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Optical Lab Jobs in Detroit, MI (NOW HIRING)

Lab Optician

Southfield, MI · On-site

$15.75 - $20.50/hr

In this role, you will process prescription eyewear lenses utilizing leading-edge optical machinery ... Follow lab processes and procedures to maximize efficiency and quality in the manufacturing process.

Lab Optician

Southfield, MI · On-site

$15.75 - $20.50/hr

In this role, you will process prescription eyewear lenses utilizing leading-edge optical machinery ... Follow lab processes and procedures to maximize efficiency and quality in the manufacturing process.

SVS Vision - Optician - Wayne, MI.

Wayne, MI · On-site

$15.50 - $20/hr

Prepare work orders for Optical Lab. Process medical billing information. Maintain frame inventory. DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: CUSTOMER SERVICE • Provide excellent customer and patient service ...

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Optical Lab information

See Detroit, MI salary details

$10

$19

$51

How much do optical lab jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical lab in Detroit, MI is $19.95, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.09 and $18.89 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 Detroit, MI?

The most popular types of Optical Lab jobs in Detroit, MI are:

Infographic showing various Optical Lab job openings in Detroit, MI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $41,494 per year, or $19.9 per hour.

Optical Lab Technician (Mon- Fri 11am -7:45pm

ABB Optical Group

Auburn Hills, MI • On-site

$18.50 - $23/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago


ABB Optical Group rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 17 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Optical Lab Technician (Mon- Fri 11am - 7:45pm)
JOB SUMMARY AND OBJECTIVE
The Lab Technician is responsible for the timely, efficient, and accurate processing of products in the lab. Lab Technicians will be assigned an essential function, where he/she will work the predominant portion of their daily work schedule, as well as be expected to perform work in additional essential functions as business needs dictate.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS (as applicable per lab/department)
  • Use a tracing machine to measure frame; Print and match paperwork to corresponding trays; Read job ticket to determine the location of lens needed and pull from bin placing correctly in tray; Deliver tray to appropriate location to be scanned, verified and de-boxed
  • Invoice and package finished jobs; scan and bin jobs into proper customer box to be shipped
  • Sort and receive frames into system placing frames in appropriate colored trays
  • Secure optical lens / blanks in holding tools for generating, polishing, and coating; Operate equipment and clear machine errors; Maintain tools for production equipment
  • Operate finishing equipment and clear out machine errors; Mount, secure and align finished lens in frames using precision hand tools; Edge lens appropriately so that lens can be inserted into frames
  • Place lens in lens holder and tint to specified color; Mark lenses appropriately to achieve proper tint axis; Change tint colors as needed
  • Unload lens into lens trays; Mark and inspect lenses; Sort and pre-inspect lenses and operate AR coating machines
  • Remove processed surfaced lenses from alloy block at end of surfacing process and reclaim the alloy in a reclaim tank
  • Inspect lens blank to detect surface flaws; Examine prescriptions & work orders according to standards using precision instruments; Wash and clean lenses and eyeglasses using cloths and solvents; Perform cosmetic inspection
  • Work daily toward meeting production expectations set by management
  • Always perform and comply with all job functions according to documented standard operating procedures
  • Meet or exceed established performance thresholds in all core and secondary job functions
  • Report all known product, process, and/or reporting defects and inefficiencies to supervisory personnel
  • Participate in team, department, and company-wide meetings as scheduled; Actively participate in team discussions and provide feedback to maintain and improve the work environment
  • Ensure that work area is clean and organized and prepared for the next shift with all items in their designated locations
  • Utilize proper handling techniques and equipment to minimize damages and reduce injuries
  • Follow and uphold all OSHA and company safety guidelines, policies, and regulations
  • Ability to work overtime as business needs dictate
  • Other duties as assigned

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBLITIES: None
QUALIFICATIONS
Required Qualifications
  • High school diploma or equivalent, or equivalent experience is required for full-time employment.
  • Entry-level: No specific prior work experience required; training provided to enable employees to perform the minimum essential functions identified by their respective lab/department
  • Proficient: Minimum six (6) months of optical manufacturing experience in same or similar position prior to skills assessment to determine ability to perform all applicable essential functions identified by their respective lab/department
  • Ability to follow procedure and contribute as an individual and a team member

Desired Qualifications
  • Prior experience in a warehouse or manufacturing environment
  • Computer literate

PHYSICAL DEMANDS
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to sit, stand, walk, bend, and use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls; reach with hands and arms; talk and hear. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus are required.
For U.S. Candidates
Compensation Range
The anticipated base salary range for this position is $18.50 Hourly. This represents the good-faith estimate of the compensation range at the time of posting.
Actual pay will be based on job-related factors, which may include:
  • Geographic location
  • Relevant experience
  • Education and qualifications
  • Job-related skills
  • Internal equity considerations
  • Applicable minimum wage laws

This position may also be eligible for a bonus and/or commission plan, subject to the terms of the applicable plan.
Benefits
Depending on eligibility and position, employees and/or eligible dependents may participate in Company-sponsored benefit programs, which may include:
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • Life and group life insurance
  • Voluntary supplemental life insurance
  • Supplemental health benefits (critical illness, hospital, accident)
  • Short- and long-term disability
  • Paid family leave (where applicable by state law)
  • 401(k) plan
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • Eyewear discounts

Time-Off Benefits
Eligible U.S. employees receive the following time-off benefits (subject to Company policy and applicable state/local laws):
  • Paid vacation and/or sick time
  • Paid holidays
  • Birthday PTO

(Some states require front-loaded sick leave; others accrue. The Company will comply with all applicable local requirements.)
Accessibility and Accommodations
Upon request and consistent with applicable law, ABB Optical will provide reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities during the application and hiring process.
To request an accommodation, please email HR@abboptical.com and include your name and contact information so we can follow up promptly.
Equal Opportunity Employer
ABB Optical is an Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, protected veteran status, or disability.
International Candidates
The compensation and benefits information in this posting applies to candidates hired in the United States. Candidates hired outside the United States will receive compensation and benefits aligned with their local market.
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