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Optical Lab Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Optician

Richmond, VA

$17 - $22/hr

We are searching for a full-time optician to join our busy practice. Job purpose * Responsible ... Responsible for keeping work station neat, clean and presentable as well as lab, equipment and ...

Optician

Richmond, VA · On-site

$17 - $22/hr

We are searching for a full-time optician to join our busy practice. Job purpose * Responsible ... Responsible for keeping work station neat, clean and presentable as well as lab, equipment and ...

Optician

Richmond, VA · On-site

$17 - $22/hr

We are searching for a full-time optician to join our busy practice. Job purpose * Responsible ... Responsible for keeping work station neat, clean and presentable as well as lab, equipment and ...

Optician

Richlands, VA · On-site

$16.25 - $21/hr

Create work orders, documentation, grinding instructions for lenses for lab technicians to ensure delivery of the proper lens * Check that the finished eyewear meets AVP's optical standards, as well ...

Optician

Danville, VA · On-site

$17.25 - $22.25/hr

Create work orders, documentation, grinding instructions for lenses for lab technicians to ensure delivery of the proper lens * Check that the finished eyewear meets AVP's optical standards, as well ...

Optician

Danville, VA

$16 - $20.75/hr

Create work orders, documentation, grinding instructions for lenses for lab technicians to ensure delivery of the proper lens * Check that the finished eyewear meets AVP's optical standards, as well ...

Optician

Danville, VA · On-site

$17.25 - $22.25/hr

Create work orders, documentation, grinding instructions for lenses for lab technicians to ensure delivery of the proper lens * Check that the finished eyewear meets AVP's optical standards, as well ...

Optician

Richlands, VA · On-site

$16.25 - $21/hr

Create work orders, documentation, grinding instructions for lenses for lab technicians to ensure delivery of the proper lens * Check that the finished eyewear meets AVP's optical standards, as well ...

Optician

Richlands, VA

$16.25 - $21/hr

Create work orders, documentation, grinding instructions for lenses for lab technicians to ensure delivery of the proper lens * Check that the finished eyewear meets AVP's optical standards, as well ...

Optician

Danville, VA · On-site

$17.25 - $22.25/hr

Create work orders, documentation, grinding instructions for lenses for lab technicians to ensure delivery of the proper lens * Check that the finished eyewear meets AVP's optical standards, as well ...

Optician

Danville, VA · On-site

$17.25 - $22.25/hr

Create work orders, documentation, grinding instructions for lenses for lab technicians to ensure delivery of the proper lens * Check that the finished eyewear meets AVP's optical standards, as well ...

Optician

Danville, VA

$17.25 - $22.25/hr

Create work orders, documentation, grinding instructions for lenses for lab technicians to ensure delivery of the proper lens * Check that the finished eyewear meets AVP's optical standards, as well ...

Optician

Danville, VA

$17.25 - $22.25/hr

Create work orders, documentation, grinding instructions for lenses for lab technicians to ensure delivery of the proper lens * Check that the finished eyewear meets AVP's optical standards, as well ...

Optician

Mechanicsville, VA

$17.25 - $22/hr

Opticians are responsible for financial close out and bank deposit at end of day when necessary ... Responsible for keeping work station neat, clean and presentable as well as lab, equipment and ...

Optician

Mechanicsville, VA · On-site

$17.25 - $22/hr

Opticians are responsible for financial close out and bank deposit at end of day when necessary ... Responsible for keeping work station neat, clean and presentable as well as lab, equipment and ...

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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.
Optician

$17 - $22/hr

Other

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

The Virginia Eye Institute (VEI) is hiring!  VEI is a large and dynamic practice of ophthalmologists and optometrists in the Richmond, VA area.

We are searching for a full-time optician to join our busy practice.

Job purpose 

  • Responsible giving great customer service and providing insurance benefits, advising patients of best visual solutions based on their needs after ascertaining their daily activities and educating them on the latest technology.
  • Ability to analyze and evaluate patient’s prescription to provide best patient experience.
  • Monitor and quality control of fabrication of eyewear.
  • Resolution of patient difficulties and issues in conjunction with doctors and clinical team.
  • Proper interpretation of insurance benefits and explanation of benefits to patient for accurate pricing and insurance filing.
  • Proper notification and communication with patients regarding order status.
  • Ability to process both eyeglass and contact lens orders.
  • Opticians are responsible for financial close out and bank deposit at end of day when necessary.

Duties and responsibilities

  • Responsible for keeping work station neat, clean and presentable as well as lab, equipment and public areas
  • Greet all patients promptly and courteously
  • Determine and obtain insurance benefits and authorization and interpret for patient
  • Analyze and interpret prescriptions to insure proper frame and lens selection
  • Knowledge of lens designs, materials, products and latest technology available with ability to communicate to patient
  • Knowledge of appropriate frame selection based on prescription, facial shape and size, lens design and appropriate fit
  • Collect payment from patient and process billing to insurance if applicable
  • Process orders in timely fashion in EHR, insurance filing, lab order and frame orders
  • Final quality inspection and notification to patient when materials available, all with proper documentation in electronic system
  • Proper adjustment and fit of eyewear with patient instruction for lens design adaptation, initial evaluation of performance at dispense, as well as instructions for proper care
  • Adhere to privacy and confidential and proprietary company policies and procedures (i.e. HIPAA)
  • Maintain license requirements
  • Participate in any/all training and educational activities necessary to fulfill at least the minimum requirements as specified within department goals
  • As required by changing business needs, complete additional responsibilities as assigned