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Job outlook for optical managers in the United States
Optical manager job growth summary. After extensive research, interviews, and analysis, Zippia's data science team found that:
The projected optical manager job growth rate is 4% from 2018-2028.
About 2,800 new jobs for optical managers are projected over the next decade.
Optical manager salaries have increased 8% for optical managers in the last 5 years.
There are over 4,247 optical managers currently employed in the United States.
There are 6,274 active optical manager job openings in the US.
The average optical manager salary is $39,584.
Are optical manager jobs in demand?
Optical manager job and salary trends over time
Optical manager jobs over time
Optical manager job growth rate over time
| Year | # of jobs | % of population |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 4,247 | 0.00% |
| 2020 | 3,952 | 0.00% |
| 2019 | 4,193 | 0.00% |
| 2018 | 4,188 | 0.00% |
| 2017 | 4,373 | 0.00% |
Average optical manager salary over time
Optical manager salary by year
| Year | Avg. salary | Hourly rate | % Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | $39,584 | $19.03 | +1.8% |
| 2025 | $38,875 | $18.69 | +2.2% |
| 2024 | $38,022 | $18.28 | +2.1% |
| 2023 | $37,242 | $17.90 | +2.0% |
| 2022 | $36,502 | $17.55 | +2.0% |
Optical manager jobs by state
Most common states for optical managers
| Rank | State | Population | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | District of Columbia | 693,972 | 76 | 11% |
| 2 | Connecticut | 3,588,184 | 207 | 6% |
| 3 | Alaska | 739,795 | 42 | 6% |
| 4 | New Jersey | 9,005,644 | 470 | 5% |
| 5 | Washington | 7,405,743 | 359 | 5% |
| 6 | Massachusetts | 6,859,819 | 356 | 5% |
| 7 | Maryland | 6,052,177 | 276 | 5% |
| 8 | California | 39,536,653 | 1,559 | 4% |
| 9 | Florida | 20,984,400 | 822 | 4% |
| 10 | New York | 19,849,399 | 762 | 4% |
| 11 | Illinois | 12,802,023 | 477 | 4% |
| 12 | Georgia | 10,429,379 | 412 | 4% |
| 13 | Virginia | 8,470,020 | 369 | 4% |
| 14 | Colorado | 5,607,154 | 207 | 4% |
| 15 | Delaware | 961,939 | 36 | 4% |
| 16 | Pennsylvania | 12,805,537 | 446 | 3% |
| 17 | Ohio | 11,658,609 | 385 | 3% |
| 18 | Oregon | 4,142,776 | 114 | 3% |
| 19 | Utah | 3,101,833 | 100 | 3% |
| 20 | New Hampshire | 1,342,795 | 37 | 3% |
Most common cities for optical managers
| Rank | City | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl | Avg. salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | East Point | 1 | 3% | $38,730 |
| 2 | Franklin Town | 1 | 3% | $71,283 |
| 3 | Huntington Station | 1 | 3% | $74,156 |
| 4 | Medford | 1 | 2% | $70,032 |
| 5 | Lakewood | 1 | 1% | $52,341 |
| 6 | Pleasanton | 1 | 1% | $64,023 |
| 7 | Santa Clara | 1 | 1% | $63,513 |
| 8 | New York | 3 | 0% | $72,783 |
| 9 | Los Angeles | 2 | 0% | $52,838 |
| 10 | Boston | 1 | 0% | $70,488 |
| 11 | Madison | 1 | 0% | $44,096 |
| 12 | Milwaukee | 1 | 0% | $44,997 |
| 13 | Orlando | 1 | 0% | $42,250 |
| 14 | Philadelphia | 1 | 0% | $59,320 |
Optical Manager job outlook: Expert opinions
Our panel of optical manager experts
Centenary College of Louisiana
University of Arkansas at Little Rock
Indiana University
Dr. Barbara Davis
William J. Atkins DeanCentenary College of Louisiana
Frost School of Business
What experience really stands out on Optical Manager resumes?
Dr. Barbara Davis: Graduates participating in internships related to their areas of interest. Internships spanning more than one semester at the same firm stand out as well.
What skills stand out on Optical Manager resumes?
Dr. Timothy Edwards: Writing and research skills. Analytical and critical thinking skills. Technical skills such as web design, graphic design, audio and video production skills. Employers are interested in potential employees knowledge, intelligence and skills.
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the Optical Manager job market given the pandemic?
Dr. Todd Peabody: There was initially some concern and hesitation amongst hirers because of the uncertainty of the pandemic and the speed with which patients would resume seeking care but by the summer of 2020, that concern was abated as demand surged. We're seeing that practices are looking for job candidates who are comfortable with both engaging in full-scope optometric care and newer technology.
What Optical Manager skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. Todd Peabody: Consider formal business training in programs like the one that we have established here at IU in partnership with the Kelley School of Business. Whether you plan to own a business or just manage your own finances, financial literacy and business acumen can help set you apart and give you a leg up on the competition. There is no better investment than an investment in yourself especially with skills and training that is immediately applicable.
What general advice would you give to an Optical Manager?
Dr. Todd Peabody: You're not an island and can take better care of your patients with the help of fellow professionals as well as friends and colleagues. Don't hesitate to reach out for guidance and advice. Find a few mentors who can help you plot your course through your professional career. Create specific, actionable goals that you revisit on a periodic basis.