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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.

Optician

Farmington Hills, MI · On-site

$18 - $27/hr

As an Optician, you will speak with patients to learn about their lifestyle and needs, take facial ... Prepare specific orders for the ophthalmic lab * Explain pricing, insurance, and payment options to ...

As an Optician, you will speak with patients to learn about their lifestyle and needs, take facial ... Prepare specific orders for the ophthalmic lab * Explain pricing, insurance, and payment options to ...

Optician

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

$18 - $27/hr

As an Optician, you will speak with patients to learn about their lifestyle and needs, take facial ... Prepare specific orders for the ophthalmic lab * Explain pricing, insurance, and payment options to ...

Optician

Farmington, MI · On-site

$18 - $27/hr

As an Optician, you will speak with patients to learn about their lifestyle and needs, take facial ... Prepare specific orders for the ophthalmic lab * Explain pricing, insurance, and payment options to ...

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Optical Lab information

See Detroit, MI salary details

$11

$21

$55

How much do optical lab jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical lab in Detroit, MI is $21.58, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.24 and $20.48 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 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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $44,894 per year, or $21.6 per hour.
Lab Optician

Lab Optician

SEE Eyewear

Southfield, MI • On-site

$15.75 - $20.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

Bench Optician — Optical Lab (Corporate Office, Southfield, MI)

SEE Eyewear is dedicated to uncovering hidden gems—and not just within our product assortment. We believe in recruiting top talent and cultivating a unique, sophisticated and diverse group of experts, from our associates and opticians to our Field Leaders. SEE has quickly become the most innovative and revolutionary brand in the fashion eyewear industry, blazing the trail for independent optical retailers. As a result, SEE's collection is an eclectic and unique assortment of the best of the best, made exclusively for us. The same expectation stands for our people; we are committed to developing a Best in Class Team of Experts and Authorities where career development and growth are the foundation to building our brand.

Job Summary

SEE Eyewear is seeking an experienced Bench Optician to join the optical lab at our corporate office in Southfield, Michigan. In this role, you will process prescription eyewear lenses utilizing leading-edge optical machinery and perform final inspection of finished prescription eyewear. Strong proficiency in lensometry is essential, as this position is responsible for verifying that every pair of glasses meets prescription accuracy and SEE's quality standards before reaching our customers.

Duties & Responsibilities

Tasks include but are not limited to:

  • Perform final inspection of prescription eyewear, using a lensometer to verify prescription accuracy (sphere, cylinder, axis, add power, and prism) and confirm compliance with ANSI standards and SEE quality standards.
  • Verify lens treatments, coatings, thickness, and cosmetic quality prior to release.
  • Follow lab processes and procedures to maximize efficiency and quality in the manufacturing process.
  • Meet and exceed production goals without sacrificing quality of product.
  • Identify, document, and communicate quality issues; return non-conforming jobs for rework as needed.
  • Performing General Physical Activities—performing physical activities that require considerable use of your arms and legs and moving your whole body, such as climbing, lifting, balancing, walking, stooping, and handling materials.
  • Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates—providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, email, or in person.
  • Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships—developing constructive and cooperative working relationships with others and maintaining them over time.
  • Ensure work is completed in a safe and efficient manner.
  • Follow all safety protocols.
  • Perform other duties as requested to support the department.
Technology Skills
  • Proficiency with lensometry (manual and/or automated lensometers) for final inspection of prescription eyewear.
  • Comfort with utilizing digital machinery in the production of optical lenses.
  • Comfort with utilizing technology to track the status of orders.
Abilities
  • The ability to lift, push, pull, or carry objects up to 40 pounds.
  • The ability to stand for the majority of an 8-hour shift.
Work Environment
  • Manufacturing/Lab Environment at SEE's corporate office in Southfield, MI.
Benefits
  • SEE offers a comprehensive benefits package to all full-time employees which includes Medical, Dental, 401k, Disability Insurance, Life Insurance, and HSA programs.
  • SEE offers competitive PTO for all full-time employees which is earned on an accrual basis.
Requirements
  • Previous experience working as a bench optician or equivalent required.
  • Demonstrated experience performing final inspection of prescription glasses, including strong working knowledge of lensometry and ANSI tolerance standards.
Education
  • High School Diploma/GED
SEE Competencies
  • Professional—you handle tough situations with grace and work with integrity.
  • A Team Player—you work well with others, give and receive constructive criticism, and are dedicated to the team's success as a whole.
  • Entrepreneurial—you think outside of the box to drive the business.
  • Eager to Learn—you are open to feedback and always looking for ways to improve.
  • Accountable—you take accountability for your role in the success of the business.
  • Open Communicator—you communicate directly and effectively with your peers and your supervisor. You speak candidly and address concerns in the moment.
  • Contribute to a Positive Work Environment—be a positive impact to team morale. Motivate and inspire others. Communicate with your team in a respectful manner. Delegate and collaborate with your team and Home Base. Create interpersonal connections and be open to feedback.
  • Time Management—you will work with urgency and prioritize tasks. You will be accountable for ensuring that your team has clear direction on down-time utilization and prioritization of tasks.