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Optical Laboratory Jobs (NOW HIRING)

QinetiQ US

Principal Optical Engineer

Lorton, VA · On-site

$130K - $168K/yr

Laboratory Optical Characterization * Maintain and utilize an optical laboratory to support development, testing, and prototyping efforts, including equipment such as integrating spheres, collimators ...

QinetiQ

Principal Optical Engineer

Lorton, VA · On-site

$130K - $168K/yr

Laboratory Optical Characterization * Maintain and utilize an optical laboratory to support development, testing, and prototyping efforts, including equipment such as integrating spheres, collimators ...

QinetiQ

Principal Optical Engineer

Lorton, VA · On-site

$130K - $168K/yr

Laboratory Optical Characterization * Maintain and utilize an optical laboratory to support development, testing, and prototyping efforts, including equipment such as integrating spheres, collimators ...

QinetiQ US

Principal Optical Engineer

Lorton, VA · On-site

$130K - $168K/yr

Laboratory Optical Characterization * Maintain and utilize an optical laboratory to support development, testing, and prototyping efforts, including equipment such as integrating spheres, collimators ...

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Optical Laboratory information

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$11

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$56

How much do optical laboratory jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical laboratory 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.

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, and why are they important?

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.
More about Optical Laboratory jobs
What cities are hiring for Optical Laboratory jobs? Cities with the most Optical Laboratory job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Optical Laboratory jobs? The most popular types of Optical Laboratory jobs are:
What states have the most Optical Laboratory jobs? States with the most job openings for Optical Laboratory jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Optical Laboratory jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Optical Laboratory jobs are:
Optical Laboratory jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Laboratory job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 2% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,349 per year, or $21.8 per hour.
Optical Lab Technician PT Logan, UT #216

Optical Lab Technician PT Logan, UT #216

Eyemart Express

Arlington, TX

$15 - $20.25/hr

Part-time

Posted 6 days ago

Eyemart Express rating

6.1

Company rating: 6.1 out of 10

Based on 80 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

22nd of 39 rated optical retailers

Job description

Optical Lab Technician Part-Time

30 years ago, Dr. Barnes founded Eyemart Express to deliver everything a patient needs. It started with one friendly shop in Appleton, WI, and has since expanded to over 245 in 42 states. Today, Eyemart Express is celebrated for promptly delivering quality eyewear at great prices while maintaining great relationships with optometrists and local communities. We’re not like everyone else, with local labs in stores, eye exams, and same-day delivery on glasses — our customers never miss a moment. Now, you can join one of the nation’s top optical retailers and improve lives by helping people see better.

As an Optical Lab Technician, you'll be responsible for cutting, edging, and creating prescription lenses to ensure customers receive their new glasses in a timely manner. Your technical skills and attention to detail will contribute to our high standards of quality and service. Experience is preferred but not required, as we are willing to train the right candidate.

Earning Potential: The earning potential for this role is competitive, inclusive of base pay and incentives.

Responsibilities:

· Lab Work: Identify and work with basic optical laboratory equipment, tools, supplies, and materials. Consistently adhere to hourly deadlines for finishing jobs.

· Prescription Management: Correctly read and interpret prescription specifications and input into the computer to ensure lenses are cut properly.

· Maintenance: Maintain the lab area and equipment in a safe and organized manner. Perform daily, weekly, and monthly lab equipment maintenance as scheduled and in accordance with lab/equipment manual specifications.

· Operational Excellence: Perform multiple concurrent tasks at several different equipment stations to maintain acceptable job flow. Fill out all assigned reporting forms in a timely manner.

Requirements:

· High School Diploma or GED

· Experience working in a lab or technical setting

· Experience working in the optical industry is preferred

· Must be able to read, comprehend, and follow technical manuals and protocols

At Eyemart Express, we're dedicated to excellence in everything we do. We understand the importance of work-life balance and strive to be as flexible as possible with scheduling needs to ensure our team members can achieve harmony between work and personal life.

If you're ready to join a company that values excellence, invests in your future, and respects your need for balance, submit your resume today! Eyemart Express is where your career takes off.

This posting provides an overview of the role. A full job description will be provided upon hire.

VSP Vision is an equal opportunity employer and gives consideration for employment to qualified applicants without regard to age, gender, race, color, religion, sex, national origin, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability or protected veteran status. We maintain a drug-free workplace and perform pre-employment substance abuse testing.

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