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Orthodontic Lab Tech Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Lab Production Technician Who is Osteoid? Osteoid is creating the next generation of seamless and ... Create digital images of orthodontic study models by using optical 3D scanning technology * Monitor ...

Create digital images of orthodontic study models by using optical 3D scanning technology * Monitor ... Miscellaneous lab support duties as needed Skills and Abilities Required * Manual dexterity and ...

... tech orthodontic practice! This position is ideal for someone who enjoys staying busy, loves ... Provide patients with oral hygiene and orthodontic care instructions * Manage lab cases and ...

New

Dental Assistant

Carlsbad, CA · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

... tech orthodontic practice! This position is ideal for someone who enjoys staying busy, loves ... Provide patients with oral hygiene and orthodontic care instructions * Manage lab cases and ...

New

Phlebotomist

Ventura, CA · On-site

$23 - $28/hr

Research test/client information and confirm and verify all written and electronic orders by utilizing lab technology systems or directory of services * Complete training courses and keep up to date ...

Orthodontic Lab Tech information

See California salary details

$14

$19

$22

How much do orthodontic lab tech jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for orthodontic lab tech in California is $19.41, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $18.99 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by Orthodontic Lab Technicians, and how can they be addressed?

Orthodontic Lab Technicians often encounter challenges such as working with tight deadlines, maintaining precision in appliance fabrication, and adapting to new dental technologies. Staying organized and communicating well with orthodontists can help ensure clarity on case specifications and reduce errors. Additionally, ongoing training and familiarization with digital tools like 3D printers can help technicians stay current and efficient in their work.

What are orthodontic lab techs?

Orthodontic lab techs, or orthodontic laboratory technicians, are skilled professionals who design, fabricate, and repair dental appliances such as braces, retainers, and mouthguards according to orthodontists' specifications. They work with a variety of materials, including metals and plastics, to create custom devices that help correct dental alignment and bite issues. Their work is essential in supporting orthodontists to provide effective treatment to patients. Orthodontic lab techs typically work in dental laboratories, orthodontic offices, or clinics, ensuring that appliances fit accurately and comfortably.

What is the difference between Orthodontic Lab Tech vs Dental Lab Technician?

AspectOrthodontic Lab TechDental Lab Technician
CredentialsCertification often preferred, technical trainingCertification often preferred, technical training
Work EnvironmentSpecializes in orthodontic appliances, labs or clinicsWorks on various dental prosthetics in labs or clinics
Industry UsageUsed mainly in orthodontics practicesUsed across general dentistry and prosthetics

Orthodontic Lab Techs focus on creating orthodontic appliances like braces and retainers, while Dental Lab Technicians produce a wider range of dental prosthetics such as crowns, bridges, and dentures. Both roles require similar certifications and work environments but differ in specialization and industry focus.

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

To thrive as an Orthodontic Lab Tech, you need strong manual dexterity, attention to detail, and a background in dental laboratory techniques, often gained through vocational training or an associate degree. Familiarity with dental lab tools, CAD/CAM software, and materials such as acrylics and metals is typically required. Effective communication, time management, and problem-solving skills help you collaborate with orthodontists and ensure timely, precise work. These skills are vital to produce accurate orthodontic appliances that support patient treatment and successful clinical outcomes.
What job categories do people searching Orthodontic Lab Tech jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Orthodontic Lab Tech jobs in California are:
Infographic showing various Orthodontic Lab Tech job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,366 per year, or $19.4 per hour.
Orthodontic Appliance Lab Technician

Orthodontic Appliance Lab Technician

360 Orthodontics

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$21 - $25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 19 days ago


Job description

Benefits:
  • 401(k)
  • Dental insurance
  • Employee discounts
  • Free food & snacks
  • Health insurance
  • Opportunity for advancement
  • Training & development

360 Orthodontics is looking for an orthodontic Lab Technician in our Westwood location.  This person would work at our headquarters office and produce high quality retainers for our patients, using our 3D printing software and technology.
In this position you will be required to:
  • Manage incoming requests for appliances from our offices.
  • Coordinate with 3rd party labs for appliances that are not produced in our lab.
  • Use our specialized software to prepare patient scans for 3D printing.
  • Produce 3D printed models.
  • Form Essix retainers over printed models, trim them and prepare for shipment.

Westwood, CA: Full-Time
Monday Thru Friday
We Value Team Members Who:
  • Show up consistently and on-time.
  • Get along well with others and have a supportive, team-player attitude.
  • Possess a strong attention to detail and desire to get things done quickly.
  • Adapt well to a fast-paced environment where changes occur frequently.
Some Benefits We Offer:
  • Medical, Dental, Vision, AD&D, and other benefits (available after 60 days of employment).
  • Paid sick leave and 401k retirement plans offered for eligible employees.
  • Orthodontics care included! Need braces? Our qualified team members receive complimentary orthodontics treatment.
  • We will provide training on our practice management software, computer systems, and other tools.
  • Free access to pro-tier Gemini AI chat and other productivity tools for business and personal use.
Preferred Requirements And Skills:
  • DA, OA, or RDA Certification
  • Prior experience creating retainer appliances with either pour-up or 3D print methods.
The following skills are important to us as well:
  • 3D Scanning (iTero)
  • Experience working in an ortho/dental appliances lab.
  • Experience working with 3D printers (Formlabs specifically) is a plus.
  • Experience working with uLab software is a plus.
  • Experience producing other types of orthodontic appliances is a big plus.