Job Title: Rx Lab Operations ManagerLocation: Clearfield, UT (onsite)
Reports To: Director of Manufacturing
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.
