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Opticians Salary Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Optician

Redlands, CA

$17.25 - $22.50/hr

Optician I will promote, sell, fit, measure and dispense eyeglasses to patients. Provide good ... In addition to your salary, we offer benefits such as, a comprehensive benefits package, incentive ...

Optician

Redlands, CA · On-site

$17.25 - $22.50/hr

Optician I will promote, sell, fit, measure and dispense eyeglasses to patients. Provide good ... In addition to your salary, we offer benefits such as, a comprehensive benefits package, incentive ...

Principal Optical Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$175K - $195K/yr

As a Principal Optical Engineer in our Central Engineering organization in Irvine, CA, you will ... Salary Pay Range: $175,000 - $195,000 per year. This range is a good faith estimate of the expected ...

Principal Optical Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$175K - $195K/yr

As a Principal Optical Engineer in our Central Engineering organization in Irvine, CA, you will ... Salary Pay Range: $175,000 - $195,000 per year. This range is a good faith estimate of the expected ...

Optics Fabricator 2

Irvine, CA · On-site

$17.31 - $32.12/hr

As an Optics Fabricator at MKS Instruments, you will partner with Production, Engineering, Planning ... This range is a good faith estimate of the expected salary range for this position, based on a wide ...

Optics Fabricator 2

Irvine, CA · On-site

$17.31 - $32.12/hr

As an Optics Fabricator at MKS Instruments, you will partner with Production, Engineering, Planning ... This range is a good faith estimate of the expected salary range for this position, based on a wide ...

Optics Fabricator 2

Irvine, CA · On-site

$17.31 - $32.12/hr

As an Optics Fabricator at MKS Instruments, you will partner with Production, Engineering, Planning ... This range is a good faith estimate of the expected salary range for this position, based on a wide ...

As an Optics Fabricator at MKS Instruments, you will partner with Production, Engineering, Planning ... This range is a good faith estimate of the expected salary range for this position, based on a wide ...

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Opticians Salary information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$15

$20

$29

How much do opticians salary jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for opticians salary in Riverside, CA is $20.92, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.08 and $22.55 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some typical career advancement opportunities for opticians within the optical industry?

Opticians often begin their careers in retail or clinical settings, but there are several pathways for advancement. With experience and additional certifications, opticians can move into supervisory or management roles, such as store manager or optical department lead. Some opticians choose to specialize further, becoming contact lens fitters or working in ophthalmology practices. Others may transition into roles in sales, training, or even open their own optical businesses, depending on their entrepreneurial interests and qualifications.

How much does a licensed optician make?

Licensed opticians in North Carolina typically earn an average annual salary of around $35,000 to $45,000, depending on experience, certification, and work setting. Salaries can vary based on location, employer, and whether the optician has specialized skills or additional certifications.

Who pays opticians the most?

Opticians' salaries vary by region, with higher pay typically found in areas with a higher cost of living and greater demand for eye care services. In the United States, opticians working in metropolitan areas or for specialized practices tend to earn higher wages. Experience, certifications, and the work environment also influence salary levels for opticians.

What is the difference between Opticians Salary vs Optometrists Salary?

AspectOpticians SalaryOptometrists Salary
Average Annual Salary$36,000 - $55,000$105,000 - $125,000
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma, certification or licenseDoctor of Optometry (OD) degree, state license
Work EnvironmentOptical stores, retail settingsPrivate practices, clinics, hospitals
Job ResponsibilitiesFitting glasses, adjusting frames, basic eye examsComprehensive eye exams, diagnosing eye conditions

Opticians typically earn less than optometrists due to differences in education, responsibilities, and scope of practice. While opticians focus on fitting and adjusting eyewear, optometrists perform detailed eye examinations and diagnose eye health issues, which explains the salary disparity.

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

To thrive as an Optician, you need a solid understanding of optical science, frame fitting, lens selection, and typically a high school diploma with completion of an opticianry program or relevant certification. Familiarity with lensometers, optical dispensing software, and state licensure or certification (such as ABO-NCLE) is often required. Strong interpersonal skills, attention to detail, and customer service orientation set top performers apart in assisting clients and resolving concerns. These skills are crucial for ensuring accurate vision correction, client satisfaction, and compliance with health and safety standards.

Is an optician a good career?

Opticians are healthcare professionals who fit and dispense eyeglasses and contact lenses, often working in retail or clinical settings. The career typically requires certification or licensing, offers steady employment, and has a median salary that varies by location and experience. It can be a stable and rewarding field for those interested in eye health and customer service.

What is the average salary of an optician?

The average salary of an optician in the United States typically ranges from $30,000 to $50,000 per year, depending on factors such as location, experience, and employer. Entry-level opticians may earn closer to the lower end of the range, while those with more experience or working in metropolitan areas can earn higher salaries. Some opticians also receive additional benefits such as commissions, bonuses, and health insurance.

Where do opticians make the most money?

Opticians tend to earn higher salaries in regions with a higher cost of living and greater demand for eye care services, such as urban areas and economically developed regions. States or cities with a strong healthcare industry and higher average income levels generally offer better compensation for opticians. Certification and experience can also influence earning potential regardless of location.
What are popular job titles related to Opticians Salary jobs in Riverside, CA? For Opticians Salary jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Opticians Salary jobs in Riverside, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Opticians Salary jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Opticians Salary jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Opticians Salary job openings:
Infographic showing various Opticians Salary job openings in Riverside, CA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% Full Time, 78% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 17% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,510 per year, or $20.9 per hour.
Optician

$17.25 - $22.50/hr

Full-time

Retirement

Posted 15 days ago


UnitedHealth Group rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 146 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

188th of 890 rated healthcare providers


Job description

For those who want to invent the future of health care, here's your opportunity. We're going beyond basic care to health programs integrated across the entire continuum of care. Join us to start Caring. Connecting. Growing together.


Optician I will promote, sell, fit, measure and dispense eyeglasses to patients. Provide good patient and fellow employee relations. Work with frame and contact lens manufacture labs and outside Health Plans by being courteous and cooperative.  Ability to answer telephones and take messages correctly with a positive attitude. Properly order frames, lenses, contacts, and general optical supplies; and possess general clerical skills appropriate to optical field.  Research patient insurance information for coverage for glasses and/or contacts (ie, Vision Service Plan, Medical Eye Service, etc.)  Also have knowledge of Beaver Medical Group computer system to access patient information.


The Optician I position is distinguished by promoting the sale of eyeglasses, sunglasses and contact lenses and the ability to measure, fit, and dispense them properly. Responsibilities also include travel between facilities.


Primary Responsibilities:

Optician I 

  • Fits, measures pupillary distance's, bifocal segment heights and progressive lens, and order and dispenses eyeglasses and promote sales
  • Ability to write up, fax, use internet and phone to order contacts, eyeglass frames and lenses
  • Understanding of the ICD10 codes and CPT codes for Optical.  Charges and bills patients properly and submits claims to all outside insurance companies
  • Understands and bills pre-paid HMO's
  • Verifies job orders in from labs and manufactures
  • Notifies patients that glasses or contact lenses are ready for dispensing
  • Files dispensed orders as soon as possible when needed
  • Travel as necessary, when needed to different facilities


Other Work as Required/Requested

  • May be assigned special project or other assignments and work tasks that are generally within the scope and level of the position, and relative to the need for flexible company operations


You'll be rewarded and recognized for your performance in an environment that will challenge you and give you clear direction on what it takes to succeed in your role as well as provide development for other roles you may be interested in.

Required Qualifications:

  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Valid California driver's license including proof of personal vehicle insurance coverage and insurability under the company's insurance carrier standards


Preferred Qualifications:

  • 1 years of experience in the optical field performing the essential duties and responsibilities described herein
  • Experience working in the Optical field or graduation from accredited ophthalmic dispensing program


Skills, Knowledge & Abilities:

  • Working knowledge of computer applications specific to department operations.  Skill and ability to maintain professional behavior and high degree of accuracy, a positive patient/optician relationship.  Promotes quality assurance by accurate performance of job and verification of accuracy of goods.  Maintains an open positive relationship with co-workers as well as management, and have respect for all. Ability to successfully uphold the established customer service standards and Company Mission Statement
  • Knowledge and ability to use office and optical equipment such as lensometer, keratometer, auto-refractor, radiuscope, Slit lamp, U.V. meter, tint machine, hinge repairs, phone, computer, fax machine, and adding machine.  Ability to teach and train, order and dispense  hard, soft, gas permeable and disposable contact lenses as appropriate
  • Working knowledge of computer applications specific to department operations.  Skill and ability to maintain professional behavior and high degree of accuracy, a positive patient/optician relationship.  Promotes quality assurance by accurate performance of job and verification of accuracy of goods.  Maintains an open positive relationship with co-workers as well as management, and have respect for all. Ability to successfully uphold the established customer service standards and Company Mission Statement
  • Knowledge and ability to use office and optical equipment such as lensometer, keratometer, auto-refractor, radiuscope, Slit lamp, U.V. meter, tint machine, hinge repairs, phone, computer, fax machine, and adding machine.  Ability to teach and train, order and dispense  hard, soft, gas permeable and disposable contact lenses as appropriate


Pay is based on several factors including but not limited to local labor markets, education, work experience, certifications, etc. In addition to your salary, we offer benefits such as, a comprehensive benefits package, incentive and recognition programs, equity stock purchase and 401k contribution (all benefits are subject to eligibility requirements). No matter where or when you begin a career with us, you'll find a far-reaching choice of benefits and incentives. The hourly pay for this role will range from $20 - $36 per hour based on full-time employment. We comply with all minimum wage laws as applicable.


At UnitedHealth Group, our mission is to help people live healthier lives and make the health system work better for everyone. We believe everyone-of every race, gender, sexuality, age, location and income-deserves the opportunity to live their healthiest life. Today, however, there are still far too many barriers to good health which are disproportionately experienced by people of color, historically marginalized groups and those with lower incomes. We are committed to mitigating our impact on the environment and enabling and delivering equitable care that addresses health disparities and improves health outcomes - an enterprise priority reflected in our mission.


OptumCare is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer under applicable law and qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, national origin, religion, age, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, or protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by local, state, or federal laws, rules, or regulations.


OptumCare is a drug-free workplace. Candidates are required to pass a drug test before beginning employment.


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