ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Optical Lab Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

Eyeworld Vision Center

Be Seen First

Optical Lab Technician

Saraland, AL · On-site

$15 - $25/hr

May work alone in lab as necessary or with partner * Exposure to dusts, fumes, glass and/or plastic lens particulates, standard chemicals found in optical lab (some of which may be caustic), metal ...

Essilor

LensCrafters - Team Lead

Birmingham, AL

$15.50 - $18/hr

Assists in the achievement of store success by managing key optical & lab processes (if applicable) & systems to exceptional results. MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES While working in Retail

EssilorLuxottica

LensCrafters - Team Lead

Birmingham, AL · On-site

$15.50 - $18/hr

Assists in the achievement of store success by managing key optical & lab processes (if applicable) & systems to exceptional results. MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES While working in Retail

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsOptical Lab JobsOptical Lab Jobs in Alabama

Optical Lab information

See Alabama salary details

$10

$19

$50

How much do optical lab jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical lab in Alabama is $19.76, 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 Technician, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Optical Lab Technician, you need a solid understanding of lens fabrication, optical measurements, and quality control, typically supported by a high school diploma or technical training in optics. Familiarity with lens edgers, surfacing machines, and digital measurement systems is essential, and certifications from organizations like the American Board of Opticianry (ABO) can be beneficial. Attention to detail, manual dexterity, and strong problem-solving skills help ensure precision and efficiency in daily tasks. These skills are critical for producing high-quality eyewear that meets both industry standards and customer needs.

What jobs pay $500,000 a year in the US?

In the optical lab industry, high-paying roles such as senior lab managers or specialized opticians can reach six-figure salaries, especially with extensive experience, advanced certifications, or ownership of a lab. However, most positions in optical labs typically do not pay $500,000 annually, as such earnings are more common in executive or entrepreneurial roles across various industries.

What is the difference between Optical Lab vs Optical Technician?

AspectOptical LabOptical Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma, training in lens fabricationHigh school diploma, certification often preferred
Work EnvironmentManufacturing setting, working with lens equipmentRetail or clinical setting, assisting with eyewear fitting
Job FocusFabricating and finishing lensesAssisting with eyewear adjustments and measurements

Optical Lab and Optical Technician roles are related but distinct. The Optical Lab primarily focuses on lens fabrication and finishing in a manufacturing environment, requiring specialized skills and equipment. In contrast, Optical Technicians often work directly with customers or in retail settings, assisting with eyewear fitting and adjustments. Both roles require knowledge of optics but differ in daily tasks and work settings.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in an Optical Lab and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in an Optical Lab often encounter challenges such as maintaining precise quality control, managing high volumes of orders, and adapting to rapidly evolving lens technologies. Attention to detail is crucial, as even small errors can impact a patient's vision and satisfaction. To address these challenges, it’s important to follow strict standard operating procedures, utilize continuous training on new equipment, and foster strong communication with optometrists and sales teams to ensure accuracy and timely delivery.

What is the highest paid optometry job?

The highest paid optometry jobs typically include specialized roles such as optometrists with advanced certifications or those working in private practices, hospitals, or specialized clinics. Salaries can vary based on experience, location, and subspecialty areas like ocular disease or vision therapy, with some earning over $150,000 annually. Leadership positions such as clinic directors or optometry practice owners also tend to have higher compensation.

What is an optical lab?

An optical lab is a specialized facility where prescription eyeglasses, contact lenses, and other optical devices are manufactured and assembled. These labs use advanced machinery and skilled technicians to cut, grind, and coat lenses according to a patient's prescription. Optical labs also fit lenses into frames, check for quality, and ensure that each pair of glasses meets the required standards for vision correction and safety.

What is the highest paid lab technician?

The highest paid lab technicians are often those working in specialized fields such as pharmaceutical or industrial laboratories, with salaries reaching over $60,000 annually. Experience, certifications, and advanced technical skills can significantly increase earning potential in this role.

Do you need a degree to be an optical lab tech?

An optical lab technician typically does not need a college degree but should have a high school diploma or equivalent. Training is often provided on the job, and skills in handling optical equipment and understanding lens prescriptions are important. Certification is not required but can enhance job prospects.
What are the most commonly searched types of Optical Lab jobs in Alabama? The most popular types of Optical Lab jobs in Alabama are:
What are popular job titles related to Optical Lab jobs in Alabama? For Optical Lab jobs in Alabama, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Optical Lab jobs in Alabama look for? The top searched job categories for Optical Lab jobs in Alabama are:
What cities in Alabama are hiring for Optical Lab jobs? Cities in Alabama with the most Optical Lab job openings:
Optical Lab jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Lab job openings in Alabama as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% As Needed, 53% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 33% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,104 per year, or $19.8 per hour.
Optical Lab Technician

Optical Lab Technician

Eyeworld Vision Center

Saraland, AL • On-site

$15 - $25/hr

Full-time

PTO

Posted 18 days ago

Be Seen First

After you apply to this job, you can share why you’re interested to jump to the top of the candidate list.

Job description

The Lab Technician will be responsible for cutting, edging, and creating prescription lenses for patients will receive their new prescription glasses in a timely manner.

Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Identify and work with basic optical laboratory equipment, tools, supplies, and materials
  • Consistently adhere to hourly deadlines for finishing jobs
  • Correctly read and interpret prescription specifications and input into computer properly to ensure lenses are cut properly
  • 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
  • Understanding of and ability to add and/or subtract
  • Read and interpret prescription specifications

Experience Requirements

  • Experience working in the optical industry is preferred
  • Will train a motivated person

Skills and Abilities:

  • Ability to stand for prolonged periods of time (up to 8 hours per day per scheduled shift)
  • Ability to occasionally stoop, bend, kneel, crouch, reach, and twist
  • Ability to lift, carry, push, and/or pull up to approximately 25 lbs, on rare occasions aid in moving heavy lab equipment
  • Must possess excellent hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills
  • Ability to operate basic office equipment
  • Ability to communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing
  • Ability to multi-task
  • Ability to identify and solve problems, and facilitate problem solving
  • Attention to detail
  • Time management skills - ability to prioritize and work quickly and efficiently when there are multiple customers to assist
  • Ability to deal with stressful situations
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with fellow employees

Working Environment:

  • Work is performed primarily in an optical laboratory setting
  • Environment often fast-paced, deadline oriented
  • Confined space with one or more employees at any given time
  • May work alone in lab as necessary or with partner
  • Exposure to dusts, fumes, glass and/or plastic lens particulates, standard chemicals found in optical lab (some of which may be caustic), metal alloy (solid and melted), moderately high levels of noise, fluorescent lighting, cleaning agents and electrical energy
  • Will be working primarily with small manual tools (screwdriver, pliers, etc.), lenses and automated laboratory equipment

Company Description

Locally owned family-oriented optical since 1985.