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Optical Lab Technician Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

$17.75 - $23.50/hr

Laboratory Technician I - Bay City, TX LOCATION: Bay City - Texas - USA DEPARTMENT: QUALITY Purpose ... Experience/knowledge in metallographic sample preparation and optical microscopy, including SEM/EDS ...

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Test Technician

Sterling Heights, MI · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

... Lab View, Daisy Lab Software or PLC's · Design and implementation of mechanical actuators ... transducers, optical encoders, LVDT, current sensors, etc... · Maintains good housekeeping and ...

WM0140 Optical Direct Edge & Mount TCITY Position : Full-Time Total Rewards: Benefits/Incentive ... lab production. MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES * Perform various tasks of area production ...

... lab practice; frequent troubleshooting under time pressure to restore mission critical combat ... optics, test equipment, and troubleshooting; strand training in either the Fire Controlman or ...

... lab practice; frequent troubleshooting under time pressure to restore mission critical combat ... optics, test equipment, and troubleshooting; strand training in either the Fire Controlman or ...

... lab practice; frequent troubleshooting under time pressure to restore mission critical combat ... optics, test equipment, and troubleshooting; strand training in either the Fire Controlman or ...

... lab practice; frequent troubleshooting under time pressure to restore mission critical combat ... optics, test equipment, and troubleshooting; strand training in either the Fire Controlman or ...

... lab practice; frequent troubleshooting under time pressure to restore mission critical combat ... optics, test equipment, and troubleshooting; strand training in either the Fire Controlman or ...

... lab practice; frequent troubleshooting under time pressure to restore mission critical combat ... optics, test equipment, and troubleshooting; strand training in either the Fire Controlman or ...

... lab practice; frequent troubleshooting under time pressure to restore mission critical combat ... optics, test equipment, and troubleshooting; strand training in either the Fire Controlman or ...

... lab practice; frequent troubleshooting under time pressure to restore mission critical combat ... optics, test equipment, and troubleshooting; strand training in either the Fire Controlman or ...

... lab practice; frequent troubleshooting under time pressure to restore mission critical combat ... optics, test equipment, and troubleshooting; strand training in either the Fire Controlman or ...

Showing results 21-40

Optical Lab Technician information

See Michigan salary details

$10

$19

$49

How much do optical lab technician jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 13, 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.

Lead Optical Retail Associate FT Lansing, MI #117

Eyemart Express

Lansing, MI • On-site

$17.25 - $19.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted yesterday

New


Eyemart Express rating

6.1

Company rating: 6.1 out of 10

Based on 80 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

21st of 39 rated optical retailers


Job description

Lead Optical Retail Sales Associate (Key Holder) Full-Time

30 years ago, Dr. Barnes founded Eyemart Express to deliver everything a patient needs. It started with one friendly shop in Appleton, WI, and has since expanded to over 245 in 42 states. Today, Eyemart Express is celebrated for promptly delivering quality eyewear at great prices while maintaining great relationships with optometrists and local communities. Were not like everyone else, with local labs in stores, eye exams, and same-day delivery on glasses our customers never miss a moment. Now, you can join one of the nations top optical retailers and improve lives by helping people see better.

As a Lead Optical Retail Sales Associate (Key Holder), you will play a crucial role in assisting patients with their eyewear needs and ensuring they receive exceptional service. Your leadership skills and retail experience will be vital in maintaining our high standards of customer satisfaction and operational efficiency.

Earning Potential: The earning potential for this role is competitive, inclusive of base pay and incentives.

Responsibilities:

  • Customer Assistance: Assist patients in selecting eyeglass frames, lenses, and coatings that best suit their needs.

  • Prescription Accuracy: Ensure lab technicians have accurate measurements and prescription information for grinding, coating, and fitting lenses to frames.

  • Product Dispensing: Dispense completed glasses to patients and educate them on proper care.

  • Store Operations: Help the management team open and close the store as needed.

  • Customer Service: Provide exceptional service and maintain knowledge of current sales, promotions, and policies regarding payment, returns, and exchanges.

  • Payment Processing: Compute and process payment transactions/refunds using the in-house Point of Sale system.

  • Administrative Tasks: Perform other administrative tasks as assigned, including processing insurance claims and maintaining patient files.

  • Product Knowledge: Maintain up-to-date knowledge of products and assist in the stocking and straightening of merchandise.

Requirements:

  • High School Diploma or GED

  • Experience working in retail, customer service, or sales

  • Experience in the optical industry is preferred

  • Experience in a lead or management position is preferred

  • Ability to correctly read and interpret prescription specifications and input into the computer to ensure lenses are cut properly

Benefits:

  • Health Insurance

  • Vision Insurance

  • Dental Insurance

  • Matching 401k

  • Short-Term and Long-Term Disability

  • Life Insurance

  • Fully paid benefits to maintain licensing requirements and opportunities for advancement

At Eyemart Express, were committed to excellence in all we do. We understand the importance of work-life balance and strive to be as flexible as possible with scheduling to ensure our team members can achieve harmony between work and personal life.

If you're ready to join a company that values excellence, invests in your future, and respects your need for balance, submit your resume today! Eyemart Express is where your career takes off.

This posting provides an overview of the role. A full job description will be provided upon hire.

VSP Vision is an equal opportunity employer and gives consideration for employment to qualified applicants without regard to age, gender, race, color, religion, sex, national origin, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability or protected veteran status. We maintain a drug-free workplace and perform pre-employment substance abuse testing.


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