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Optical Technician Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Attalon, Inc.

Optical Tech I

Murrieta, CA · On-site

$16.07 - $27.48/hr

Optical Technician 1 We are looking for talent to join our Optical Fabrication team. Under general supervision, you will operate and maintain machines, fabricate optical parts, perform inspections ...

Attalon, Inc.

Optical Coating Tech I

Murrieta, CA · On-site

$18.34 - $31.36/hr

Optical Coating Technician I Job Details The Optical Coating Technician I plays a key role in producing high-performance optical components by applying thin-film coatings to precision substrates.

TRL11, Inc.

Lead Optical Engineer

Irvine, CA

$138K - $179K/yr

Conduct optical system modeling, simulation, and performance analysis using tools such as Zemax, Code V, FRED, or similar optical analysis software. * Develop and execute optical test plans to ...

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All JobsOptical Technician JobsOptical Technician Jobs in Riverside, CA

Optical Technician information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$11

$22

$38

How much do optical technician jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical technician in Riverside, CA is $22.37, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $24.33 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Optical Technicians?

Optical Technicians are skilled professionals who fabricate, assemble, or repair optical devices such as eyeglasses, contact lenses, and other optical instruments. They work with precision equipment to cut, grind, and polish lenses according to prescriptions provided by optometrists or ophthalmologists. Additionally, they may fit lenses into frames, perform quality checks, and ensure that finished products meet required specifications. Optical Technicians play an essential role in helping people achieve optimal vision through customized optical solutions.

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

To thrive as an Optical Technician, you need a solid understanding of optical science, lens fabrication, and equipment maintenance, often backed by a certificate or associate degree in opticianry or a related field. Familiarity with lensometers, edgers, and electronic health record (EHR) systems is typically required, and certification from organizations like the American Board of Opticianry (ABO) is advantageous. Attention to detail, manual dexterity, and strong customer service skills help you excel in crafting precise eyewear and assisting clients effectively. These competencies ensure accurate prescriptions, high-quality products, and a positive patient experience in a technical and customer-focused environment.

What is an optical technician?

An optical technician is a professional who fabricates, repairs, and maintains optical devices such as lenses, glasses, and optical instruments. They often work in laboratories or manufacturing settings, using precision tools and following technical specifications, and may require certification or training in optics or related fields.

How much does an optical technician earn?

Optical technicians typically earn a median annual salary of around $40,000 to $50,000, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Salaries can vary based on the work environment, such as retail, healthcare, or manufacturing, and may include benefits like health insurance and paid time off.

What is the difference between Optical Technician vs Optician?

AspectOptical TechnicianOptician
CredentialsHigh school diploma, technical training, certification often preferredHigh school diploma, certification or license often required
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, manufacturing facilities, optical labsOptical retail stores, clinics, private practices
Job ResponsibilitiesAssembling lenses, repairing glasses, maintaining optical equipmentFitting glasses, adjusting frames, helping customers select eyewear

Optical Technicians primarily focus on lens fabrication and equipment maintenance within labs, while Opticians work directly with customers to fit and sell eyewear. Both roles require technical knowledge, but their work environments and responsibilities differ significantly.

What Does an Optical Technician Do?

An optical technician, also known as an ophthalmic laboratory technician, fills prescriptions for eyeglass lenses and contact lenses. As an optical technician, you may work in a medical equipment laboratory or directly in an optometrist’s office. One of your job duties is utilizing manufacturing machinery, such as grinders and lensometers, to ensure each lens is curved to the correct prescription for individual patients. Optical technicians are different from opticians, but some offices use the terms interchangeably. A technician usually works closely with an optometrist, or eye doctor, to ensure that each set of lenses is created correctly. Other common responsibilities include fitting glasses frames to suit the patient’s face, checking the correct prescription is sent to the lab, and drafting records about each order that is filled. Some employers require optical technicians to perform administrative duties, such as updating patient records and verifying insurance policies.

What are some common challenges Optical Technicians face when working in a fast-paced laboratory setting?

Optical Technicians in busy laboratories often encounter challenges such as managing multiple orders with tight deadlines, ensuring precise measurements and lens fabrication, and troubleshooting equipment malfunctions. Staying organized and maintaining attention to detail is crucial, as even minor errors can impact the quality of finished eyewear. Additionally, effective communication with optometrists, lab managers, and other team members is key to resolving issues quickly and maintaining workflow efficiency.

How much do ophthalmic technicians make a year?

Ophthalmic technicians typically earn a median annual salary of around $36,000 to $45,000, depending on experience, location, and certifications. They work in eye care settings, assisting ophthalmologists with patient exams and using specialized tools. Salaries can increase with additional training or advanced roles.

Is optical technician a good career?

Optical technicians play a key role in manufacturing and repairing optical devices such as lenses and glasses, often working in laboratories or retail settings. The career typically requires technical training or certification and offers steady employment with opportunities for specialization. Job prospects are generally stable, especially with experience and additional skills in optical equipment and measurements.
More about Optical Technician jobs
What are popular job titles related to Optical Technician jobs in Riverside, CA? For Optical Technician jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Optical Technician jobs in Riverside, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Optical Technician jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Optical Technician jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Optical Technician job openings:
Optical Technician jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Technician job openings in Riverside, CA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 10% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $46,522 per year, or $22.4 per hour.

Optical Technician I (Sapphire)

Attalon, Inc.

Murrieta, CA • On-site

$16.07 - $27.48/hr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

Job description

Attalon’s Murrieta site specializes in advanced optical manufacturing for critical aerospace and defense programs. Our team produces high-performance optical components and coatings that enable precision targeting and durability in the harshest environments. From missile guidance optics to thermal protection solutions, Murrieta plays a vital role in delivering technologies that provide the warfighter with a decisive edge.

Optical Technician 1

We are looking for candidates to join our Optical Fabrication team. Under general supervision, you will operate and maintain machines, fabricate optical parts, perform inspections, and ensure compliance with strict optical and mechanical specifications.

Primary Duties & Responsibilities
  • Operate, set up, and adjust machines; perform routine cleaning and basic maintenance
  • Read blueprints and work instructions to meet part specifications
  • Clean parts using approved chemicals (e.g., acetone)
  • Inspect optical surfaces for quality and compliance
  • Perform accurate data entry and support metrology processes
Minimum Qualifications
  • Education: High school diploma or GED
  • Experience: 1+ year of related experience in manufacturing or machine operation
  • Ability to read and interpret technical instructions and drawings
  • Basic knowledge of machinery and manufacturing processes
  • Strong attention to detail, manual dexterity, and reliability
  • Results-driven, team-oriented, and committed to safety standards
Preferred Qualifications
  • Prior experience in machine operation within a manufacturing environment
  • Familiarity with optical manufacturing and material handling procedures
  • Skilled use of hand tools, such as micrometers, calipers, and depth gauges
  • Ability to read and interpret prints, specs, and drawings to verify dimensions
  • Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to work independently
Working Conditions
  • Regularly required to sit, use hands, and handle delicate parts
  • Frequently required to stand, walk, stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl
  • Must be able to lift up to 10 lbs frequently and up to 50 lbs occasionally (with or without assistance)
  • Requires close vision, distance vision, depth perception, and inspecting small parts using precision instruments
  • Must wear required safety gear for extended periods and handle solutions like acetone


For California residents, the hourly pay range for this role is $16.07–$27.48.
Please note this range is a general guideline, and individual offers depend on factors like responsibilities, experience, education, skills, and current market conditions.

Safety Requirements:
All employees must attend scheduled training, adhere to site-specific EHS procedures, follow Corporate EHS standards, and appropriately use PPE based on job requirements. Supervisors will ensure compliance, provide work instructions, and monitor adherence to safety protocols.

Quality & Environmental Responsibilities:
At designated locations, this role may include responsibilities to support and maintain ISO 9000, 9001, 14001, or other applicable Quality and Environmental Management standards.

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement

Attalon, Inc. is proud to be an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Export Control Compliance

This role entails access to technology, materials, software, or hardware subject to U.S. export control laws. Therefore, candidates must qualify as a “U.S. Person” under applicable regulations or be eligible for authorization under a U.S. government export license.



Monday-Friday
6:00am-2:30pm (1st shift)