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Optical Technician Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Takes orders for eyewear and miscellaneous optical and contact lens items. * Dispenses and adjust eyewear and ophthalmic appliances. * Makes minor repair, adjustments of eyewear to include additional ...

The Position Broadband Technician (Part-Time) The City of Ontario has an exciting opportunity in supporting one of the fastest growing broadband fiber-optic networks. The City of Ontario's Broadband ...

Field Technician III

Ontario, CA · On-site

$26 - $32/hr

We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Field Technician III to join our team in the ... Install, maintain, and repair telecommunications systems, including cable and fiber optic networks ...

Broadband Technician

Ontario, CA · On-site

$43.91 - $53.36/hr

AFSCME The Position Broadband Technician (Part-Time) The City of Ontario has an exciting opportunity in supporting one of the fastest growing broadband fiber-optic networks? The City of Ontario ...

Install, terminate, and test CAT5, CAT6, and fiber optic cabling in data center environments ... Collaborate with other technicians and infrastructure teams on deployment projects. Required ...

New

Licensed Optical Manager

Corona, CA · On-site

$30 - $40/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... Optical equipmentUpholds the Companys Open Door Policy: by meeting with Associates and listening to concerns researching issues reviewing Company policies and procedures and suggesting resolution for ...

Manager - Optical Center

Chino, CA · On-site

$30.50 - $43/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... Optical equipmentUpholds the Companys Open Door Policy: by meeting with Associates and listening to concerns researching issues reviewing Company policies and procedures and suggesting resolution for ...

Optical Center Manager

Chino, CA · On-site

$30.50 - $43/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... Optical equipmentUpholds the Companys Open Door Policy: by meeting with Associates and listening to concerns researching issues reviewing Company policies and procedures and suggesting resolution for ...

Optical Center Manager

Corona, CA · On-site

$30 - $40/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... Optical equipmentUpholds the Companys Open Door Policy: by meeting with Associates and listening to concerns researching issues reviewing Company policies and procedures and suggesting resolution for ...

Showing results 21-40

Optical Technician information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$11

$22

$38

How much do optical technician jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 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.

How much do optical technicians make a year?

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 increase with specialized skills or advanced training.

What is an optical technician?

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.

How much do optical technicians earn?

Optical technicians typically earn a median annual salary of around $40,000 to $50,000, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced technicians with specialized skills can earn higher wages. They often work in optical labs, eye care clinics, or manufacturing environments, using tools like lensometers and spectrometers.

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.

Do optical technicians need a degree?

Optical technicians typically do not need a college degree but usually require a high school diploma or equivalent. Many employers prefer candidates with technical training or certification in optical technology, which can be obtained through vocational programs or community colleges. Certification from organizations like the American Board of Opticianry can also enhance job prospects.

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:

Infographic showing various Optical Technician job openings in Riverside, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 73% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 16% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $46,522 per year, or $22.4 per hour.

Optical Dispenser

Kaiser Permanente

Fontana, CA • On-site

Other

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

Job Summary:

Under limited supervision, measures pupil distance and bridge width, adjust eyeglass frames and assist patients in selecting optical items to conform with corresponding optical prescriptions and established procedures.

Essential Responsibilities:

  • Assists members with the selection of frames and lenses through education and uncovering lifestyle needs.

  • Takes orders for eyewear and miscellaneous optical and contact lens items.

  • Dispenses and adjust eyewear and ophthalmic appliances.

  • Makes minor repair, adjustments of eyewear to include additional optical benchwork.

  • Takes accurate facial measurements of members to fit eyewear needs.

  • Provides member with information about their eyewear, vision benefits, optical pricing, payment collection and quotations for members.

  • Explain product options and optical services.

  • Manage and resolve problems regarding member eyewear complaints performing service recovery.

  • Maintains a clean, neat, and attractive dispensing, lab workroom and retail frame setting.

  • Requests supplies, eyeglass cases, tools, and maintenance of equipment for continuous daily operation.

  • Answers member questions promptly and courteously.

  • Returns recalled frames/ optical items by the due date.

  • Inspects and troubleshoot eyewear to accuracy.

  • Consult with provider concerning Rx prescriptions.

  • Prepare delivery and receive product from vendor and laboratory.

  • Maintain/ order optical supplies.

  • Maintain frame/ optical inventory levels.

  • Review operational data for optical and optometry services.

  • Maintain department logs.

  • Contacts member, optical lab and clinics concerning eyewear orders or prescriptions.

  • Support training with new or less experienced personnel.

  • Serve as resource person to co-workers by answering procedural questions and assisting in problemsolving.

  • Attend conferences, meetings, and in-service training programs.

  • Assume other activities and responsibilities from time to time as directed to support patient care workflow and eye health.

  • Upholds Kaiser Permanentes Policies and Procedures, Principles of Responsibilities and applicable state, federal and local laws.

  • Other Administrative duties.

Basic Qualifications:

Experience

  • Minimim one (1) year of recent full time optical dispensing experience which may include complete optical lab bench work.

Education

  • High School Diploma/GED or equivalent.

  • Certificate from an accredited Ophthalmic Optics school and/or current ABO certification

License, Certification, Registration

  • Optician Certificate OR American Board of Opticianry Basic Certification

Additional Requirements:

  • Measure various types of lenses- measures pupillary distance.

  • Low vision application

  • Thorough knowledge of current frame fashion trends, strong knowledge in retail sales, contact lens fitting, sales, and service techniques.

  • Knowledge of computers.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • ABO Certification

  • Exceptional interpersonal communication skills.

  • Excellent sales and service skills.

  • Ability to problem solve, multi-task and flexibility.

Notes:

  • This is a per diem variable position, must be willing to work all clinics.

  • Days and hours will vary depending on department needs.

COMPANY: KAISER

TITLE: Optical Dispenser

LOCATION: Fontana, California

REQNUMBER: 1432939

External hires must pass a background check/drug screen. Qualified applicants with arrest and/or conviction records will be considered for employment in a manner consistent with Federal, state and local laws, including but not limited to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, protected veteran, or disability status.