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Optical Lab Tech Jobs in Houston, TX (NOW HIRING)

Research Scientist

Houston, TX · On-site

$63K - $80K/yr

Position Summary The Kortum Lab in Rice University's Department of Bioengineering seeks a Research ... Ideal Candidate Statement The ideal candidate has postdoctoral experience in optical microscopy and ...

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 ...

Sr. Electronics Engineer

Houston, TX

$102K - $126K/yr

As both a technology innovator and project developer, Quaise builds and operates solutions that ... Conduct lab experiments, design test plans and procedures, execute tests, and write detailed ...

Sr. Electronics Engineer

Houston, TX

$102K - $126K/yr

As both a technology innovator and project developer, Quaise builds and operates solutions that ... Conduct lab experiments, design test plans and procedures, execute tests, and write detailed ...

Sr. Electronics Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$102K - $126K/yr

As both a technology innovator and project developer, Quaise builds and operates solutions that ... Conduct lab experiments, design test plans and procedures, execute tests, and write detailed ...

The Metrology Technician is responsible for setting up various metrology equipment (Optical ... Setting up, prepping scan articles, and running all metrology equipment In Lab and On Site.

Corrosion Science Post-Doctoral Fellow

Spring, TX · On-site

$45K - $61K/yr

... lower-emissions technologies. We invite you to bring your ideas to ExxonMobil to help create ... Ability to plan and build lab capabilities as well as ability to perform independent lab work ...

Showing results 41-60

Optical Lab Tech information

See Houston, TX salary details

$11

$20

$53

How much do optical lab tech jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical lab tech in Houston, TX is $20.82, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.71 and $19.76 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

How much do optical lab technicians earn?

Optical lab technicians typically earn a median annual salary of around $35,000 to $45,000, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Salaries can increase with specialized skills, advanced equipment knowledge, and working in high-demand areas or for larger optical companies.

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.

Is optical lab technician a good career?

Optical lab technicians play a key role in manufacturing and fitting eyeglasses and contact lenses, requiring skills in precision, attention to detail, and knowledge of optical equipment. The profession offers steady employment opportunities, with potential for advancement through certifications and experience. It typically involves working in a controlled environment with standard daytime hours.

What are popular job titles related to Optical Lab Tech jobs in Houston, TX?

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

What job categories do people searching Optical Lab Tech jobs in Houston, TX look for?

The top searched job categories for Optical Lab Tech jobs in Houston, TX are:

Infographic showing various Optical Lab Tech job openings in Houston, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 11% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,307 per year, or $20.8 per hour.

Electron Microscopy Technologist

ExxonMobil

Spring, TX • On-site

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 8 days ago


ExxonMobil rating

6.0

Company rating: 6.0 out of 10

Based on 229 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

71st of 86 rated oil and gas companies


Job description

About us
At ExxonMobil, our vision is to lead in energy innovations that advance modern living and a net-zero future. As one of the world's largest publicly traded energy and chemical companies, we are powered by a unique and diverse workforce fueled by the pride in what we do and what we stand for.
The success of our Upstream, Product Solutions and Low Carbon Solutions businesses is the result of the talent, curiosity and drive of our people. They bring solutions every day to optimize our strategy in energy, chemicals, lubricants and lower-emissions technologies.
We invite you to bring your ideas to ExxonMobil to help create sustainable solutions that improve quality of life and meet society's evolving needs. Learn more about our What and our Why and how we canwork together.
About Houston
ExxonMobil's state-of-the-art campus north of Houston serves as home to its Upstream, Product Solutions and Low Carbon Solutions businesses and their associated service groups. The facility opened in 2014 and accommodates more than 10,000 employees and visitors.
By bringing many global functional groups together, the campus provides employees with the tools and capabilities needed today, and in the future, to achieve business objectives and accelerate the discovery of new resources, technologies and products. It was designed to foster improved collaboration, creativity and innovation and enhance the company's ability to attract, develop and retain the top talent in the industry.
The campus is located in Spring, Texas, on 385 wooded acres immediately to the west of Interstate Highway 45 (I-45), at the intersection of I-45 and the Hardy Toll Road, approximately 25 miles from the cultural vibrancy of downtown Houston.
The campus was constructed to the highest standards of energy efficiency and environmental stewardship. Its design incorporates extensive research into best practices in building and workplace design through extensive benchmarking of the world's top academic, research, and corporate facilities.
Learn more about what we do in Houston here.
What role you will play in our team
  • Champion microscopy technologies and its advanced applications for R&D and business.
  • Solve problems in energy industry using advanced microscopy techniques.
  • Operation and maintenance of an Electron Microprobe (EPMA).
  • Support other microanalysis instruments and sample preparation tools.
  • Work closely with scientists to coordinate daily lab operations and guide technical assignments.
  • Provide technical expertise to research programs, business units, and customer support, both independently and within multidisciplinary teams.
  • Assist in oversight and training of microscope users.
  • Maintain documentation of procedures, calibrations and results.
  • Stay current with developments in EPMA and related techniques.

About you
Skills & Qualifications:
  • M.S. with research experience in Material Science, Physics, Geoscience, or related field, or B.S. with 5+ years relevant lab experience.
  • Experience operating and maintaining an electron microprobe (EPMA) including quantitative analysis using WDS and EDS.
  • Proficiency with sample preparation techniques for electron microscopy.
  • Ability to manage lab operations safely and efficiently, including developing procedures and maintaining sample and chemical inventories.
  • Strong organizational and communication skills; ability to plan experiments independently and work as part of a multidisciplinary team.

Preferred Qualifications & Experience:
  • Experience with one or more of the following additional microanalysis tools: SEM, FIB, TEM, SIMS, x-ray CT, optical microscopy.
  • Experience applying image processing and statistical analysis to support data interpretation and reporting (e.g., Python, MATLAB, ImageJ, or R).
  • Proficiency with JEOL EPMA software and/or Probe for EPMA.
  • Metallography or petrography experience.

Your benefits
An ExxonMobil career is one designed to last. Our commitment to you runs deep: our employees grow personally and professionally, with benefits built on our core categories of health, security, finance, and life.
We offer you:
  • Pension Plan: Enrollment is automatic and at no cost to you. The basic benefit is a monthly annuity to be paid to you in retirement for the rest of your life.
  • Savings Plan: You can contribute between 6% and 20% of your pay and are encouraged to enroll right away. If you contribute at least 6% to your savings plan, the Company will contribute a 7% match.
  • Workplace Flexibility: We have several programs such as "Flex your Day", providing ad-hoc flexibility around when and where you work, as well as longer-term programs such as leaves of absence and part-time work.
  • Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans.
  • Culture of Health: Programs and resources to support your wellbeing.
  • Employee Health Advisory Program: Provides confidential professional counseling for you and your family, including tools and resources promoting mental health and resiliency at no additional cost to you.
  • Disability Plan: Income replacement for when you cannot work due to illness or injury occurring on or off the job. Enrollment is automatic and at no cost to you.
  • More information on our Company's benefits can be found at www.exxonmobilfamily.com
  • Please note benefits may be changed from time to time without notice, subject to applicable law.

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ExxonMobil is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship status, protected veteran status, genetic information, or physical or mental disability.
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Nothing herein is intended to override the corporate separateness of local entities. Working relationships discussed herein do not necessarily represent a reporting connection, but may reflect a functional guidance, stewardship, or service relationship.
Exxon Mobil Corporation has numerous affiliates, many with names that include ExxonMobil, Exxon, Esso and Mobil. For convenience and simplicity, those terms and terms like corporation, company, our, we and its are sometimes used as abbreviated references to specific affiliates or affiliate groups. Abbreviated references describing global or regional operational organizations and global or regional business lines are also sometimes used for convenience and simplicity. Similarly, ExxonMobil has business relationships with thousands of customers, suppliers, governments, and others. For convenience and simplicity, words like venture, joint venture, partnership, co-venturer, and partner are used to indicate business relationships involving common activities and interests, and those words may not indicate precise legal relationships.

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