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Optical Laboratory Technician Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Eyeworld Vision Center

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Optical Lab Technician

Saraland, AL · On-site

$15 - $25/hr

The Lab Technician will be responsible for cutting, edging, and creating prescription lenses for ... Identify and work with basic optical laboratory equipment, tools, supplies, and materials

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Optical Laboratory Technician information

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How much do optical laboratory technician jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical laboratory technician in the United States is $21.80, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $20.67 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is optical technician a good career?

Optical laboratory technicians play a key role in manufacturing and fitting eyeglasses and contact lenses, requiring attention to detail and knowledge of optical equipment. The profession offers steady employment opportunities, especially with certification and experience, and typically involves working in a laboratory or optical shop environment. Job prospects are generally stable due to ongoing demand for vision correction products.

How much does an optical technician earn?

Optical laboratory technicians typically earn a median annual salary of around $35,000 to $45,000, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Skilled technicians with specialized training or certification can earn higher wages, especially in busy or high-demand environments.

What Does An Optical Laboratory Technician Do?

An optical laboratory technician works in a laboratory setting, producing eyewear such as glasses and contacts based on the prescription from an optometrist. In this career, your duties start with selecting the appropriate lens based on the prescription standards set out by the optician. You then cut, grind, and polish them so that they meet the prescription criteria and fit within the frames. Your responsibilities could also include adding coating or surfacing to the products and polishing the lens to remove any trace of imperfection.

What does an optical lab tech do?

An optical laboratory technician fabricates and repairs eyeglasses, contact lenses, and other optical devices. They use precision tools and follow prescriptions to cut, grind, and assemble lenses, ensuring quality and accuracy. The role often requires attention to detail, knowledge of optical materials, and adherence to safety standards.

What does an Optical Laboratory Technician do?

An Optical Laboratory Technician is responsible for fabricating, fitting, and repairing eyeglass lenses according to prescriptions provided by optometrists and ophthalmologists. They use specialized equipment to cut, grind, edge, and finish lenses, as well as assemble them into frames. The role also involves quality control checks to ensure accuracy and compliance with industry standards. Technicians may also manage inventory, maintain lab equipment, and assist with basic customer service tasks related to eyewear.

What is the difference between Optical Laboratory Technician vs Optician?

AspectOptical Laboratory TechnicianOptician
CredentialsHigh school diploma, technical training, certification often preferredHigh school diploma, certification or license required in some states
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, manufacturing settings, production of lensesOptical retail stores, clinics, customer service
Job FocusFabricating, grinding, and assembling lenses and framesFitting, adjusting, and selling eyewear to customers

Optical Laboratory Technicians primarily focus on manufacturing and assembling lenses in a lab environment, requiring technical skills and certifications. In contrast, Opticians work directly with customers, fitting and dispensing eyewear in retail or clinical settings. Both roles are essential in the eyewear industry but differ in daily tasks and work environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Optical Laboratory Technician, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Optical Laboratory Technician, you need a solid understanding of optical principles, lens fabrication, and attention to detail, typically supported by a high school diploma or vocational training. Familiarity with lens edgers, surfacing machines, and computerized lab management systems is commonly required. Manual dexterity, problem-solving skills, and strong organizational abilities help technicians excel in producing accurate and high-quality eyewear. These skills are crucial for ensuring precise lens manufacturing, minimizing errors, and maintaining high patient satisfaction.

What are some typical challenges Optical Laboratory Technicians face in maintaining quality standards during high-volume periods?

Optical Laboratory Technicians often experience high workloads, especially during peak seasons when demand for prescription lenses increases. Maintaining precision and quality while working quickly can be challenging, as even minor errors in lens fabrication or coating can impact patient satisfaction. To overcome these challenges, technicians rely on standardized procedures, regular equipment calibration, and close teamwork to ensure accuracy and efficiency without compromising quality. Effective communication with supervisors and colleagues is also key to swiftly addressing any issues that may arise.

What is the highest paying lab technician job?

The highest paying lab technician roles are often in specialized fields such as clinical, industrial, or research laboratories, with positions like biomedical or pharmaceutical lab technicians earning higher salaries. Advanced certifications, specialized skills, and experience can also lead to higher compensation in these roles.
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Optical Laboratory Technician jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Laboratory Technician job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,349 per year, or $21.8 per hour.

Eyeglass Optical Lab

Express Lens Lab Inc

Fountain Valley, CA

$17 - $25/hr

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago

Job description


Express Lens Lab is currently seeking to hire lab technicians in both our surfacing and finishing departments.
Responsibilities
In this role, you will be responsible for performing optical laboratory duties, including adjusting, repairing, and fabricating eyeglasses•Adjust, repair, and fabricate eyeglasses according to customer needs•Follow technical instructions accurately and efficiently•Maintain up-to-date knowledge of optical laboratory processes and techniques•Provide excellent customer service and communication skills•Utilize appropriate tools and equipment to complete tasks•Ensure accuracy of all products before releasing to customers•Maintain a clean and organized working environment•Adhere to safety protocols and procedures•Assist other technicians with optical-related tasks, if needed | 
Job description
We are currently seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented Technician, Optical Laboratory to join our team at Express Lens Lab. In this role, you will be responsible for performing optical laboratory duties, including adjusting, repairing, and fabricating eyeglasses. The ideal candidate for this position will possess a combination of technical and customer service skills, as well as the ability to work in a fast-paced environment. If you have a passion for providing quality optical care and are ready to join a team of dedicated professionals, we encourage you to apply. Qualifications:•  Previous experience as an optical laboratory technician preferred• Excellent customer service and communication skills• Ability to work accurately and efficiently• Working knowledge of optical laboratory processes and techniques• Ability to read and follow technical instructions• Ability to lift up to 25 pounds
Responsibilities:
Adjust, repair, and fabricate eyeglasses according to customer needs.
Follow technical instructions accurately and efficiently.
Maintain up-to-date knowledge of optical laboratory processes and techniques.
Provide excellent customer service and communication skills.
Utilize appropriate tools and equipment to complete tasks.
Ensure accuracy of all products before releasing to customers.
Maintain a clean and organized working environment.
Adhere to safety protocols and procedures.
Assist other technicians with optical-related tasks, if needed.
Lift up to 25 pounds when necessary.
Express Lens Lab, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We do not discriminate based upon race, religion, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, or other applicable legally protected characteristics