1

Optical Jobs in Alaska (NOW HIRING)

$16.25 - $20.25/hr

For more details about Vista Optical in select military exchanges, visit MilitaryOptical.com Join our dynamic sales team at National Vision as a Sales Associate, where your passion for people and ...

Sales Associate - Optical

AK · On-site

$16.25 - $20.25/hr

For more details about Vista Optical in select military exchanges, visit MilitaryOptical.com Join our dynamic sales team at National Vision as a Sales Associate, where your passion for people and ...

Optometric/Optical Assistant

Kenai, AK · On-site

$15 - $19.25/hr

Optometric/Optical Assistant Department: Optometry Program: Optometry Reports to: Optometry Manager Employment Status: Full-Time FLSA Status: Non-Exempt Schedule: 40 Hours/52 Weeks Preference: TERO ...

Optician Apprentice - VNPCC

Wasilla, AK · On-site

$16.50 - $21.50/hr

Optician Apprentice I Hiring Range $21.72 to $28.24 Optician Apprentice II Hiring Range $24.60 to $32.80 Summary of Job Responsibilities: The Southcentral Foundation (SCF) Optician is responsible for ...

Optician Apprentice - VNPCC

Wasilla, AK · On-site

$16.50 - $21.50/hr

Optician Apprentice I Hiring Range $21.72 to $28.24 Optician Apprentice II Hiring Range $24.60 to $32.80 Summary of Job Responsibilities: The Southcentral Foundation (SCF) Optician is responsible for ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Optical information

See Alaska salary details

$11

$23

$40

How much do optical jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical in Alaska is $23.09, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.60 and $25.10 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What jobs pay $500,000 a year in the US?

In the optical field, high-paying roles such as specialized ophthalmologists or optometrists with extensive experience and advanced certifications can reach or exceed $500,000 annually. These positions often require advanced degrees, clinical expertise, and sometimes ownership of private practices or leadership roles in healthcare organizations.

Is optical technician a good career?

Optical technicians assist in the fabrication, repair, and fitting of eyeglasses and contact lenses, often working in optical labs or retail settings. The role typically requires technical skills, attention to detail, and may involve certification or training programs; job prospects are steady with opportunities for advancement in the optical industry.

How much money do opticians get paid?

Opticians typically earn a median annual salary of around $37,000 to $40,000, depending on experience, location, and certification. Salaries can increase with specialized skills, such as fitting complex lenses or working in high-demand areas, and may include benefits like health insurance and paid time off.

What Is the Difference Between an Ophthalmologist, an Optometrist, and an Optician?

Optometrists and ophthalmologists are both medical eye care professionals, but they differ in their level of training. Ophthalmologists are medical doctors and complete eight years of medical school. They can practice medicine and perform surgery. Optometrists are not medical doctors. Optometrists earn a doctor of optometry degree after attending four years of optometry school. These professionals primarily perform eye exams and vision tests, but they can also identify some basic eye abnormalities. Optometrists are also licensed to prescribe some medications. Opticians are eyewear specialists and do not need any formal medical education.

What are the different careers in optometry?

Careers in optometry include optometrists who examine, diagnose, and treat eye conditions, as well as opticians who fit and dispense corrective lenses. Other roles include ophthalmic technicians, vision therapists, and practice managers, all working in clinical or retail settings. These careers often require specific certifications or licenses and involve skills in patient care, eye health, and use of diagnostic tools.

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 strong understanding of optics, lens fabrication, and vision correction, often supported by a high school diploma and on-the-job training or certification. Familiarity with lensometers, auto-refractors, and optical dispensing software is typically required. Attention to detail, customer service skills, and effective communication help you excel when assisting patients and collaborating with eye care professionals. These skills are crucial for ensuring accurate prescription fulfillment, patient satisfaction, and the smooth operation of optical services.

What is the difference between Optical vs Optometrist?

AspectOpticalOptometrist
CredentialsTypically requires optical technician or assistant certificationRequires Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree and licensure
Work EnvironmentOptical stores, eyewear retail, labsClinics, private practices, healthcare settings
Industry UsageFocuses on eyewear fitting, lens selection, customer serviceFocuses on eye exams, vision testing, diagnosing eye conditions

Optical roles mainly involve assisting with eyewear and customer service, while optometrists provide comprehensive eye care and diagnosis. Both are essential in eye health but differ significantly in education and scope of practice.

What are optical jobs?

Optical jobs refer to roles within the vision care and eyewear industry, such as opticians, optical assistants, and technicians. These professionals help customers select and fit eyeglasses or contact lenses, assist with vision tests, and provide support to optometrists and ophthalmologists. They may also perform repairs and adjustments on eyewear and educate customers about lens options and eye care. Working in optical jobs typically requires strong customer service skills and a basic understanding of eye anatomy and optical products.

What are some common challenges faced by optical technicians, and how can they effectively address them?

Optical technicians often encounter challenges such as keeping up with evolving lens technologies, managing high volumes of customer orders, and ensuring precise fabrication and fitting of eyewear. Staying updated through ongoing training and certifications is essential to handle new equipment and materials. Additionally, strong communication and organizational skills help in coordinating with optometrists and delivering excellent customer service. Collaborating closely with the rest of the optical team ensures that patient needs are met efficiently and accurately.
What are the most commonly searched types of Optical jobs in Alaska? The most popular types of Optical jobs in Alaska are:
What job categories do people searching Optical jobs in Alaska look for? The top searched job categories for Optical jobs in Alaska are:
Infographic showing various Optical job openings in Alaska as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 13% Contract. Highlights an 93% In-person, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,024 per year, or $23.1 per hour.

$16.25 - $20.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Company Description

National Vision operates over 50 Vista Opticals located on military exchanges throughout the United States. Exclusively serving military personnel and their families, Vista Optical offers the convenience of on-base shopping with value pricing.

For more details about Vista Optical in select military exchanges, visit MilitaryOptical.com

Job Description

Join our dynamic sales team at National Vision as a Sales Associate, where your passion for people and community comes to life through excellent customer service and expert guidance in eyewear selection. This role focuses on meeting company objectives and fostering an inclusive environment. 
Core Responsibilities: 
Guide customers through the selection and fitting of eyewear and contact lenses, ensuring adherence to state laws. Demonstrate a positive attitude and professionalism. 

Establish strong customer relationships through excellent service, keeping customers informed about the status of their orders, including any updates or delays. 
Uphold meticulous inventory management and patient record accuracy. Ensure the store's visual presentation and cleanliness of equipment and workstations aligns with brand and company standards. 
Pursue personal development and training opportunities to stay at the forefront of industry standards and product knowledge. 

How would you like Sundays off? Yes, every Sunday we’re closed!

Qualifications

What You’ll Need: 
Experience & Skills: 1+ year of retail or customer service experience is preferred. 

Versatility: Skilled at multi-tasking and handling a fast-paced work environment. 
Education: High School Diploma or equivalent required. 


Additional Information

We reward hard work with competitive pay, bonus opportunities, and a benefits package to support you and your family now and in the future. 

Our Benefits Include:

  • Health & Dental Insurance
  • 401k retirement savings with company match and stock purchase plan
  • Flex Spending Account
  • Generous Paid Time Off & Company Holidays
  • Parental leave
  • Employee eyewear discount
  • Short- and Long-Term Disability
  • Life Insurance
  • College scholarship program
  • Overtime pay when applicable

Focus on professional growth and long-term career fulfillment:

  • Training programs: Develop your skills and knowledge with our comprehensive training offerings.
  • Educational Courses: Gain access to courses that support both your personal and professional development.
  • Emphasis on internal promotions and career advancement so you have opportunities to grow with us long-term.

Join us today and see your future clearly!

We are an equal opportunity employer.  We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, genetic information, disability, veteran status, and other legally protected characteristics.