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Optical Jobs in Rhode Island (NOW HIRING)

AEG Vision

Optical Consultant

Pawtucket, RI

As an Optical Consultant, you'll work alongside the Optometrists to support all aspects of patient care and education, ensuring that patients receive exceptional care. * Perform preliminary ...

New

AEG Vision

Optical Consultant

Pawtucket, RI · On-site

As an Optical Consultant, you'll work alongside the Optometrists to support all aspects of patient care and education, ensuring that patients receive exceptional care. * Perform preliminary ...

New

Vision Associates Inc

Apprentice Optician

Warwick, RI

$17.25 - $22.25/hr

Ensure best practices are being delivered so that patients are satisfied and make their purchases with the optical dispensary * Communicate directly and promptly any concerns related to patient or ...

Vision Associates Inc

Apprentice Optician

Wakefield, RI

$17.25 - $22.25/hr

Ensure best practices are being delivered so that patients are satisfied and make their purchases with the optical dispensary * Communicate directly and promptly any concerns related to patient or ...

Vision Associates Inc

Licensed Optician

Warwick, RI

... optical dispensary management at their location. Licensed Opticians will work independently within the Koch Eye Associates Warwick location with the full support of the Vision Associates Network.

Essilor

KOCH EYE ASSOCIATES - Optician FT

Wakefield, RI

$17.25 - $22.25/hr

Our extensive background in the optical industry enables us to provide solutions that promote growth and profitability. In partnership with our clients', our foremost objective is to deliver complete ...

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Optical information

See Rhode Island salary details

$10

$20

$36

How much do optical jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical in Rhode Island is $21.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.01 and $22.84 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is optical technician a good career?

Optical technicians play a key role in manufacturing, repairing, and maintaining optical devices such as lenses and glasses. The profession typically requires technical training or certification and offers steady employment opportunities in healthcare and manufacturing sectors. Job prospects depend on industry demand and regional employment rates.

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.

What is a career in optics?

A career in optics involves working with the science and technology of light, including designing, testing, and manufacturing optical devices such as lenses, microscopes, and lasers. Professionals in this field often require knowledge of physics, engineering, and specialized tools, and may work in research, development, or manufacturing environments.

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.
More about Optical jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Optical jobs in Rhode Island? The most popular types of Optical jobs in Rhode Island are:
What are popular job titles related to Optical jobs in Rhode Island? For Optical jobs in Rhode Island, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Optical jobs in Rhode Island look for? The top searched job categories for Optical jobs in Rhode Island are:
What cities in Rhode Island are hiring for Optical jobs? Cities in Rhode Island with the most Optical job openings:
Optical jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical job openings in Rhode Island as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 98% In-person, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,670 per year, or $21 per hour.

Optical Associate - South Kingstown

Medical Eyeglass Center Inc

South Kingstown, RI • On-site

$22 - $25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago

New

Job description

  • This position is based in South Kingstown, RI

    • About Medical Eyeglass Center (MEC)

    At MEC, we partner with leading medical/ophthalmology practices to provide patients with high-quality vision care and eyewear services. Our employees work directly inside medical offices, helping patients select and fit eyewear while creating a positive, professional experience. We pride ourselves on accuracy, customer service, and a patient-first approach that sets us apart.

    Position Overview

    MEC is seeking a skilled, patient-focused Optical Associate to join our team. In this position, you’ll play a key role in the successful operation of the optical dispensary, deliver outstanding service, and work closely with both patients and clinic staff. This is a great opportunity for someone who enjoys combining technical expertise with patient care in a supportive and professional setting.

    What You’ll Do
  • Provide patients with an outstanding eyewear experience, from selection to fitting and adjustments.
  • Accurately process and complete orders through MEC’s pointofsale systems.
  • Maintain detailed records of prescriptions, orders, payments, and insurance claims.
  • Review and track lab orders to ensure timely and accurate completion.
  • Submit insurance claims, post payments, and follow up on outstanding receivables.
  • Dispense prescription and nonprescription eyewear (and contact lenses where applicable.)
  • Assist patients with eyewear adjustments, repairs, and cleaning.
  • Maintain frame inventory, keeping displays organized, clean, and fully stocked.
  • Review daily patient schedules to anticipate volume, insurance eligibility, and sales opportunities.
  • Support inoffice promotions and marketing materials.
  • Build positive working relationships with providers, technicians, and administrative staff.
  • Maintain a professional and welcoming environment for patients and staff.
    • What We’re Looking For
  • A friendly, professional, and patientfocused personality.
  • Ability to read and interpret spectacle prescriptions (and contact lenses where applicable).
  • Skilled in eyewear fitting, adjustments, and repairs or willing to learn.
  • Strong customer service and sales skills, including handling objections.
  • Clear and professional verbal and written communication.
  • Proficiency with MS Excel, email, and insurance portals (preferred).
  • Strong organization and time management skills.
  • Teamoriented with the ability to build effective relationships.
  • Attention to detail and problemsolving mindset.
  • Receptive to feedback and committed to continuous learning.
    • Requirements
  • High School Diploma or GED
  • Minimum 6 months of experience in optical
  • Knowledge of frame adjustments and frame repairs
  • Experience taking accurate measurements (PD, seg height, optical center)
  • Familiarity with optical lab processes and lens types (single vision, bifocal, progressive)
  • Experience reading lenses using manual lensometer
  • Ability to handle insurance eligibility checks and authorizations
  • Strong attention to detail and accuracy when filling prescriptions
  • Ability to multitask in a fastpaced environment
  • Basic computer skills and experience with EHR or optical POS systems

    • Job Type: Full-time

    Benefits:
  • 401(k)
  • Health insurance
  • Dental insurance
  • Vision insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Employee discount
  • Paid time off
  • Referral program

Apply