ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Optical Jobs in Buffalo, MN (NOW HIRING)

HealthPartners

Optician

Maple Grove, MN · On-site

$17.75 - $22.75/hr

Demonstrates being a team player in Optical, and all other departments within the Park Nicollet Clinic. Work Schedule: Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m.-5:00 p.m., occasional Saturdays 8:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.

Warby Parker

Optician - Colonial Square

Wayzata, MN · On-site

$17.50 - $22.50/hr

Optical Education Reimbursement * Free eyewear * And more (just ask!) Some benefits of working at Warby Parker for part-time employees: * Employee Assistance Program (EAP) * Employee Stock Purchase ...

Pearle Vision

Optician Elk River MN

Elk River, MN · On-site

$18.25 - $23.50/hr

If you are an experienced sales representative or an individual with an optical background looking for a great opportunity, we want to talk to you! We are seeking a full time optically trained ...

Pearle Vision

Optician Elk River MN

Elk River, MN · On-site

$18.25 - $23.50/hr

If you are an experienced sales representative or an individual with an optical background looking for a great opportunity, we want to talk to you! We are seeking a full time optically trained ...

Pearle Vision

Optician Elk River MN

Elk River, MN · On-site

$18.25 - $23.50/hr

If you are an experienced sales representative or an individual with an optical background looking for a great opportunity, we want to talk to you! We are seeking a full time optically trained ...

HealthPartners

Optician

Maple Grove, MN · On-site

$23.33 - $34.99/hr

Demonstrates being a team player in Optical, and all other departments within the Park Nicollet Clinic. Work Schedule: Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m.-5:00 p.m., occasional Saturdays 8:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.

HealthPartners

Optician

Maple Grove, MN · On-site

$17.75 - $22.75/hr

Demonstrates being a team player in Optical, and all other departments within the Park Nicollet Clinic. Work Schedule: Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m.-5:00 p.m., occasional Saturdays 8:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsOptical JobsOptical Jobs in Buffalo, MN

Optical information

See Buffalo, MN salary details

$11

$22

$39

How much do optical jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical in Buffalo, MN is $22.57, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.21 and $24.57 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 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 long is schooling to become an optical?

Becoming an optical technician typically requires completing a post-secondary program or certificate that lasts from several months up to a year. For opticians, the process often involves completing an associate degree or a specialized training program, followed by certification or licensing depending on the state or country. Practical experience and knowledge of optical equipment are also important components of training.

Is optical technician a good career?

Optical technicians assist in the fabrication, repair, and fitting of eyeglasses and optical devices, often working in retail or laboratory settings. The role typically requires technical training or certification and offers steady employment with opportunities for advancement in the eye care industry.
More about Optical jobs

What cities near Buffalo, MN are hiring for Optical jobs?

Cities near Buffalo, MN with the most Optical job openings:

Optical jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical job openings in Buffalo, MN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, and 8% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $46,947 per year, or $22.6 per hour.

Doctor Of Optometry - St. Cloud & Little Falls, MN

Shopko Optical

Saint Augusta, MN • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 3 days ago

New

Shopko Optical rating

5.6

Company rating: 5.6 out of 10

Based on 25 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

26th of 40 rated optical retailers

Job description

Optometrist Opportunity

Shopko Optical is currently seeking an Optometrist to join our team! Join our experienced, cohesive teams supporting eye care at our St. Cloud & Little Falls, MN Locations. You will have the autonomy to build the practice that you want. At Shopko, we support our doctors and enable them to develop meaningful relationships in the communities they serve. We also provide full ancillary support including screening and patient billing, so our doctors can focus their time on what matters most, providing great patient care.

Practice Highlights:

  • No Call Position
  • Dedicated Staff to Support Patient Care
  • Comprehensive Eye Exams
  • Contact Lens Fitting
  • Refractive Services
  • Diagnose, Treat, and Manage Eye Disease
  • Cataract and Refractive Surgery Co-Management

Compensation & Benefits:

  • Competitive Guaranteed Salary While You Grow Your Practice
  • Sign on Bonus (Full-Time Employment)
  • Health, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance
  • Generous CME Reimbursement
  • Paid Time Away to ensure exceptional work/life balance
  • Occurrence Based Malpractice Insurance
  • Short-Term & Long-Term Disability Insurance
  • Unique Voluntary Benefits (i.e. Pet Insurance, Legal Services, Identity Theft Protection)
  • Retirement - 401K

About the Community:

St. Cloud, MN offers the perfect balance of small-town friendliness and city convenience, with a vibrant downtown, local shops, and a growing food and brewery scene. Outdoor lovers appreciate easy access to the Mississippi River, Quarry Park, and miles of trails for hiking, biking, and kayaking. The area is home to strong schools and universities, bringing cultural events, live music, and college sports into the community. With a lower cost of living and a welcoming, family-oriented atmosphere, St. Cloud is a place where people can truly feel at home.

Little Falls, Minnesota is a charming river town known for its scenic beauty and rich history. Nestled along the Mississippi River, residents enjoy abundant outdoor recreation, from boating and fishing to hiking and biking on picturesque trails. The community offers a welcoming atmosphere, affordable living, and vibrant cultural attractions like museums, festivals, and local shops. With its blend of small-town charm and natural beauty, Little Falls is a wonderful place to live, work, and explore.

Shopko Optical CARES is the way we serve every patient. Connect, create comfort through connection with each patient. Assess, ask the right questions to help create a complete picture of what each patient needs. Recommend, develop personalized care plans for each patient. Educate, explain the 'why' to demonstrate our commitment to providing high quality eye care to each patient. See It Through, consistent follow-up builds trust with each patient.

About Shopko Optical: Shopko Optical began in 1978 as part of the Shopko retail chain, introducing in-store eye care and prescription eyewear services. In 2019, Shopko Optical transitioned into freestanding optical centers, continuing its mission to provide comprehensive, patient-focused eye care. Today, Shopko Optical operates across multiple states, offering advanced eye exams, eyewear, and contact lenses in a comfortable, community-oriented setting. With over 40 years of experience, Shopko Optical remains committed to delivering trusted vision care and personalized service.

Minimum Knowledge, Experience & Skills Requirements:

  • OD Degree from ACOE approved College of Optometry
  • Ability to communicate with customers and teammates
  • Must be legally authorized to work in country of employment without sponsorship for employment visa status.
  • Shopko Optical is an Equal Opportunity Employer functioning under an Affirmative Action Plan m/f/d/v

What Shopko Optical employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply