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Optical Technician Jobs in Rochester, NY (NOW HIRING)

Sydor Optics Inc.

Optical Technician

Rochester, NY · On-site

$19 - $24/hr

Position Description The Optical Technician provides process support to manufacturing by working with SME's, Quality and Engineering to support both internal and external customers.

Sydor Optics Inc.

Optical Technician

Rochester, NY · On-site

$19 - $24/hr

Position Description The Optical Technician provides process support to manufacturing by working with SME's, Quality and Engineering to support both internal and external customers. Qualifications ...

Vertex Optics

Optical Technician

Victor, NY · On-site

$18 - $25/hr

Vertex Optics is not just another company, and this opportunity is not just another job! At Vertex, you are an important member of the team. What you do here matters. Vertex was recognized as one of ...

Posted today

Vuzix

Optical Technician Assembler

West Henrietta, NY · On-site

$21 - $25/hr

The Optical Technician Assembler will perform all machine set-ups, execute the production plan and work with Engineering on issues that occur. Debugs current products and machines when failures occur.

IDEX Corporation

Optical Fabricator

West Henrietta, NY · On-site

$63K/yr

Optical Fabricator This role is onsite and nonexempt. This role reports to the Glass Shop Supervisor Why Work for Us * Be part of a team driving innovation in advanced materials and thin-film ...

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All JobsOptical Technician JobsOptical Technician Jobs in Rochester, NY

Optical Technician information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$10

$21

$36

How much do optical technician jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical technician in Rochester, NY is $21.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.11 and $23.03 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.
More about Optical Technician jobs
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Optical Technician jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Technician job openings in Rochester, NY as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 3% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $43,998 per year, or $21.2 per hour.

Optical Technician

Sydor Optics Inc.

Rochester, NY • On-site

$19 - $24/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 18 days ago

Job description

Sydor Optics, Inc. is a Rochester-based leader in flat-surfaced precision optics with over 60 years of innovation and manufacturing excellence. From our modern facility in Chili, NY, just minutes from the Greater Rochester International Airport, we support cutting-edge industries including defense & aerospace, semiconductor, medical, entertainment, and more.At Sydor, your work matters. You'll collaborate with talented professionals, solve complex challenges, and help deliver custom optical solutions that power today's most advanced technologies.We reward performance and dedication with a competitive salary, a results-driven incentive program, and an exceptional benefits package. Our benefits include 100% employer-paid medical coverage with a Health Reimbursement Account (HRA), dental and vision insurance, life insurance, tuition reimbursement, and a Safe Harbor 401(k) plan with employer match.If you're motivated, hands-on, and ready to grow with a stable company that invests in its people, we want to hear from you.Discover your future with Sydor Optics at www.sydor.com.Position Description The Optical Technician provides process support to manufacturing by working with SME's, Quality and Engineering to support both internal and external customers. QualificationsEducation/Certifications: Associates degree in Optics or equivalent. 3-5 years' experience preferred. Skills, Knowledge, and Experience:Good visual acuity.Ability to read and interpret basic drawing.Good people skills and a collaborator.Optical manufacturing background in grinding, polishing and/or machining.Essential FunctionsLead process improvement and R&D projects coordinating with engineering and Quality control.Perform visual optical inspection for surface quality.Review job card (router) for completeness and accuracy.Perform optical metrology (interferometric, surface roughness, optical smartscope, beam deviation, etc.).Coordinate with SME's on difficult or problem projects.Ability to operate machines independently.In-process verification for control of production processes.Perform other duties as assigned and needed.
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