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Optical Lab Tech Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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

$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 ...

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

Senior Optical Engineer

Odon, IN · On-site

$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 ...

Senior Optical Engineer

Odon, IN

$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 ...

Production Technician (Optical)

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

$16.25 - $20.25/hr

With us, you'll bring our most advanced technology and innovative products to our partners. As a ... Effectively communicate with all levels of the lab to ensure the understanding and the proper ...

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Optical Lab Tech information

See Indiana salary details

$11

$20

$53

How much do optical lab tech jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 14, 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 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 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:
Optician Eyewear Specialist Full-Time

Optician Eyewear Specialist Full-Time

Midwest Eye Consultants

Noblesville, IN • On-site

$16.25 - $21/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago


Midwest Eye Consultants rating

6.2

Company rating: 6.2 out of 10

Based on 22 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

18th of 39 rated optical retailers


Job description

Are you passionate about style and providing exceptional patient experiences? Join our team at Midwest Eye Consultants as an Optician! As an integral part of our team, you'll educate patients on the latest lens technology to optimize their vision while also honoring their personal style and curating an enjoyable shopping experience while they select their eyewear. This position allows you to utilize your administrative skills in calculating insurance co-pays and managing optical lab orders, while also showcasing your creative talents in maintaining our optical merchandise displays. If you're looking for a way to blend your love of fashion and style with your passion for helping people, we want to hear from you!
POSITION SUMMARY: An optician is an eye care professional that counsels patients through the eyewear selection process, educating patients on doctor recommendations that will give them the best possible vision. The optician not only advises patients on the best lens options for their prescription but also creates a fun shopping environment through the selection of fashionable eyewear. The ability to communicate and provide superior customer service that fosters long-lasting relationships is an important skill required for this position. This position utilizes creative design skills in the creation and maintenance of displays of optical merchandise and inventory within the optical area. This position also utilizes strong administrative skills in completing tasks such as calculating co-pays, reviewing insurance eligibility, and preparing work orders for the optical lab.
WHAT WE OFFER:
  • Starting wage will be based on knowledge, skills, and experience
  • 6.5 paid holidays per year
  • Approximately 10 days of PTO within first year
  • Full slate of benefits to include health, dental, vision, and 401k
  • Growth and wage increase through company paid certification program

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Assist patients in the selection process of spectacles, providing education on quality choices, lens selection, and frame styling to fit their lifestyle and prescription.
  • Calculate insurance co-pay based on insurance eligibility.
  • Accurately enter spectacle orders; ensure timely delivery by monitoring status on a daily basis.
  • Receive spectacle orders into system, verify order, notify patients, and schedule dispensing.
  • Contact patients for follow up on progress of adapting to dispensed eyewear and prescribed contacts.
  • Perform spectacle adjustments and repairs when necessary.
  • Troubleshoot patient concerns with eyewear when necessary.
  • Educate patients on the care of prescribed eyewear.
  • Maintain inventory pertaining to all aspects of the optical retail area, including lab supplies. Report inventory as required.
  • Maintain displays of optical merchandise.
  • Monitor patient flow throughout appointment, properly communicating delays to other departments.
  • Perform other duties and assume various responsibilities as determined by the doctor and practice leadership.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT (per ADA guidelines):
  • Physical Activity: Standing, Walking, Stooping, Grasping, Typing, and Manual dexterity. The worker is required to have visual and verbal acuity to determine the accuracy, neatness, and thoroughness of the work assigned.
  • Physical Requirements: Must be able to lift up to 15 pounds on a regular basis from floor to waist, 5 pounds from waist to shoulder, and 5 pounds from shoulder to overhead.
  • Work Environment: Professional medical office environment.

Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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