• Optician Job Description

    An optician is a technician who is trained to design, verify, fit, and dispense contact lenses and glasses for the correction of eyesight. Opticians use prescriptions supplied by ophthalmologists and optometrists, but do not examine the eye or prescribe corrective lenses, as they are not permitted to do so.

    An optician should be practical, careful, tactful and friendly, and have the ability to inspire confidence in people. They should have good knowledge of eyeglass frames, lenses and lens coatings to make sound recommendations to customers. When advising a customer on selecting an eye ware, they should consider the customer’s profession, lifestyle and facial features.

  • What does a Optician do?

    Opticians may do some or all of the following:

    • provide expert recommendations on frames and lenses
    • interpret and follow prescriptions from ophthalmologists and optometrists
    • operate and maintain precision measuring equipment
    • measure the customers eyes
    • fit and fix eyeglasses and contact lenses
    • sell eye ware to customers
    • advice customers on the use and care of their glasses
    • keep records of sales and maintain stock levels of the optical store
    • train and supervise subordinate opticians
  • Where does a Optician work?
  • Working Conditions

    Opticians work in medical offices, retail stores and optical workshops. They usually work normal office hours, but those who work in retail stores and optical workshops may also work evenings and weekends.

  • What is Required to Become a Optician ?

    There are no standard educational requirements to become an optician, but many optical employers will prefer to hire candidates with at least a secondary school education. Opticians receive training on the job or through apprenticeship programs. Opticians may require licensing to practice in some parts of the world.

  • Modules
  • Specializations
  • Knowledge, Skills and Attributes

    Opticians need to have:

    • patience
    • precision
    • creativity
    • manual dexterity
    • mechanical aptitude
    • confidence and assertiveness
    • honesty and dependability
    • good eyesight
    • good attention to detail
    • good hand-eye coordination
    • good listening and communication skills
    • good judgment and decision making skills
    • time management and organizational skills
    • analytical and problem-solving skills
    • the ability to work well independently and in a team
    • the ability to work in close proximity to clients
    • the ability to work well under pressure
    • knowledge of algebra and trigonometry
    • knowledge of optical physics
    • knowledge of frames and lenses
    • knowledge of eye anatomy
    • knowledge of trending fashion and frame styles

References

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Alternative Careers
  • Optometrist
  • Pharmacy Technician
  • Dental Hygienist
  • Phlebotomist
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