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Optical Lab Jobs in Albuquerque, NM (NOW HIRING)

Rocket Lab Corporation

Operator I-III

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

ABOUT ROCKET LAB Rocket Lab is the end-to-end space company building rockets, spacecraft, and ... optical systems, separation systems, radios, and more. Our Space Systems team has enabled more than ...

Rocket Lab Corporation

Operator I-III

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

SPACE SYSTEMS At Rocket Lab, we're not just launching rockets - we're building the future of space ... optical systems, separation systems, radios, and more. Our Space Systems team has enabled more than ...

Now Optics

Doctor's Technician

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

At Stanton Optical our Doctors Technicians carefully orchestrate an efficient flow and transition ... Ensure brand standards are met in the lab area, and notify management of equipment malfunctions ...

Now Optics

Patient Coordinator

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$16.50 - $22/hr

At Stanton Optical our Doctor's Technicians carefully orchestrate an efficient flow and transition ... Ensure brand standards are met in the lab area, and notify management of equipment malfunctions ...

New

Now Optics

Patient Coordinator

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$16.50 - $22/hr

At Stanton Optical our Doctors Technicians carefully orchestrate an efficient flow and transition ... Ensure brand standards are met in the lab area, and notify management of equipment malfunctions ...

New

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Optical Lab information

See Albuquerque, NM salary details

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$54

How much do optical lab jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical lab in Albuquerque, NM is $21.13, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.90 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 Albuquerque, NM?

The most popular types of Optical Lab jobs in Albuquerque, NM are:

What are popular job titles related to Optical Lab jobs in Albuquerque, NM?

For Optical Lab jobs in Albuquerque, NM, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Optical Lab jobs in Albuquerque, NM look for?

The top searched job categories for Optical Lab jobs in Albuquerque, NM are:

Optical Lab jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Lab job openings in Albuquerque, NM as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 12% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,958 per year, or $21.1 per hour.

Operator I-III

Rocket Lab Corporation

Albuquerque, NM

Full-time

Re-posted 14 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

ABOUT ROCKET LAB

Rocket Lab is the end-to-end space company building rockets, spacecraft, and critical subsystems that keep the world connected, protected, expand humanity's reach to the Moon, Mars, and beyond. We move fast, build real hardware for meaningful missions, and make the impossible routine. Come shape the future with us.

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

OPERATOR I-III, PRODUCTION

Based out of Rocket Lab's site in Albuquerque, New Mexico, we're looking for Operator I-III, Production to join our production team and work in a fast-paced, team-oriented manufacturing environment. Rocket Lab is a leading provider of high efficiency solar cells, solar panels, and composite structural products or satellite and aerospace applications. We're the world's only vertically integrated, end-to-end supplier of satellite solar arrays – our space solar products have powered over 1,000 satellites in orbit to date!

Note: you'll have an assigned shift, but the training hours may vary from that when you start. Certain shifts may qualify for a shift differential on the base pay, depending on the hours and schedule.

(Please note: these positions can be hired at the Operator I, Operator II, or Operator III level)

WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO:

  • Perform a variety of functions in the production of semiconductor devices, as well as specific process steps in the assembly and test of production units
  • Set up and prepare work station/assembly fixtures
  • Read and comprehend basic drawings and schematics
  • Identify failure discrepancies per visual and/or written descriptions
  • Utilize visual aides such as microscopes, visors, and eye loops
  • Utilize computer hardware and software, including MS Office
  • Collect and record data
  • Read and comprehend instructions, short correspondences, and memos
  • Work with various kinds of test equipment
  • You may be required to operate UV curing systems and thermal curing ovens, as well as measure and pour chemicals, depending on the team/shift you support

QUALIFICATIONS YOU'LL BRING AS OPERATOR I, PRODUCTION:

  • High school diploma or GED

QUALIFICATIONS YOU'LL BRING AS OPERATOR II, PRODUCTION:

  • High school diploma or GED
  • 2+ years of work experience in a production or manufacturing environment, or other highly regulated industry

QUALIFICATIONS YOU'LL BRING AS OPERATOR III, PRODUCTION:

  • High school diploma or GED
  • 5+ years of work experience in a production or manufacturing environment, or other highly regulated industry

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

  • Knowledge of ESD and cleanroom procedures
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills
  • Ability to work in a dynamic environment
  • Ability to hear and speak effectively before groups of customers and employees
  • Capable of multitasking, and working with cross-functional teams
  • Experience with computing rate, ratio, and percentages; as well as drawing and interpreting bar graphs

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

  • Stand and walk extended periods (8+ hours) on production floor
  • Perform repetitive motions including grasping, bending, twisting, reaching, pushing, and pulling
  • Operate equipment and controls requiring manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination
  • Lift, carry, push, and pull materials up to 25 lbs.
  • Work in a production environment with noise, moving machinery, and varying environmental conditions
  • Flexibility to work extended hours, weekends, and varied shifts as operational needs require

WHAT TO EXPECT

We're on a mission to unlock the potential of space to improve life on Earth, but that's not an easy task. It takes hard work, determination, relentless innovation, teamwork, grit, and an unwavering commitment to achieving what others often deem impossible. Our people out-think, out-work, and out-pace. We pride ourselves on having each other's backs, checking our egos at the door, and rolling up our sleeves on all tasks big and small. We thrive under pressure, work to tight deadlines, and our focus is always on how we can deliver, rather than dwelling on the challenges that stand in the way.

Important information:

FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN US OFFICES ONLY:

To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), Rocket Lab Employees must be a U.S. citizen, lawful U.S. permanent resident (i.e., current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State and/or the U.S. Department of Commerce, as applicable. Learn more about ITAR here.

Rocket Lab provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment at Rocket Lab, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.

Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for the application/interview process for a job in the United States should contact Giulia Johnson at g.biow@rocketlabusa.com.This dedicated resource is intended solely to assist job seekers with disabilities whose disability prevents them from being able to apply/interview. Only messages left for this purpose will be considered. A response to your request may take up to two business days.

FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN NEW ZEALAND OFFICES ONLY:

For security reasons, background checks will be undertaken prior to any employment offers being made to an applicant. These checks will include nationality checks as it is a requirement of this position that you be eligible to access equipment and data regulated by the United States' International Traffic in Arms Regulations.

Under these Regulations, you may be ineligible for this role if you do not hold citizenship of Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, the European Union, or a country that is part of NATO, or if you hold ineligible dual citizenship or nationality. For more information on these Regulations, click here ITAR Regulations.

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