ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Optical Retail Manager Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Big City Optical

General Manager (Lakeview)

Chicago, IL · On-site

$50K - $65K/yr

The Optical Retail General Manager job is to oversee and manage our Optical Retail Store. In this role you will drive exceptional customer satisfaction, manage day - to - day operations and lead and ...

SEE Eyewear

Optical Stylist, Part-Time

Naperville, IL · On-site

$18 - $24/hr

... practice management systems. * Perform daily operational tasks, including but not limited to ... Retail experience preferred * Retail optical experience a plus, but not required--we'll train the ...

SEE Eyewear

Optical Stylist, Full-Time

Naperville, IL · On-site

$18 - $24/hr

... practice management systems. * Perform daily operational tasks, including but not limited to ... Retail experience preferred * Retail optical experience a plus, but not required--we'll train the ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsOptical Retail JobsOptical Retail Manager JobsOptical Retail Manager Jobs in Chicago, IL

Optical Retail Manager information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$19

$24

$28

How much do optical retail manager jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical retail manager in Chicago, IL is $24.76, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.31 and $27.26 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an optical retail manager do?

An Optical Retail Manager is responsible for overseeing the daily operations of an optical store, which sells eyewear and related products. They manage staff, ensure excellent customer service, handle inventory, and coordinate sales and marketing efforts. Additionally, they may assist customers with selecting frames, work with optometrists, and ensure the store complies with industry regulations. Their role combines retail management skills with specialized knowledge of optical products.

What are some common challenges optical retail managers face when balancing customer service with business operations?

Optical Retail Managers often encounter the challenge of delivering exceptional customer service while also ensuring smooth business operations, such as inventory management and sales targets. Balancing staff schedules, maintaining product knowledge among team members, and adapting to evolving eyewear trends are key aspects of the role. Managers must also handle customer concerns effectively, all while driving profitability and meeting compliance standards. Successful Optical Retail Managers are proactive communicators who foster teamwork and maintain a customer-focused environment without compromising on operational efficiency.

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

To thrive as an Optical Retail Manager, you need expertise in optical products and services, retail operations, and sales management, often supported by experience in the optical industry or a related certification. Familiarity with point-of-sale (POS) systems, inventory management software, and basic optometric tools is typically required. Strong leadership, customer service, and problem-solving skills set outstanding managers apart in this role. These skills ensure efficient store operations, high customer satisfaction, and achievement of sales targets in a competitive retail environment.

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

AspectOptical Retail ManagerOptical Sales Associate
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some may have optical or retail management certificationsHigh school diploma or equivalent; sales or customer service experience preferred
Work EnvironmentSupervises staff, manages store operations, and ensures customer satisfactionAssists customers, sells eyewear, and provides product information
Industry UsageCommonly found in optical retail stores, chains, and independent shopsTypically employed in optical retail settings, assisting customers directly

The main difference is that Optical Retail Managers oversee store operations and staff, while Optical Sales Associates focus on customer service and eyewear sales. Both roles are essential in optical retail, but the manager has additional responsibilities related to management and store performance.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Optical Retail Manager jobs near you

General Manager (Lakeview)

Big City Optical

Chicago, IL • On-site

$50K - $65K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 27 days ago

Job description

Big City Optical is a leading firm in the optical industry, recognized for our innovative products and commitment to excellence. We are currently seeking a General Manager to join our team and support the company's mission of providing preeminent eye care in our communities.
The Optical Retail General Manager job is to oversee and manage our Optical Retail Store. In this role you will drive exceptional customer satisfaction, manage day - to - day operations and lead and develop a team of dedicated optical professionals.
General Manager Duties and Responsibilities
  • Recruit, train, mentor and supervise a high-performing team of optical associates.
  • Foster a positive work environment encouraging collaboration, accountability, and professional growth.
  • Set sales targets and motivate staff to meet and exceed those goals.
  • Prepare various promotional materials and in-store displays.
  • Ensure staff are well versed in Big City Optical's value proposition and are comfortable communicating and evangelizing it with clients.
  • Prepare schedules and ensure they are communicated and adjusted, when needed, in a timely manner to meet staff coverage objectives.
  • Lead staff meetings and cascade communications from leadership to ensure all associates stay informed.
  • Manage store budgets, maintain financial records and report to the district manager on trends and recommendations based on sales trends and spend management.
  • Stay informed on industry trends and technologies and leverage that information to develop teams' knowledge and skills.
  • Oversee stock levels and work with the inventory specialist to order new eyewear products and merchandising as needed. Participate in off hours inventory count work as needed.
  • Champion a customer centric culture and manage customer complaints and issues promptly and in a professional manner from identification to resolution.
  • Manage staff conflicts, complaints, and problems.
  • Ensure compliance with various health and safety regulations.
  • Additional responsibilities as assigned to support the overall success of the store.

Requirements
General Manager Requirements and Qualifications
  • High School Diploma or GED, college degree preferred.
  • 3 years of experience in retail supervisory roles with a track record of achieving sales targets
  • Excellent interpersonal communication skills
  • Exceptional customer service skills and commitment to a positive shopping experience
  • Knowledge of eyewear products, industry trends and optical technologies
  • Ability to stay organized and manage time effectively.
  • Strengths in leadership, management, team building, and proactive problem-solving
  • Adhere to company policies on attendance, dress code and workplace safety.
  • Capability to thrive in a fast-paced and oftentimes high-pressure environment.
  • Numerical and analytical knowledge to properly manage cash and financial records.
  • Proficiency in office productivity technologies (Microsoft, G-Suite etc.) and the ability to learn and use new technologies for day-to-day patient and business transactions.
  • Reliable transportation and willingness to travel up to 10 miles to support coverage at other locations as needed.

Work Environment:
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Physical Demands:
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
While performing the duties of this Job, the employee is regularly required to stand; walk; sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms and talk or hear. The employee is frequently required to stoop, kneel, crouch, climb-up or crawl. The employee must regularly lift and /or move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include Close vision, Distance vision, Depth perception and Ability to adjust focus.
Pay: $50,000 - 65,000 per year
Benefits:
  • Incentive Plan Participation
  • Company subsidized Medical Insurance
  • Company subsidized Dental insurance
  • Company paid Short Term Disability insurance
  • 401(k) with 10% match
  • Paid time off
  • Employee discount plan

Apply