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Optical Field Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

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Optical Field information

What is the optical field?

The optical field refers to the area of science and industry focused on the study, design, and application of light and optical systems. This includes everything from eyeglasses and contact lenses to advanced technologies like lasers, fiber optics, and imaging devices. Professionals in the optical field may work as opticians, optical engineers, or researchers, contributing to healthcare, telecommunications, manufacturing, and scientific research. The field combines principles of physics, engineering, and biology to improve vision and develop new optical technologies.

What are the main challenges faced by professionals working in the optical field, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in the optical field often encounter challenges such as staying current with rapidly evolving technology, managing complex customer needs, and maintaining precise calibration of equipment. To address these, it's important to engage in continuous learning through industry certifications and training, collaborate closely with colleagues and manufacturers, and adhere to strict protocols for equipment maintenance. Building strong customer communication skills and staying organized can also help manage multiple appointments and ensure high-quality service.

What is the difference between Optical Field vs Optical Technician?

AspectOptical FieldOptical Technician
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in optics, physics, or engineeringOften requires a certificate or associate degree in optical technology
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, manufacturing, design, and development settingsOptical labs, manufacturing facilities, retail optical stores
Industry UsageUsed broadly in research, development, and high-tech manufacturingPrimarily in retail, clinical, and manufacturing optical services

The Optical Field encompasses a wide range of roles including research, design, and development in optics, often requiring advanced degrees. Optical Technicians focus on assembling, testing, and maintaining optical devices, usually with technical certifications. While both roles work within the optics industry, the Optical Field is more research-oriented, whereas Optical Technicians are more hands-on and production-focused.

What cities in Texas are hiring for Optical Field jobs?

Cities in Texas with the most Optical Field job openings:

Infographic showing various Optical Field job openings in Texas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 88% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution.

PT Instructor HSCE Optical Assistant

MIDLAND COLLEGE

Midland, TX

$25 - $30/hr

Part-time

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

PT Instructor HSCE Optical Assistant

Midland College | Midland, Texas 

JOB SUMMARY

This position will be responsible for coordinating and delivering training for the Optical Assistant course. This will include participation in content development and arranging lab and clinical experience. The position must work within Midland College, ISD partners, and clinical site guidelines as needed.

ABOUT MIDLAND COLLEGE 

At Midland College, we believe education transforms lives, strengthens communities, and creates opportunity for future generations. As a driving force for workforce development and economic growth in the Permian Basin, we serve dual-credit students, first-time-in-college learners, adult students, and working professionals. Through strong partnerships with K-12 schools, universities, business and industry, and community organizations, we make education accessible, prepare students for meaningful careers, and help shape the future of our region. 

Midland College is a dynamic institution experiencing rapid enrollment growth and institutional growth. We are continually evaluating how we work, challenging ourselves to improve, and embracing innovation to serve our students and community better. 

Three Core Values define our culture: 

YES – We embrace challenges with curiosity, optimism, and a solutions-oriented mindset. 

STUDENTS – Student success is at the center of every decision we make. 

ACT – We take ownership, move with purpose, and deliver meaningful results. 

We seek individuals who are adaptable, resilient, and energized by change. Our employees ask thoughtful questions, challenge the status quo, solve problems collaboratively, and continuously look for better ways to serve students. We work hard, think strategically, and hold ourselves accountable. We also believe great teams support one another, celebrate successes, and bring positivity, perspective, and a sense of humor to the workplace. 

What You Can Expect at Midland College: 

  • A leadership team committed to action, collaboration, and continuous improvement. 

  • A Board of Trustees that values stewardship, innovation, and long-term vision. 

  • A community that believes deeply in the power of education to create opportunities. 

  • Meaningful work, supportive colleagues, and the opportunity to make a lasting impact, every single day. 

If you're passionate about making a difference, excited by growth and innovation, and ready to help students succeed while strengthening the Permian Basin, we invite you to join our team. 

Essential Functions

  • Utilize a variety of effective and professional teaching techniques and methods to assist students in attaining the performance objectives of the course
  • Assist in development of course curriculum
  • Oversee student clinical or practicum experience in various community facilities, including arranging and coordinating with sites
  • Oversee skills lab experience, including inventory of supplies and equipment
  • Prepare a report of student success according to Midland College and ISD partner guidelines
  • Maintain budgetary compliance
  • Attend meetings as required by the Department Chair and Director/Dean
  • Observe the administrative policies and mission of Midland College
  • Other duties as assigned

    Required Qualifications:

    • Must possess a current certification in the optical industry by a state or nationally recognized credentialing agency
    • Minimum of one year of experience working in the optical industry
    • Knowledge of computer applications, general office equipment, and equipment related to the optical field
    • Strong organizational skills, self-motivated, independent worker
    • Knowledge of optical industry regulations and requirements
    • Knowledge of CPO certification exam content
    • Ability to communicate effectively with a diverse population, both orally and in writing
    • Interest in working in a college setting
    • Ability to work effectively as a member of the instructional team
    • Must possess a valid Texas Driver's License, good driving record, and be insurable on Midland College's insurance policy

    Preferred Qualifications:

    • Associate or Bachelor's degree in a health science-related field
    • Experience teaching adolescent or adult students
    • Experience instructing in the optical field in theory and skill

    WORK ENVIRONMENT 

    • Typical office 
    • Business Hours 
    • M-Th 8:00 a.m.- 5:00 p.m. F 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. 
      • summer M-Th 7:30 a.m. – 5:30 pm 
    • Periodic evening and weekend hours during peak periods (e.g., open enrollment, payroll) 
    • Occasional travel (less than 10%) 

    Physical Demands

    • Must be able to lift, move, and/or carry up to 25 pounds
    • Must be able to sit or stand for long periods of time
    • Use of manual dexterity
    • Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, and the ability to adjust focus
    • The person in this position frequently communicates with others verbally and electronically; must be able to exchange accurate information
    • Primarily indoor classroom, simulation laboratory, and community healthcare setting with commonly related body fluids present
    • Employee will come in direct contact with Midland College staff, students, and the public
    • Ability to communicate with students, families, and health team members
    • Repetitive use of a keyboard at workstation
    • Some travel to clinical sites may be required

    Salary Range: $25-$30/hour 

    SECURITY SENSITIVITY 

    All Midland College positions are security-sensitive and subject to Texas Education Code §51.215, which authorizes the employer to obtain criminal history record information. An employment offer is contingent on completion of a satisfactory criminal background investigation. 

    Special Instructions to Applicants  

    All documents must be electronically submitted through the Midland College Online Employment Services website to be considered. Incomplete or improperly submitted applications may be excluded from consideration. Documents that must be submitted online: Completed online application, CV/resume, and transcripts (if applicable.) Unofficial transcripts will be accepted with the application. NOTE: Official transcripts sent directly from the institution(s) attended to Midland College Human Resources are required within 30 days of hire (if applicable). If a specified closing date is not listed on the posting, there is a required minimum posting period of five business days.Â