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How to become an Optician

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Optician jobs

Optician courses

Career progression and salary expectations for an Optician

Junior Optician

| Up to £18,000

Optician

| Up to £30,000

Branch Manager

| Up to £40,000

The role of an Optician

What does an Optician do?

Looking for a clearer career path? You should become an Optician…

Opticians dispense, measure, and fit both glasses and contact lenses – using the prescriptions given by other optical professionals.

This involves communicating with clients in order to understand what the glasses will be used for, how often they’ll be needed, and what kind of style they’re looking for. They then give advice on what glasses will suit their needs and facial features – suggesting various frames, lens features, and colours.

Opticians also take eye measurements to check the glasses will fit comfortably – and may be required to bend and shape frames accordingly. General tasks and duties for an Optician may also include:

Reading and interpreting prescriptions
Ordering, receiving, and checking lenses
Educating clients on proper glasses care
Arranging shop displays
Adjusting and repairing frames
Showing clients how to fit contact lenses

Is a career as an Optician right for me?

The perfect Optician will need a good combination of customer service skills and technical knowledge.

Because the role involves the application of scientific and mathematical expertise (e.g. taking measurements to ensure glasses are positioned correctly), you’ll also need to demonstrate a high level of accuracy in everything you do.

Wonky glasses are never a good look…

Other key skills and competencies for an Optician include:

Sales skills
Communication skills
Commercial awareness
Manual dexterity
Attention to detail

What's it like to be an Optician?

"I’ve always been interested in science and maths, and being a glasses wearer myself, I was keen on helping others in the same situation. My day-to-day generally involves answering customers’ questions, taking eye measurements, and giving them advice on what kind of glasses would suit them best. The lenses are already prescribed – so my main responsibility is making the frames work, as well as offering extra touches to the lens, whether it’s adding an anti-glare effect or making them tinted. The process can mean suggesting a number of frame shapes, colours, and sizes till we find one that works – but it’s all about what makes the customer happy. And if someone really wants a green glasses when it totally clashes with their skin tone, that’s up to them…"

Get qualified as an Optician

To become an Optician, you’ll need to register with the General Optical Council (GOC). To qualify, you’ll have to gain a GOC approved qualification – and pass the Association of British Dispensing Opticians (ABDO) exams. The course usually takes 2-3 years, and involves a combination of training and employment.

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