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Optical Lab Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

PT Optical Sales Associate

Crystal Lake, IL Β· On-site

$19.50 - $27.30/hr

Prepare work orders for Optical Lab. Process medical billing information. Maintain frame inventory. Taking Care of our teams who take Care of our Patients * Competitive Wages & Sales Incentives

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

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

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

LensCrafters - Team Lead

Algonquin, IL Β· On-site

$17.50 - $20.50/hr

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Senior Optical Engineer

Lemont, IL Β· On-site

$130K - $170K/yr

High proficiency in optical design and analysis software (FRED, LightTools, Zemax or similar) and in Python for simulation, analysis automation, and lab test software * Strong grounding in physical ...

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Optical Lab information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$12

$22

$57

How much do optical lab jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical lab in Chicago, IL is $22.48, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.87 and $21.30 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 job categories do people searching Optical Lab jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Optical Lab jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Optical Lab jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Optical Lab job openings:

Infographic showing various Optical Lab job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 71% Full Time, and 29% Part Time. Highlights an 86% In-person, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,753 per year, or $22.5 per hour.

PT Optical Sales Associate

Crystal Lake, IL β€’ On-site

$19.50 - $27.30/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

Optician Pay rate is $19.50 to $27.30 per hour 

 

Are you looking for an opportunity to provide great customer service and patient care and grow your career? Fielmann Vision Care is seeking a Part-time Optical Sales Associate to join our team in Crystal Lake, IL. 

On-the-job training provided, no experience necessary.

 POSITION SUMMARY:  

Provide excellent patient and customer service in the selection, ordering and dispensing of eyewear. Complete pre-screening activities prior to patient exams. Prepare work orders for Optical Lab. Process medical billing information. Maintain frame inventory.  

  Taking Care of our teams who take Care of our Patients

  • Competitive Wages & Sales Incentives
  • Competitive time off package including vacation pay, volunteer pay paid holidays, and a personal day
  • Sick Pay: Eligible teammates accrue Sick/ Safe leave per state law   
  • Health & Wellbeing Benefits Medical, Life, Dental, vision, Short- & Long-term Disability 
  • Voluntary/Cafeteria Offerings
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • On the Job Training & Certification
  • Teammate Recognition Program

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:  

CUSTOMER SERVICE  

· Provide excellent customer and patient service according to company and Optical Center standards  

· Analyze patient eyewear needs  

· Recommend specific lenses, lens coatings and frames to satisfy patient needs  

· Assist patients in selecting frames according to style and color. Ensure frames are coordinated with facial and eye measurements and optical prescriptions  

· Order and dispense eyewear accurately and professionally  

· Assist patients with proper frame repairs and adjustments  

· Show patients how to insert, remove and care for their contact lenses  

· Assist Optometrist with case histories and screenings  

BUSINESS AND OPERATIONAL STANDARDS  

· Maintain a complete knowledge of third-party plans and claims  

· Explain promotions and special lens offerings to patients and customers  

· Balance accounts  

· Prepare work orders containing specific instructions for Optical Lab  

· Process medical billing information  

· Ensure proper merchandising of frame inventory  

MINIMUM KNOWLEDGE, EXPERIENCE & SKILLS REQUIREMENTS:  

· High School Graduate or equivalent  

· Maintain license as required by state

· To become Certified, teammate must complete Shopko OCE Certification requirements and calendar modules  

· Previous experience in an office and/or optical dispensing is preferred  

· Able to handle multiple customer interactions/phone calls at a time  

· Able to work with patient eyewear needs including analyzing prescriptions, repairs and adjustments and lifestyle dispensing  

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS & WORK REQUIREMENTS:  

 · Ability to effectively communicate at all levels within the organization through written and two-way verbal communication  

· Able to read and write at a high school graduate level  

· Able to sit or stand for extended periods of time  

· Able to operate various office equipment (e.g., personal computer, telephone, fax machine, copier, etc.)  

· Ability to lift 10 to 20 pounds  

· Ability to see (Near, Distance, Color, and Depth Perception)  

· Manual and finger dexterity, as well as hand/arm steadiness  

· Ability to grip and hold items  

· Good eye and hand coordination  

· Able to operate a cash register, various optical equipment and tools  

· Able to work normal and/or extended (evenings, nights, and weekends) office hours to meet established deadlines  

· Able to travel independently to support Company objectives and personal development  

These statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by teammates assigned to this job classification. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required.