Optician

Duties and Responsibilities:

                              The first category addresses eyeglass and contact lens fitting while the second has to do with assisting clients with the frame selection process. In order to provide the highest levels of quality and care, an optician must possess detailed knowledge of current fitting standards and modern fashion trends. The technical skills involved in these activities are usually acquired through formal education, training, and experience.  

Tasks included in the optician job description may include:

• Interpretation of prescriptions written by ophthalmologists and optometrists
• Collection of eye measurements including corneal width and thickness
• Helping clients select eyeglass and lens treatments including tints and coatings
• Creating work orders for lab technicians to ensure delivery of the proper lenses
• Adjusting eyeglasses to ensure a proper fit
• Repairing broken frames
• Educating clients on proper eyeglass and contact lens care
• Keeping track of orders, prescriptions, and inventory

Salary: $40,124-$52,367

Education:

                         High school diploma with on-the-job training or apprenticeship; certificate, associate's degree or bachelor's degree in opticianry for career advancement

Demand or Need:

                         About half of opticians worked in offices of optometrists or offices of physicians in 2014. Other opticians worked in stores that sell eyeglasses, contact lenses, visual aids, and other optical goods. These stores may be stand-alone businesses or parts of larger retail establishments, such as department stores.

Reflection: I think this job would be on my list for future profession options. I think job also includes having a lot of patience which I really don’t have. I think it would fit for someone who is into science and things like the eye, and like working with people.