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Optical Laboratory Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Pandrol USA LP

Laboratory Technician

Memphis, TN · On-site

$16.50 - $22/hr

Maintain laboratory incoming samples database. * Perform preliminary visual inspection. * Prepares ... Have previous experience or knowledge about Hardness testing, Optical microscopy, Chemical analysis.

Canvas

Optics Programmer

Tullahoma, TN · On-site

Optics Programmer Location: Arnold AFB- Tullahoma, TN (On-site) We are seeking a highly skilled ... Experience with on-site technical support for laboratory or field testing. * Experience with ...

Canvas

Optics Programmer

Tullahoma, TN · Hybrid

Optics Programmer Location: Arnold AFB- Tullahoma, TN (On-site) We are seeking a highly skilled ... Experience with on-site technical support for laboratory or field testing. * Experience with ...

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Optical Laboratory information

See Tennessee salary details

$10

$19

$51

How much do optical laboratory jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical laboratory in Tennessee is $19.79, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.94 and $18.75 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Optical Laboratory vs Optician?

AspectOptical LaboratoryOptician
CredentialsMay require certifications in lab work or optical technologyOften requires state licensing or certification
Work EnvironmentLaboratory setting, working with lenses and equipmentRetail or clinical setting, interacting with customers
Job FocusFabricating and assembling lenses and optical componentsFitting, adjusting, and dispensing eyewear to patients
Industry UsageManufacturing and production of optical productsCustomer service and eyewear sales

While both roles are essential in the optical industry, an Optical Laboratory primarily focuses on fabricating lenses and optical components in a lab setting, whereas an Optician interacts directly with customers to fit and dispense eyewear. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and job expectations within the optical field.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in an optical laboratory, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals working in an Optical Laboratory often encounter challenges such as maintaining high precision in lens fabrication, managing a fast-paced workflow with tight deadlines, and ensuring strict adherence to safety and quality standards. Effective communication with team members and attention to detail are crucial for minimizing errors during the lens grinding, coating, and fitting processes. Regular training, organization, and the use of updated technology can help address these challenges and contribute to a productive and error-free work environment.

What is an optical laboratory?

An optical laboratory is a specialized facility where eyeglass lenses and other optical devices are created, customized, and assembled according to prescriptions from eye care professionals. Technicians in optical labs use advanced equipment to cut, grind, polish, and fit lenses into eyeglass frames, ensuring that each pair meets the precise vision needs of the customer. Optical labs may also produce contact lenses, safety glasses, and specialty optics for various industries. The work in an optical laboratory requires attention to detail and knowledge of optical materials and technologies.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in an optical laboratory role?

To thrive in an Optical Laboratory role, you need a solid understanding of optics, precision measurement, and lens fabrication, often supported by a high school diploma or associate degree in a related field. Familiarity with lens edging machines, lensometers, and laboratory management software is typically required. Attention to detail, manual dexterity, and effective teamwork are essential soft skills for success in this environment. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring the accurate production of optical products and maintaining high standards of quality and customer satisfaction.
What are popular job titles related to Optical Laboratory jobs in Tennessee? For Optical Laboratory jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Optical Laboratory jobs in Tennessee look for? The top searched job categories for Optical Laboratory jobs in Tennessee are:
Optical Laboratory jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Laboratory job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,160 per year, or $19.8 per hour.

Applied Scientist, Optical (contract)

Zetta Technologies

Nashville, TN • On-site

$12K/mo

Contractor

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

At Zetta Technologies, our mission is to create the world's most resilient and sustainable optical communications network. Come work alongside industry-leading scientists and engineers to create the technology that will define the next generation of fiber optics.

We are prioritizing candidates in the DC Area and Nashville, but candidates from other locations will be considered.

Responsibilities

  • Validate key technologies involved in next generation fiber optic connections, technical roadmap planning, and key technical solution design and selection;
  • Research and development of optical interconnection related network control, management, monitoring, and other automation requirements, to improve network operation and maintenance efficiency.

Qualifications

  • Master's degree or above, major in fiber optics communication, optical networking, optoelectronics, communication/electronic engineering
  • Solid theoretical understanding of fiber optic communication systems including propagation modeling, optical amplifiers, optical and optoelectronic devices
  • Experience with optical networking design software or fiber optic communication system analysis software, such as VPIphotonics/Optiwave, etc
  • Familiar with IEEE802.3, Optical Transport Networking ITU-T recommendations , and OIF standards
  • Interested/have experience with hardware design, such as PCB hardware design experience, and have the ability to select and design optical and electronic chips and devices
  • Working knowledge of computer networking the TCP/IP protocol stack, and those with some knowledge of software programming ability are preferred.

Salary

  • $12,500 / month, minimum three-month contract
Employment Type: CONTRACTOR

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