Rx Lab Operations Manager

Job Title: Rx Lab Operations Manager

General Overview: 

The Rx Lab Operations Manager leads the strategic growth and operational performance of the prescription eyewear lab. This role balances external-facing responsibilities — including vendor partnerships, product innovation, and cost optimization — with internal leadership of a high-performing manufacturing team.

The Manager owns lab strategy, capacity planning, and financial performance while empowering the Lab Supervisor to run daily execution. This role ensures the Rx Lab delivers best-in-class service, quality, compliance, and profitability while supporting brand growth and innovation across the organization.

Core Responsibilities: 

• Growth, Vendor Relations & Product Strategy
  • Develop and manage strategic partnerships with lens, frame, and equipment vendors to improve cost, quality, innovation, and service levels.
  • Identify and implement raw material, consumables, and process cost-reduction opportunities.
  • Lead lens assortment strategy and innovation roadmap in collaboration with Product, Marketing, and Brand teams.
  • Monitor optical market trends, consumer preferences, and competitive offerings to inform product and capability investments.
  • Own vendor pricing agreements, invoice accuracy, and performance accountability.
  • Lead multi-year CAPEX planning for lab equipment, automation, and facility upgrades in partnership with Finance and Operations leadership.
  • Ensure external-facing Rx product information and specifications meet brand, customer, and compliance standards.
•  Lab Leadership, Operations & Performance
  • Own overall Rx Lab performance across cost, service, quality, safety, and compliance KPIs.
  • Lead and develop a team of 10 through the Lab Supervisor and Lead Lab Tech, building bench strength, engagement, and technical capability.
  • Establish scalable operating rhythms, standard work, and continuous improvement culture across the lab.
  • Partner with the Lab Supervisor to manage capacity, workflow, WIP, staffing models, and production priorities.
  • Resolve escalations related to quality, service, safety, and compliance with calm, structured leadership.
  • Ensure adherence to HIPAA, FDA/optical regulations, and state dispensing requirements.
  • Drive a culture of accountability, learning, and operational excellence.

Key Competencies & Technical Knowledge:

• Deep knowledge of prescription eyewear manufacturing processes, equipment, materials, and quality standards.
• Strong understanding of lens design, frame fitting, beveling, edging, and optical tolerances.
• Experience managing lab systems and order platforms (e.g., DVI, PICK, MEI or similar LMS/OMS environments).
• Financial acumen with experience managing operating budgets, vendor spend, and capital investments.
• Proven ability to lead through change, scale operations, and build strong frontline leadership teams.

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in operations, manufacturing, or a related field.
• ABOC certification or Licensed Optician required.
• 7 years of experience in optical manufacturing or Rx lab environments, including multi-level leadership responsibility.
• Demonstrated experience managing supervisors and leading production teams in a regulated manufacturing environment.
• Experience working cross-functionally with Product, Brand, Supply Chain, and Finance teams.

Physical & Working Conditions

• Work performed in a manufacturing and warehouse environment with exposure to machinery, chemicals, and noise; PPE required.
• Ability to sit or stand for extended periods and work at a computer regularly.
• Occasional lifting, stooping, kneeling, and use of hands for equipment and materials handling.

This job description provides a general outline of responsibilities and qualifications but is subject to adjustments based on specific company needs.

Smith Optics, Inc. was founded in 1965 with the creation of the first-ever goggle featuring a sealed thermal lens and breathable vent foam. In the early years, founder Dr. Bob Smith, an orthodontist by trade, made goggles by hand using dental tools, foam and glue. Before he struck a deal for manufacturing of Smith goggles in the late 60's, Smith would often trade his creations for lift tickets. These early prototypes were usually manufactured by Smith and friends around the kitchen table. Today, Smith Optics has become synonymous with innovative, durable, top-quality products in the eyewear and goggle market. We Make the Great Days Better.

Smith Optics is part of Safilo Group.