What does an Optical Technician do?
Published 3 min read
An optical technician is responsible for the construction and maintenance of optical equipment. This may include telescopes, microscopes, and other devices used to magnify or observe objects. They may also fabricate lenses and other optical components.
Optical Technician job duties include:
- Inspects lenses and finished products for defects, such as scratches and smudges.
- Cleans lenses and finished products using ultrasonic cleaners, solvents, and other cleaning equipment.
- Selects appropriate lens blank according to prescription specifications.
- Cuts and grinds lens blanks to specified shape using computer-controlled equipment.
- Polishes lens surfaces to specified finish using polishing compounds.
- Applies coatings to lens surfaces to improve durability, performance, or appearance.
- Assembles lenses into frames or mountings according to specifications.
- Adjusts and repairs optical instruments such as microscopes and binoculars.
- Calibrates testing and measuring equipment.
Optical Technician Job Requirements
An optical technician is someone who works with and repairs optical equipment. This can include things like microscopes, telescopes, and other types of scientific equipment. To become an optical technician, you will need to have a high school diploma or equivalent. You will also need to complete a training program that will teach you the skills you need to do the job. Some employers may also require you to have experience working with optical equipment.
Optical Technician Skills
- Read blueprints
- Operate machines
- Assemble products
- Test products
- Adjust machines
- Repair machines
- Calibrate machines
- Maintain tools and equipment
- Follow safety guidelines
- Communicate with clients and coworkers
- Keep work area clean and organized
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How to become an Optical Technician
An optical technician is someone who makes and repairs eyeglasses and other optical devices. There are many ways to become an optical technician, but most people start by completing a two-year associate’s degree program at a community college.
Some people may be able to find jobs as optical technicians without completing a formal education, but most employers prefer to hire candidates who have at least some formal training. There are a few different types of optical technician programs available, but most include coursework in physics, math, and optics.
After completing an optical technician program, many technicians choose to become certified by the American Board of Opticianry. Certification is not required to work as an optical technician, but it can help improve job prospects and earnings potential.
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