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Optical Lab Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Optician

Big Rapids, MI · On-site

$44K - $46K/yr

... optical fabrication lab. The anticipated start date for this position is July 2026; however, this is an estimate and may be revised if needed. The selected candidate for this position must be ...

... optical fabrication lab. The anticipated start date for this position is July 2026; however, this is an estimate and may be revised if needed. The selected candidate for this position must be ...

Optician I

Grand Rapids, MI · On-site

$16.50 - $21.25/hr

Optical management software * Web-based lab orders * Lensometer & pupilometer * Hand and hot tools for glasses adjustment CLIENT POPULATION SERVED: May serve all patient populations. The essential ...

Optician I

Grand Rapids, MI

$16.50 - $21.25/hr

Optical management software * Web-based lab orders * Lensometer & pupilometer * Hand and hot tools for glasses adjustment CLIENT POPULATION SERVED: May serve all patient populations. The essential ...

Improving existing optical thin film coating designs and inventing new designs, to produce targeted performance tailored to the end-use application. * Examples include new wavelength designs ...

Improving existing optical thin film coating designs and inventing new designs, to produce targeted performance tailored to the end-use application. * Examples include new wavelength designs ...

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Showing results 1-20

Optical Lab information

See Michigan salary details

$10

$19

$49

How much do optical lab jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical lab in Michigan is $19.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.41 and $18.03 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 Michigan? The most popular types of Optical Lab jobs in Michigan are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Optical Lab jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Optical Lab job openings:
Optician

$44K - $46K/yr

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, PTO

Posted 8 days ago


Ferris State University rating

5.7

Company rating: 5.7 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

503rd of 538 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Optician
Job no: 497853
Work type: Staff
Location: Big Rapids, MI 49307
Categories: Staff
Position Title: Optician
Location: Big Rapids (Main Campus)
Department:
36000 - Optometry Deans Office
Advertised Salary: $44,335-$46,335; Salary commensurate with education, experience, and other requirements.
Benefits:
Comprehensive benefits package (health care, vacation, etc.). Please see the following link for a list of benefits offered with this position.
Admin / Admin Temp Benefit Plans
FLSA: Non-Exempt
Temporary/Continuing: Continuing
Part-Time/Full-Time: Full-Time
Union Group: N/A
Term of Position: 12 Month
At Will/Just Cause: Just Cause
Summary of Position: The Michigan College of Optometry (MCO) at Ferris State University is seeking a patient-focused optician to provide high-quality optical care to patients at the University Eye Center. The optician will also provide assistance to Michigan College of Optometry students as they develop their opticianry and ophthalmic skills and operational support to the optical fabrication lab.
The anticipated start date for this position is July 2026; however, this is an estimate and may be revised if needed.
The selected candidate for this position must be authorized to work in the United States at the time of hire without employer assistance or sponsorship now or in the future. The university will not assist with any F1 EAD's, OPT, H1B, etc.
Position Type: Staff
Required Education: AAS degree in opticianry or equivalent experience in lieu of degree
The listed requirements are representative of the knowledge, skills, and/or abilities required. Any equivalent combination of education, training, and experience that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities may be considered. Equivalency for education is two years of full-time related work experience equals one year of education.
Required Work Experience: 2 years' experience working as an optician or in the optical field. Excellent oral and written communication skills. Must be familiar with Word and Excel.
Required Licenses and Certifications: ABO certification or eligible to receive certification.
If no certification, must obtain within six months of employment
Physical Demands:
  • Office Environment
  • Moving
  • Reaching
  • Sitting
  • Twisting
  • Standing

Additional Education/Experiences to be Considered: Compulink Eyecare software program knowledge preferred
Essential Duties/Responsibilities: Assist Optometry students in development of their opticianry skills, including orientation to newly assigned clinical students.
Evaluate optometric students working with patients in the clinic dispensary.
Assist patients and students in the selection of ophthalmic frame.
Consult with patients and students in their selection of appropriate lens materials and various options, adjust and align frames, instruct patients in the correct use and proper care of their eyewear and low-vision aids, including deliveries and repairs.
Verify ophthalmic prescriptions, schedule dispensing appointments, and contact patients by phone, email, and/or US Mail.
Assist in maintaining frame inventory, including selection, ordering, labeling and pricing, including maintaining financial accountability of inventory.
Continue to maintain professional development within area of responsibility and assist faculty and staff as needed.
Assist in the optical fabrication laboratory including ordering supplies, managing job flow, and the fabrication of lenses.
Apply working knowledge of insurance policies and benefits in order to assist patients in the selection of eyewear.
Provide quality patient care services within the dispensary area for the University Eye Center, Michigan College of Optometry. Provide departmental assistance to MCO students in developing their Opticianry and ophthalmic skills and abilities along with operational support for a variety of clinic functions including inventory, purchasing, pricing, running various reports, answering phones, calling patients, frame selections, adjustment of frames, verification of lenses, repairs, etc.
Reports directly to the Clinic Operations Manager.
Responsible for assistance in training optical employees within the area of responsibility.
Cultivate an environment of belonging that values, respects, supports, and celebrates individual similarities and differences, allowing students, faculty and staff to thrive authentically.
Support, promote, and develop university student enrollment and retention initiatives.
Any other duties assigned within the position classification area.
Marginal Duties/Responsibilities: Perform occasional ophthalmic services for off-campus patrons.
Skills and Abilities: Communicates effectively and professionally both orally and in writing.
Provides ophthalmic lens fabrication and dispensing.
Works with a variety of diverse individuals, maintaining excellent customer service skills.
Demonstrated successful experience working directly with people from diverse racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic backgrounds.
Required Documents:
  • Cover Letter
  • Resume
  • Certification/License

Optional Documents:
Special Instructions to Applicants: Unofficial transcript 1: Applicants who have an opticianry degree must attach a copy of their unofficial transcript. If you do not have a transcript, please write a justification explaining how your work experience is equivalent to the required education and attach that justification in lieu of the transcript.
Transcript must include: Institution name, applicant name, date degree attained, and degree awarded. Finalists will be required to submit an official transcript.
Initial Application Review Date:
June 29, 2026
Open Until Position is Filled?: Yes
Posting Close Date:
EEO Statement: Ferris State University, an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity employer, is committed to enhancing equity, inclusion, and diversity within its community. Ferris offers employment opportunities to qualified candidates seeking careers in a student-focused environment that values opportunity, collaboration, diversity and educational excellence. Learn more about the Ferris Mission and community at ferris.edu. The University actively seeks applications from women, minorities, individuals with disabilities, veterans, and other underrepresented groups. For more information on the University's Policy on Non-Discrimination, visit: Ferris Non-Discrimination Statement.
Click here to learn more about working at FSU and KCAD.
Advertised: 12 Jun 2026 Eastern Daylight Time
Applications close:
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