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Optical Technician Jobs in Rochester, NY (NOW HIRING)

As an Optical Lab Technician at Navitar in Rochester, NY , you will be responsible for technical functions related to calibration, alignment, fabrication, assembly and modification of optical ...

New

Optical Lab Technician

Rochester, NY · On-site

$15.50 - $20.75/hr

As an Optical Lab Technician at Navitar in Rochester, NY , you will be responsible for technical functions related to calibration, alignment, fabrication, assembly and modification of optical ...

In this role, the technician will help build and qualify metrology equipment, measure critical optical parameters, interpret drawings and tolerances, document test methods for manufacturing transfer ...

Optical Metrology Engineer

Rochester, NY · On-site

$127K - $164K/yr

We are seeking an experienced Optical Metrology Engineer to support the testing, characterization, and validation of precision optical systems and components. The ideal candidate will have extensive ...

Optics Technician (entry level to master level) * CNC Specialist * Intern/Co-op * Machinist * Facility/Machine Maintenance * Quality Assurance Technician * Administration * Management General ...

Lead a multidisciplinary team of scientists, engineers, and technicians focused on optical metrology development * Translate business and product roadmaps into clear plans, priorities, and execution ...

Lead a multidisciplinary team of scientists, engineers, and technicians focused on optical metrology development * Translate business and product roadmaps into clear plans, priorities, and execution ...

Showing results 21-40

Optical Technician information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$10

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$36

How much do optical technician jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical technician in Rochester, NY is $20.75, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.82 and $22.55 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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.

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.

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 enhance job prospects and demonstrate proficiency in the field.

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 complexity of tasks, work environment, and additional skills such as lens fitting or equipment maintenance.

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 certifications.

What are the most commonly searched types of Optical Technician jobs in Rochester, NY?

The most popular types of Optical Technician jobs in Rochester, NY are:

What are popular job titles related to Optical Technician jobs in Rochester, NY?

For Optical Technician jobs in Rochester, NY, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Optical Technician jobs in Rochester, NY look for?

The top searched job categories for Optical Technician jobs in Rochester, NY are:

What cities near Rochester, NY are hiring for Optical Technician jobs?

Cities near Rochester, NY with the most Optical Technician job openings:

Infographic showing various Optical Technician job openings in Rochester, NY as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,155 per year, or $20.7 per hour.

Optical Manufacturing Technician, OFF SHIFTS

Optimax Systems Inc.

Ontario, NY • On-site

$41K - $65K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 29 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Read and interpret lens specifications from blueprints, drawings, and work orders.

  • Set up and operate optical manufacturing and testing equipment such as CNC machines, grinding, polishing, centering, and inspection equipment.

  • Inspect in-process optics for conformance to specifications.


Job description

Optical Manufacturing Technician, OFF SHIFTS

B-Shift (3:00pm-11:30pm), C-Shift (11:00pm-7:30am)

Minimum 40 hrs/week; overtime as needed


Optimax is experiencing exciting growth and expanding our team! We are seeking Optical Manufacturing Technicians at all skill levels. Whether you are starting your career or looking for a new challenge, we offer a dynamic work environment, opportunities for advancement, and the chance to contribute to creating cutting-edge optics for a wide range of industries. Apply now and start your career journey with Optimax!

A unique corporate culture combined with a dynamic work environment:

At Optimax, we build lenses that power cutting-edge technologies in aerospace, defense, and consumer electronics. Our optics help shape breakthroughs that benefit humanity and protect our freedom. We offer a dynamic and collaborative work environment where innovation and teamwork thrive. We are looking for motivated individuals who are eager to learn, grow, and contribute to impactful projects.

Job Summary and Essential Job Duties:

The Optical Manufacturing Technician position is responsible for manufacturing precision optics and other optical components. Successful candidates undergo instruction and training to operate optics manufacturing and testing equipment such as multi-axis CNC machines, generating and polishing machines, applying knowledge of layout and tooling techniques and procedures, shop mathematics, and properties of optical and abrasive materials.  

Through On the Job Training (OJT), optical manufacturing technicians will:

  • Read and interpret lens specifications from blue prints, drawings and work orders; 
  • Set up and operate equipment, which may include: CNC and non-CNC generating equipment, grinding equipment, polishing equipment, centering equipment and inspection equipment to manufacture precision optics;
  • Mount work and tooling pieces on holding fixtures and machines, using adhesive, friction, or vacuum; 
  • Select premixed compounds or mix grinding, polishing, and holding compounds according to formula; 
  • Grind and polish optics to specifications; 
  • Learn to operate Interferometers, coordinate measuring machines and other advanced testing equipment
  • Inspect in-process optics for conformance to specifications. 

Advancement through the Optical Manufacturing Technician ranks is attained via increasing levels of education, experience, industrial skills, math skills, computing skills, responsibility and leadership potential and effectiveness. 

Education Requirements: 

  • A High School Diploma or GED required. Vocational training in manufacturing, carpentry, materials science, machining or similar strongly desired. 

Minimum Requirements:

  • Familiarity with computers to include but not limited to Microsoft Office
  • Proficient shop math skills, including algebra, geometry, trigonometry, fractions, ratios, decimal arithmetic and percentages 
  • Ability to follow directions and attention to detail
  • Capable of understanding and interpreting blueprints or drawings for both mechanical and optical standards
  • Ability to work in a challenging, fast paced environment with good time management skills
  • Good mental dexterity and decision making
  • Excellent communication skills
  • Analytical troubleshooting / problem solving 

Other Skills and Experience:

  • Ability to read, analyze and interpret technical drawings. 
  • Hand-eye coordination and/or manual dexterity similar to those skills utilized in artistic, creative or musical activities are desirable. 
  • Ability to collect and interpret data
  • Strong Multi-tasking skills
  • Initiative and mental concentration to learn new skills and techniques
  • AAS or AS preferred. One or more years working in manufacturing is also desirable. 

Work Requirements: 

Physical Demands:

  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to stand, walk, stoop, kneel, crouch: and talk and hear.
  • The job may involve prolong periods of sitting/standing.
  • Specific vision abilities required include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus. 
  • Requires good hand-eye coordination, arm, hand and finger dexterity, including ability to grasp.

Work Environment:

  • This position works in a manufacturing environment. The noise level can vary from quiet to loud frequencies.
  • May involve the use of oils and solvents.
  • Generally works in a clean environment and works to maintain the environment as such.
  • May require area specific safety training
  • The employee is regularly exposed to moving mechanical parts and fumes
  • May be assigned to various production areas as needs require.

Compensation & Benefits:

Optimax offers competitive compensation based on experience and a comprehensive benefits package, including:

  • Bonus: 25% Monthly Profit Sharing
  • Tuition Assistance: Support for continuing education
  • Health Insurance: Medical, Dental, and Vision options
  • 401(k): Retirement plan with employer match
  • Paid Time Off: Generous vacation and paid holidays
  • Other Benefits: Life Insurance, Disability Insurance, Health Savings Account (HSA)

 

Equal Opportunity Employer:

Optimax is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to protected characteristics, including disability, veteran status, race, religion, gender, sexual orientation, age, national origin, color, gender identity, or any other protected status.

ITAR Compliance

Employment at Optimax Systems, Inc. is subject to export control compliance requirements, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) issued by the United States Department of State, Department of Defense Trade Controls, and the Export Administration Regulations. Learn more about the ITAR here. To meet export control compliance requirements for this position, an applicant must be a “U.S. Person” as defined by applicable regulations or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. “U.S. Person” includes a U.S. Citizen, lawful permanent resident, refugee, or asylee.


If you require an accommodation to apply for this position, please contact our Human Resources team at 585-265-1020.