1

Optical Manager Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Optician

La Grange, IL · On-site

$19 - $24/hr

Description Big City Optical is a leading firm in the optical industry, recognized for our ... Work with colleagues to manage inventory, including ordering, receiving, organizing frames and lens ...

Optician

La Grange, IL · On-site

$19 - $24/hr

Description: Big City Optical is a leading firm in the optical industry, recognized for our ... Work with colleagues to manage inventory, including ordering, receiving, organizing frames and lens ...

Traveling Optician

Mundelein, IL · On-site

$17.50 - $22.75/hr

Utilize optical prescription in conjunction to the patient's visual requirements. * Recommend ... Provide appropriate guidance to patients regarding Managed Vision Care. * Assist the store with ...

Showing results 41-60

Optical Manager information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$22.2K

$75.5K

$262.4K

How much do optical manager jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical manager in Chicago, IL is $75,476.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,600.00 and $78,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an optical manager?

An Optical Manager is a professional who oversees the daily operations of an optical store or department, ensuring high-quality customer service and efficient workflow. Their responsibilities typically include managing staff, handling inventory, assisting with eyewear selection, and ensuring compliance with health and safety standards. They may also be involved in training employees, coordinating with optometrists, and implementing sales strategies. Effective Optical Managers possess strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills. They play a crucial role in maintaining customer satisfaction and the overall success of the optical business.

What does an optical manager do?

Optical managers oversee the day-to-day operations of an optometrist’s office. As an optical manager, your job duties include a mix of administrative and eye care tasks, such as hiring and training staff, managing inventory, processing insurance and billing, submitting work orders for eyeglasses and contact lenses, adjusting eyeglasses, and maintaining client records. The qualifications to become an optical manager include several years of experience working in the eye care field, strong communication skills, and the ability to multitask. An associate or bachelor’s degree in business or a related field may make you a more valuable candidate for optical manager positions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an optical manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Optical Manager, you need expertise in optometry practices, optical product knowledge, and management experience, typically supported by a background in opticianry or a related field. Familiarity with practice management software, lens fitting tools, and inventory systems is crucial. Strong leadership, customer service, and problem-solving skills help build effective teams and ensure client satisfaction. These capabilities are vital for delivering quality eye care, optimizing business operations, and maintaining a loyal clientele.

What are some common challenges optical managers face when balancing clinical duties with business operations?

Optical Managers often juggle both patient care and business responsibilities, which can be challenging. Balancing staff scheduling, inventory management, and customer service while ensuring compliance with healthcare regulations requires strong organizational skills. Additionally, Optical Managers frequently work to motivate their team and meet sales targets without compromising the quality of care. Successful managers develop effective communication strategies and prioritize tasks to maintain a smoothly running optical practice.

What is the difference between Optical Manager vs Optical Sales Associate?

AspectOptical ManagerOptical Sales Associate
CredentialsOptical certification, management experienceOptical knowledge, sales skills
Work EnvironmentOptical stores, eyewear clinicsRetail optical outlets, eyewear departments
Employer & IndustryOptical chains, independent optical practicesOptical retail stores, eyewear retailers
Primary ResponsibilitiesOverseeing store operations, staff management, inventory controlAssisting customers, selling eyewear, product knowledge

Optical Managers focus on store operations, staff supervision, and inventory management, requiring management skills and optical certifications. Optical Sales Associates primarily assist customers with eyewear selection and sales, emphasizing customer service and product knowledge. Both roles are essential in optical retail environments but differ in responsibilities and required credentials.

What are the most commonly searched types of Optical jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Optical jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Optical Manager jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Optical Manager jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Optical Manager jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Optical Manager jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Optical Manager jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Optical Manager job openings:

Infographic showing various Optical Manager job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, and 14% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $75,476 per year, or $36.3 per hour.

Optical Assembly Technician

Intraaction Corporation

Bellwood, IL • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago


Job description

About the Role:
An acousto-optics bonder is a specialized technician who combines the skills of an acousto-optics with the precision of a bonder to assemble or integrate acousto-optic components into optical systems. This role is common in companies that manufacture specialized optical devices.

Responsibilities:
  • Perform precision bonding (surface preparation → adhesive application → alignment → pressure → bond thickness → curing → inspection/testing)  of acousto-optic components including crystals, transducers, and optical elements
  • Operate and maintain bonding equipment and related tooling used in acousto-optic device assembly
  • Inspect finished assemblies using microscopes and optical measurement tools to ensure quality standards
  • Follow detailed work instructions and engineering specifications for bonding processes
  • Troubleshoot bonding defects and implement corrective actions to maintain yield and quality
  • Document production activities, process parameters, and inspection results accurately
  • Collaborate with engineering and quality teams to support process improvements and new product development
Requirements:
  • Hand skills manipulating small objects and performing precise tasks.
  • Steady hands and exceptional attention to detail for micro-scale assembly work
  • Experience in precision bonding, optical assembly, or a related electro-optic/photonic manufacturing role
  • Familiarity with acousto-optic, piezoelectric, or crystal-based components is a strong plus
  • Ability to read and follow technical drawings, schematics, and process documentation is a plus
  • Experience using microscopes, calipers, and other precision measurement instruments
  • Strong understanding of cleanroom practices and ESD-safe handling procedures
  • High school diploma or equivalent required; technical trade certification or associate's degree preferred
About Us:
Intraaction Corporation has been a pioneering manufacturer of acousto-optic devices and systems for decades, serving industries ranging from laser technology and defense to scientific research. Our customers trust us for our unmatched precision and reliability in producing high-performance optical components. Employees at Intraaction enjoy a stable, specialized work environment where technical expertise is valued and long-term careers are built.

IntraAction logo

About IntraAction

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Electrical equipment, appliance, and component manufacturing

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

Bellwood, IL, US

Year founded

1975