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Optical Lab Manager Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

MAUI JIM, Inc.

Rx Lab Supervisor (3rd Shift)

Peoria, IL · On-site

$60K - $65K/yr

Provide authentic Maui Jim Prescription Sunglasses to optical retailers and provide outstanding ... Conduct regular meetings with staff and Lab Management to communicate new developments, encourage ...

Maui Jim

Rx Lab Supervisor (3rd Shift)

Peoria, IL

$60K - $65K/yr

Provide authentic Maui Jim Prescription Sunglasses to optical retailers and provide outstanding ... Communicate findings toappropriate staffand Lab Management to resume quality. * Track ...

MAUI JIM, Inc.

Rx Lab Technician (3rd Shift)

Peoria, IL · On-site

$18/hr

... Zeal Optics. By combining industry expertise with a commitment to sustainability, we help our ... Timely manage the flow of lenses and trays through the process. * Maintain equipment maintenance ...

Maui Jim

Rx Lab Technician (3rd Shift)

Peoria, IL

$18/hr

... Zeal Optics. By combining industry expertise with a commitment to sustainability, we help our ... Timely manage the flow of lenses and trays through the process. * Maintain equipment maintenance ...

Bard Optical

Optician

Forsyth, IL

$17/hr

Bard Optical is number 37 of the top 50 optical retailer in the US and as part of an eyewear ... Performs necessary tasks for good patient care and assisting the Doctor and Office Manager in the ...

Bard Optical

Optician

Champaign, IL · On-site

$16.25 - $20.75/hr

Bard Optical is number 37 of the top 50 optical retailer in the US and as part of an eyewear ... Performs necessary tasks for good patient care and assisting the Doctor and Office Manager in the ...

Bard Optical

Optician

Litchfield, IL

$17/hr

Bard Optical is number 37 of the top 50 optical retailer in the US and as part of an eyewear ... Performs necessary tasks for good patient care and assisting the Doctor and Office Manager in the ...

Bard Optical

Optician

Normal, IL

$17/hr

Bard Optical is number 37 of the top 50 optical retailer in the US and as part of an eyewear ... Performs necessary tasks for good patient care and assisting the Doctor and Office Manager in the ...

Bard Optical

Optician

Decatur, IL

$17/hr

Bard Optical is number 37 of the top 50 optical retailer in the US and as part of an eyewear ... Performs necessary tasks for good patient care and assisting the Doctor and Office Manager in the ...

Essilor

LensCrafters - Team Lead

Chicago, IL · On-site

$18.50 - $21.75/hr

Assists in the achievement of store success by managing key optical & lab processes (if applicable) & systems to exceptional results. MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES While working in Retail

EssilorLuxottica

LensCrafters - Team Lead

Oak Brook, IL · On-site

$18.25 - $21.25/hr

Assists in the achievement of store success by managing key optical & lab processes (if applicable) & systems to exceptional results. MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES While working in Retail

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All JobsOptical Lab Manager JobsOptical Lab Manager Jobs in Illinois

Optical Lab Manager information

See Illinois salary details

$76.6K

$82.4K

$86.7K

How much do optical lab manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical lab manager in Illinois is $82,367.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,900.00 and $84,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Optical Lab Manager vs Optical Lab Technician?

AspectOptical Lab ManagerOptical Lab Technician
CredentialsTypically requires a high school diploma or equivalent; some roles prefer certifications in optical technologyHigh school diploma or equivalent; technical training or certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentOversees lab operations, manages staff, and ensures quality controlPerforms lens cutting, fitting, and assembly under supervision
Industry UsageUsed in optical labs, eyewear manufacturing, and retail optical storesCommonly employed in optical labs and retail optical settings

The Optical Lab Manager focuses on overseeing lab operations, managing staff, and maintaining quality standards, while the Optical Lab Technician handles the hands-on production of lenses and eyewear. Both roles are essential in optical manufacturing but differ in responsibilities and required credentials.

What does an Optical Lab Manager do?

An Optical Lab Manager oversees the daily operations of an optical laboratory, where eyeglasses and lenses are manufactured and assembled. Their responsibilities include managing staff, ensuring quality control, maintaining equipment, and overseeing inventory. They also work closely with optometrists and opticians to ensure prescriptions are accurately fulfilled and that safety and industry standards are met. Additionally, they may handle budgeting, training, and implementing new technologies or processes to improve efficiency.

What are some common challenges faced by Optical Lab Managers, and how can they be addressed?

Optical Lab Managers often encounter challenges such as maintaining high-quality standards while meeting tight production deadlines and managing a diverse team of technicians. Keeping up with rapidly advancing lens technologies and equipment can also be demanding. Addressing these challenges involves implementing robust quality control systems, providing ongoing staff training, and fostering strong communication between the lab team and optometrists. Effective inventory management and staying informed about industry best practices also help ensure smooth operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Optical Lab Manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Optical Lab Manager, you need expertise in optical sciences, lens manufacturing processes, and quality control, typically supported by experience in optical labs or a related technical degree. Familiarity with lens surfacing equipment, edging machines, and lab management software is essential, along with certifications such as ABO-NCLE or equivalent. Strong leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills help manage teams and ensure workflow efficiency. These skills and qualities are crucial for maintaining high production standards, minimizing errors, and delivering excellent customer service in a laboratory environment.
What are popular job titles related to Optical Lab Manager jobs in Illinois? For Optical Lab Manager jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Optical Lab Manager jobs in Illinois look for? The top searched job categories for Optical Lab Manager jobs in Illinois are:
What cities in Illinois are hiring for Optical Lab Manager jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Optical Lab Manager job openings:
Optical Lab Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Lab Manager job openings in Illinois as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% In-person, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $82,367 per year, or $39.6 per hour.
Optical Lab Technician FT Champaign, IL #094

Optical Lab Technician FT Champaign, IL #094

Eyemart Express

Champaign, IL • On-site

$15 - $20.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 3 days ago

Eyemart Express rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 76 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

15th of 39 rated optical retailers

Job description

Optical Lab Technician Full-Time
30 years ago, Dr. Barnes founded Eyemart Express to deliver everything a patient needs. It started with one friendly shop in Appleton, WI, and has since expanded to over 245 in 42 states. Today, Eyemart Express is celebrated for promptly delivering quality eyewear at great prices while maintaining great relationships with optometrists and local communities. We're not like everyone else, with local labs in stores, eye exams, and same-day delivery on glasses - our customers never miss a moment. Now, you can join one of the nation's top optical retailers and improve lives by helping people see better.
As an Optical Lab Technician, you'll be responsible for cutting, edging, and creating prescription lenses to ensure customers receive their new glasses in a timely manner. Your technical skills and attention to detail will contribute to our high standards of quality and service. Experience is preferred but not required, as we are willing to train the right candidate.
Earning Potential: The earning potential for this role is competitive, inclusive of base pay and incentives.
Responsibilities:
• Lab Work: Identify and work with basic optical laboratory equipment, tools, supplies, and materials. Consistently adhere to hourly deadlines for finishing jobs.
• Prescription Management: Correctly read and interpret prescription specifications and input into the computer to ensure lenses are cut properly.
• Maintenance: Maintain the lab area and equipment in a safe and organized manner. Perform daily, weekly, and monthly lab equipment maintenance as scheduled and in accordance with lab/equipment manual specifications.
• Operational Excellence: Perform multiple concurrent tasks at several different equipment stations to maintain acceptable job flow. Fill out all assigned reporting forms in a timely manner.
Requirements:
• High School Diploma or GED
• Experience working in a lab or technical setting
• Experience working in the optical industry is preferred
• Must be able to read, comprehend, and follow technical manuals and protocols
Benefits:
• Health Insurance
• Vision Insurance
• Dental Insurance
• Matching 401k
• Short-Term and Long-Term Disability
• Life Insurance
• Fully paid benefits to maintain licensing requirements and opportunities for advancement
At Eyemart Express, we're dedicated to excellence in everything we do. We understand the importance of work-life balance and strive to be as flexible as possible with scheduling needs to ensure our team members can achieve harmony between work and personal life.
If you're ready to join a company that values excellence, invests in your future, and respects your need for balance, submit your resume today! Eyemart Express is where your career takes off.
This posting provides an overview of the role. A full job description will be provided upon hire.
VSP Vision is an equal opportunity employer and gives consideration for employment to qualified applicants without regard to age, gender, race, color, religion, sex, national origin, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability or protected veteran status. We maintain a drug-free workplace and perform pre-employment substance abuse testing.

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