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Optician Apprenticeship Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Apprentice Optician

Kettering, OH

$16.75 - $21.50/hr

Part of a sanctioned Optician Apprenticeship Program within a licensed state * Strong customer service skills: communicator, listener and team builder * Knowledge of current optical theory and ...

Apprentice Optician

Kettering, OH · On-site

$16.75 - $21.50/hr

Part of a sanctioned Optician Apprenticeship Program within a licensed state * Strong customer service skills: communicator, listener and team builder * Knowledge of current optical theory and ...

Optician Apprentice - VNPCC

Wasilla, AK · On-site

$16.50 - $21.50/hr

Optician Apprentice I Hiring Range $21.72 to $28.24 Optician Apprentice II Hiring Range $24.60 to $32.80 Summary of Job Responsibilities: The Southcentral Foundation (SCF) Optician is responsible for ...

Optician Apprentice - VNPCC

Wasilla, AK · On-site

$16.50 - $21.50/hr

Optician Apprentice I Hiring Range $21.72 to $28.24 Optician Apprentice II Hiring Range $24.60 to $32.80 Summary of Job Responsibilities: The Southcentral Foundation (SCF) Optician is responsible for ...

Optician - Opticians

Kennewick, WA · On-site

$17.50 - $22.50/hr

Kennewick Vision Care Clinic Full Time Optician/Optician Apprentice Keplr Vision is a business support services company focused on investing and partnering with medically focused optometry practices ...

$17 - $21.75/hr

We may offer our high performing colleagues a chance to become a GOC registered Dispensing Optician via the Level 6 Dispensing Optician Apprenticeship. About You You'll be naturally friendly, highly ...

Optician

Danville, VA · On-site

$16/hr

Prefer completion of optician apprenticeship and certification through the American Board of Opticianry. * Ability to perform essential functions of the position with or without accommodation ...

Optician

Forest, VA · On-site

$16 - $22/hr

Prefer completion of optician apprenticeship and certification through the American Board of Opticianry. * Ability to perform essential functions of the position with or without accommodation ...

Optician

Danville, VA · On-site

$16 - $22/hr

Prefer completion of optician apprenticeship and certification through the American Board of Opticianry. * Ability to perform essential functions of the position with or without accommodation ...

Optician

Amherst, VA · On-site

$16 - $22/hr

Prefer completion of optician apprenticeship and certification through the American Board of Opticianry. * Ability to perform essential functions of the position with or without accommodation ...

Optician

Forest, VA · On-site

$16 - $22/hr

Prefer completion of optician apprenticeship and certification through the American Board of Opticianry. * Ability to perform essential functions of the position with or without accommodation ...

Optician

Forest, VA

$16 - $22/hr

Prefer completion of optician apprenticeship and certification through the American Board of Opticianry. * Ability to perform essential functions of the position with or without accommodation ...

Optician

Danville, VA · On-site

$16 - $22/hr

Prefer completion of optician apprenticeship and certification through the American Board of Opticianry. * Ability to perform essential functions of the position with or without accommodation ...

Optician

Amherst, VA · On-site

$16 - $22/hr

Prefer completion of optician apprenticeship and certification through the American Board of Opticianry. * Ability to perform essential functions of the position with or without accommodation ...

Optician

Danville, VA · On-site

$17.25 - $22.25/hr

Prefer completion of optician apprenticeship and certification through the American Board of Opticianry. * Ability to perform essential functions of the position with or without accommodation ...

Optician

Amherst, VA · On-site

$16 - $20.75/hr

Prefer completion of optician apprenticeship and certification through the American Board of Opticianry. * Ability to perform essential functions of the position with or without accommodation ...

Apprentice Optician

Bryant, AR · On-site

$14.50 - $18.75/hr

GENERAL FUNCTION The Apprentice Optician drives profitable sales growth, attracts and retains guests for life by delivering exceptional Guest service. This is accomplished through development of a ...

Apprentice Optician

Canton, GA

$15.75 - $20.25/hr

GENERAL FUNCTION The Apprentice Optician drives profitable sales growth, attracts and retains guests for life by delivering exceptional Guest service. This is accomplished through development of a ...

Apprentice Optician

Canton, GA

$16.25 - $21/hr

GENERAL FUNCTION The Apprentice Optician drives profitable sales growth, attracts and retains guests for life by delivering exceptional Guest service. This is accomplished through development of a ...

Apprentice Optician

Bryant, AR

$14.50 - $18.75/hr

GENERAL FUNCTION The Apprentice Optician drives profitable sales growth, attracts and retains guests for life by delivering exceptional Guest service. This is accomplished through development of a ...

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Optician Apprenticeship information

See salary details

$12

$19

$26

How much do optician apprenticeship jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for optician apprenticeship in the United States is $19.31, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.59 and $21.39 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Do opticians do apprenticeships?

Yes, opticians can pursue apprenticeships to gain practical experience while learning about eyewear fitting, lens technology, and customer service. These apprenticeships often combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction and may lead to certification or licensing in the field.

What is the difference between Optician Apprenticeship vs Optometrist?

AspectOptician ApprenticeshipOptometrist
Required CredentialsOn-the-job training, certification programsDoctor of Optometry degree, state licensure
Work EnvironmentOptical stores, retail settingsClinics, private practices, healthcare facilities
Industry UsageAssist with eyewear fitting and repairsDiagnose and treat eye conditions

The main difference is that an Optician Apprenticeship focuses on fitting and repairing eyewear with on-the-job training, while an Optometrist is a licensed healthcare professional who diagnoses and treats eye diseases after completing a degree and licensure. Both roles are essential in eye care but serve different functions within the industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Optician Apprentice, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Optician Apprentice, you need a basic understanding of optics, attention to detail, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with lensometers, frame fitting tools, and point-of-sale systems is typically required, and some states may require registration or certification. Strong interpersonal skills, customer service orientation, and the ability to learn quickly are crucial soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities are important to ensure accuracy in prescriptions, excellent customer experiences, and a smooth path toward licensure as a dispensing optician.

What can I expect from the training and mentorship during an optician apprenticeship?

As an optician apprentice, you will receive hands-on training under the supervision of licensed opticians and eye care professionals. You can expect to rotate through various tasks, including assisting with frame selection, lens measurement, and understanding optical equipment. Mentorship is a key part of the apprenticeship, with experienced opticians guiding you through both technical skills and customer service best practices. Regular feedback and assessments help track your progress, ensuring you gain the competencies required for certification and future advancement.

What is the highest paid apprenticeship job?

The highest paid apprenticeship jobs are often in skilled trades such as electrical, plumbing, or HVAC technician roles, which can lead to high-paying careers after completion. These apprenticeships typically require technical skills, certifications, and hands-on training, and some can offer wages comparable to entry-level professionals in their fields.

What is an optician apprenticeship?

An optician apprenticeship is a structured training program that combines paid, on-the-job learning with classroom instruction to prepare individuals to become licensed opticians. Apprentices work under the supervision of experienced opticians, learning how to fit and dispense eyeglasses and contact lenses, interpret prescriptions, and provide customer service. The program typically lasts two to four years and may fulfill the licensing requirements in many states. Upon completion, apprentices are often eligible to take certification or licensure exams to become practicing opticians.

How long is schooling to become an optician?

Becoming an optician typically involves completing a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by a formal apprenticeship or a post-secondary program that lasts from one to two years. Some states or regions may require certification or licensing, which can involve passing exams and gaining practical experience. The total time to become an optician usually ranges from one to three years depending on the pathway chosen.

Can you be an optical assistant with no experience?

Optical assistants can often start with no prior experience, as on-the-job training is common. Basic skills in customer service and attention to detail are helpful, and some employers may require or prefer relevant certifications or qualifications in optical dispensing or related areas.
More about Optician Apprenticeship jobs
What cities are hiring for Optician Apprenticeship jobs? Cities with the most Optician Apprenticeship job openings:
What states have the most Optician Apprenticeship jobs? States with the most job openings for Optician Apprenticeship jobs include:
Infographic showing various Optician Apprenticeship job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,172 per year, or $19.3 per hour.
Apprentice Optician

$16.75 - $21.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago


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

The Apprentice Optician creates exceptional value in the lives of patients by delivering exceptional service.


  • Conveys a commitment to providing unsurpassed Patient Experience by performing the following Sales and Service Process steps:
    • Greeting the Patient
    • Explaining the Process in a transparent way
    • Merchandise Selection
    • Solve visual problems or challenges for customers
    • Tendering
    • Dispensing
  • Assists the patient in selecting frames and lenses that are best suited for their vision, lifestyle and budgetary needs. Suggests improvements and recommends solutions to problems. Assists other employees with difficult and complex areas of customer product needs and prescriptions
  • Anticipates problems before they occur; explores underlying reasons for recurring customer problems; goes beyond symptoms to get at causes; strives to develop long-term solutions to problems
  • Shows patience and courtesy with patients; tracks down answers to unfamiliar questions or products
  • Ensures finished eyewear optical standards and customer requirements/requests
  • Takes personal ownership to achieve personal and practice results
  • Serves as a role model for development and a technical resource for all
  • Operates the Point of Sale terminal inputting customer and prescription information with accuracy and attention to detail
  • Accurately operates the Point of Sale, when required, collecting proper payment following company security procedures and retaining proper change for a variety of transactions
  • High school graduate or equivalent
  • Part of a sanctioned Optician Apprenticeship Program within a licensed state
  • Strong customer service skills: communicator, listener and team builder
  • Knowledge of current optical theory and merchandise
  • Strong basic math skills
  • Awareness of current fashion trends
  • Sales and service skills
  • Familiarity with POS, computers and calculators
  • Embrace new technology and change

Benefits

  • 401(k) with Match
  • Medical/Dental/Life/STD/LTD
  • Vision Service Plan
  • Employee Vision Discount Program
  • HSA/FSA
  • PTO
  • Paid Holidays

*Benefits applicable to full Time Employees only.

Physical Demands

  • This position requires the ability to communicate and exchange information, utilize equipment necessary to perform the job, and move about the office.

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