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Optical Lab Jobs in Milwaukee, WI (NOW HIRING)

R&D Technician I

New Berlin, WI · On-site

$18.75 - $24.75/hr

The R&D Lab Technician will work closely with our Research and Development, Engineering, and ... Assisting with product testing (optical qualities, peel adhesion, thickness measurements, chemical ...

At Stanton Optical our Doctor's Technicians carefully orchestrate an efficient flow and transition ... Ensure brand standards are met in the lab area, and notify management of equipment malfunctions ...

At Stanton Optical our Doctors Technicians carefully orchestrate an efficient flow and transition ... Ensure brand standards are met in the lab area, and notify management of equipment malfunctions ...

The R&D Lab Technician will work closely with our Research and Development, Engineering, and ... Assisting with product testing (optical qualities, peel adhesion, thickness measurements, chemical ...

... lab practice; frequent troubleshooting under time pressure to restore mission critical combat ... optics, test equipment, and troubleshooting; strand training in either the Fire Controlman or ...

... lab practice; frequent troubleshooting under time pressure to restore mission critical combat ... optics, test equipment, and troubleshooting; strand training in either the Fire Controlman or ...

... lab practice; frequent troubleshooting under time pressure to restore mission critical combat ... optics, test equipment, and troubleshooting; strand training in either the Fire Controlman or ...

... lab practice; frequent troubleshooting under time pressure to restore mission critical combat ... optics, test equipment, and troubleshooting; strand training in either the Fire Controlman or ...

... lab practice; frequent troubleshooting under time pressure to restore mission critical combat ... optics, test equipment, and troubleshooting; strand training in either the Fire Controlman or ...

Computer Field Technician

Grafton, WI

$18.75 - $22.50/hr

... lab practice; frequent troubleshooting under time pressure to restore mission critical combat ... optics, test equipment, and troubleshooting; strand training in either the Fire Controlman or ...

... lab practice; frequent troubleshooting under time pressure to restore mission critical combat ... optics, test equipment, and troubleshooting; strand training in either the Fire Controlman or ...

... lab practice; frequent troubleshooting under time pressure to restore mission critical combat ... optics, test equipment, and troubleshooting; strand training in either the Fire Controlman or ...

... lab practice; frequent troubleshooting under time pressure to restore mission critical combat ... optics, test equipment, and troubleshooting; strand training in either the Fire Controlman or ...

... lab practice; frequent troubleshooting under time pressure to restore mission critical combat ... optics, test equipment, and troubleshooting; strand training in either the Fire Controlman or ...

... lab practice; frequent troubleshooting under time pressure to restore mission critical combat ... optics, test equipment, and troubleshooting; strand training in either the Fire Controlman or ...

Showing results 21-40

Optical Lab information

See Milwaukee, WI salary details

$11

$21

$55

How much do optical lab jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical lab in Milwaukee, WI is $21.48, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.14 and $20.38 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 are the most commonly searched types of Optical Lab jobs in Milwaukee, WI?

The most popular types of Optical Lab jobs in Milwaukee, WI are:

What are popular job titles related to Optical Lab jobs in Milwaukee, WI?

For Optical Lab jobs in Milwaukee, WI, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Optical Lab jobs in Milwaukee, WI look for?

The top searched job categories for Optical Lab jobs in Milwaukee, WI are:

Infographic showing various Optical Lab job openings in Milwaukee, WI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $44,680 per year, or $21.5 per hour.

R&D Technician I

Mativ Holdings, Inc.

New Berlin, WI • On-site

$18.75 - $24.75/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago


Job description

Mativ is a global leader in specialty materials headquartered in Alpharetta, Georgia. The Company offers a wide range of critical components and engineered solutions that connect, protect, and purify our world. 

Position Title: R&D Lab Technician

Location: New Berlin, WI

DESCRIPTION:

Mativ is actively looking for an innovative and hardworking individual to join our growing R&D team. The R&D Lab Technician will work closely with our Research and Development, Engineering, and Quality teams. The ideal candidate will have the attitude, initiative, and excellent interpersonal skills to support Mativ’s collaborative, high-achievement culture.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • The role is roughly 50% or more time spent in lab working with coating formulations and evaluating the end properties of these coatings. This may include:
    • Weighing chemicals to specified amounts and mixing to create liquid coatings.
    • Performing drawdowns of coatings with a Mayer Rod onto various flexible film samples.
        • Assisting with product testing (optical qualities, peel adhesion, thickness measurements, chemical resistance, surface energy, etc.)
        • Maintaining documentation in a laboratory notebook and entering information into electronic systems (Excel, company specific programs, etc.)
        • Preparing samples for potential customers, labeling correctly, and printing safety documents to ship to the customer.
        • Disposing of hazardous and non-hazardous waste into appropriate waste containers.
    • The other 50% of the job is with lab maintenance including, but not limited to:
      • Maintaining a clean and safe laboratory environment. The preferred candidate would have experience with 5S.
      • Completing monthly safety learnings on the computer in a timely manner
      • Documenting new chemicals to site and sending the SDS to safety for review. Updating the electronic document with the PPE requirements.
      • Updating the electronic chemical inventory, including adding new chemicals and properly disposing of old chemicals
      • Helping to create and document new test methods

QUALIFICATIONS:

Required

  • The ideal applicant will have the confidence to work in a lab and manufacturing environment
  • High School with relevant lab experience
  • Proficient using MS Office
  • Strong organizational skills with good attention to detail
  • The ability to work in a dynamic and fluid production environment
  • Follows safety guidelines and handles chemicals according to safety protocols
  • Ability to problem solve and troubleshoot

 

Preferred

  • 2-year Chemical Technician degree or other science degrees.
  • Experience with solvent-based coatings

 

Physical Demands

  • Standing majority of the day
  • Going up and down stairs
  • Occasionally lifting up to 50 lb.
  • Occasionally wearing a respirator

This description should not be construed to contain every function/responsibility that may be required to be performed by an incumbent in this job. Incumbents are required to perform other related functions as assigned.

WHAT WE OFFER

Mativ benefits say a lot about how we care for each other. Our employees and their families have many different needs. As a result, our benefits offer choices on many levels and are high in quality, competitive in the marketplace, and affordable.

ABOUT MATIV

Mativ Holdings, Inc. is a global leader in specialty materials headquartered in Alpharetta, Georgia. The company connects, protects, and purifies the world every day through a wide range of critical components and engineered solutions that solve our customers’ most complex challenges. We manufacture on three continents and generate sales in nearly 100 countries through our family of business-to-business and consumer product brands. The company’s two segments, Filtration & Advanced Materials and Sustainable & Adhesive Solutions, target premium applications across diversified and growing end-markets, from filtration to healthcare to sustainable packaging and more. Our broad portfolio of technologies combines polymers, fibers, and resins to optimize the performance of our customers’ products across multiple stages of the value chain. Our leading positions are a testament to our best-in-class global manufacturing, supply chain, and materials science capabilities. We drive innovation and enhance performance, finding potential in the impossible.