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Optical Jobs in Rhode Island (NOW HIRING)

AEG Vision

Optical Consultant

Providence, RI

Optical Consultants are responsible for selling eyewear and eyewear accessories to patients. They ensure patients are fitted with the right-size frames that fit their needs and lifestyle and dispense ...

AEG Vision

Optical Consultant

Providence, RI · On-site

Optical Consultants are responsible for selling eyewear and eyewear accessories to patients. They ensure patients are fitted with the right-size frames that fit their needs and lifestyle and dispense ...

Vision Associates Inc

Apprentice Optician

Warwick, RI · On-site

$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 · On-site

... 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

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$36

How much do optical jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 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.

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.
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 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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 12% 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 Consultant

Optical Consultant

AEG Vision

Providence, RI

Full-time

Posted yesterday

AEG Vision rating

5.1

Company rating: 5.1 out of 10

Based on 50 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

33rd of 39 rated optical retailers

Job description

Optical Consultants are responsible for selling eyewear and eyewear accessories to patients. They ensure patients are fitted with the right-size frames that fit their needs and lifestyle and dispense lenses with correct prescription and measurements. Optical Consultants are at the heart of our business. Their technical and customer service skills ensure patient satisfaction and repeat business.


  • Delivers extraordinary experience to each patient. Provides patients with a complete understanding of our customized recommendations for products and services
  • Develops own clientele from providing outstanding service and obtaining referrals
  • Keeps current on company/industry products and procedures, manufacturer rebates, and types of lenses and frames available
  • Takes and returns patient calls, updating patients on the status of their order and resolving order issues should they arise. Escalates any issues with the Store Manager, as necessary.
  • Retrieves patient charts and electronic health records
  • Assists patients in selecting frames, lens type, and lens treatments including tints and coatings; depending on specific patient needs and facial measurements
  • Educates patients on proper eyeglass and contact lens care
  • Collect eye and face measurements to ensure proper fit
  • Interprets prescriptions written by optometrist and ophthalmologist
  • Creates work orders for lab technicians, specifying information on lenses needed
  • Follows-up on all pending orders. Verifies all orders are within the time guidelines given and informs patients of status if delays occur. Notifies patient when orders arrive from lab/manufacturer
  • Dispenses glasses by inspecting the product, checking for proper fit, adjusting if necessary, and asking for feedback
  • Adjusts eyewear to ensure visual acuity, proper fit, and patient comfort. Using various tools, performs eyewear adjustments and repairs
  • Proficient in using tools such as pupilometers, PD Sticks, lensometers, pliers, wrenches, frame warmers, etc.
  • Regularly communicates with technicians and/or store managers, providing additional patient information, or asking for an order status
  • Inspects the final product ensuring there are no flaws; Cleans and polishes lenses using cloths and solvents
  • Cleans and organizes frame boards, displays, mirrors, work bench, office area, bathroom, and breakroom, maintaining overall cleanliness and visual appeal of the store
  • Restocks retail boards with new merchandize
  • Understands product issues and analyzes any problems. Thoroughly and accurately answers patients' questions regarding insurance, warranty, products, materials, services, pricing, upgrades, promotions, etc.
  • Collaborates with technicians, front desk associates, Managers, and Optometrist.
  • Sells miscellaneous products such as cleaners, contact lens supply, sunglasses, safety glasses, etc.
  • High School Diploma
  • Minimum of one-year experience working as an Optician strongly preferred
  • Experience with HIPAA requirements preferred
  • Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
  • Strong communication skills (verbal and written)
  • Excellent customer service skills and pleasant demeanor, experience with sales preferred
  • Manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination
  • Dependability and punctuality
  • Ability to lift up to 30lbs, bend, kneel, and stand up to 8hrs a day

What AEG Vision employees say

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