1

Optical Jobs in Jackson, MI (NOW HIRING)

Fiber Optic Splicer

Mason, MI

$21.75 - $26/hr

Test cable with optical test equipment such as OTDR, power meter, fiber identifier, and fiber scope to troubleshoot and repair fiber * Complete testing and turn-ups of subscriber circuits * Complete ...

Quality Technician 2nd Shift

Jackson, MI ยท On-site

$16.25 - $21.75/hr

Beginning knowledge of GD&T, experience in an ISO 9000 environment, and proficiency with inspection equipment such as PolyWorks laser inspection, CMM software, micrometers, calipers, and optical ...

Quality Technician

Jackson, MI ยท On-site

$16.25 - $21.75/hr

Beginning knowledge of GD&T, experience in an ISO 9000 environment, and proficiency with inspection equipment such as PolyWorks laser inspection, CMM software, micrometers, calipers, and optical ...

Quality Technician

Jackson, MI ยท On-site

$16.25 - $21.75/hr

Beginning knowledge of GD&T, experience in an ISO 9000 environment, and proficiency with inspection equipment such as PolyWorks laser inspection, CMM software, micrometers, calipers, and optical ...

Quality Technician 2nd Shift

Jackson, MI ยท On-site

$16.25 - $21.75/hr

Beginning knowledge of GD&T, experience in an ISO 9000 environment, and proficiency with inspection equipment such as PolyWorks laser inspection, CMM software, micrometers, calipers, and optical ...

Billing Specialist

Jackson, MI

$17.50 - $23.75/hr

Ophthalmology, Optometry, Ambulatory Surgery Center, and/or Optical billing experience * Experience in Revenue Cycle Management What you will receive * Competitive wages * Robust benefit package ...

Promote eye health by counseling patients, including explaining how to clean and wear contact lenses how often to have their eyes examined * clearly communicating to the opticians and other sales ...

Clearly communicating to the opticians and other sales people appropriate recommendations for the best possible lenses with the latest highest technology coatings and designs. * Doctorate of ...

Promote eye health by counseling patients, including explaining how to clean and wear contact lenses how often to have their eyes examined * clearly communicating to the opticians and other sales ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Optical information

See Jackson, MI salary details

$10

$19

$33

How much do optical jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical in Jackson, MI is $19.51, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.86 and $21.20 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.

What cities near Jackson, MI are hiring for Optical jobs?

Cities near Jackson, MI with the most Optical job openings:

Infographic showing various Optical job openings in Jackson, MI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 60% Full Time, 30% Part Time, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $40,571 per year, or $19.5 per hour.

Optician/Optical Manager

Marshall, MI โ€ข On-site

$18 - $25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 12 days ago


Job description

Job Title
Optician
Job Summary
Designs, measures, fits, and adapts lenses and frames for client according to
written optical prescription or specification.
General Accountabilities
Verify that finished lenses are ground to specifications.
Assist client with inserting, removing, and caring for contact lenses.
Assist client with selecting frames.
Measure customer for size of eyeglasses and coordinate frames with facial and
eye measurements and optical prescription.
Verify exactness of finished lens spectacles.
May shape or reshape frames.
Prepare work orders and instructions for grinding lenses and fabricating
eyeglasses.
Measure clients' bridge and eye size, temple length, vertex distance, pupillary
distance, and optical centers of eyes, using measuring devices.
Heat, shape, or bend plastic or metal frames to adjust eyeglasses to fit clients,
using pliers and hands.
Evaluate prescriptions in conjunction with clients' vocational and avocational
visual requirements.
Assist clients in selecting frames according to style and color, and ensure that
frames are coordinated with facial and eye measurements and optical
prescriptions.
Fabricate lenses to meet prescription specifications.
Maintain records of customer prescriptions, work orders, and payments.
Recommend specific lenses, lens coatings, and frames to suit client needs.
Instruct clients in how to wear and care for eyeglasses.
*The company reserves the right to add or change duties at any time.
Job Qualifications
Education: Associate's degree
Experience: Appropriate certifications and/or licensures with 1-2 years of on-the-
job training or apprenticeship
Skills
Excellent verbal and written communication
Active listening
Critical thinking
Service orientation
Judgment and decision making
Social perceptiveness

Company Description

We require excellent customer service and a willingness to be flexible in an ever-changing field.