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Optical Lab Manager Jobs in Olympia, WA (NOW HIRING)

Vulcan Metals Corp.

Process Metallurgist

Tacoma, WA

$80K - $100K/yr

Maintain and calibrate lab equipment by completing preventive maintenance and managing consumable ... Optical microscopy and metallography * Tensile, charpy, hardness testing Working Conditions and ...

Vulcan Metals Corp.

Process Metallurgist

Tacoma, WA

$80K - $100K/yr

Maintain and calibrate lab equipment by completing preventive maintenance and managing consumable ... Optical microscopy and metallography * Tensile, charpy, hardness testing Working Conditions and ...

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Optical Lab Manager information

See Olympia, WA salary details

$84K

$90.4K

$95.1K

How much do optical lab manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical lab manager in Olympia, WA is $90,360.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $87,700.00 and $93,000.00 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 Olympia, WA?

For Optical Lab Manager jobs in Olympia, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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Cities near Olympia, WA with the most Optical Lab Manager job openings:

Optical Lab Manager jobs near you

Process Metallurgist

Vulcan Metals Corp.

Tacoma, WA

$80K - $100K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday

Job description


About Us: Vulcan Metals Corporation is a leader in complex engineered castings, delivering critical components to industries such as Rail, Military, Oil & Gas, and Power Generation. With over 100 years of innovation, we're known for precision, reliability, and making a real impact. Join us and be part of a legacy built on excellence!
Position Overview: The Process Metallurgist oversees daily operations of the metallurgical and sand laboratories at Vulcan Metals' Tacoma foundry, including coordination of all casting‑conformance testing. This role partners closely with cross‑functional teams to support safety, quality, delivery, and cost objectives. The position ensures accurate, timely testing and material evaluations while maintaining strong data integrity. Due to Department of Defense program requirements, U.S. citizenship is required.
Primary Responsibilities:

  • Conduct metallurgical and mechanical testing, including mechanical, chemical, corrosion, and microstructural analysis for casting conformance and welding qualifications.
  • Perform sand testing to support mold, core, and sand operations.
  • Maintain and calibrate lab equipment by completing preventive maintenance and managing consumable inventory.
  • Develop ERP recipes and specification codes to support estimating, contract services, and production teams.
  • Draft work instructions and procedures to support quality and production processes.
  • Collaborate with Molding, Melting, and Aftercast supervisors to identify process improvements and cost‑reduction opportunities.
  • Coordinate casting conformance testing through ThermoFisher SampleManager LIMS.
  • Support new product introductions by providing material capability data and analysis.
  • Support Quality through internal and external process surveillances and audits.
  • Maintain equipment certifications and calibrations for all laboratory instruments.
  • Partner with Quality, Engineering, and Compliance teams to ensure supplier adherence to traceability, certification, testing, and documentation requirements.
  • Perform other duties as assigned

Experience:

  • Experience working with welded or machined components, metal castings, or manufacturing preferred
  • Working knowledge of machining, fabrication, and metalworking processes highly desirable

Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree in Materials Engineering or Metallurgy, or related field preferred

Skills and Knowledge:

  • Specification and drawing interpretation
  • Statistical process control
  • Gage repeatability and reproducibility studies
  • Cross-functional collaboration
  • Analytical and problem-solving skills
  • Optical microscopy and metallography
  • Tensile, charpy, hardness testing

Working Conditions and Travel:
This position operates in a combination of office and manufacturing environments. Periodic travel (approximately <10%) may be required to visit suppliers, evaluate capabilities, and support supplier development activities across the United States and Canada.
Pay Range: $80,774-$100,967 Yearly (exempt)
Schedule: Monday - Friday, 6:00am - 2:30pm
Why join our team at Vulcan Metals Corp?
We believe our people are our greatest asset. Keeping our team safe and healthy; physically and mentally has always been our top priority. We encourage and support dynamic and flexible work options to promote a healthy balance and let you get the most out of your time.
Benefits:

  • Competitive Pay
  • Health, Dental, and Vision insurance options
  • Life and AD&D coverage provided by Vulcan Metals Corp.
  • Short-Term and Long-Term Disability coverage provided by Vulcan Metals Corp.
  • Paid Holidays, PTO, and Vacation
  • 401(k) with a company match
  • Employee Training and Education Reimbursement opportunities
  • We also recognize and reward our employees for the great outcomes they produce and for living Our Values with local and global programs.

100 years of knowledge and experience behind us, endless opportunities ahead.
Prior to commencing employment, you will be required to successfully complete a pre-employment medical examination, including drug testing, and a background check.
Vulcan Metals Corp. is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and we are committed to providing a diverse, inclusive, engaging and flexible environment for our people because great things happen when individuals are given the opportunity to bring themselves into their work. All employment will be based on merit, competence, performance and business needs.
https://www.eeoc.gov/employers... RESPECTFULLY REQUEST NO RECRUITMENT AGENCY APPROACHES

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