ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Optical Lab Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Essilor

LensCrafters - Team Lead

Bloomingdale, IL · On-site

$18.25 - $21.25/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

Bloomingdale, IL · On-site

$18.25 - $21.25/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

Essilor

LensCrafters - Team Lead

Wheaton, IL · On-site

$17.75 - $20.75/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

Essilor

LensCrafters - Team Lead

Oak Brook, IL

$18.25 - $21.25/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

Bard Optical

Retail Sales

Galesburg, IL

$15.50 - $19.25/hr

Grinds lens edges or applies coating/tint to lenses if a finish lab is in the office. Computes amount of sale and collects payment for services. Promotes and fits contact lenses. Promotes optical ...

Vision Care Associates (C)

Optician

Springfield, IL · On-site

$17 - $22/hr

Prepare work order for optical laboratory containing instructions for grinding and mounting lenses ... Place all eyewear orders and work with the lab for appropriate delivery * Communicate to patients ...

Vision Care Associates (C)

Optician

Springfield, IL · On-site

$17 - $22/hr

Prepare work order for optical laboratory containing instructions for grinding and mounting lenses ... Place all eyewear orders and work with the lab for appropriate delivery * Communicate to patients ...

University of Utah

Lab Technician

Campus, IL · On-site

$19 - $21.63/hr

... optic fibers. * Perform diligent post-operative care and monitoring to ensure animal welfare ... Manage lab inventory, order supplies, and maintain equipment. * Prepare sterile surgical tools ...

University of Utah

Lab Technician

Campus, IL

$19 - $21.63/hr

... optic fibers. * Perform diligent post-operative care and monitoring to ensure animal welfare ... Manage lab inventory, order supplies, and maintain equipment. * Prepare sterile surgical tools ...

University of Utah

Lab Technician

Campus, IL · On-site

$19 - $21.63/hr

... optic fibers. * Perform diligent post-operative care and monitoring to ensure animal welfare ... Manage lab inventory, order supplies, and maintain equipment. * Prepare sterile surgical tools ...

MAUI JIM, Inc.

Rx Lab Supervisor (3rd Shift)

Peoria, IL · On-site

$60K - $65K/yr

Provide authentic Maui Jim Prescription Sunglasses to optical retailers and provide outstanding ... To supervise, coordinate and direct the work flow and personnel in the Rx Lab Surface, Finish and ...

AEG Vision

Optician

Quincy, IL · On-site

$17.25 - $22.25/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 ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsOptical Lab JobsOptical Lab Jobs in Illinois

Optical Lab information

See Illinois salary details

$11

$21

$54

How much do optical lab jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical lab in Illinois is $21.13, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.90 and $20.05 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 Illinois? The most popular types of Optical Lab jobs in Illinois are:
What are popular job titles related to Optical Lab jobs in Illinois? For Optical Lab jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Optical Lab jobs in Illinois look for? The top searched job categories for Optical Lab jobs in Illinois are:
What cities in Illinois are hiring for Optical Lab jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Optical Lab job openings:
Optical Lab jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Lab job openings in Illinois as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, and 18% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $43,945 per year, or $21.1 per hour.

LensCrafters - Team Lead

EssilorLuxottica Group

Bloomingdale, IL

$18 - $21/hr

Full-time

Medical, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago

EssilorLuxottica rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 283 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7th of 39 rated optical retailers

Job description

Requisition ID: 927311 
Store #: 000409 LensCrafters 
Position:Full-Time
Total Rewards: Benefits/Incentive Information

LensCrafters is a place for visionaries. We’ve got a vision for pairing state-of-the-art technology with a truly personal approach to eye care. 
Everything we do is centered around sight. Because quality care helps us see the joy in life. Because learning from the best, makes us all better. Because continuing our legacy of the highest optical standards helps us innovate the future in optical care. 

At LensCrafters, we want every person who enters our doors to feel our passion for care. And that's why we’re committed to taking care of you, so you can bring the best quality experience to our patients and customers. 

LensCrafters is part of EssilorLuxottica, a global leader in the design, manufacture and distribution of world-class vision care products, including iconic eyewear, advanced lens technology and cutting-edge digital solutions. Join our global community of over 200,000 dedicated employees around the world in driving the transformation of the eyewear and eyecare industry. Discover more by following us on LinkedIn!
 

GENERAL FUNCTION

The Team Lead creates exceptional value in the lives of customers & patients by delivering exceptional customer service. Ensures customers & patients are always delighted. 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

  • Ensure the LensCrafters team provides unsurpassed Customer Service
  • Proactive & solution driven, accurate execution & product knowledge
  • Assists customers with selections, provides recommendations, assists sales associates
  • Serves as a responsible alternate store key holder

While working in Lab, if applicable

  • Custom fits glasses & precisely place prescription in lenses
  • Works with associates to strengthen their knowledge, skill, & certification for foundational product & store processes related to lens and lab technology
  • Ensures finished eyewear meets optical standards & customer requirements
  • Creates a safe working environment for all, demonstrates safe work practices
  • Responsible for basic operation, cleaning & ongoing maintenance of lab tools & systems

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS

  • HS diploma/GED
  • Strong optical & retail experience
  • Knowledge of current optical theory & merchandise
  • Strong communicator & listener
  • Strong inter-personal skills
  • Strong basic math skills
  • Sales skills
  • Problem solving ability
  • Familiarity with cash register, computers & calculators
  • Leadership & training experience
  • Edging & mounting experience
  • Basic optics knowledge & optical measurement experience

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

  • State licensure (if applicable) &/or ABO Certification in non-licensed states
  • LensCrafters Final Eyewear Inspector Certification
  • LensCrafters Quality, Fitting & Adjusting Program
  • Optical machinery/instruments experience
  • Customer service experience
  • AccuFit Digital Measurement System certification
  • Knowledge of current store merchandise & lens options

Pay Range: 19.25  - 32.75 

This posting is for an existing vacancy within our business. Employee pay is determined by multiple factors, including geography, experience, qualifications, skills and local minimum wage requirements. In addition, you may also be offered a competitive bonus and/or commission plan, which complements a first-class total rewards package. Benefits may include health care, retirement savings, paid time off/vacation, and various employee discounts.

EssilorLuxottica complies with all applicable laws related to the application and hiring process. If you would like to provide feedback regarding an active job posting, or if you are an individual with a disability who would like to request a reasonable accommodation, please call the EssilorLuxottica SpeakUp Hotline at 844-303-0229 (be sure to provide your name, job id number, and contact information so that we may follow up in a timely manner) or email HRCompliance@luxotticaretail.com.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer.  All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, gender, national origin, social origin, social condition, being perceived as a victim of domestic violence, sexual aggression or stalking, religion, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, citizenship, ancestry, veteran or military status, marital status, pregnancy (including unlawful discrimination on the basis of a legally protected pregnancy or maternity leave), genetic information or any other characteristics protected by law. Native Americans in the US receive preference in accordance with Tribal Law.

What EssilorLuxottica employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply