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Optical Lab Technician Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

HonorVet Technologies

Lab Technician i

Saint Cloud, MN · On-site

$18.75 - $25/hr

Position- Lab Technician I Location- 6925 Sauk view Drive, Saint Cloud, MN, 56303 Duration- 6+ ... S. and own the largest and most comprehensive optical laboratory network in the U.S. bout this role:

HonorVet Technologies

Lab Technician i

Saint Cloud, MN · On-site

$18.75 - $25/hr

Position- Lab Technician I Location- 6925 Sauk view Drive, Saint Cloud, MN, 56303 Duration- 6+ ... S. and own the largest and most comprehensive optical laboratory network in the U.S. bout this role:

Concept Machine

Calibration Lab Technician

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$23 - $31.25/hr

A Calibration Lab Technician will routinely test equipment and instruments to check that their ... Previous work involving optical comparators and CMMs is also valuable. Those with electrical ...

Integrated Resources INC

Lab Technician- II

Moundsview, MN

$20.25 - $26.75/hr

Perform hands-on laboratory work and data analysis under the direction of staff engineers, including fatigue, optical microscopy, polymer analysis and sample preparation. * Provide input regarding ...

AEG Vision

Optician

Oakdale, MN · On-site

$17.75 - $22.75/hr

Optician Opticians are responsible for selling eyewear and eyewear accessories to patients. They ... for lab technicians, specifying information on lenses needed Follows-up on all pending orders.

AEG Vision

Optician

Alexandria, MN · On-site

$16.50 - $21.50/hr

Optician Opticians are responsible for selling eyewear and eyewear accessories to patients. They ... Creates work orders for lab technicians, specifying information on lenses needed * Follows-up on ...

AEG Vision

Optician

Alexandria, MN

$16.50 - $21.50/hr

Opticians are responsible for selling eyewear and eyewear accessories to patients. They ensure ... Creates work orders for lab technicians, specifying information on lenses needed * Follows-up on ...

AEG Vision

Optician

Alexandria, MN · On-site

$16.50 - $21.50/hr

Opticians are responsible for selling eyewear and eyewear accessories to patients. They ensure ... Creates work orders for lab technicians, specifying information on lenses needed * Follows-up on ...

AEG Vision

Optician

Oakdale, MN

$17.75 - $22.75/hr

Opticians are responsible for selling eyewear and eyewear accessories to patients. They ensure ... Creates work orders for lab technicians, specifying information on lenses needed * Follows-up on ...

AEG Vision

Optician

Oakdale, MN · On-site

$17.75 - $22.75/hr

Opticians are responsible for selling eyewear and eyewear accessories to patients. They ensure ... Creates work orders for lab technicians, specifying information on lenses needed * Follows-up on ...

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Optical Lab Technician information

See Minnesota salary details

$11

$21

$55

How much do optical lab technician jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical lab technician in Minnesota is $21.35, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.05 and $20.24 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 cities in Minnesota are hiring for Optical Lab Technician jobs?

Cities in Minnesota with the most Optical Lab Technician job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Optical Lab Technician jobs in MN?

For Optical Lab Technician jobs in MN, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Optical Lab Technician jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Lab Technician job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $44,416 per year, or $21.4 per hour.

Optical Lab Technician PT Duluth, MN #082

Eyemart Express

Duluth, MN • On-site

$15 - $18/hr

Part-time

Re-posted yesterday

Eyemart Express rating

6.1

Company rating: 6.1 out of 10

Based on 80 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

21st of 40 rated optical retailers

Job description

Optical Lab Technician Part-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 an Optical Lab Technician, you'll be responsible for cutting, edging, and creating prescription lenses to ensure customers receive their new glasses in a timely manner. Your technical skills and attention to detail will contribute to our high standards of quality and service. Experience is preferred but not required, as we are willing to train the right candidate.

Earning Potential: The earning potential for this role is competitive, inclusive of base pay ($15-$18) and incentives.

Responsibilities:

Lab Work: Identify and work with basic optical laboratory equipment, tools, supplies, and materials. Consistently adhere to hourly deadlines for finishing jobs.

Prescription Management: Correctly read and interpret prescription specifications and input into the computer to ensure lenses are cut properly.

Maintenance: Maintain the lab area and equipment in a safe and organized manner. Perform daily, weekly, and monthly lab equipment maintenance as scheduled and in accordance with lab/equipment manual specifications.

Operational Excellence: Perform multiple concurrent tasks at several different equipment stations to maintain acceptable job flow. Fill out all assigned reporting forms in a timely manner.

Requirements:

High School Diploma or GED

Experience working in a lab or technical setting

Experience working in the optical industry is preferred

Must be able to read, comprehend, and follow technical manuals and protocols

At Eyemart Express, we're dedicated to excellence in everything we do. We understand the importance of work-life balance and strive to be as flexible as possible with scheduling needs 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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