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Optical Lab Jobs in Maryland (NOW HIRING)

EssilorLuxottica

Team Lead

Rockville, MD · On-site

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 Group

Team Lead

Rockville, MD · On-site

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

Team Lead

Rockville, MD

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

CompQsoft Inc

$143K - $186K/yr

Mock-up equipment problems in the Test Lab to reproduce the problem and work toward a solution. * Engineering support: * Analyze new Optical transport equipment. Determine/identify functional ...

Boscov's

Optical Manager

Nottingham, MD · On-site

$20/hr

... the lab to ensure orders are processed timely. If you are looking for a great opportunity to pursue a rewarding career with a company known for quality and big savings, apply today! Job ...

CompQsoft Inc

$143K - $186K/yr

Mock-up equipment problems in the Test Lab to reproduce the problem and work toward a solution. * Engineering support: * Analyze new Optical transport equipment. Determine/identify functional ...

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Optical Lab information

See Maryland salary details

$11

$21

$54

How much do optical lab jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical lab in Maryland is $21.16, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.95 and $20.05 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

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 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.

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, edging, and inspection. Familiarity with optical tools and safety procedures is important, and some positions may require certification or on-the-job training. Attention to detail and manual dexterity are essential skills for this role.

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

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

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

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

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

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

What cities in Maryland are hiring for Optical Lab jobs?

Cities in Maryland with the most Optical Lab job openings:

Optical Lab jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Lab job openings in Maryland as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $44,014 per year, or $21.2 per hour.

FSO Lab Manager / Technician

Annapolis Junction, MD • On-site

General Dynamics Mission Systems, Inc
Guided Missile and Space Vehicle Manufacturing • 10K+ employees
Learn more about General Dynamics Mission Systems, Incexternal

$82K - $88K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Posted 12 days ago

General Dynamics Mission Systems rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 31 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Basic Qualifications
EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS:
Bachelor's or Technology degree in Engineering or a related specialized area/field, or equivalent combination of education and relevant work experience, plus 2 years of relevant experience; or Master's degree.
CLEARANCE REQUIREMENTS:
Department of Defense TS/SCI with Poly security clearance is preferred at time of hire. Applicants selected will be subject to a U.S. Government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information. Due to the nature of work performed within our facilities, U.S. citizenship is required.
Responsibilities for this Position
ROLE AND POSITION OBJECTIVES:
General Dynamics Mission Systems is seeking a self-directed FSO Lab Manager / Technician to support our Free-Space Optical (FSO) communications and electro-optical development programs. Consistent with the Engineering Technician role, this person provides technical assistance, troubleshooting, and support to the engineering team - performing research and laboratory functions (layout, building, testing, troubleshooting, and repair of devices, assemblies, subsystems, and systems) while owning day-to-day operation of the FSO lab. This includes performing solder operations at a production level quality per IPC requirements.
This is a dual-scope role: the person both owns the lab and performs hands-on technician work at the bench. The ideal candidate takes full ownership of lab responsibilities with minimal direction, anticipates program needs, and keeps the lab ready to support engineering and test schedules.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Own the FSO lab: layout, readiness, cleanliness, and configuration control of the bench setups.
  • Equipment management: inventory, calibration tracking/scheduling, and coordination of repairs; ensure test equipment is in-cal and available when programs need it.
  • Consumables and supplies: track and replenish fiber, connectors, solder, optics, and lab consumables; interface with purchasing/vendors.
  • Laser and lab safety: maintain a safe optical lab environment, support laser safety practices (LSO coordination, signage, PPE, controlled access), and manage ESD controls.
  • Scheduling / prioritization: coordinate shared lab and equipment use across multiple engineers and programs.
  • Maintain lab documentation, equipment records, and as-built configuration.

What sets you apart:
  • Hands-on use of specialized optical equipment: e.g. fusion/mechanical fiber splicers, theodolites/autocollimators, interferometers, beam profilers, spectrum/optical spectrum analyzers.
  • Experience in free-space optical communications or laser/electro-optical systems.
  • IPC certification (e.g., IPC J-STD-001, IPC-A-610); fiber optic certification (e.g., FOA CFOT) a plus.
  • Familiarity with calibration management and lab equipment tracking systems.
  • Experience supporting a controlled lab environment.
  • Laser safety training or LSO/Deputy LSO experience.
  • Comfort operating independently.

Our Commitment to You:
  • An exciting career path with opportunities for continuous learning and development.
  • Research oriented work, alongside award winning teams developing practical solutions for our nation's security.
  • Flexible schedules with every other Friday off work, if desired (9/80 schedule).
  • Competitive benefits, including 401k matching, flex time off, paid parental leave, healthcare benefits, health & wellness programs, employee resource and social groups, and more.
  • See more at gdmissionsystems.com/careers/why-work-for-us/benefits.

Workplace Options:
  • This position is fully on-site with occasional Hybrid/Flex available.
  • While on-site, you will be a part of the Annapolis Junction Team.

Salary Note
This estimate represents the typical salary range for this position based on experience and other factors (geographic location, etc.). Actual pay may vary. This job posting will remain open until the position is filled.
Combined Salary Range
USD $82,015.00 - USD $88,743.00 /Yr.
Company Overview
General Dynamics Mission Systems (GDMS) engineers a diverse portfolio of high technology solutions, products and services that enable customers to successfully execute missions across all domains of operation. With a global team of 12,000+ top professionals, we partner with the best in industry to expand the bounds of innovation in the defense and scientific arenas. Given the nature of our work and who we are, we value trust, honesty, alignment and transparency. We offer highly competitive benefits and pride ourselves in being a great place to work with a shared sense of purpose. You will also enjoy a flexible work environment where contributions are recognized and rewarded. If who we are and what we do resonates with you, we invite you to join our high-performance team!
Equal Opportunity Employer / Individuals with Disabilities / Protected Veterans

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