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Optical Lab Tech Jobs in Louisiana (NOW HIRING)

Essilor

Manager- Lab

Jefferson, LA · On-site

... Optical, and leading e-commerce platforms. Our unique business model and relentless pursuit of ... In our dynamic environment, fueled by technology and innovation, our people have the space to ...

EssilorLuxottica Group

Manager- Lab

Jefferson, LA · On-site

... Optical, and leading e-commerce platforms. Our unique business model and relentless pursuit of ... In our dynamic environment, fueled by technology and innovation, our people have the space to ...

EssilorLuxottica

Manager- Lab

Jefferson, LA · On-site

... Optical, and leading e-commerce platforms. Our unique business model and relentless pursuit of ... In our dynamic environment, fueled by technology and innovation, our people have the space to ...

Thorlabs

Applications Engineer II

Lafayette, LA · On-site

$93K/yr

... based) technologies. Backed by a dedicated workforce of more than 3,000 employees worldwide ... Deep experience with a variety of optics lab equipment, including spectrum analyzers, feedback ...

Essilor

RxO - Distribution Clerk 2 (1st Shift)

Jefferson, LA · On-site

$14.50 - $17.75/hr

E00649 Lab Ops - Edge JEFFN Position : Full-Time Total Rewards: Benefits/Incentive Information If ... In our dynamic environment, fueled by technology and innovation, our people have the space to ...

All JobsOptical Lab Tech JobsOptical Lab Tech Jobs in Louisiana

Optical Lab Tech information

See Louisiana salary details

$10

$18

$48

How much do optical lab tech jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical lab tech in Louisiana is $18.64, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.17 and $17.69 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 Louisiana?

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Optical Lab Tech job openings in Louisiana as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 8% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,779 per year, or $18.6 per hour.

Manager- Lab

Jefferson, LA • On-site

Essilor
Manufacturing • 10K+ employees
Learn more about Essilorexternal

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago

EssilorLuxottica rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 299 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Requisition ID: 943145 
Store #: E01117 Lab Ops - Ops Management JEFFN 
Position: Full-Time 
Total Rewards: Benefits/Incentive Information

If you've worn a pair of glasses, we've already met.

We are a global leader in the design, manufacture, and distribution of ophthalmic lenses, frames, and sunglasses. We offer our industry stakeholders in over 150 countries access to a global platform of high-quality vision care products such as the Essilor brand, with Varilux, Crizal, Eyezen, Stellest and Transitions, iconic brands that consumers love such as Ray-Ban, Oakley, Persol and Oliver Peoples, as well as a network that offers consumers high-quality vision care and best-in-class shopping experiences such as Sunglass Hut, LensCrafters, and Target Optical, and leading e-commerce platforms.

Our unique business model and relentless pursuit of operational excellence ensures that consumers everywhere have access to products. Balancing speed, efficiency and proximity, the Company manages a global supply chain with cutting-edge technology, based on centralization for frames and on a capillary network for lens finishing and prescription laboratories. In our dynamic environment, fueled by technology and innovation, our people have the space to pioneer new 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!

JOB DESCRIPTION

GENERAL FUNCTIONS

The Lab Manager oversees all operations and people management aspects of a lab. The scope of the role may vary based on various factors, such as the volume, number of employees, the type of lab, and other factors. The volume of jobs per day is approximately <400 for Proximity labs.

The Lab Manager leads strategy and operations to meet safety, quality, production, maintenance, and people management goals. They are accountable for lab performance, ensuring it aligns with company standards. Responsibilities include driving efficiency, developing high-performing teams, leading change, and fostering continuous improvement. The Lab Manager also collaborates with senior leadership and other teams to drive execution and enhance performance.

MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Enforces safety policies, ensuring compliance with internal and external regulations (e.g., EH&S, EPA, OSHA).
  • Leads efforts to improve operational efficiency through financial management, structure, processes, quality, resource allocation, change management, and expense control.
  • Analyzes data and trends to develop strategies for achieving goals.
  • Implements strategies and best practices in operations and people management.
  • Communicates strategy to engage and motivate employees.
  • Sets clear performance objectives aligned with market and lab strategy for team members.
  • Monitors production and quality progress through data analysis and performance review.
  • Drives metric execution through action plans and accountability.
  • Collaborates with leadership to report progress and secure necessary resources.
  • Promotes a positive work environment and ensures alignment with company values.
  • Manages people processes such as hiring, training, performance management, and problem resolution.
  • Develops leadership capabilities through talent management, performance reviews, and succession planning.
  • Partners with engineering and maintenance on production and quality improvements.
  • Leads and participates in project teams.

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS

  • High School diploma/G.E.D.
  • 10+ years of experience with leading others.
  • 10+ years of experience in a manufacturing or related environment.
  • Demonstration of skills and abilities, such as the following:
  • Resolves conflict in a timely and productive manner
  • Makes effective decisions to solve problems
  • Ability to manage expenses and budgets
  • Collaborates with and influences others to achieve expected results
  • Self-motivated with a high sense of urgency, resourcefulness, and adaptability.
  • Basic computer skills and experience with MS Office; ability to learn other systems (SAP).
  • Must be able to travel as needed to meet the needs of the lab operations.
  • Experience in a very high-volume environment with complex technical processes.
  • Proven track record of individual accomplishment, contribution, and team-based success.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

  • Bachelor's degree in Business or related field.
  • Previous experience leading process improvement initiatives within a production environment utilizing Lean Manufacturing and 6 Sigma tools and processes.

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 EmployeeRelations@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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