What does an Optician do?
Published 3 min read
An optician is a professional who helps people select and fit eyeglasses and contact lenses. They also provide adjustments and repairs as needed.
Optician job duties include:
- Examining patients’ eyes to diagnose vision problems and prescribe corrective lenses
- Helping patients select frames and lenses that suit their facial features and style
- Adjusting and fitting eyeglasses and contact lenses
- Educating patients on how to care for their glasses or contact lenses
- Repairing broken eyeglasses
- Ordering lenses and frames from suppliers
- Keeping up-to-date on new products and trends in the eyewear industry
- Maintaining cleanliness in the work area
- Answering customers’ questions
- Handling customer complaints
Optician Job Requirements
An optician is a professional who helps people select and fit eyeglasses and contact lenses. Most opticians have completed a two-year training program at a community college or technical school. Some states require opticians to be licensed, and most employers prefer to hire those with certification from the American Board of Opticianry (ABO). Opticians typically have one to three years of experience working in an optical lab or retail setting before being promoted to manager or supervisor.
Optician Skills
- Analytical skills
- Attention to detail
- Communication skills
- Creativity
- Customer service skills
- Interpersonal skills
- Marketing skills
- Organizational skills
- Problem-solving skills
- Sales skills
- Technical skills
Related: Top Optician Skills: Definition and Examples
How to become an Optician
An optician is a professional who helps people select and fit eyeglasses and contact lenses, following prescriptions from ophthalmologists and optometrists. If you have an interest in helping people with their vision and enjoy working with your hands, becoming an optician may be the right career choice for you. Here are a few tips on how to become an optician:
1. Complete a high school education or equivalent. You will need to have strong reading, math, and science skills to succeed in this field.
2. Enroll in an accredited program at a technical school or community college. Many opticians complete a two-year associate’s degree program, although some complete four-year bachelor’s degree programs.
3. Pass the National Opticianry Competency Exam (NOCE). All states require opticians to pass this exam in order to be licensed.
4. Find an apprenticeship or entry-level position at an optical shop or eye care practice. This will give you the opportunity to gain hands-on experience under the supervision of a licensed optician.
5. Consider becoming certified by the American Board of Opticianry (ABO). Although not required, certification may give you an edge when seeking employment or advancement opportunities.
With hard work and dedication, you can become an optician and help people see the world more clearly!
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