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Optical Lab Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Electro-Optics Lab Technician

Hampton, VA · On-site

$16.50 - $22/hr

Psionic, LLC. is seeking an Electro-Optics Lab Technician who will be working in the engineering ... Fabricate optical subassemblies and integrate the subassemblies with electrical and mechanical ...

Electro-Optics Lab Technician

Hampton, VA · On-site

$16.50 - $22/hr

Psionic, LLC. is seeking an Electro-Optics Lab Technician who will be working in the engineering ... Fabricate optical subassemblies and integrate the subassemblies with electrical and mechanical ...

Electro-Optics Lab Technician

Hampton, VA

$16.50 - $22/hr

Psionic, LLC. is seeking an Electro-Optics Lab Technician who will be working in the engineering ... Fabricate optical subassemblies and integrate the subassemblies with electrical and mechanical ...

Optician RMG

Newport News, VA · On-site

$15.75 - $20.25/hr

Measures patients for size of eyeglasses and coordinates frames with facial and eye measurements and optical prescription. Prepares lab orders containing instructions for grinding and mounting lenses ...

Integrated optical sensors and supporting electronics are necessary to achieve high-performance requirements. The successful candidate will be familiar with the integrated photonics lab testing ...

Integrated optical sensors and supporting electronics are necessary to achieve high-performance requirements. The successful candidate will be familiar with the integrated photonics lab testing ...

Integrated optical sensors and supporting electronics are necessary to achieve high-performance requirements. The successful candidate will be familiar with the integrated photonics lab testing ...

Principal Optical Engineer

Lorton, VA · On-site

$130.40K - $168.90K/yr

... from the lab to the field. * Provide optical subject matter expertise in support of developmental, prototype, and transition to manufacturing efforts. * Perform DRI (detection, recognition ...

Optical Consultants are responsible for selling eyewear and eyewear accessories to patients. They ... Creates work orders for lab technicians, specifying information on lenses needed * Follows-up on ...

... the lab to the field. Responsibilities * Provide optical subject matter expertise in support of developmental, prototype, and transition to manufacturing efforts. * Perform DRI (detection ...

... the lab to the field. Responsibilities * Provide optical subject matter expertise in support of developmental, prototype, and transition to manufacturing efforts. * Perform DRI (detection ...

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Showing results 1-20

Optical Lab information

See Virginia salary details

$11

$21

$55

How much do optical lab jobs pay per hour?

As of May 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical lab in Virginia is $21.62, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.24 and $20.48 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 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 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 the most commonly searched types of Optical Lab jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Optical Lab jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Optical Lab jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Optical Lab job openings:
Infographic showing various Optical Lab job openings in Virginia as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $44,961 per year, or $21.6 per hour.
Optical Lab Technician FT Colonial Heights, VA #160

Optical Lab Technician FT Colonial Heights, VA #160

Eyemart Express

Colonial Heights, VA • On-site

$14.75 - $20/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 8 days ago


Eyemart Express rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 76 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

14th of 38 rated optical retailers


Job description

Optical Lab Technician Full-Time

30 years ago, Dr. Barnes founded Eyemart Express to deliver everything a patient needs. It started with one friendly shop in Appleton, WI, and has since expanded to over 245 in 42 states. Today, Eyemart Express is celebrated for promptly delivering quality eyewear at great prices while maintaining great relationships with optometrists and local communities. Were not like everyone else, with local labs in stores, eye exams, and same-day delivery on glasses our customers never miss a moment. Now, you can join one of the nations top optical retailers and improve lives by helping people see better.

As an Optical Lab Technician, you'll be responsible for cutting, edging, and creating prescription lenses to ensure customers receive their new glasses in a timely manner. Your technical skills and attention to detail will contribute to our high standards of quality and service. Experience is preferred but not required, as we are willing to train the right candidate.

Earning Potential: The earning potential for this role is competitive, inclusive of base pay and incentives.

Responsibilities:

Lab Work: Identify and work with basic optical laboratory equipment, tools, supplies, and materials. Consistently adhere to hourly deadlines for finishing jobs.

Prescription Management: Correctly read and interpret prescription specifications and input into the computer to ensure lenses are cut properly.

Maintenance: Maintain the lab area and equipment in a safe and organized manner. Perform daily, weekly, and monthly lab equipment maintenance as scheduled and in accordance with lab/equipment manual specifications.

Operational Excellence: Perform multiple concurrent tasks at several different equipment stations to maintain acceptable job flow. Fill out all assigned reporting forms in a timely manner.

Requirements:

High School Diploma or GED

Experience working in a lab or technical setting

Experience working in the optical industry is preferred

Must be able to read, comprehend, and follow technical manuals and protocols

Benefits:

Health Insurance

Vision Insurance

Dental Insurance

Matching 401k

Short-Term and Long-Term Disability

Life Insurance

Fully paid benefits to maintain licensing requirements and opportunities for advancement

At Eyemart Express, we're dedicated to excellence in everything we do. We understand the importance of work-life balance and strive to be as flexible as possible with scheduling needs to ensure our team members can achieve harmony between work and personal life.

If you're ready to join a company that values excellence, invests in your future, and respects your need for balance, submit your resume today! Eyemart Express is where your career takes off.

This posting provides an overview of the role. A full job description will be provided upon hire.

VSP Vision is an equal opportunity employer and gives consideration for employment to qualified applicants without regard to age, gender, race, color, religion, sex, national origin, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability or protected veteran status. We maintain a drug-free workplace and perform pre-employment substance abuse testing.


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