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Optical Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

Clarity Vision

Optical Associate

Clayton, NC · On-site

$17/hr

Optician/Optical Sales AssociateAre you passionate about helping people see the world more clearly? Join our friendly and professional team as an Optician, where you'll play a vital role in providing ...

eyecarecenter

Optical Technician / Optician

Smithfield, NC · On-site

$15 - $19.25/hr

Employee Discounts SUMMARY An Optical Technician will achieve a world class Total Patient Experience that maximizes retail sales while also supporting the patients' medical needs. This team member is ...

eyecarecenter

Optical Technician / Optician

Durham, NC · On-site

$16.75 - $21.50/hr

Employee Discounts SUMMARY An Optical Technician will achieve a world class Total Patient Experience that maximizes retail sales while also supporting the patients' medical needs. This team member is ...

eyecarecenter

Optical Technician / Optician

Durham, NC · On-site

$16.75 - $21.50/hr

Employee Discounts SUMMARY An Optical Technician will achieve a world class Total Patient Experience that maximizes retail sales while also supporting the patients' medical needs. This team member is ...

eyecarecenter

Optical Technician / Optician

Smithfield, NC · On-site

$15 - $19.25/hr

Employee Discounts SUMMARY An Optical Technician will achieve a world class Total Patient Experience that maximizes retail sales while also supporting the patients' medical needs. This team member is ...

eyecarecenter

Optical Technician / Optician

Cary, NC

$16 - $20.50/hr

SUMMARY An Optical Technician will achieve a world class Total Patient Experience that maximizes retail sales while also supporting the patients' medical needs. This team member is trained to ...

eyecarecenter

Optical Technician / Optician

Cary, NC · On-site

$16 - $20.50/hr

Employee Discounts SUMMARY An Optical Technician will achieve a world class Total Patient Experience that maximizes retail sales while also supporting the patients' medical needs. This team member is ...

eyecarecenter

Optical Technician / Optician

Cary, NC · On-site

$16 - $20.50/hr

SUMMARY An Optical Technician will achieve a world class Total Patient Experience that maximizes retail sales while also supporting the patients' medical needs. This team member is trained to ...

eyecarecenter

Optical Technician / Optician

Cary, NC · On-site

$16 - $20.50/hr

Employee Discounts SUMMARY An Optical Technician will achieve a world class Total Patient Experience that maximizes retail sales while also supporting the patients' medical needs. This team member is ...

Eye Care Partners

Optical Technician / Optician

Cary, NC

$17 - $21.75/hr

Employee Discounts SUMMARY An Optical Technician will achieve a world class Total Patient Experience that maximizes retail sales while also supporting the patients' medical needs. This team member is ...

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All JobsOptical JobsOptical Jobs in Raleigh, NC

Optical information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$10

$20

$36

How much do optical jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical in Raleigh, NC is $20.84, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.87 and $22.64 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 are the most commonly searched types of Optical jobs in Raleigh, NC?

The most popular types of Optical jobs in Raleigh, NC are:

What are popular job titles related to Optical jobs in Raleigh, NC?

For Optical jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Optical jobs in Raleigh, NC look for?

The top searched job categories for Optical jobs in Raleigh, NC are:

What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Optical jobs?

Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Optical job openings:

Optical jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical job openings in Raleigh, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,348 per year, or $20.8 per hour.

Optical Associate

Clarity Vision

Clayton, NC • On-site

$17/hr

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Now Hiring: Optician/Optical Sales AssociateAre you passionate about helping people see the world more clearly? Join our friendly and professional team as an Optician, where you'll play a vital role in providing outstanding eye care and eyewear services to our valued patients.What You'll Do:Assist patients in selecting the right frames and lenses based on their prescriptions and lifestyleTake accurate measurements (PD, segment height, frame adjustments)Educate customers on lens options, coatings, and careProcess eyewear orders and manage lab workPerform minor repairs and adjustments to framesEnsure a high level of customer satisfactionWhat We're Looking For:Licensed or certified Optician (preferred but not always required)Strong customer service and communication skillsDetail-oriented with excellent organizational skillsExperience with optical software systems (a plus)Ability to work collaboratively in a team-oriented environmentWhy Join Us?Competitive pay & bonus structureHealth benefits and vision care discountsSupportive work environment with opportunities for growthOngoing training and developmentEmployee discounts on eyewearApply Today!Help people look and feel their best - one pair of glasses at a time!
Job Posted by ApplicantPro