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Optical Lab Tech Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Zeus Company, Inc.

Lab Tech (QC)

Chattanooga, TN

$18 - $22.75/hr

More than 50 years of experience in medical, aerospace, energy, automotive, fiber optics, and more ... Previous, physical\mechanical test lab experience * ISO Auditing experience * 2 year Technical ...

Zeus

Lab Tech (QC)

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

$18 - $22.75/hr

More than 50 years of experience in medical, aerospace, energy, automotive, fiber optics, and more ... Previous, physical\mechanical test lab experience * ISO Auditing experience * 2 year Technical ...

Zeus Company, Inc.

Lab Tech (QC)

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

$18 - $22.75/hr

Previous, physical\mechanical test lab experience * ISO Auditing experience * 2 year Technical ... More than 50 years of experience in medical, aerospace, energy, automotive, fiber optics, and more ...

TekSky

Senior Electrical Engineer

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$102K - $133K/yr

Uster Technologies, Inc. is a developer and manufacturer of complex electro-mechanical ... This role blends deep technical design with hands-on lab work , supporting both new product ...

Essilor

Account Representative

Nashville, TN · On-site

In our dynamic environment, fueled by technology and innovation, our people have the space to ... Optical. Responsible for sales performance, customer relations, growing sales volume for lab ...

EssilorLuxottica

Account Representative

Nashville, TN · On-site

In our dynamic environment, fueled by technology and innovation, our people have the space to ... Optical. Responsible for sales performance, customer relations, growing sales volume for lab ...

Essilor

Sr Regional Manager

Nashville, TN · On-site

We've got a vision for pairing state-of-the-art technology with a truly personal approach to eye ... Because continuing our legacy of the highest optical standards helps us innovate the future in ...

EssilorLuxottica

Sr Regional Manager

Nashville, TN · On-site

We've got a vision for pairing state-of-the-art technology with a truly personal approach to eye ... Because continuing our legacy of the highest optical standards helps us innovate the future in ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsOptical Lab Tech JobsOptical Lab Tech Jobs in Tennessee

Optical Lab Tech information

See Tennessee salary details

$10

$19

$51

How much do optical lab tech jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical lab tech in Tennessee is $19.79, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.94 and $18.75 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 Tennessee? For Optical Lab Tech jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Optical Lab Tech jobs in Tennessee look for? The top searched job categories for Optical Lab Tech jobs in Tennessee are:
What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Optical Lab Tech jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most Optical Lab Tech job openings:
Optical Lab Tech jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Lab Tech job openings in Tennessee as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, and 18% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $41,160 per year, or $19.8 per hour.
Lab Tech (QC)

Lab Tech (QC)

Zeus Company, Inc.

Chattanooga, TN

$18 - $22.75/hr

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago

Job description

Job Summary

The Laboratory Technician performs standard test methods to meet method and customer requirements while maintaining a clean, safe work environment.

Zeus Industrial Products, headquartered in Orangeburg, South Carolina, is the world's leading polymer extrusion manufacturer and material science innovator. More than 50 years of experience in medical, aerospace, energy, automotive, fiber optics, and more allows us to set the bar high.

Zeus is a great place to work. Expectations are high; our work is meticulous and very precise. Zeus offers an opportunity to join a very successful, family-oriented team. Our products are cutting-edge, our process is unique, and our quality and customer focus are second-to-none. We are a leader in our field and have great relationships with our customers and team members. Many of our team members are the best at what they do in the world. Our customers are leaders in their fields. Our products help save lives.

Continuous Improvement is a way of life at Zeus. Successful candidates will have a desire and ability to take our manufacturing process to the next level. Expectations are high; our work is meticulous and very precise. You must possess the ability to work independently; and the desire to learn a variety of skills. The ability to communicate clearly is imperative, as is the ability to manipulate data using various software packages. 

At Zeus, what we do matters, and we pride ourselves in "Turning polymers into possibilities." Expectations are high; our products are cutting-edge, our process is unique, and our quality and customer focus are second-to-none.

Our employees and our customers are at the center of everything we do. Those relationships have been built on a foundation that is supported by our Mission and Vision:

Our Mission:  Provide Solutions - Enable Innovation - Enhance Lives

Our Vision:  Working Together - Doing It Better

Zeus is an exciting, innovative company that offers competitive pay and a great benefits package. As we continue to push the boundaries of polymer science, we're constantly in need of new ideas, new expertise, and new team members. Are you ready to join us?
Content
  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Ability to use measurement instruments, e.g. micrometers, calipers, laser micrometers, etc.
  • Strong communication skills, both written and oral
  • Ability to interpret results against specifications/requirements
  • Strong computer skills in word processing, spreadsheets, data collection and analysis.
  • Must function well within a team oriented organizational environment
  • Detail and results oriented

Knowledge, skills, and abilities desired:

  • Previous, physical\mechanical test lab experience
  • ISO Auditing experience
  • 2 year Technical Degree in related field or equivalent experience
  • Ability to interpret basic statistics results (Mean, min, max, range etc.)
  • Oracle experience
  • Hands-on product testing and evaluation
  • Data collection, compilation and statistical analysis
  • Responsible for incoming inspection of raw materials and entering NCM into Oracle for nonconforming raw materials
  • Set-up and operation of all standard analytical equipment (Force measurement equipment, specific gravity, contact angle, microscopes etc.)
  • Maintain laboratory testing standards to assure compliance with ASTM, ISO and AAMI as required
  • Support execution of capability studies and Gage R&R studies
  • Prepare and submit test reports to customers
  • Collects Development data for gate review process
  • Complete recycled IPA testing
  • Assists with training plant employees on proper use of measurement equipment
  • IRE and ZTN, and as Calibration technician back up, perform and maintain calibration of all analytical equipment and instruments as required by manager
    • Manages the calibration database for the facility
    • Manages and coordinates external calibration of electronic equipment in a timely manner
    • Obtains quotes for needed equipment repairs, replacement gaging
    • Assist with Research and purchase gaging as requested to support new product/process development

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