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Optical Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Optical Sales Associate

Escanaba, MI · On-site

$14.50 - $17.75/hr

Shopko Optical is seeking a Full-time Optical Sales Associate to join our team in Escanaba, MI. On-the-job training provided, no experience necessary. POSITION SUMMARY: Provide excellent patient and ...

Optical Sales Associate

Iron Mountain, MI · On-site

$14.75 - $18.25/hr

Shopko Optical is seeking a Full-time Optical Sales Associate to join our team in Kingsford, MI. On-the-job training provided, no experience necessary. POSITION SUMMARY: Provide excellent patient and ...

Optical Sales Associate

Houghton, MI · On-site

$13.75 - $16.75/hr

Shopko Optical is seeking a Full-time Optical Sales Associate to join our team in Houghton, MI. On-the-job training provided, no experience necessary. POSITION SUMMARY: Provide excellent patient and ...

PT Optical Sales Associate

Houghton, MI · On-site

$13.75 - $16.75/hr

Shopko Optical is seeking a part-time Optical Sales Associate to join our team in Houghton, MI. On-the-job training provided, no experience necessary. POSITION SUMMARY: Provide excellent patient and ...

Optical Engineer

Southfield, MI · On-site

$118K - $153K/yr

Ensure that optical designs can be tooled, manufactured, and meet legal and customer requirements within defined tolerances. Perform feasibility, and benchmark studies to support quotes, and future ...

Optical Engineer

Southfield, MI · On-site

$118K - $153K/yr

FMVSS 108, ECE, CCC, and SAE standards. • Assist in design of manufacturing tools, fixtures and processes that are required to build and service the optical sub-systems. • Evaluate parts, optical ...

Optical Engineer

Auburn Hills, MI · On-site

$122K - $158K/yr

POSITION SUMMARY Optical Engineer working at RIT is responsible for developing precision optics technology and precision optics technology-based X-ray optics. These include the development of ...

Optical Engineer

Auburn Hills, MI

$122K - $158K/yr

POSITION SUMMARY Optical Engineer working at RIT is responsible for developing precision optics technology and precision optics technology-based X-ray optics. These include the development of ...

Optical Engineer

Auburn Hills, MI · On-site

$122K - $158K/yr

Design optical surfaces for lens and reflector systems for forward and rearward automotive illumination systems. * Validate design via internal and external optical ray tracing software * Create ...

Optical Engineer

Auburn Hills, MI · On-site

$122K - $158K/yr

Design optical surfaces for lens and reflector systems for forward and rearward automotive illumination systems. * Validate design via internal and external optical ray tracing software * Create ...

Designing and specifying optical components and modules such as lasers, LEDs, optical filters, cameras, sensors, and lens assemblies * Creating specification documents and working with vendors to ...

Optical Engineer (E)

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

$84K - $144K/yr

Designing and specifying optical components and modules such as lasers, LEDs, optical filters, cameras, sensors, and lens assemblies * Creating specification documents and working with vendors to ...

Optical Engineer (E)

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

$84K - $144K/yr

Designing and specifying optical components and modules such as lasers, LEDs, optical filters, cameras, sensors, and lens assemblies * Creating specification documents and working with vendors to ...

Health - Optical Lab Coordinator

Perronville, MI · On-site

$14.50 - $19.25/hr

Under the direction of the Chief Optometrist, the Optical Lab Coordinator is responsible for coordinating the daily operations of the Sault Tribe optical dispensaries to monitor, maintain, and ...

Troubleshoot and refine optics modules and manufacturing processes for complex deep-UV imaging systems. Develop and maintain procedures, test fixtures, specifications, and train manufacturing ...

Optical Engineer (E)

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

$68K - $115K/yr

Troubleshoot and refine optics modules and manufacturing processes for complex deep-UV imaging systems. Develop and maintain procedures, test fixtures, specifications, and train manufacturing ...

Troubleshoot and refine optics modules and manufacturing processes for complex deep-UV imaging systems. Develop and maintain procedures, test fixtures, specifications, and train manufacturing ...

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Showing results 1-20

Optical information

See Michigan salary details

$9

$18

$32

How much do optical jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical in Michigan is $18.69, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.23 and $20.34 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 private practices can reach or exceed $500,000 annually. These positions often require advanced degrees, certifications, and a strong patient base, with income influenced by location, reputation, and business skills.

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 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.

How much does a non licensed optician make at Costco?

A non-licensed optician at Costco typically earns around $15 to $20 per hour, depending on experience and location. They assist with frame selection, lens ordering, and customer service in the optical department, often working under the supervision of a licensed optician or optometrist.

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 different types of optical jobs?

Optical jobs include roles such as optometrists, opticians, optical technicians, and optical engineers. These positions involve tasks like eye examinations, lens fitting, optical device design, and quality testing, often requiring specialized training or certification. The work environment can range from clinics and retail stores to manufacturing labs and research facilities.
What are the most commonly searched types of Optical jobs in Michigan? The most popular types of Optical jobs in Michigan are:
What job categories do people searching Optical jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Optical jobs in Michigan are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Optical jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Optical job openings:
Infographic showing various Optical job openings in Michigan as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 4% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $38,867 per year, or $18.7 per hour.
Optical Sales Associate

Optical Sales Associate

Shopko Optical

Escanaba, MI • On-site

$14.50 - $17.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Posted 9 days ago


Shopko Optical rating

5.9

Company rating: 5.9 out of 10

Based on 23 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

24th of 39 rated optical retailers


Job description

Are you looking for an opportunity to provide great customer service and patient care and grow your career? Shopko Optical is seeking a Full-time Optical Sales Associate to join our team in Escanaba, MI.

On-the-job training provided, no experience necessary.

POSITION SUMMARY:

Provide excellent patient and customer service in the selection, ordering and dispensing of eyewear. Complete pre-screening activities prior to patient exams. Prepare work orders for Optical Lab. Process medical billing information. Maintain frame inventory.

Taking Care of our teams who take Care of our Patients

  • Competitive Wages & Sales Incentives
  • Competitive time off package including vacation pay, volunteer pay paid holidays, and a personal day
  • Sick Pay: Eligible teammates accrue Sick/ Safe leave per state law
  • Health & Wellbeing Benefits Medical, Life, Dental, vision, Short- & Long-term Disability
  • Voluntary/Cafeteria Offerings
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • On the Job Training & Certification
  • Teammate Recognition Program

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

CUSTOMER SERVICE

· Provide excellent customer and patient service according to company and Optical Center standards

· Analyze patient eyewear needs

· Recommend specific lenses, lens coatings and frames to satisfy patient needs

· Assist patients in selecting frames according to style and color. Ensure frames are coordinated with facial and eye measurements and optical prescriptions

· Order and dispense eyewear accurately and professionally

· Assist patients with proper frame repairs and adjustments

· Show patients how to insert, remove and care for their contact lenses

· Assist Optometrist with case histories and screenings

BUSINESS AND OPERATIONAL STANDARDS

· Maintain a complete knowledge of third-party plans and claims

· Explain promotions and special lens offerings to patients and customers

· Balance accounts

· Prepare work orders containing specific instructions for Optical Lab

· Process medical billing information

· Ensure proper merchandising of frame inventory

MINIMUM KNOWLEDGE, EXPERIENCE & SKILLS REQUIREMENTS:

· High School Graduate or equivalent

· Maintain license as required by state

· To become Certified, teammate must complete Shopko OCE Certification requirements and calendar modules

· Previous experience in an office and/or optical dispensing is preferred

· Able to handle multiple customer interactions/phone calls at a time

· Able to work with patient eyewear needs including analyzing prescriptions, repairs and adjustments and lifestyle dispensing

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS & WORK REQUIREMENTS:

· Ability to effectively communicate at all levels within the organization through written and two-way verbal communication

· Able to read and write at a high school graduate level

· Able to sit or stand for extended periods of time

· Able to operate various office equipment (e.g., personal computer, telephone, fax machine, copier, etc.)

· Ability to lift 10 to 20 pounds

· Ability to see (Near, Distance, Color, and Depth Perception)

· Manual and finger dexterity, as well as hand/arm steadiness

· Ability to grip and hold items

· Good eye and hand coordination

· Able to operate a cash register, various optical equipment and tools

· Able to work normal and/or extended (evenings, nights, and weekends) office hours to meet established deadlines

· Able to travel independently to support Company objectives and personal development

These statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by teammates assigned to this job classification. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required.


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