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Optical Lab Technician Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Dimensional Lab Technician

Auburn Hills, MI · On-site

$18 - $24/hr

US Farathane is hiring for a Dimensional Lab Technician to work out of our Corporate Tech Center in ... Ability to operate various measuring equipment (CMM and, or 3D scanner and, or optical comparator)

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Optician

Edwardsburg, MI · On-site

$20 - $23/hr

One year of experience as a full time optician is preferable. Applicant must be extremely detail ... Creating work orders for lab technicians to ensure delivery of the proper lenses * Adjusting ...

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Optical Lab Technician information

See Michigan salary details

$10

$19

$49

How much do optical lab technician jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical lab technician in Michigan is $19.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.41 and $18.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of an optical lab technician, and how do they contribute to the overall workflow of an optical lab?

As an Optical Lab Technician, your daily responsibilities often include cutting, edging, and fitting lenses into eyeglass frames, inspecting finished products for quality, and maintaining lab equipment. You'll also manage orders, ensure accurate lens prescriptions, and collaborate with optometrists or retail staff to meet customer needs. Your attention to detail and ability to work efficiently help ensure that the optical products meet stringent quality standards and are delivered on time, which is essential for the smooth operation of the lab and customer satisfaction.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an optical lab technician, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Optical Lab Technician, you need a strong understanding of optics, precision measurement, and lens fabrication, often supported by a high school diploma or technical training. Familiarity with lens edging machines, lensometers, and coating equipment is typically required, along with knowledge of industry standards like ANSI. Attention to detail, manual dexterity, and effective communication are crucial soft skills that contribute to accuracy and teamwork. These competencies ensure high-quality optical products, minimize errors, and support efficient lab operations.

Where do optical lab technicians make the most money?

Optical lab technicians tend to earn higher salaries in regions with a higher cost of living and greater demand for optical services, such as metropolitan areas or states with a strong healthcare industry. Salaries can also increase with experience, certifications, and specialized skills in lens fabrication or equipment operation.

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 a training program or on-the-job training that can last from a few months to a year. Some employers prefer candidates with certification or technical school experience in optical or laboratory technology, which can add additional months to the preparation time.

How much do optical lab technicians earn?

Optical lab technicians typically earn between $30,000 and $50,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced technicians with specialized skills can earn higher wages. The job often requires knowledge of lens cutting, fitting, and use of optical equipment.

What is the difference between Optical Lab Technician vs Optician?

AspectOptical Lab TechnicianOptician
CredentialsTypically requires a high school diploma or equivalent; certification may enhance job prospectsRequires certification or licensing, such as NCLE or ABO certification
Work EnvironmentWorks in laboratories, handling lens cutting, edging, and assemblyWorks directly with customers in retail settings, fitting and selling eyewear
Job FocusFabricates and repairs lenses and frames based on prescriptionsAdvises patients on eyewear options and ensures proper fit

While both roles are essential in the eyewear industry, Optical Lab Technicians focus on lens fabrication and repair in labs, whereas Opticians interact directly with customers to select and fit eyewear. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and job expectations in the optical industry.

What does an optical lab technician do?

An Optical Lab Technician is responsible for manufacturing, assembling, and finishing eyeglasses and other optical devices according to prescriptions provided by optometrists or ophthalmologists. Their duties include cutting, grinding, polishing, and edging lenses, as well as fitting them into frames. They use specialized machinery and tools to ensure lenses meet precise specifications and quality standards. Additionally, Optical Lab Technicians may maintain equipment, manage inventory, and perform quality checks to ensure customers receive accurate and comfortable eyewear.
What are popular job titles related to Optical Lab Technician jobs in MI? For Optical Lab Technician jobs in MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Optical Lab Technician job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,526 per year, or $19 per hour.

Optical Lab Technician (Mon- Fri 11am - 8:45pm

ABB OPTICAL GROUP

Auburn Hills, MI • On-site

$18.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 19 days ago


ABB Optical Group rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 17 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Optical Lab Technician The Lab Technician is responsible for the timely, efficient, and accurate processing of products in the lab. Lab Technicians will be assigned an essential function, where he/she will work the predominant portion of their daily work schedule, as well as be expected to perform work in additional essential functions as business needs dictate. Essential Functions (as applicable per lab/department): Use a tracing machine to measure frame; print and match paperwork to corresponding trays; read job ticket to determine the location of lens needed and pull from bin placing correctly in tray; deliver tray to appropriate location to be scanned, verified and de-boxed Invoice and package finished jobs; scan and bin jobs into proper customer box to be shipped Sort and receive frames into system placing frames in appropriate colored trays Secure optical lens/blanks in holding tools for generating, polishing, and coating; operate equipment and clear machine errors; maintain tools for production equipment Operate finishing equipment and clear out machine errors; mount, secure and align finished lens in frames using precision hand tools; edge lens appropriately so that lens can be inserted into frames Place lens in lens holder and tint to specified color; mark lenses appropriately to achieve proper tint axis; change tint colors as needed Unload lens into lens trays; mark and inspect lenses; sort and pre-inspect lenses and operate AR coating machines Remove processed surfaced lenses from alloy block at end of surfacing process and reclaim the alloy in a reclaim tank Inspect lens blank to detect surface flaws; examine prescriptions & work orders according to standards using precision instruments; wash and clean lenses and eyeglasses using cloths and solvents; perform cosmetic inspection Work daily toward meeting production expectations set by management Always perform and comply with all job functions according to documented standard operating procedures Meet or exceed established performance thresholds in all core and secondary job functions Report all known product, process, and/or reporting defects and inefficiencies to supervisory personnel Participate in team, department, and company-wide meetings as scheduled; actively participate in team discussions and provide feedback to maintain and improve the work environment Ensure that work area is clean and organized and prepared for the next shift with all items in their designated locations Utilize proper handling techniques and equipment to minimize damages and reduce injuries Follow and uphold all OSHA and company safety guidelines, policies, and regulations Ability to work overtime as business needs dictate Other duties as assigned Supervisory Responsibilities: None Qualifications Required Qualifications: High school diploma or equivalent, or equivalent experience is required for full-time employment. Entry-level: No specific prior work experience required; training provided to enable employees to perform the minimum essential functions identified by their respective lab/department. Proficient: Minimum six (6) months of optical manufacturing experience in same or similar position prior to skills assessment to determine ability to perform all applicable essential functions identified by their respective lab/department. Ability to follow procedure and contribute as an individual and a team member. Desired Qualifications: Prior experience in a warehouse or manufacturing environment. Computer literate. Physical Demands: While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to sit, stand, walk, bend, and use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls; reach with hands and arms; talk and hear. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus are required. Compensation Range: The anticipated base salary range for this position is $18.50 Hourly. This represents the good-faith estimate of the compensation range at the time of posting. Actual pay will be based on job-related factors, which may include: geographic location, relevant experience, education and qualifications, job-related skills, internal equity considerations, and applicable minimum wage laws. This position may also be eligible for a bonus and/or commission plan, subject to the terms of the applicable plan. Benefits: Depending on eligibility and position, employees and/or eligible dependents may participate in Company-sponsored benefit programs, which may include: medical, dental, and vision insurance; life and group life insurance; voluntary supplemental life insurance; supplemental health benefits (critical illness, hospital, accident); short- and long-term disability; paid family leave (where applicable by state law); 401(k) plan; tuition reimbursement; eyewear discounts; time-off benefits. Accessibility and Accommodations: Upon request and consistent with applicable law, ABB Optical will provide reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities during the application and hiring process. To request an accommodation, please email HR@abboptical.com and include your name and contact information so we can follow up promptly. Equal Opportunity Employer: ABB Optical is an Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, protected veteran status, or disability.


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