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Optical Lab Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Accurately enter optical orders, measure pupillary distance (PD) and segment heights, and ensure precise specifications are sent to the optical lab. * Insurance & Billing: Verify vision insurance ...

Accurately enter optical orders, measure pupillary distance (PD) and segment heights, and ensure precise specifications are sent to the optical lab. * Insurance & Billing: Verify vision insurance ...

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 ...

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 ...

Optician RMG

Newport News, VA · On-site

$23 - $29.90/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 ...

Optician RMG

Newport News, VA · On-site

$23 - $29.90/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 ...

$23 - $29.90/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 ...

$23 - $29.90/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 ...

Optician Apprentice RMG

Williamsburg, VA · On-site

$23 - $29.90/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 ...

Optical Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$200 - $240/hr

The candidate should have experience or a willingness to work in a lab environment, contributing to innovative projects and advancing technological capabilities. Key Responsibilities * Optical ...

The candidate should have experience or a willingness to work in a lab environment, contributing to innovative projects and advancing technological capabilities. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES: * Optical ...

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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 Aug 24, 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 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 Virginia?

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

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

The top searched job categories for 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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, and 7% Contract. 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 Virginia Beach, VA #251

Eyemart Express

Virginia Beach, VA

$14 - $18.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 16 days ago


Eyemart Express rating

6.1

Company rating: 6.1 out of 10

Based on 80 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

20th of 40 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. We’re 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 nation’s 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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