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Optical Lab Tech Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

... 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 Jun 9, 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 cities in Tennessee are hiring for Optical Lab Tech jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most Optical Lab Tech job openings:
Infographic showing various Optical Lab Tech job openings in Tennessee as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 8% Locum Tenens, 17% As Needed, 58% Full Time, and 17% Part Time. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,160 per year, or $19.8 per hour.
Survey, Alignment, and Metrology Engineer

Survey, Alignment, and Metrology Engineer

Oak Ridge National Laboratory

Oak Ridge, TN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago


Oak Ridge National Laboratory rating

9.3

Company rating: 9.3 out of 10

Based on 15 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

4th of 103 rated laboratories


Job description

Requisition Id 16315
Overview:
We are seeking an engineer who will focus on using surveying and engineering analysis skills to plan accurate, high-precision metrology and alignment on a wide variety of mechanical systems in support of the Spallation Neutron Source (SNS) accelerator systems and neutron beam lines. The position will also occasionally support other projects and efforts across the Oak Ridge National Lab complex. This position resides in the Survey, Alignment, and Metrology Group in the Neutron Technologies Engineering Section, Neutron Technologies Division, Neutron Sciences Directorate at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL).
Major Duties/Responsibilities:
  • Work with scientists, engineers, and technicians to achieve required alignment and metrology tolerances.
  • Perform analysis of measurements using coordinate system transformations, least squares, and uncertainty propagation.
  • Plan and supervise dimensional inspection and feudalization of mechanical components.
  • Plan and supervise alignment during installation and modification of neutron beam lines and accelerator components.
  • Design, install, and maintain survey control networks.
  • Produce accurate and concise technical reports.
  • Prepare presentations for and respond to recommendations from design reviews and advisory committees.
  • Participate in R&D and prototyping of proposed experimental equipment.
  • Accurately and reliably communicate technical status and performance to ORNL management.
  • Comply with ORNL environment, safety, health, and quality program requirements.
  • Maintain a strong commitment to the implementation and perpetuation of ORNL values and ethics.
  • Deliver ORNL's mission by aligning behaviors, priorities, and interactions with our core values of Impact, Integrity, Teamwork, Safety, and Service. Promote equal opportunity by fostering a respectful workplace - in how we treat one another, work together, and measure success.

Basic Qualifications:
  • A BS degree in surveying, engineering, mathematics, physics, or a related field and a minimum of 5 years of related experience

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Thorough understanding of analytic geometry, uncertainty propagation, and 3D coordinate system transformations
  • Some experience in a related technician role
  • Experience with accelerators or neutron instruments
  • Familiarity with Spatial Analyzer, Verisurf, Geomagic, Cyclone, AutoCAD, and Creo software packages
  • Understanding of geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (ASME Y14.5)
  • Programming ability
  • Experience with laser trackers, coordinate measurement machines, laser scanners, optical tooling, and conventional metrology tools
  • Experience with precision alignment monitoring systems (e.g., hydrostatic levels, wire-positioning systems, LVDTs)
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills
  • Motivated self-starter with the ability to work independently and to participate creatively in collaborative teams across the laboratory
  • Ability to function well in a fast-paced research environment, set priorities to accomplish multiple tasks within deadlines, and adapt to ever-changing needs

Special Requirements:
  • Work involves various physical requirements and working conditions. As such, a pre-hire physical will be required after offer.
  • Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.
  • This position requires access to technology that is subject to export control requirements. Successful candidates must be qualified for such access without an export control license.

Benefits at ORNL:
We offer competitive pay and benefits programs to attract and retain hardworking people! The laboratory offers many employee benefits, including medical and retirement plans and flexible work hours, to help you and your family live happy and healthy. Employee amenities such as on-site fitness, banking, and cafeteria facilities are also provided for convenience.
Other benefits include the following: Prescription Drug Plan, Dental Plan, Vision Plan, 401(k) Retirement Plan, Contributory Pension Plan, Life Insurance, Disability Benefits, Generous Vacation and Holidays, Parental Leave, Legal Insurance with Identity Theft Protection, Employee Assistance Plan, Flexible Spending Accounts, Health Savings Accounts, Wellness Programs, Educational Assistance, and Employee Discounts. Relocation Assistance is available.
This position will remain open for a minimum of 5 days after which it will close when a qualified candidate is identified and/or hired.
We accept Word (.doc, .docx), Adobe (unsecured .pdf), Rich Text Format (.rtf), and HTML (.htm, .html) up to 5MB in size. Resumes from third party vendors will not be accepted; these resumes will be deleted and the candidates submitted will not be considered for employment.
If you have trouble applying for a position, please email ORNLRecruiting@ornl.gov.
ORNL is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants, including individuals with disabilities and protected veterans, are encouraged to apply. UT-Battelle is an E-Verify employer.

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