Optical Lab Technician

1 week ago

Birmingham B PS, United Kingdom Ear Health Solutions Full time

About Us

MW Phillips Opticians is a friendly, independent optical group with four local practices. We are currently centralising our glazing and stock management into a dedicated in-house lab based at our Acocks Green location.

This is an exciting time to join us as we build a more efficient, modern, and consistent workflow across all our stores — with strong future opportunities for progression as the lab develops.

The Role

We are looking for an experienced Optical Lab Technician to run our in-house glazing facility and support our practices with high-quality spectacle production.

You will take ownership of the glazing workflow, stock control, and quality standards for all four branch locations.

Key Responsibilities

  • Glazing a full range of spectacles to a high clinical and aesthetic standard
  • Managing the complete lab workflow independently
  • Preparing orders for all branches, including dispatching completed spectacles with cases and cloths
  • Maintaining stock levels and updating inventory across all four practices
  • Preparing and assembling NHS, low-mid range, and selected high-end frames for internal distribution
  • Performing frame adjustments and minor repairs where required
  • Conducting lens verifications, quality control checks, and order accuracy checks
  • Coordinating frame and lens movement between stores via internal delivery or courier
  • Ensuring lab equipment, software, and hardware are used safely and efficiently
  • Occasionally supporting the shop floor if a dispensing optician is absent (rare)

About the Stock Structure

Our new system ensures consistent product quality across all locations:

  • 70% of frame stock identical across all stores (NHS & low-to-mid range)
  • Each store displays one model of each frame; replacements are built in the lab
  • 30% of frames selected individually by each store (including high-end ranges)
  • Lab technician assembles and returns all spectacles to the requesting practice

This role is central to maintaining stock accuracy and efficient turnaround times across the group.

What We're Looking For

  • Experience in glazing and spectacle assembly (essential)
  • Confident managing lab equipment and glazing machinery
  • Strong attention to detail and pride in producing high-quality work
  • Ability to manage workflow independently while supporting a small team when needed
  • Good understanding of optical stock control
  • Flexible and organised approach to workload
  • Comfortable occasionally assisting on the shop floor during staff shortages

Working Pattern

  • Up to 32 hours per week, flexible arrangement
  • Can be spread across 4, 5, or 6 days, depending on candidate preference
  • Weekend work available but not required
  • Turnaround expectations: typically 7–10 days, depending on volume

Benefits

  • Staff discount on frames and lenses
  • Company pension
  • Free on-site parking
  • Supportive, growth-focused, and friendly environment
  • Career progression opportunities as the lab operation expands

How to Apply

Please submit your CV through Indeed. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an informal discussion and interview.

Job Types: Full-time, Part-time, Permanent

Pay: £13.00-£14.00 per hour

Expected hours: No more than 32 per week

Benefits:

  • Company pension
  • Employee discount
  • Free parking
  • On-site parking
  • Store discount

Work Location: In person

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