ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Optical Laboratory Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

nLIGHT

Optical Engineer

Camas, WA · On-site

Strong laboratory skills including optical testing and characterization of high-power lasers or complex optical sub-assemblies * Solid analytical and problem-solving skills, including problem ...

nLIGHT

Optical Engineer

Camas, WA · On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

Strong laboratory skills including optical testing and characterization of high-power lasers or complex optical sub-assemblies * Solid analytical and problem-solving skills, including problem ...

nLIGHT

Optical Engineer

Camas, WA · On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

Strong laboratory skills including optical testing and characterization of high-power lasers or complex optical sub-assemblies * Solid analytical and problem-solving skills, including problem ...

nLIGHT

Optical Engineer

Camas, WA · On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

Strong laboratory skills including optical testing and characterization of high-power lasers or complex optical sub-assemblies * Solid analytical and problem-solving skills, including problem ...

EyeHealth Northwest

Optician, NW Portland (21531)

Portland, OR · On-site

$18.25 - $23.50/hr

Assess optical needs of patients; analyze and interpret prescriptions written by ophthalmologists ... Prepare work orders that provide laboratory technicians the information necessary to grind and ...

EyeHealth Northwest

Optician, NW Portland (21153)

Portland, OR · On-site

$17.75 - $22.75/hr

Assess optical needs of patients; analyze and interpret prescriptions written by ophthalmologists ... Prepare work orders that provide laboratory technicians the information necessary to grind and ...

EyeHealth Northwest

Optician, NW Portland (21531)

Portland, OR · On-site

$18.25 - $23.50/hr

Assess optical needs of patients; analyze and interpret prescriptions written by ophthalmologists ... Prepare work orders that provide laboratory technicians the information necessary to grind and ...

EyeHealth Northwest

Optician, NW Portland (21153)

Portland, OR · On-site

$17.75 - $22.75/hr

Assess optical needs of patients; analyze and interpret prescriptions written by ophthalmologists ... Prepare work orders that provide laboratory technicians the information necessary to grind and ...

EyeHealth Northwest

Optician (20505)

Wilsonville, OR · On-site

$17.75 - $23/hr

Assess optical needs of patients; analyze and interpret prescriptions written by ophthalmologists ... Prepare work orders that provide laboratory technicians the information necessary to grind and ...

Eye Health Northwest

Optician (20505)

Wilsonville, OR · On-site

$17.75 - $23/hr

Assess optical needs of patients; analyze and interpret prescriptions written by ophthalmologists ... Prepare work orders that provide laboratory technicians the information necessary to grind and ...

EyeHealth Northwest

Optician (20505)

Wilsonville, OR

$17.75 - $23/hr

Assess optical needs of patients; analyze and interpret prescriptions written by ophthalmologists ... Prepare work orders that provide laboratory technicians the information necessary to grind and ...

Teledyne

Sr EO/IR Systems Engineer

Wilsonville, OR · On-site

$108K - $148K/yr

Perform laboratory testing to characterize, evaluate, and calibrate optical lenses and Cassegrain telescopes. * Test and characterize EO/SWIR/MWIR/LWIR imaging sensors and camera performance metrics ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsOptical Laboratory JobsOptical Laboratory Jobs in Portland, OR

Optical Laboratory information

See Portland, OR salary details

$12

$23

$59

How much do optical laboratory jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical laboratory in Portland, OR is $23.12, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.30 and $21.92 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 popular job titles related to Optical Laboratory jobs in Portland, OR?

For Optical Laboratory jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Optical Laboratory jobs in Portland, OR look for?

The top searched job categories for Optical Laboratory jobs in Portland, OR are:

Optical Laboratory jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Laboratory job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,093 per year, or $23.1 per hour.

Optical Lab Technician - Milwaukie, OR (21558)

EyeHealth Northwest

Portland, OR • On-site

$17 - $22.75/hr

Other

Posted 3 days ago

New

EyeHealth Northwest rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 17 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Summary
Responsible for the production, fabrication and finishing of optical lenses into frames. Repair and adjust damaged lenses and frames. Perform quality work in an efficient and timely manner. Coordinate work with opticians and other coworkers to ensure World Class customer service to patients.
Supervisory Responsibilities
This position does not have supervisory responsibility but will assist with orientation and training of other practice employees.
Primary Duties and Responsibilities
  • Follow guidelines and procedures for all tasks, machine operations and maintenance.
  • Move work through your station(s) in a timely manner to the next step in production, paying special attention to priority tags and work ticket information to ensure correct routing.
  • Mount and secure lens blanks or optical lenses in holding tools or chucks of cutting, polishing, grinding, or coating machines.
  • Maintain a sense of urgency to keep work moving through the lab, minimizing distractions to keep focus on accuracy and quality.
  • Coordinate work with coworkers, supervisor and front office staff to ensure services and products are appropriate and performed in an efficient, timely and accurate manner.
  • Analyze work tickets to determine jobs that may need special handling or different procedures.
  • Keep work area clean and orderly.
  • Ensure equipment and machinery is in good working condition; perform minor maintenance and repair.
    • Monitor the automated machinery in your area and address any issues right away, notifying appropriate coworkers and supervisors.
    • Perform appropriate calibrations and tests as required for each machine.
  • Perform work in compliance with company policy, department procedures and regulatory requirements, including HIPPA and OSHA.
  • Inform supervisor in a timely when supplies are running low for any task or maintenance.
  • Cross train outside of main area of responsibility to fill in when staffing and work volume
  • Other duties which may be necessary or desirable to serve the patient and support the success of the department or the company overall.
Level II
  • Proficiency in Level I duties and responsibilities.
  • Proficient in 90% of the functions of at least two departments.
  • Able to oversee the functioning of those departments when the lab manager is unavailable.
  • Able to do basic assessment of machine issues in those areas and to escalate to the appropriate vendor/tech.
  • Takes initiative in the maintenance and problem solving of machine and/or procedure challenges.
  • Able to assist lab manager with training
  • Leads by example in production, attendance and attitude.
Level III
  • Proficiency in Level II duties and responsibilities.
  • Proficient in 90% of the functions in all three departments.
  • Able to oversee the functioning of those departments when the lab manager is unavailable.
  • Able to do more in depth analysis of machine issues.
  • Able to assist lab manager with training
  • Leads by example in production/, attendance and attitude.

Education and/or Experience; Certificates, Licenses, and Registrations (Minimum Requirements)
  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Minimum of one year experience preferred.
  • An equivalent combination of education, experience and training that would provide the knowledge, skills and abilities required for the successful performance of the essential job duties.
Necessary Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
  • Must possess basic math skills.
  • Knowledge and understanding of optical terminology.
  • Ability to keep current and maintain knowledge base of products and services available to patients.
  • Ability to work cooperatively and interact in a professional and respectful manner with physicians, coworkers and vendors.
  • Ability to address concerns and complaints and cooperatively resolve problems
  • Ability to communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.
  • Must be detail oriented with ability to follow through on the completion of work with quality results.
  • Ability to work a flexible work schedule, including evenings and weekends.
  • Ability to use precision tools as required to perform the functions of the job.
Physical Demands / Work Environment
  • This position requires fine manual/finger dexterity and near vision as necessary to perform daily job duties.
  • Majority of work is performed in a lab setting.
  • Exposure to high levels of noise in a well-lit, well-ventilated and moderately paced environment.
  • Frequently required to sit and/or stand for extended periods of time.
  • Occasionally required to reach with hands and arms; lift, push, pull and/or carry objects up to 20 pounds.

Reasonable Accommodations
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential function satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
EHN believes that each employee makes a significant contribution to our overall success. That contribution should not be limited by assigned responsibilities. This job description is designed to outline primary functions, qualifications and job scope, but is not intended to limit the employee or EHN to only those job functions identified. EHN expects each employee to offer his or her services wherever and whenever necessary to ensure superior customer service, quality patient care, and the success of our business.

What EyeHealth Northwest employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply