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Opticians, Dispensing

Job Information

Design, measure, fit, and adapt lenses and frames for client according to written optical prescription or specification. Assist client with inserting, removing, and caring for contact lenses. Assist client with selecting frames. Measure customer for size of eyeglasses and coordinate frames with facial and eye measurements and optical prescription. Prepare work order for optical laboratory containing instructions for grinding and mounting lenses in frames. Verify exactness of finished lens spectacles. Adjust frame and lens position to fit client. May shape or reshape frames. Includes contact lens opticians.

Information

  • Employers increasingly prefer dispensing opticians to complete certification or graduate from an accredited 2-year associate's degree program in opticianry; some large employers may provide an apprenticeship.
  • A license to practice is required by 22 States.
  • Employment growth is projected to be average and reflect the steady demand for corrective lenses and fashionable eyeglass frames.
  • Job opportunities are likely to be very good.

Statistics

Personality I'm good with people
Salary $33,100/yr ($16.55/hr)
Job Outlook Average
Education Some college, no degree