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Optical Lab Tech Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

The company's innovation-driven growth model takes advantage of world-class technology platforms ... Support lab, pilot and scale up compounding/extrusion trials; troubleshoot processing challenges ...

... technology and excellent career opportunities. Our Power & Data division in Johnson City, TN is now ... lab instrumentation * Working knowledge of optical systems and measurement techniques Here's how we ...

... technology and excellent career opportunities. Our Power & Data division in Johnson City, TN is now ... lab instrumentation * Working knowledge of optical systems and measurement techniques Here's how we ...

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Optical Lab Tech information

See Tennessee salary details

$10

$19

$51

How much do optical lab tech jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 3, 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 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:
LensCrafters - Licensed Assistant Manager

LensCrafters - Licensed Assistant Manager

Essilor

Chattanooga, TN • On-site

Other

Medical, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago


EssilorLuxottica rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 291 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

8th of 39 rated optical retailers


Job description

Requisition ID: 928411 
Store #: 000633 LensCrafters 
Position:Full-Time
Total Rewards: Benefits/Incentive Information

LensCrafters is a place for visionaries. We've got a vision for pairing state-of-the-art technology with a truly personal approach to eye care. 
Everything we do is centered around sight. Because quality care helps us see the joy in life. Because learning from the best, makes us all better. Because continuing our legacy of the highest optical standards helps us innovate the future in optical care. 

At LensCrafters, we want every person who enters our doors to feel our passion for care. And that's why we're committed to taking care of you, so you can bring the best quality experience to our patients and customers. 

LensCrafters is part of EssilorLuxottica, a global leader in the design, manufacture and distribution of world-class vision care products, including iconic eyewear, advanced lens technology and cutting-edge digital 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!
 

GENERAL FUNCTION

The Assistant Manager acts as a leader in absence of, or in support of the Store Manager & behaves as a business owner within the marketplace & LensCrafters organization. Represents LensCrafters as the premier destination for all vision needs within the community & delivers key performance metrics.    

MAJOR DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Delivers quality & improvement to meet or exceed all key performance indicators (KPIs):
    • Comp Sales, % Sales to Plan; Conversion & Customer Count, Comp Growth; Increased Traffic; Store Operating Profitability; Continuity of Care, Exam Growth & Retention Goals; Net Promoter Score; Current year objectives
  • Demonstrates understanding of retail business & the capability to transfer knowledge to superior sales & business results. Learns & understands the competition & market trends.
  • Supports the store manager in diagnosing the business & leverages the synergies of Retail, Lab & Doctor to drive positive results.
  • Supports store business plans to maximize sales & profit, leverages strengths & addresses opportunities for recovery.
  • Partners with store manager to lead a team through strong knowledge & skills.
  • Provides training & guidance to team members.
  • Delivers clear & constructive feedback in a timely manner.
  • Informs store manager of any situation that may require any development or disciplinary action of others.
  • Supports recruiting, helps select high caliber team & creates talent pipeline.
  • Follows guidelines to optimally staff store.
  • Shows great pride in the store appearance & executes visual directives.
  • Strives to maintain positive working relationship with doctors.
  • Adheres to & ensures compliance of team to Company policies & procedures. Meets or exceed all goals.
  • Anticipates problems before they occur; explores underlying reasons and root cause; strives for long-term solutions to problems.
  • Performs & understands administrative duties.
  • Maintains a safe working environment for all.
  • Works a flexible schedule, including nights & weekends.
  • Under current & valid state Opticianry license perform the following:
    • Provides expertise & product knowledge on lens choices based on the patient's vision needs & doctor prescription.
    • Adjusts &/or repairs eyewear.
    • Presents and dispenses eyewear & creates a lasting impression.
    • Performs accurate digital measurements.

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS

  • High School graduate or equivalent
  • Current & valid state Opticianry license
  • 1+ year(s) management/supervisory experience with direct reports
  • Knowledge of retail operations, processes & policies
  • Strong basic math skills
  • Familiarity with cash register, computers & calculators
  • Must have a strong command of the English language for all written correspondence & oral communication
  • Strong communicator & listener
  • Demonstrated high-level of selling skills
  • Proven ability to problem solve

 

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

  • College degree or equivalent
  • Previous experience in leadership position within retail & customer service industry
  • Knowledge of basic optics
  • Knowledge of current store merchandise
  • State licensure (if applicable) &/or ABO Certification in non-licensed states
  • Brand Final Inspector Certification
  • Brand Quality, Fitting & Adjusting Program

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 HRCompliance@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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