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Optical Lab Tech Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

LensCrafters - Team Lead

Bloomingdale, IL · On-site

$18.25 - $21.25/hr

Works with associates to strengthen their knowledge, skill, & certification for foundational product & store processes related to lens and lab technology * Ensures finished eyewear meets optical ...

LensCrafters - Team Lead

Oak Brook, IL · On-site

$18.25 - $21.25/hr

Works with associates to strengthen their knowledge, skill, & certification for foundational product & store processes related to lens and lab technology * Ensures finished eyewear meets optical ...

LensCrafters - Team Lead

Machesney Park, IL · On-site

$17.25 - $20.25/hr

Works with associates to strengthen their knowledge, skill, & certification for foundational product & store processes related to lens and lab technology * Ensures finished eyewear meets optical ...

LensCrafters - Team Lead

Machesney Park, IL · On-site

$17.25 - $20.25/hr

Works with associates to strengthen their knowledge, skill, & certification for foundational product & store processes related to lens and lab technology * Ensures finished eyewear meets optical ...

LensCrafters - Team Lead

Wheaton, IL · On-site

$17.75 - $20.75/hr

Works with associates to strengthen their knowledge, skill, & certification for foundational product & store processes related to lens and lab technology * Ensures finished eyewear meets optical ...

LensCrafters - Team Lead

Bloomingdale, IL · On-site

$18.25 - $21.25/hr

Works with associates to strengthen their knowledge, skill, & certification for foundational product & store processes related to lens and lab technology * Ensures finished eyewear meets optical ...

LensCrafters - Team Lead

Oak Brook, IL · On-site

$18.25 - $21.25/hr

Works with associates to strengthen their knowledge, skill, & certification for foundational product & store processes related to lens and lab technology * Ensures finished eyewear meets optical ...

QC LAB TECH II - 1ST SHIFT

Bloomingdale, IL · On-site

$20 - $25.25/hr

Orders lab supplies as needed. * Assists with training and mentoring newer and less experienced lab ... Density, Optical Rotation and Refractive Index), Disintegration, Hardness, Viscosity and SOP ...

In our dynamic environment, fueled by technology and innovation, our people have the space to ... through the optical lab to ensure service commitments are met. The Expeditor partners with ...

In our dynamic environment, fueled by technology and innovation, our people have the space to ... through the optical lab to ensure service commitments are met. The Expeditor partners with ...

In our dynamic environment, fueled by technology and innovation, our people have the space to ... through the optical lab to ensure service commitments are met. The Expeditor partners with ...

Optician Oliver Peoples- Oakbrook

Oak Brook, IL · On-site

$17.50 - $22.50/hr

... lens technology and cutting-edge digital solutions. Join our global community of over 200,000 ... Develops the optical skills of others and create an effective learning environment. MAJOR DUTIES ...

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Optical Lab Tech information

See Illinois salary details

$11

$21

$54

How much do optical lab tech jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical lab tech in Illinois is $21.13, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.90 and $20.05 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as an Optical Lab Tech, you need a solid understanding of optics, attention to detail, and manual dexterity, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with lens edgers, surfacing machines, and lensometry, as well as knowledge of safety standards, is typically required. Strong organizational skills, teamwork, and effective communication help you excel in this role. These skills are critical for producing high-quality eyewear efficiently and accurately, ensuring customer satisfaction and safety.

What does an Optical Lab Tech do?

An Optical Lab Tech, or Optical Laboratory Technician, is responsible for fabricating and assembling eyeglass lenses according to prescriptions provided by optometrists or ophthalmologists. They operate specialized machinery to cut, grind, edge, and polish lenses, ensuring accuracy and quality. Additionally, they may fit lenses into frames, perform repairs, and conduct quality checks before the finished product is delivered to customers or patients. Attention to detail and manual dexterity are essential skills in this role.

What is the difference between Optical Lab Tech vs Optician?

AspectOptical Lab TechOptician
CredentialsTypically requires technical training or certification in optical lab workRequires state licensing or certification, often with an opticianry license
Work EnvironmentWorks mainly in laboratories, fabricating lenses and optical componentsWorks in retail or clinical settings, assisting customers with eyewear selection
Employer & IndustryOptical labs, manufacturing facilitiesOptical stores, eyewear retailers, clinics
Primary FocusFabricating and processing lenses and framesFitting, adjusting, and selling eyewear to customers

While both roles are essential in the optical industry, Optical Lab Techs focus on lens fabrication and lab work, whereas Opticians primarily assist customers with eyewear fitting and sales. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and job expectations in the optical field.

What are the most common challenges faced by Optical Lab Techs when working with prescription lenses?

Optical Lab Techs often encounter challenges such as handling high volumes of orders with varying specifications, ensuring accuracy in lens cutting and fitting, and maintaining strict quality control standards. Working with delicate materials requires attention to detail and steady hands to avoid costly mistakes. Additionally, adapting to new technologies and equipment, as well as managing communication with optometrists and retail staff, are important aspects of the role that demand flexibility and teamwork.
What are popular job titles related to Optical Lab Tech jobs in Illinois? For Optical Lab Tech jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:
LensCrafters - Team Lead

LensCrafters - Team Lead

Essilor

Bloomingdale, IL • On-site

$18.25 - $21.25/hr

Other

Medical, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 29 days ago


EssilorLuxottica rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 291 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

8th of 39 rated optical retailers


Job description

Requisition ID: 927311 
Store #: 000409 LensCrafters 
Position:Full-Time
Total Rewards: Benefits/Incentive Information

LensCrafters is a place for visionaries. We've got a vision for pairing state-of-the-art technology with a truly personal approach to eye care. 
Everything we do is centered around sight. Because quality care helps us see the joy in life. Because learning from the best, makes us all better. Because continuing our legacy of the highest optical standards helps us innovate the future in optical care. 

At LensCrafters, we want every person who enters our doors to feel our passion for care. And that's why we're committed to taking care of you, so you can bring the best quality experience to our patients and customers. 

LensCrafters is part of EssilorLuxottica, a global leader in the design, manufacture and distribution of world-class vision care products, including iconic eyewear, advanced lens technology and cutting-edge digital solutions. Join our global community of over 200,000 dedicated employees around the world in driving the transformation of the eyewear and eyecare industry. Discover more by following us on LinkedIn!
 

GENERAL FUNCTION

The Team Lead creates exceptional value in the lives of customers & patients by delivering exceptional customer service. Ensures customers & patients are always delighted. 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

  • Ensure the LensCrafters team provides unsurpassed Customer Service
  • Proactive & solution driven, accurate execution & product knowledge
  • Assists customers with selections, provides recommendations, assists sales associates
  • Serves as a responsible alternate store key holder

While working in Lab, if applicable

  • Custom fits glasses & precisely place prescription in lenses
  • Works with associates to strengthen their knowledge, skill, & certification for foundational product & store processes related to lens and lab technology
  • Ensures finished eyewear meets optical standards & customer requirements
  • Creates a safe working environment for all, demonstrates safe work practices
  • Responsible for basic operation, cleaning & ongoing maintenance of lab tools & systems

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS

  • HS diploma/GED
  • Strong optical & retail experience
  • Knowledge of current optical theory & merchandise
  • Strong communicator & listener
  • Strong inter-personal skills
  • Strong basic math skills
  • Sales skills
  • Problem solving ability
  • Familiarity with cash register, computers & calculators
  • Leadership & training experience
  • Edging & mounting experience
  • Basic optics knowledge & optical measurement experience

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

  • State licensure (if applicable) &/or ABO Certification in non-licensed states
  • LensCrafters Final Eyewear Inspector Certification
  • LensCrafters Quality, Fitting & Adjusting Program
  • Optical machinery/instruments experience
  • Customer service experience
  • AccuFit Digital Measurement System certification
  • Knowledge of current store merchandise & lens options

Pay Range: 19.25  - 32.75 

This posting is for an existing vacancy within our business. Employee pay is determined by multiple factors, including geography, experience, qualifications, skills and local minimum wage requirements. In addition, you may also be offered a competitive bonus and/or commission plan, which complements a first-class total rewards package. Benefits may include health care, retirement savings, paid time off/vacation, and various employee discounts.

EssilorLuxottica complies with all applicable laws related to the application and hiring process. If you would like to provide feedback regarding an active job posting, or if you are an individual with a disability who would like to request a reasonable accommodation, please call the EssilorLuxottica SpeakUp Hotline at 844-303-0229 (be sure to provide your name, job id number, and contact information so that we may follow up in a timely manner) or email HRCompliance@luxotticaretail.com.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, gender, national origin, social origin, social condition, being perceived as a victim of domestic violence, sexual aggression or stalking, religion, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, citizenship, ancestry, veteran or military status, marital status, pregnancy (including unlawful discrimination on the basis of a legally protected pregnancy or maternity leave), genetic information or any other characteristics protected by law. Native Americans in the US receive preference in accordance with Tribal Law.


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