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Optical Lab Jobs in Birmingham, AL (NOW HIRING)

Essilor

Team Lead

Birmingham, AL

Assists in the achievement of store success by managing key optical & lab processes (if applicable) & systems to exceptional results. MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES While working in Retail

EssilorLuxottica

Team Lead

Birmingham, AL · On-site

Assists in the achievement of store success by managing key optical & lab processes (if applicable) & systems to exceptional results. MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES While working in Retail

EssilorLuxottica Group

Team Lead

Birmingham, AL

Assists in the achievement of store success by managing key optical & lab processes (if applicable) & systems to exceptional results. MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES While working in Retail

EyeSouth Partners LLC

Optician I

Springville, AL

$16 - $20.75/hr

Measure bridge and eye size, temple length, vertex distance, pupillary distance, and optical ... Create work orders for lab technicians to ensure delivery of the proper lenses * Set up machines to ...

EyeSouth Partners

Optician I

Springville, AL · On-site

$16 - $20.75/hr

Measure bridge and eye size, temple length, vertex distance, pupillary distance, and optical ... Create work orders for lab technicians to ensure delivery of the proper lenses * Set up machines to ...

Gadsden Eye Associates

Optician I

Springville, AL · On-site

$16 - $20.75/hr

Measure bridge and eye size, temple length, vertex distance, pupillary distance, and optical ... Create work orders for lab technicians to ensure delivery of the proper lenses * Set up machines to ...

Gadsden Eye Associates

Optician I

Springville, AL · On-site

$16 - $20.75/hr

Measure bridge and eye size, temple length, vertex distance, pupillary distance, and optical ... Create work orders for lab technicians to ensure delivery of the proper lenses * Set up machines to ...

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All JobsOptical Lab JobsOptical Lab Jobs in Birmingham, AL

Optical Lab information

See Birmingham, AL salary details

$11

$20

$52

How much do optical lab jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical lab in Birmingham, AL is $20.43, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $19.38 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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, optical measurements, and equipment operation. Positions often involve handling optical materials, using precision tools, and following safety protocols. Some roles may require certification or experience with specific machinery or software used in lens production.

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 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 most commonly searched types of Optical Lab jobs in Birmingham, AL? The most popular types of Optical Lab jobs in Birmingham, AL are:
What are popular job titles related to Optical Lab jobs in Birmingham, AL? For Optical Lab jobs in Birmingham, AL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Optical Lab jobs in Birmingham, AL look for? The top searched job categories for Optical Lab jobs in Birmingham, AL are:
Optical Lab jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Lab job openings in Birmingham, AL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 12% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,517 per year, or $20.4 per hour.

Optical Retail and Lab Tech Positions Birmingham, AL

Eyemart Express

Birmingham, AL • On-site

$13.75 - $18.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 23 days ago

Eyemart Express rating

6.1

Company rating: 6.1 out of 10

Based on 80 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

21st of 39 rated optical retailers

Job description

General Interest Requisition:
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 get to improve lives by helping people see better.
Earning Potential: The earning potential for this role is competitive, inclusive of base pay and incentives.
Optical Retail Sales Associate:
As a Retail Associate, you'll guide patients in selecting eyeglass frames, lenses, and coatings tailored to their needs. You'll ensure accurate measurements and prescription information for our lab technicians, oversee the production process, and provide personalized care when dispensing glasses to patients.
Optical Lab Technician:
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.
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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