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$11

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$56

How much do optical laboratory jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 23, 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 highest paid lab technician?

The highest paid lab technicians in optical laboratories are often those with specialized skills, extensive experience, or advanced certifications, earning salaries that can exceed $50,000 to $70,000 annually. Factors such as location, employer, and level of expertise influence salary levels for optical lab technicians.

What is the highest paid optometry job?

The highest paid optometry jobs are typically in specialized fields such as ocular disease, vision therapy, or surgical co-management, often requiring additional certifications and experience. These roles may involve working in private practices, hospitals, or specialized clinics and can offer higher salaries compared to general optometry positions.

What do optical lab technicians do?

Optical lab technicians prepare and produce eyeglasses and contact lenses by interpreting prescriptions, cutting and shaping lenses, and assembling frames. They use specialized tools and equipment, such as lensometers and grinding machines, and must follow safety and quality standards to ensure accurate and durable eyewear products.

Do you need a degree to be an optical lab tech?

An optical laboratory technician typically does not need a college degree but should have a high school diploma or equivalent. Training is often provided on the job, and skills in handling optical equipment and understanding lens prescriptions are important. Certification is not required but can enhance job prospects.

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.
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Optical Laboratory jobs near you
Optical Lab Technician FT Odessa, TX #055

Optical Lab Technician FT Odessa, TX #055

Eyemart Express

Odessa, TX • On-site

$14.50 - $19.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 10 hours ago

Eyemart Express rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 77 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

15th of 39 rated optical retailers

Job description

Optical Lab Technician Full-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

Benefits:

· Health Insurance

· Vision Insurance

· Dental Insurance

· Matching 401k

· Short-Term and Long-Term Disability

· Life Insurance

· Fully paid benefits to maintain licensing requirements and opportunities for advancement

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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