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Optics Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Big City Optical

Part Time Optician

Chicago, IL · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

Optician Big City Optical is a leading firm in the optical industry, recognized for our innovative products and commitment to excellence. We are currently seeking an Optician to join our team and ...

Big City Optical LLC

Optician

La Grange, IL · On-site

$19 - $24/hr

Big City Optical is a leading firm in the optical industry, recognized for our innovative products and commitment to excellence. We are currently seeking an Optician to join our team and support the ...

Big City Optical

Part Time Optician

Chicago, IL · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

The optician is the main point of contact for new and current patients. They work with the optometrist's recommendations to match lenses, frames and combinations therein to match the patient's vision ...

Big City Optical LLC

Part Time Optician

Chicago, IL

$18 - $22/hr

Description Big City Optical is a leading firm in the optical industry, recognized for our innovative products and commitment to excellence. We are currently seeking an Optician to join our team and ...

Big City Optical LLC

Part Time Optician

Chicago, IL · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

Big City Optical is a leading firm in the optical industry, recognized for our innovative products and commitment to excellence. We are currently seeking an Optician to join our team and support the ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsOptics JobsOptics Jobs in Illinois

Optics information

See Illinois salary details

$80.4K

$139.2K

$163.3K

How much do optics jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for optics in Illinois is $139,162.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $125,000.00 and $161,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is optics?

Optics jobs involve working with the science and technology of light, including its generation, manipulation, transmission, and detection. Professionals in this field may work as optical engineers, technicians, or researchers, designing lenses, lasers, fiber optics, and imaging systems for applications in industries like telecommunications, healthcare, manufacturing, and defense. These roles often require a strong background in physics, mathematics, and engineering, and they can be found in both research and practical, hands-on settings.

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

To thrive as an Optics Engineer, you need a strong background in physics, mathematics, and optical engineering, typically supported by a degree in optical engineering, physics, or a related field. Familiarity with optical design software (such as Zemax or Code V), laser systems, and photonics instrumentation is commonly required, along with relevant certifications. Critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication are vital soft skills for collaborating on complex projects and conveying technical information. These skills and qualifications are crucial for developing innovative optical systems, ensuring precision, and meeting project requirements in industries like telecommunications, healthcare, and manufacturing.

What are some typical challenges faced by professionals working in optics, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in optics often encounter challenges such as keeping up with rapidly evolving technologies, ensuring precision in measurements and alignments, and troubleshooting complex optical systems. To address these issues, it's important to stay current through continued education, collaborate closely with multidisciplinary teams, and develop strong problem-solving skills. Many optics roles also emphasize hands-on experience and the ability to adapt to new tools or software, so proactive learning and effective communication are key to overcoming these challenges.

What is the difference between Optics vs Optical Technician?

AspectOpticsOptical Technician
Required CredentialsTypically requires a degree in physics, optics, or related fieldOften requires a certificate or associate degree in optical technology
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, manufacturing, academiaOptical labs, manufacturing facilities, retail optical stores
Industry UsageResearch, development, manufacturing of optical devicesAssembly, testing, and fitting of optical instruments and eyewear

Optics generally refers to the scientific study and development of light and optical systems, often requiring advanced education. Optical Technicians focus on assembling, testing, and maintaining optical devices, typically with technical certifications. While both roles work within the optical industry, Optics is more research-oriented, whereas Optical Technicians are more hands-on in manufacturing and service environments.

What is a job in optics?

A job in optics involves designing, testing, and manufacturing optical devices such as lenses, microscopes, and lasers. Professionals in this field often work in research labs or manufacturing environments and may require knowledge of physics, engineering, and specialized tools like optical software or measurement instruments.

What jobs use optics?

Jobs that use optics include optical engineers, laser technicians, and photonics scientists, who design, develop, and test optical systems and devices. These roles often require knowledge of optics principles, precision measurement tools, and sometimes certifications in laser safety or optical design software. They are common in industries such as telecommunications, aerospace, medical devices, and defense.

What are the most commonly searched types of Optics jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Optics jobs in Illinois are:

What are popular job titles related to Optics jobs in Illinois?

For Optics jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Optics jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Optics jobs in Illinois are:

Optics jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optics job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, and 6% Part Time. Highlights an 92% Physical, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $139,162 per year, or $66.9 per hour.

Optician/Certified Optician (Evanston)

Big City Optical LLC

Evanston, IL

$20 - $26/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 27 days ago

Job description

Description

Big City Optical is a leading firm in the optical industry, recognized for our innovative products and commitment to excellence. We are currently seeking an Optician to join our team and support the company's mission of providing preeminent eye care in our communities.


The optician is the main point of contact for new and current patients. They work with the optometrist's recommendations to match lenses, frames and combinations therein to match the patient's vision needs. The Optician, accurately fits, measure and adjusts frame for maximum usability by the client, ensuring quality and integrity of eye ware before leaving the store



Optician Duties and Responsibilities

  • Conduct pre-examination assessments of patients
  • Work closely with the optometrist to understand and deliver on specific patient vision requirements.
  • Understand and evangelize Big City Optical's value proposition to clients
  • Assist patients in selecting frames and lenses that best suit their prescription needs and lifestyle.
  • Accurately measure and fit eyeglasses and contact lenses, ensuring a comfortable and optimal vision experience for each patient.
  • Educate patients on lens options, including features and benefits, to help them make informed decisions.
  • Maintain up-to-date knowledge of the latest trends in eyewear and advancements in lens technology.
  • Monitor orders and update patients on any delays.
  • Conducts quality assessment of orders prior to patient pickup. 
  • Work with colleagues to manage inventory, including ordering, receiving, organizing frames and lens supplies and participating in off hours inventory count work as needed.
  • Provide excellent customer service, resolving any issues professionally.
  • Perform administrative tasks related to patient records, store operations and insurance billing.
  • Conducts follow up calls to check in on patients and proactively advise on eyecare appointment availability. 
  •  Additional responsibilities as assigned to support the overall success of the store.



Requirements

Optician Requirements and Qualifications

  • 1 year experience preferred, not required.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with an ability to engage effectively with diverse clientele.
  • Detail-oriented, with strong organizational and time management skills.
  • Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment
  • Adhere to company policies on attendance, dress code and workplace safety.  
  • Reliable transportation and willingness to travel up to 10 miles to support coverage at other locations as needed.
  • ABO certification is a plus


Work Environment:

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.


Physical Demands:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this Job, the employee is regularly required to stand; walk; sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms and talk or hear. The employee is frequently required to stoop, kneel, crouch, climb-up or crawl. The employee must regularly lift and /or move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include Close vision, Distance vision, Depth perception and Ability to adjust focus.



Pay: $20-26 per hour

Benefits:

  • Incentive Plan Participation
  • Company subsidized Medical Insurance
  • Company subsidized Dental insurance
  • Company paid Short Term Disability insurance
  • 401(k) with 10% match
  • Paid time off
  • Employee discount plan


Apply