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Optical Lab Tech Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

ITW

Engineering Lab Technician

Lake Forest, IL

$27 - $30/hr

... Technology is a plus * Proven experience in a laboratory or construction testing environment ... and optical comparator equipment * Strong understanding of test standards related to concrete ...

Infleqtion

Quantum Physicist

Chicago, IL · On-site

$130K - $211K/yr

As a deep-tech startup, we embrace a results-driven, fast-paced, and customer-focused approach to ... Proficiency in using tools commonly found in an atomic physics lab, such as lasers, acousto-optic ...

Infleqtion

Quantum Physicist

Chicago, IL · On-site

$130K - $211K/yr

As a deep-tech startup, we embrace a results-driven, fast-paced, and customer-focused approach to ... Proficiency in using tools commonly found in an atomic physics lab, such as lasers, acousto-optic ...

Advocate Aurora Health

CT Technologist

Oak Lawn, IL

$35.50 - $53.25/hr

... lab results/med-reconciliation sheets), complete the case in RADNET, charge for contrast media ... optical disc * 6)Operates support equipment for CT such as: Independent workstation, pressure ...

Advocate Aurora Health

CT Technologist

Oak Lawn, IL · On-site

$35.50 - $53.25/hr

... lab results/med-reconciliation sheets), complete the case in RADNET, charge for contrast media ... optical disc * 6)Operates support equipment for CT such as: Independent workstation, pressure ...

Aurora University

Adjunct Faculty - Physics

Aurora, IL · On-site

College of Health and Sciences - School of Natural Sciences, Technology, and Math Opening Date: 12 ... Lab II A one semester course that reinforces physics concepts of electricity, magnetism and optics ...

The Hilsinger Company Parent, LLC

Assembler

Niles, IL · On-site

$16 - $19.75/hr

... Technologies ® visual acuity systems, OnGuard ® prescription safety frames, Croakies ® Eyewear Retainers and B&S optical tools and lab supplies with a distribution and manufacturing platform ...

Allied

Senior IT Data Analyst

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$95K - $105K/yr

... lab, provider, and utilization data. * Maintain high standards of data quality and integrity ... fiber optic internet service provider with speeds of at least 100Mbps download/25Mbps upload.

Allied Benefit Systems

Senior IT Data Analyst

Chicago, IL · Remote

$88K - $111K/yr

... lab, provider, and utilization data. * Maintain high standards of data quality and integrity ... fiber optic internet service provider with speeds of at least 100Mbps download/25Mbps upload.

Anonymous Employer

Quality Inspector

Itasca, IL

$20 - $30/hr

Tech-Max Machine is a precision CNC machine shop. Our dazzling new technical center, located in ... Minimum of 1-3 years' experience working in metrology lab * Ability to efficiently use the majority ...

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All JobsOptical Lab Tech JobsOptical Lab Tech Jobs in Illinois

Optical Lab Tech information

See Illinois salary details

$11

$21

$54

How much do optical lab tech jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 16, 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 is the highest salary for a lab technician?

The highest salary for an optical lab technician can reach around $50,000 to $60,000 annually, depending on experience, certifications, and location. Senior technicians with specialized skills or management responsibilities may earn higher wages. Salary ranges vary based on the employer and regional demand for optical services.

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 is the highest paying lab tech job?

The highest paying lab tech jobs are often in specialized areas such as clinical laboratory management, histology, or cytotechnology, which typically require advanced certifications and experience. These roles can offer higher salaries due to increased responsibility, technical expertise, and leadership duties within laboratory settings.

What does an optical lab technician do?

An optical lab technician fabricates and repairs eyeglasses and contact lenses by cutting, grinding, and polishing lenses according to prescriptions. They operate specialized equipment, ensure quality control, and may assist with fitting and adjusting eyewear. Attention to detail and knowledge of optical materials are essential for this role.

Do you need a degree to be an optical lab tech?

An optical lab technician typically does not need a college degree but should have a high school diploma or equivalent. Training is often provided on the job, and technical skills with optical equipment and attention to detail are important for success in this role.

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:
What job categories do people searching Optical Lab Tech jobs in Illinois look for? The top searched job categories for Optical Lab Tech jobs in Illinois are:
Optical Lab Tech jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Lab Tech job openings in Illinois as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% As Needed, 39% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 33% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,945 per year, or $21.1 per hour.
Research Technologist 2

Research Technologist 2

Northwestern University

Evanston, IL • On-site

$11/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 days ago

Northwestern University rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 45 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

95th of 537 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Department: WCAS Neurobiology
Salary/Grade: NEX/11
Job Summary:
This position is for a Research Technologist 2 in Dr. Daniel Dombeck's research lab in Neurobiology. This role Conducts experimental research lab work and/or assists in design of one or more specific phase(s) of entire project(s). May complete rodent brain surgeries, virtual reality behavior training and optical or electrophysiological data recording, and/or brain staining and histology, and/or computer tasks, and/or assist in judging validity of data, and/or maintains inventory of reagent, mice &/or lab supplies. Follows appropriate protocols, policies, procedures, regulations, Good Clinical and Good Laboratory Practices. Seeking candidates looking for longer term commitment to the role.
This will be a 1-year renewable position based upon performance and funding availability. This is a full-time position at 40.0 hours per week and works on-site.
The target hiring range for this position will be between $41,530.32- $51,907.68 per year, which is $19.89-$24.86 per hour. The salary offered will be determined by the applicant's education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity and alignment with market data.
Specific Responsibilities:
  • Following protocols, designs, sets-up and conducts basic experiments
  • Analyzes and troubleshoots protocols and data obtained from individual experiments and recommends alternatives and suggestions to improve processes, validity and/or accuracy.
  • Using a fully functioning level of skill, completes the following activities (please highlight):
Molecular Biology:
  • Virus stock maintenance and management
Histology:
  • Tissue fixation/processing: embedding, preparation of blocks and sectioning, staining and imaging
Equipment :
  • Equipment maintenance, setup, troubleshooting and repair
Other:
  • Lab data maintenance
  • Optical and electrophysiological brain recording measurements
Animal:
  • Husbandry
  • Breeding and screening transgenic mice
  • Dissections
  • Surgical procedures
  • Database management of colony
Administration:
  • Maintains detailed records of results which may include collecting, extracting & entering data.
  • Manipulates, interprets &/or presents results.
  • Prepares charts & graphs for presentations & publications.
  • Completes portions of grant applications, manuscripts & publications. Maintains lab safety and animal care and use protocols.
  • Manages lab safety and animal care and use lab inspections.
  • Maintains lab cleanliness and safety
Finance:
  • Tracks & summarizes lab supply expenses.
  • Verifies the accuracy of invoices.
  • Orders &/or maintains inventory of reagent, mice &/or lab supplies.
Supervises:
  • Trains students and new lab members.
Miscellaneous
Performed other duties
Minimum Qualifications:
  • Successful completion of a full 4-year course of study in an accredited college or university leading to a bachelor's or higher degree in a scientific major or related; OR appropriate combination of education and experience.
Minimum Competencies: (Skills, knowledge, and abilities.)
  • Demonstrated laboratory experience; Demonstrated ability to follow detailed instructions as required by research protocols; Demonstrated computer skills, including spreadsheets and basic computations; Attention to detail and accurate record keeping; Ability to work independently and in a team environment; Manual dexterity.
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Prior experience with rodent surgeries and handling. Neuroscience or similar education.
  • Preferred Competencies: (Skills, knowledge, and abilities)
  • Equipment setup and troubleshooting, including laser or microscopy systems, and/or computer systems and/or rodent behavior systems. 3D printing skills. Computer Programming skills
Benefits:
At Northwestern, we are proud to provide meaningful and competitive benefits. The available benefits package for this position will include health, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance; paid vacation and holidays; paid medical/sick and parental leave; tuition benefits for the employee and dependents; pre-tax and flex spending accounts for commuting and dependent care; generous retirement savings options; and wellness programs. For a comprehensive overview of available benefits, including eligibility details, visit us at https://www.northwestern.edu/hr/benefits/index.html to learn more.
Work-Life and Wellness:
Northwestern offers comprehensive programs and services to help you and your family navigate life's challenges and opportunities and adopt and maintain healthy lifestyles.
We support flexible work arrangements where possible and programs to help you locate and pay for quality, affordable childcare and senior/adult care. Visit us at https://www.northwestern.edu/hr/benefits/work-life/index.html to learn more.
Professional Growth & Development:
Northwestern supports employee career development in all circumstances whether your workspace is on campus or at home. If you're interested in developing your professional potential or continuing your formal education, we offer a variety of tools and resources. Visit us at https://www.northwestern.edu/hr/learning/index.html to learn more
Northwestern University is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of protected characteristics, including disability and veteran status. View Northwestern's non-discrimination statement . Job applicants who wish to request an accommodation in the application or hiring process should contact the Office of Civil Rights and Title IX Compliance. View additional information on the accommodations process .
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