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Optical Lab Jobs in Maryland (NOW HIRING)

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Optical Lab information

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$11

$21

$54

How much do optical lab jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 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 cities in Maryland are hiring for Optical Lab jobs?

Cities in Maryland with the most Optical Lab job openings:

Infographic showing various Optical Lab job openings in Maryland as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $44,014 per year, or $21.2 per hour.

Senior Mechanical Engineer I

Rocket Lab Corporation

Silver Spring, MD

$108K - $142K/yr

Full-time

Posted 29 days ago


Rocket Lab rating

9.2

Company rating: 9.2 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

4th of 72 rated aerospace companies


Job description

SPACE SYSTEMS

At Rocket Lab, we're not just launching rockets - we're building the future of space. Our Space Systems team builds everything from complete spacecraft, precision payloads to the components and subsystems that allow them to thrive in space, like solar panels, flight software, star trackers, optical systems, separation systems, radios, and more.

Our Space Systems team has enabled more than 1,700 missions, ranging from interplanetary exploration, in-space manufacturing to national security and defense initiatives. The team has built spacecraft, payloads, and components for missions to the Moon and Mars, working with partners including NASA, the Space Development Agency, and the U.S. Space Force. Whether it's a single high-performance spacecraft, constellation, or the vertically integrated components that help them get to space - our world class Space Systems team is empowering some of the boldest and most ambitious space missions.

SENIOR MECHANICAL ENGINEER I

As a Mechanical Engineer at Rocket Lab's Silver Spring, Maryland location, you will lead development of innovative and complex electromechanical systems from project concepting through production implementation on aggressive timelines. This facility manufactures satellite separation mechanisms. Rocket Lab's commitment to improving life on earth by going to space is built upon a foundation of hard-working and motivated individuals that collaborate, challenge, and have each other's backs. Join a driven team that's tackling challenging projects, delivering on exciting missions, and making an impact on the future of space!

WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO:

  • Lead schedule-aggressive development of innovative space mechanisms from concept through implementation as responsible engineer
  • Design mechanisms and structures in CAD and analyze using hand calcs and FEA
  • Lead requirements definition, traceability, compliance, verification, and system validation
  • Prepare and maintain technical documentation, such as system design descriptions, CONOPS and ICDs
  • Create and maintain requirements verification matrices and risk management plans
  • Support constant incremental improvements to the development team's engineering approach and best practices
  • Generate technical reports and presentations to communicate findings, progress, and recommendations to internal stakeholders and external partners
  • Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to ensure proper functionality across system interfaces and for end users
  • Own development schedules, project milestone reviews and technical interchange meetings
  • Mentor other engineers
  • Support business development proposals and custom SOWs
  • Support travel or off-site work to suppliers, customers, and other Rocket Lab sites, approximately 10%.

YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Bachelor's degree in a relevant engineering field
  • 5+ years experience in aerospace mechanical development projects
  • CAD and FEA proficiency
  • Thorough understandings of aerospace standards, environments, verification tests and requirements
  • Experience managing complex projects across organizational teams

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

  • MS in relevant engineering field
  • Proficiency in NX CAD and Simcenter FEA software
  • Strong task management, communication and problem solving skills
  • Experience adapting to changing priorities and quickly resolving blockers

This position may require prolonged periods of sitting, standing, walking, computer work, and occasional exposure to moderate levels of noise, dust, and fumes in production areas. 


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