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Optical Lab Manager Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Optician

Jacksonville, IL · On-site

$17/hr

Bard Optical is number 37 of the top 50 optical retailers 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 ...

Optician

Decatur, IL · On-site

$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 ...

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

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

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

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

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

LensCrafters - Team Lead

Machesney Park, IL · On-site

$17.25 - $20.25/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

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

New

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Senior Optical Engineer

Lemont, IL · On-site

$130 - $170/hr

However, we also recognize the importance of flexibility and trust our employees to manage their ... lab test software * Strong grounding in physical optics and Gaussian beam propagation, with ...

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

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

New

Showing results 21-40

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 Aug 23, 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 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 the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an optical lab manager?

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 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 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 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:

Infographic showing various Optical Lab Manager job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $82,367 per year, or $39.6 per hour.

$17/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago


Job description

Optician - Normal, IL - from $17 per hour plus incentives
At Bard Optical, we believe in vision for life.
Bard Optical is number 37 of the top 50 optical retailer in the US and as part of an eyewear industry leader, Bard Optical, strives for higher standard of quality in your eyewear needs.
With an Optician career at Bard Optical, you’ll find yourself learning, growing, and interacting with some of the most passionate and talented people in the business. At the same time, you’ll be helping people look and see their best.
GENERAL FUNCTION
The Sales Associate (Optician) delivers the Bard Optical value proposition – Set the standard of quality in eye care and eyewear by ensuring every patient and customer has the best experience in every Bard Optical every time. Creates exceptional value in the lives of customers by delivering legendary customer service amp; perfectly crafted high quality eyewear which exceeds our customers’ expectations.
Summary
Fills ophthalmic eyeglass prescriptions and fits and adapts lenses and frames by performing the following duties. Dispenses contact lenses as fitted by the Doctor.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Include the following – other duties may be assigned.
Performs necessary tasks for good patient care and assisting the Doctor and Office Manager in the operation of the office. Understanding and complying with all corporate policies and procedures.
Completes all appropriate optical training and improving optical knowledge, including continuing education as required.
Books, confirms and makes recall appointments. Prepare files for patient care and follow-up. Communicates verbally and non- verbally positively with the patient and the office staff. Demonstrates Bard’s commitment to Perfect Patient Care to all.
Evaluates prescription in conjunction with patient’s vocational and avocation visual requirements.
Determines patient’s current lens prescription, when necessary, using lensometer or lens analyzer and patient’s eyeglasses. Recommends specific lenses, lens coatings, and frames to suit patient needs. Assists patient in selecting frames according to style and color, coordinating frames with facial and eye measurements and optical prescription. Measures patient’s bridge and eye size, temple length, vertex distance, pupillary distance, and optical centers of eyes. Informs patient of care and adaptation needed for patient’s purchase. Assists patient with contact lens related care, supporting the Doctor’s direction.
Prepares work order and instructions for grinding lenses and fabricating eyeglasses. Verifies finished lenses are ground to specification. Notifies patient that their product is ready for delivery. Delivers product to patient.
Heats, shapes, or bends plastic or metal frames to adjust eyeglasses to fit patient. Instructs clients in adapting to, wearing and caring for eyeglasses. Repairs damaged frames. Grinds lens edges or applies coating/tint to lenses if a finish lab is in the office.
Computes amount of sale and collects payment for services. Promotes and fits contact lenses. Promotes optical goods such as plano sunglasses, contacts lens solutions, accessories and low vision aids.
Assists in maintaining clean and full product displays and an environment for the patient.
Qualifications: To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Education and/or Experience: High School diploma or general education degree (GED); minimum of three months related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
Language Skills: Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules and procedure manuals. Ability to write routine reports and correspondence. Ability to speak effectively one-on-one in order to communicate the patient’s needs and product explanations.
Mathematical Skills: Ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide in all units of measure, using whole numbers, common fractions, and decimals. Ability to compute lens diopter power.
Reasoning Ability: Ability to apply common sense understanding to carry out instructions furnished in written, verbal, or diagram form. Ability to deal with problems involving several concrete variables in standardized situations.
Certificates, Licences, Registrations: Ability to pass the Bard Optical training tests.
Physical Demands: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by and employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to stand, walk, sit, reach with arms and hands, talk and hear. The Optician must occasionally lift and/or move up to 10 pounds. Specifc vision abilities required for this job include close vision, distance vision, and ability to adjust focus.
Work Environment: The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those which and employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.
Benefits:
Starting wage from $17 per hour with significant incentive opportunities
Health insurance
Dental insurance
Life insurance
401(k) with yearly employer contributions
Paid holidays
Paid time off
Employee eyewear discounts and allowances