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Optical Lab Tech Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Optician

Shelbyville, IN · On-site

$16.50 - $21.25/hr

As an integral part of our team, you'll educate patients on the latest lens technology to optimize ... optical lab orders, while also showcasing your creative talents in maintaining our optical ...

Optician

Shelbyville, IN · On-site

$16.50 - $21.25/hr

As an integral part of our team, you'll educate patients on the latest lens technology to optimize ... optical lab orders, while also showcasing your creative talents in maintaining our optical ...

Optician

Shelbyville, IN · On-site

$16.50 - $21.25/hr

As an integral part of our team, you'll educate patients on the latest lens technology to optimize ... optical lab orders, while also showcasing your creative talents in maintaining our optical ...

Optician

Shelbyville, IN · On-site

$16.50 - $21.25/hr

As an integral part of our team, you'll educate patients on the latest lens technology to optimize ... optical lab orders, while also showcasing your creative talents in maintaining our optical ...

Manager- Lab

Fort Wayne, IN · On-site

$95K/yr

WM0034 Optical Lab Management WAYN Position : Full-Time Total Rewards: Benefits/Incentive ... With us, you'll bring our most advanced technology and innovative products to our partners. As a ...

Manager- Lab

Fort Wayne, IN · On-site

$95K/yr

WM0034 Optical Lab Management WAYN Position : Full-Time Total Rewards: Benefits/Incentive ... With us, you'll bring our most advanced technology and innovative products to our partners. As a ...

Mid-Level Optical Engineer

Odon, IN · On-site

$80K - $120K/yr

This position offers hands-on experience working with cutting-edge imaging technologies, sensor ... Drive hardware design, bring-up, lab characterization and field testing, including instrumentation ...

Senior Optical Engineer

Odon, IN · Hybrid

$104K - $143K/yr

Define and execute comprehensive test and validation strategies, including lab, field, and ... laser technologies. * Active Secret Clearance * Strong programming experience for analysis ...

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Showing results 1-20

Optical Lab Tech information

See Indiana salary details

$11

$20

$53

How much do optical lab tech jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical lab tech in Indiana is $20.75, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.62 and $19.66 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an optical lab tech?

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 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 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.

How long does it take to become an optical lab technician?

Becoming an optical lab technician typically requires completing a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by on-the-job training or a specialized certification program that can last from a few months to a year. Some employers prefer candidates with technical training or certification in optical technology, which can take additional months to complete.

Is an optical lab technician a good career?

An optical lab technician is a skilled role that involves fabricating and repairing eyeglasses and lenses, often requiring attention to detail and knowledge of optical equipment. The career offers steady employment opportunities, with potential for advancement through certifications and experience, and typically involves working in a laboratory or optical shop environment.

What are popular job titles related to Optical Lab Tech jobs in Indiana?

For Optical Lab Tech jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Optical Lab Tech jobs in Indiana look for?

The top searched job categories for Optical Lab Tech jobs in Indiana are:

Infographic showing various Optical Lab Tech job openings in Indiana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, and 5% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $43,153 per year, or $20.7 per hour.

Lab - 2nd Shift Floating Technician

Dr. Tavel Optical Group

Indianapolis, IN • On-site

$24/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago


Dr. Tavel rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7th of 40 rated optical retailers


Job description

Description
Floating Lab Technician (Second Shift)
Position Salary: Starting at $24 per hour
Expected Work Schedule: Monday - Friday, 4:00 PM - 12:30 PM
Overview:
Dr. Tavel is seeking a versatile and dependable Floating Lab Technician to join our team. This role is essential for ensuring smooth operations across various areas of our optical lab, including inventory management, machinery operation, glasses assembly, and supporting projects as needed. The Floating Lab Technician will travel between lab functions to fill in for team members on PTO or assist with backlogged tasks, adapting quickly to a variety of responsibilities.
Our lab environment is fast-paced and equipped with state-of-the-art technology. We welcome candidates eager to learn and thrive in a dynamic setting. Optical experience is a plus but not required-we will provide comprehensive training!
Ideal Candidate Attributes/Key Competencies:
  • Optical Knowledge: Prior experience in optics is advantageous but not mandatory.
  • Self-Management/Determination: Ability to perform various tasks independently with minimal supervision.
  • Technical Skills: Familiarity with operating machinery is preferred but not required.
  • Communication Skills: Strong verbal and written communication skills to coordinate with multiple managers and departments.
  • Personality Traits: Trustworthy, effective communicator, fast learner, strong teammate, and problem solver.
  • Strengths: Proficient multitasking, quick adaptability to diverse tasks, ability to take direction well, and flexibility in transitioning between computer work, physical tasks, and machinery.

Responsibilities:
  • Learn and operate various lab machinery to produce high-quality eyewear.
  • Perform tasks across multiple areas such as inventory management, glasses assembly, and more.
  • Support team members by filling in for those on PTO or assisting with backlogged work.
  • Communicate effectively with managers and team members across departments.
  • Troubleshoot basic machinery issues and perform light repairs as needed.
  • Adapt to shifting priorities and manage tasks independently with minimal supervision.

Qualifications:
  • Capable of standing for extended periods and lifting up to 25 pounds.
  • 1+ years of experience in a fast-paced manufacturing environment is a plus, but not required.
  • Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and multitasking abilities.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office and basic computer navigation.
  • Comfortable performing repetitive tasks and working with small parts.

Benefits:
  • Paid Time Off and Company Paid Holidays
  • 401(k)
  • Vision Perk - Free eye exams and glasses for you + large discounts for family
  • Health, Prescription, and Dental Insurance
  • 100% Paid Pregnancy and Parental Leave
  • Company Paid Life Insurance

What Dr. Tavel employees say

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