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Optical Lab Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

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The ideal candidate brings some optical or lab experience, strong communication skills, and thrives in a fast-paced environment. Responsibilities * Cut lenses to order using our state-of-the-art ...

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The ideal candidate brings some optical or lab experience, strong communication skills, and thrives in a fast-paced environment. Responsibilities * Cut lenses to order using our state-of-the-art ...

New

Be Seen First

The ideal candidate brings some optical or lab experience, strong communication skills, and thrives in a fast-paced environment. Responsibilities * Cut lenses to order using our state-of-the-art ...

New

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

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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

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LensCrafters - Team Lead

Oak Brook, IL · On-site

$18.25 - $21.25/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

LensCrafters - Team Lead

Oak Brook, IL

$18.25 - $21.25/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

Senior Optical Scientist

Lemont, IL · On-site

$92K - $126K/yr

Build and refine Gaussian beam models to guide design decisions before hardware is built Vendor & Lab Operations * Source and manage vendors for complex optical components * Own the logistics of ...

Senior Optical Scientist

Lemont, IL · On-site

$92K - $126K/yr

Build and refine Gaussian beam models to guide design decisions before hardware is built Vendor & Lab Operations * Source and manage vendors for complex optical components * Own the logistics of ...

Quality Lab Leader

La Grange, IL

$19.25 - $24.50/hr

Standard products include optical encoders, rotary switches, keypads, joysticks, displays ... Summary Manage the lab facilities and associates used for qualification/verification and product ...

Quality Lab Leader

La Grange, IL · On-site

$81K - $139K/yr

Standard products include optical encoders, rotary switches, keypads, joysticks, displays ... Summary Manage the lab facilities and associates used for qualification/verification and product ...

Quality Lab Leader

La Grange, IL · On-site

$81K - $139K/yr

Standard products include optical encoders, rotary switches, keypads, joysticks, displays ... Summary Manage the lab facilities and associates used for qualification/verification and product ...

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Optical Lab information

See Chicago, IL salary details

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How much do optical lab jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 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 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 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 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 July 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.

Optical Lens Edging Technician

AD 4 Inc

Prospect Heights, IL • On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Part-time

Posted yesterday

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Job description

Employment Type: Part-Time, with potential for full-time based on performance and business needs
Pay: $20–25/hour, based on experience

About the Role
We're seeking a detail-oriented Optical Lens Edging Technician to join our in-house laboratory. This role is responsible for cutting, edging, and mounting lenses to order on our state-of-the-art optical edger, ensuring every job meets precise quality and fit specifications. This is a part-time position with the opportunity to grow into full-time as our lab volume expands. The ideal candidate brings some optical or lab experience, strong communication skills, and thrives in a fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities

  • Cut lenses to order using our state-of-the-art optical edger
  • Collect orders and label lenses accurately
  • Edge and mount lenses to specification
  • Mount and secure lens blanks and optical lenses
  • Inspect lens blanks for flaws and verify surface smoothness
  • Inspect completed lenses (mounted and unmounted) for alignment and conformance to specifications
  • Perform job checking, lens picking, and inventory control
  • Maintain basic lab housekeeping and equipment care

Qualifications

  • Some experience in an optical lab or ophthalmic lens edging environment preferred
  • Strong attention to detail and quality control mindset
  • Good communication skills
  • Ability to work with a sense of urgency in a fast-paced setting
  • Comfortable working part-time hours with flexibility as order volume requires

Company Description

About Us
We are a fast-growing eyewear company based in Prospect Heights, Illinois. We design and produce eyewear and optical frames nationwide.