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Optical Lab Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Koch Industries

Optical Engineer

Fremont, CA · On-site

$130K - $160K/yr

Your Job We are seeking an experienced Optical Engineer to support Co-Packaged Optics (CPO) test ... Strong experimental troubleshooting and hands-on lab skills. * Ability to translate test ...

Unicare Health, LLC

Regional Optician Manager

Ontario, CA · On-site

$26 - $40/hr

Act as the primary point of contact for optical laboratories and frame/equipment vendors. Manage wholesale pricing, track turnaround times, and ensure consistent quality standards from lab partners.

Voyager Technologies, Inc.

Optical Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$135K - $185K/yr

Willingness to work hands-on in an optics lab and cleanroom environment * Self-directive person with ability to handle a dynamic work environment PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS * Direct experience with ...

Voyager Technologies, Inc.

Optical Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$135K - $185K/yr

Willingness to work hands-on in an optics lab and cleanroom environment * Self-directive person with ability to handle a dynamic work environment PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS * Direct experience with ...

Voyager Technologies, Inc.

Optical Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$135K - $185K/yr

Willingness to work hands-on in an optics lab and cleanroom environment * Self-directive person with ability to handle a dynamic work environment PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS * Direct experience with ...

Doist

Optical Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$135 - $185/hr

Willingness to work hands-on in an optics lab and cleanroom environment * Self-directive person with ability to handle a dynamic work environment PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS * Direct experience with ...

New

Sore Enterprises Inc

Dispensing Optician

Oakland, CA

$22 - $25.50/hr

... Lab Technician (google map) Optical department is seeking an experienced Dispenser and/or Lab Technician for full time employment at the East Bay locations. Candidate must have a minimum of 2 years ...

Sore Enterprises Inc

Dispensing Optician

Oakland, CA

$22 - $25.50/hr

... Lab Technician (google map) Optical department is seeking an experienced Dispenser and/or Lab Technician for full time employment at the East Bay locations. Candidate must have a minimum of 2 years ...

Sore Enterprises Inc

Dispensing Optician

Oakland, CA · On-site

$22 - $25.50/hr

... Lab Technician (google map) Optical department is seeking an experienced Dispenser and/or Lab Technician for full time employment at the East Bay locations. Candidate must have a minimum of 2 years ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsOptical Lab JobsOptical Lab Jobs in California

Optical Lab information

See California salary details

$11

$21

$55

How much do optical lab jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical lab in California is $21.52, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.19 and $20.38 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

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.

How to work at an optical lab?

To work at an optical lab, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and may require training in lens fabrication, optical measurements, and equipment operation. Positions often involve handling optical materials, using precision tools, and following safety protocols. Some roles may require certification or experience with specific machinery or software used in lens production.

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 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 are the most commonly searched types of Optical Lab jobs in California?

The most popular types of Optical Lab jobs in California are:

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

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

What job categories do people searching Optical Lab jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Optical Lab jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Optical Lab jobs?

Cities in California with the most Optical Lab job openings:

Optical Lab jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Lab job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 64% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,756 per year, or $21.5 per hour.

Optical Manufacturing Laboratory - Senior Manager

i4 Search Group Healthcare

El Cerrito, CA

$155K - $175K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 24 days ago

Job description

Senior Manager – Optical Manufacturing Laboratory

Location: Richmond, CA (Onsite)

Salary Range: $150,000 – $175,000 / year


Onsite Role: Currently 100% onsite at the Optical Manufacturing Lab in Richmond, CA — with potential for limited remote flexibility (e.g., 1 day per week) being discussed for the future.


About the Role

Seeking an experienced manufacturing leader to oversee all operations of a high-volume Optical Manufacturing Laboratory in Northern California. This facility processes over 450,000 eyeglass orders annually, averaging 10,000 orders per week, and operates 24 hours per day, 5 days per week with a workforce of 110+ employees and 5 direct reports.


The Senior Manager is responsible for production excellence, employee engagement, quality assurance, operational efficiency, safety compliance, and regulatory adherence. This role requires the ability to lead within a Labor Management Partnership environment while driving innovation, cost efficiency, and high member/customer satisfaction.


Key Responsibilities


Leadership & Team Development

  • Lead and manage a team of 110+ full-time employees and 5 direct reports.
  • Foster cross-functional collaboration and effective communication.
  • Drive employee development, coaching, performance management, and succession planning.
  • Create a high-engagement culture focused on service, quality, accountability, and efficiency.


Operational Excellence

  • Translate business plans into tactical goals and execution strategies.
  • Track and improve KPIs including Turnaround Time (TAT), first-pass yield, productivity, and quality.
  • Remove obstacles and improve workflow to enhance productivity and satisfaction.
  • Implement continuous improvement strategies across all departments.


Asset & Inventory Management

  • Develop strategic vision for equipment maintenance, inventory systems, ordering, storage, distribution, and returns.
  • Ensure all lab equipment is functioning at optimal levels.
  • Build business cases for upgrades and new technology procurement.


Financial Planning & Budget Management

  • Lead financial strategy, budgeting, and operational cost management.
  • Identify opportunities to reduce expenses while maintaining quality results.
  • Promote a culture of financial stewardship and cost consciousness.


Safety, Compliance & Quality Control

  • Ensure full compliance with all regulatory, federal, safety, and quality standards (e.g., OSHA, ANSI, FDA, ISO).
  • Develop and maintain comprehensive safety programs and inspection procedures.
  • Monitor production quality and implement solutions when issues arise.


Training & Education

  • Design and deliver ongoing training for lab personnel and optical professionals.
  • Ensure staff proficiency with equipment, workflows, policies, and safety procedures.
  • Maintain contemporary knowledge of optical manufacturing and integrated technologies.


Qualifications


Minimum Requirements:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Business, STEM, or related field and 8+ years in an optical lab or directly related environment
  • OR 11+ years of experience in an optical lab or related manufacturing field.
  • 7+ years of leadership experience managing direct reports.
  • 5+ years in optical manufacturing, eyewear fabrication, CAM, or similar manufacturing discipline.
  • At least 1 year managing operational or project budgets.


Knowledge & Skills:

  • Optical manufacturing & equipment familiarity
  • Computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) & eyewear fabrication
  • Business acumen & budgeting/financial planning
  • Inventory control and strategic asset management
  • Quality standards & regulatory compliance