1

Optical Lab Manager Jobs in Rio Rancho, NM (NOW HIRING)

Machinist II

Albuquerque, NM

$21 - $28.75/hr

This position will be based at Sandia National Lab (SNL) in Albuquerque, New Mexico in support of ... Inspect parts using high level inspection tools such as CT and white light optical profilers.

GT1 Machinist, Onsite

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$21 - $28.75/hr

Communicate with staff, technologists, and management * Mentor apprentice machinists Qualifications ... About Sandia Sandia National Laboratories is the nation's premier science and engineering lab for ...

Research Engineer 1

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$3.9K - $5.5K/mo

Manage and maintain inventory of all chemicals utilized at CHTM. Handle NanoFab and service center ... Have a working knowledge of Lab Safety Protocols. * Experience with handling chemicals and working ...

Showing results 41-58

Optical Lab Manager information

See Rio Rancho, NM salary details

$71.3K

$76.7K

$80.7K

How much do optical lab manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical lab manager in Rio Rancho, NM is $76,661.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $74,400.00 and $78,900.00 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 job categories do people searching Optical Lab Manager jobs in Rio Rancho, NM look for?

The top searched job categories for Optical Lab Manager jobs in Rio Rancho, NM are:

What cities near Rio Rancho, NM are hiring for Optical Lab Manager jobs?

Cities near Rio Rancho, NM with the most Optical Lab Manager job openings:

$21 - $28.75/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago


General Atomics rating

9.0

Company rating: 9.0 out of 10

Based on 39 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

11th of 72 rated aerospace companies


Job description

Job Summary
General Atomics (GA), and its affiliated companies, is one of the world's leading resources for high-technology systems development ranging from the nuclear fuel cycle to remotely piloted aircraft, airborne sensors, and advanced electric, electronic, wireless and laser technologies.
We have an exciting opportunity for a Machinist to join our Inertial Fusion Technology (IFT) division within the Energy group. This position will be based at Sandia National Lab (SNL) in Albuquerque, New Mexico in support of Sandia National Laboratories Inertial Confinement Fusion and High Energy Density Science Program. The components to be machined are normally high-precision and in small quantities. Production schedules are reasonable but due dates are often inflexible. Salary potential commensurate with willingness/ability to grow professionally.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Set-up and operate common manual shop equipment such as lathes, mills, and saws.
  • Set-up and operate CNC mills and lathes.
  • NC programming in both manual (i.e., plain G-code and parametric G-code) and CAD/CAM (Creo).
  • Inspect parts using mics, calipers, digital height gages, Trimos, measuring microscope, indicators, gage blocks, surface plates, sine plates, etc. as required.
  • Inspect parts using high level inspection tools such as CT and white light optical profilers.
  • Document inspection results by entering data into Excel templates and archiving on server.
  • Work in a safe manner in accordance with established operating procedures and practices.
  • Performs other duties as assigned or required.

We recognize and appreciate the value and contributions of individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences and welcome all qualified individuals to apply.
Job Qualifications
  • Typically requires a high school diploma, technical/trade school training or equivalent and two or more years related experience.
  • Must possess:
  • Proficiency with common manual shop equipment such as lathes, mills, and saws.
  • Some experience setting-up and operating NC mills and lathes.
  • Some experience with NC programming (both G-code and CAD/CAM).
  • Proficiency with common manual inspection tools such as micrometers, calipers, digital height gages, indicators, gage blocks, surface plates, and sine plates.
  • Customer focus.
  • Ability to use good judgment and safe practices in a shop environment.
  • Time management skills to maintain the flow of work within the unit.
  • Good interpersonal skills and written communication skills to interface with employees and supervisor; and basic computer skills.
  • Ability to work in an large lab research environment requiring long periods of standing, walking, bending and lifting up to 50 lbs.
  • Ability to work both independently and in a team environment.
  • Ability to obtain and keep a DOE Q Level Security clearance
  • Flexibility to work extended hours as required.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain DoE Q Security Clearance required.

What General Atomics employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


General Atomics logo

About General Atomics

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

General Atomics (GA), and its affiliated companies, is one of the world's leading resources for high-technology systems development ranging from the nuclear fuel cycle to remotely piloted aircraft, airborne sensors, and advanced electric, electronic, wireless and laser technologies.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

San Diego, CA, US

Year founded

1955