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Optical Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

Clarity Vision

Optical Associate

Smithfield, NC · On-site

$13.75 - $17/hr

Optical Associate - Help People See Their Best! Do you love working with people and have an eye for style? Join our team as an Optical Associate and make a meaningful impact by helping clients find ...

RS Eye Care

Optical Associate

Smithfield, NC · On-site

$16 - $18/hr

Optical Associate - Help People See Their Best! Do you love working with people and have an eye for style? Join our team as an Optical Associate and make a meaningful impact by helping clients find ...

RS Eye Care

Optical Associate

Smithfield, NC · On-site

$16 - $18/hr

Optical Associate - Help People See Their Best! Do you love working with people and have an eye for style? Join our team as an Optical Associate and make a meaningful impact by helping clients find ...

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 ...

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All JobsOptical JobsOptical Jobs in Raleigh, NC

Optical information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

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$36

How much do optical jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 23, 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 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 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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 74% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 5% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,348 per year, or $20.8 per hour.
Optical Associate

Optical Associate

Clarity Vision

Smithfield, NC • On-site

$13.75 - $17/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Optical Associate – Help People See Their Best!

Do you love working with people and have an eye for style? Join our team as an Optical Associate and make a meaningful impact by helping clients find eyewear that enhances their vision and boosts their confidence.

About the Role:

As an Optical Associate, you'll be the friendly face our clients rely on for expert guidance and personalized service. From selecting the perfect frames to performing precise fittings, you'll play a key role in delivering an exceptional optical experience every day.

Your Responsibilities:

  • Deliver warm, professional customer service that makes every client feel valued
  • Guide clients through frame and lens selections based on their unique needs and preferences
  • Perform eyewear fittings, adjustments, and minor repairs with accuracy and care
  • Educate clients on lens options, coatings, and proper eyewear maintenance
  • Work collaboratively with our optical team to ensure outstanding client satisfaction
  • Stay current on the latest eyewear trends and optical technology

What You Bring:

  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Fantastic interpersonal skills and a professional, friendly demeanor
  • Strong attention to detail and excellent problem-solving abilities
  • Clear communication skills, both verbal and written
  • Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment
  • Passion for customer service, fashion, and helping others
  • Dependability and a positive attitude
  • Optical or retail experience is a plus, but we'll train motivated candidates!
  • EMR experience is beneficial but not required

Why Join Us:

Comprehensive Benefits Package:

  • Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance
  • 401(k) retirement plan
  • Aflac supplemental insurance options
  • Paid time off (PTO) and holiday pay

Additional Perks:

  • Competitive salary with bonus potential
  • Generous employee discounts on eyewear for you and your family
  • Ongoing training and professional development opportunities
  • Dynamic, supportive work environment where your contributions matter

Ready to Make a Difference?

If you're excited about combining your people skills with a passion for optical care, we'd love to meet you! Apply today and become part of a team that values excellence, growth, and making people's lives brighter-one pair of glasses at a time.

Apply