust/fit eyewear with attention to detail, ensure finished eyewear meets standards & customer needs
  • Assists team with complex product needs & prescriptions
  • Accurate & thorough use of technology despite time pressure & customer volume, exceptional product knowledge, use of appropriate tools
  • Proactive, explores root cause of issues, forward thinking, ensures customers are satisfied & expectations are exceeded, solution driven
  • Ability to multi-task, prioritize & manage time with competing priorities
  • Strive to achieve exceptional results on Brand KPIs & competencies
  • Take pride in store appearance, help to keep store clean, attractive & organized
  • Inform management of safety opportunities; demonstrates safe work practices
  • Resourceful, self-motivated with a desire for continual learning, improvement & results
  • Adhere to company policies & procedure, including discounts, promotions & inventory management
Basic Qualifications
  • High School graduate or equivalent
  • State Licensure
  • Optical dispensing experience
  • Strong customer service skills: communicator, listener & team builder
  • Knowledge of current store merchandise
  • Strong basic math skills
  • Awareness of current fashion trends
  • Selling skills – ability to use & carry an iPAD/tablet
  • Familiarity with POS, computers & calculators
  • Embrace new technology & change
Preferred Qualifications
  • Previous customer service & retail experience

Employee pay is determined by multiple factors, including geography, experience, qualifications, skills and local minimum wage requirements. In addition, you may also be offered a competitive bonus and/or commission plan, which complements a first-class total rewards package. Benefits may include health care, retirement savings, paid time off/vacation, and various employee discounts. EssilorLuxottica complies with all applicable laws related to the application and hiring process. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, gender, national origin, social origin, social condition, being perceived as a victim of domestic violence, sexual aggression or stalking, religion, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, citizenship, ancestry, veteran or military status, marital status, pregnancy (including unlawful discrimination on the basis of a legally protected pregnancy or maternity leave), genetic information or any other characteristics protected by law. Native Americans in the US receive preference in accordance with Tribal Law.


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