Position
Salary

How much does a Optical Technician make?

The average salary for a Optical Technician is $37,003 per year in the US.

Optical Technicians help people with eyeglasses, contact lenses, and other vision aids. They work in optical shops and clinics. The average yearly salary for an Optical Technician stands at approximately $37,003. This is a solid income for those in the field. It shows the value that employers place on these professionals.


Optical Technicians' salaries can vary. Those with less experience usually start lower. As experience grows, so can salary. Technicians can earn more if they get specialized certifications. Working in a city with higher living costs can also lead to higher pay. The industry offers many chances to grow and earn more over time. This makes it a good career path for many job seekers.

View Optical Technician jobs nearby

What are the highest paying cities for a Optical Technician?

Optical Technicians can find excellent opportunities in Rochester, NY, where the average salary stands at $50,132. This city offers competitive compensation and a growing demand for skilled technicians. In Fresno, CA, Optical Technicians earn an average of $40,653, making it another promising location for those in the field. Tucson, AZ, offers a solid average salary of $32,438 for Optical Technicians, reflecting stable job prospects in the area. St. Louis, MO, provides an average salary of $30,000, indicating a good market for professionals. Tampa, FL, and Lexington, KY, follow with average salaries of $29,412 and $28,536, respectively, offering solid earning potential in these regions.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Optical Technician jobs, highlighting Rochester, NY with the highest at $50,132 and Lexington, KY with the lowest at $28,536.
  1. Rochester, NY
    Average Salary: $50,132
    In Rochester, those in the optics field can expect a vibrant work environment. With major companies like Bausch + Lomb, this city offers many opportunities. Working here means being part of an industry that values eye care excellence.
    Find Optical Technician jobs in Rochester, NY


  2. Fresno, CA
    Average Salary: $40,653
    Fresno offers a dynamic atmosphere for optics professionals. Well-known firms in the city create a strong demand for skilled technicians. With a focus on innovation, this is a great place for those passionate about eye care.
    Find Optical Technician jobs in Fresno, CA


  3. Tucson, AZ
    Average Salary: $32,438
    Tucson is a growing hub for optical expertise. Companies here are expanding, offering many job prospects. Working in optics in this city means being part of a community that values precision and care.
    Find Optical Technician jobs in Tucson, AZ


  4. St. Louis, MO
    Average Salary: $30,000
    St. Louis provides a steady environment for optics professionals. Major companies like 3M are based here, creating solid job opportunities. This city is known for its commitment to quality in eye care services.
    Find Optical Technician jobs in St. Louis, MO


  5. Tampa, FL
    Average Salary: $29,412
    In Tampa, the demand for skilled optical technicians is on the rise. With companies focusing on health, there are many chances to grow. Working here means being part of a field that values health and vision care.
    Find Optical Technician jobs in Tampa, FL


  6. Lexington, KY
    Average Salary: $28,536
    Lexington offers a supportive environment for optics professionals. Known for its quality healthcare, this city has many opportunities. Working here means being part of a community that prioritizes eye care and innovation.
    Find Optical Technician jobs in Lexington, KY

What are the best companies a Optical Technician can work for?

Coherent Corp. stands out as a top employer for Optical Technicians, offering an average salary of $53,723. Joining this company can provide a stable career with good earnings. United Health Centers also ranks high, with an average salary of $42,000, making it a strong option for those seeking both quality employment and a decent paycheck.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Optical Technician jobs, highlighting Coherent Corp. with the highest at $53,723 and optical outlets with the lowest at $29,692.
  1. Coherent Corp.
    Average Salary: $53,723
    Coherent Corp. offers Optical Technician positions that involve working with advanced optical technologies. This company operates globally, with major offices in the United States and international branches. Technicians here have the chance to work on cutting-edge projects and receive top-tier training.


  2. United Health Centers
    Average Salary: $42,000
    United Health Centers provides comprehensive eye care services and employs Optical Technicians in various locations across the country. Technicians support optometrists and ophthalmologists, ensuring patients receive the best care. The company values teamwork and continuous learning, offering multiple training programs.


  3. VSP Vision
    Average Salary: $33,341
    VSP Vision, known for its eye care solutions, offers Optical Technician jobs in many states. Technicians work in a supportive environment, helping patients choose the right eyewear. The company's commitment to quality care makes it a great place for professionals to grow.


  4. Nationwide Vision Center
    Average Salary: $31,818
    Nationwide Vision Center has multiple locations where Optical Technicians play a key role in patient care. Technicians assist optometrists in conducting eye exams and fitting glasses. The company emphasizes patient satisfaction and offers a collaborative work environment.


  5. Nationwide Vision
    Average Salary: $31,818
    Nationwide Vision provides Optical Technician positions in many locations. Technicians here support eye exams and help patients find the perfect eyewear. The company values innovation and teamwork, creating a positive workplace.


  6. Eyecare Partners
    Average Salary: $31,552
    Eyecare Partners offers Optical Technician positions in various locations. Technicians assist with patient care and ensure a smooth experience. The company focuses on professional development and offers several opportunities for growth.


  7. Clarkson Eyecare
    Average Salary: $30,600
    Clarkson Eyecare employs Optical Technicians in many states, providing high-quality eye care services. Technicians work closely with optometrists to help patients choose the right eyewear. The company prioritizes patient care and offers a supportive work environment.


  8. optical outlets
    Average Salary: $29,692
    Optical outlets hire Optical Technicians in various locations, offering hands-on experience in eyewear sales and fitting. Technicians here support optometrists and ensure a positive customer experience. The company focuses on providing excellent eye care services.

How to earn more as a Optical Technician?

An optical technician plays a crucial role in eye care, often working behind the scenes to ensure eyeglass prescriptions are accurate and devices are properly fitted. This profession offers opportunities for salary growth through various means. One key approach is gaining additional certifications that showcase expertise in specialized areas, such as contact lenses or pediatric optics. These credentials can make an optical technician more valuable to employers and may lead to higher pay.

Continuing education and training can also enhance job prospects and earnings. Many optical technicians find that taking advanced courses or attending workshops allows them to offer more services, thus increasing their income. Staying updated with the latest technology and techniques in the field ensures that optical technicians can deliver the best care to patients and remain competitive in the job market. Building a strong network within the industry can lead to job opportunities and insights into higher-paying positions.

Experience and reputation can significantly affect an optical technician’s salary. Working at well-established optical practices or hospitals with a high patient volume can provide more opportunities for earnings. Additionally, an excellent work ethic and positive reputation can lead to bonuses and promotions. Below are some factors that can influence an optical technician’s earnings:

  1. Certifications: Additional certifications in specialties.
  2. Continuing Education: Advanced courses and workshops.
  3. Technology Proficiency: Staying updated with the latest tech.
  4. Experience: Working at established practices.
  5. Reputation: A positive work ethic and good standing.

Currently 47 Optical Technician job openings, nationwide.

How's the job market for a Optical Technician in the US?

Learn what a Optical Technician does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Optical Technician today.
Position
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Optical Technician
47 Job Openings