Optical Technician Salaries

Position

Salary

How much does a Optical Technician make?

The average salary for a Optical Technician is $38,781 per year in the US.

Graph depicting the yearly salary distribution for Optical Technician positions, showing an average salary of $38,781 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.

Graph depicting the monthly salary distribution for Optical Technician positions, showing an average salary of $38,781 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.

Graph depicting the weekly salary distribution for Optical Technician positions, showing an average salary of $38,781 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.

Graph depicting the hourly salary distribution for Optical Technician positions, showing an average salary of $38,781 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.

An Optical Technician enjoys a competitive salary, offering stability and growth. On average, they earn about $38,781 per year. This figure can vary based on experience, location, and the specific employer. Entry-level technicians might start around $27,000, while experienced professionals can earn upwards of $65,870 annually.

Several factors influence an Optical Technician's salary. Locations with higher living costs usually offer higher wages. Urban areas often provide more opportunities for higher-paying jobs. Additionally, specializations like lens crafting or diagnostic testing can lead to higher salaries. Experience and education also play significant roles, with more experienced technicians often earning more.

What are the highest paying cities for a Optical Technician?

If you're an optical technician seeking higher pay, Rochester, NY tops the list with an average salary of $49,997. Fresno, CA, follows closely behind with an average salary of $40,888. Honolulu, HI, offers a competitive average salary of $38,453, providing both a great income and a desirable location. For those considering other locations, Tucson, AZ, and St. Louis, MO, offer average salaries of $32,438 and $30,000, respectively. Tampa, FL, and Lexington, KY, complete the list with average salaries of $29,474 and $28,594. These figures highlight the best opportunities for higher earnings.

Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Optical Technician jobs, highlighting Rochester, NY with the highest at $49,997 and Lexington, KY with the lowest at $28,594.

Rochester, NY
Average Salary: $49,997
In Rochester, a thriving hub for eye care, professionals thrive. With renowned companies like Bausch + Lomb, your skills will shine. Enjoy a balanced work life in this vibrant city.
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Fresno, CA
Average Salary: $40,888
Fresno offers a warm welcome to those in the optical field. Work alongside major players like VSP Global. Experience the blend of modern conveniences and a laid-back Californian charm.
Find Optical Technician jobs in Fresno, CA
Honolulu, HI
Average Salary: $38,453
Working in Honolulu provides a unique blend of culture and professional growth. The city boasts a tropical climate and opportunities with local eyewear shops. Enjoy the island lifestyle while advancing in your career.
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Tucson, AZ
Average Salary: $32,438
Tucson's optical industry offers a mix of innovation and tradition. Companies like LensCrafters offer varied opportunities. Experience desert charm alongside your professional growth.
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St. Louis, MO
Average Salary: $30,000
St. Louis provides a supportive environment for eye care professionals. With companies like Warby Parker, you'll find ample chances to grow. Enjoy the city's rich history and cultural events.
Find Optical Technician jobs in St. Louis, MO
Tampa, FL
Average Salary: $29,474
In Tampa, the optical industry benefits from a sunny climate and vibrant community. Local chains provide diverse experiences. Enjoy the beaches and city life while advancing your career.
Find Optical Technician jobs in Tampa, FL
Lexington, KY
Average Salary: $28,594
Lexington offers a welcoming atmosphere for optical professionals. Local optical centers and chains provide growth opportunities. Experience the charm of the Bluegrass State with a thriving job market.
Find Optical Technician jobs in Lexington, KY

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

Coherent Corp. offers Optical Technicians one of the best salaries in the industry, averaging around $54,000 annually. United Health Centers also provides a competitive salary, with technicians earning about $42,000 per year. VSP Vision, Eyecare Partners, Clarkson Eyecare, and optical outlets offer average salaries ranging from $31,000 to $35,000, still providing good compensation. Each of these companies values skilled Optical Technicians and offers opportunities for professional growth. They provide a supportive environment and essential benefits, making them attractive choices for anyone in the field. Job seekers can expect good pay and a chance to develop their skills in these top companies.

Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Optical Technician jobs, highlighting Coherent Corp. with the highest at $54,049 and Optical Outlets with the lowest at $29,765.

Coherent Corp.
Average Salary: $54,049
Coherent Corp. offers exciting opportunities for Optical Technicians. They provide hands-on work with advanced optical technology. This company operates in multiple locations across the U.S., including Santa Clara, Rochester, and Orlando.
United Health Centers
Average Salary: $42,000
United Health Centers is a leader in providing comprehensive eye care services. They value skilled Optical Technicians and offer a supportive work environment. Locations include Fresno, Bakersfield, and Visalia.
VSP Vision
Average Salary: $35,102
VSP Vision focuses on vision care, making it a great place for Optical Technicians. They offer competitive salaries and benefits. VSP Vision operates nationwide, with major hubs in San Diego, Chicago, and New York City.
Eyecare Partners
Average Salary: $31,552
Eyecare Partners provides a wide range of eye care services and is a top choice for Optical Technicians. They have many locations across the U.S., including Houston, Dallas, and Miami.
Clarkson Eyecare
Average Salary: $31,179
Clarkson Eyecare is known for its patient-focused approach. They offer rewarding roles for Optical Technicians. Locations include Kansas City, St. Louis, and Louisville.
Optical Outlets
Average Salary: $29,765
Optical Outlets provides various eye care services and is a solid choice for Optical Technicians. They have several locations across the country, including Boston, Denver, and Atlanta.

How to earn more as a Optical Technician?

Becoming an Optical Technician offers many opportunities to increase earning potential. One key strategy is to gain additional certifications. Specializing in areas like contact lenses or pediatric optics can make a technician more valuable. These extra skills can lead to higher paying jobs and more responsibilities.

Experience also plays a vital role. Working in a variety of settings, such as retail, clinics, or labs, builds a diverse skill set. This experience can help a technician transition into higher-paying roles. Technicians who can demonstrate their ability to handle different tasks often earn more. Networking with other professionals in the field can lead to job opportunities that offer better pay. Attending workshops and conferences can provide insights into the latest trends and technologies, enhancing one’s expertise.

Location is another factor to consider. Optical Technicians in urban areas or regions with a high cost of living often earn more. Moving to these areas can increase earning potential. Additionally, working for larger companies or those with a strong reputation can lead to higher salaries. These employers often have the budget to pay competitive wages. Finally, staying updated with the latest technology and software used in the field can make a technician more efficient and effective, leading to better job opportunities and higher pay.

To maximize earnings, Optical Technicians should:

Obtain additional certifications
Gain experience in various settings
Network with industry professionals
Stay updated with the latest technology
Consider relocating to higher-paying areas

Optical Technician Salaries

How much does a Optical Technician make?

What are the highest paying cities for a Optical Technician?

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

How to earn more as a Optical Technician?

Currently 140 Optical Technician job openings, nationwide.

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

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