CAREER SNAPSHOT
Summary
Dispensing opticians help fit eyeglasses and contact lenses. They recommend eyeglass frames, lenses and lens coatings.
Career Level
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Salary
National average, per year
$36,250
JOB OPENINGS
Current national estimate
3,553
DEMAND OUTLOOK
Actual salaries can vary substantially based on region, job description and employer expectations; does not include additional compensation. Data source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
By Raising Careers Staff | Updated: May 2019
OVERVIEW
Dispensing Optician Job Description
A dispensing optician interprets doctor’s prescriptions and helps customers choose frames and lenses that best fit their facial features and lifestyle. They blend strong technical skills with a flair for fashion.
They are responsible for taking accurate measurements to ensure maximum fit and comfort of eyewear. Dispensing opticians sell optical goods and order and maintain supplies. They also organize and maintain customer charts.
Due to the growth in our aging population, there is an increased demand for eyewear. This supports a positive job outlook for dispensing opticians.
Dispensing Optician Job Responsibilities
Dispensing opticians may perform the following job duties. Actual duties may vary by job and location.
- Interpret optical prescriptions
- Take frame and facial measurements
- Advise customers on eyeglass frames and lenses
- Arrange and maintain displays
- Order and maintain optical products
- Educate customers
- Adjust eyewear and repair or replace broken frames
Dispensing Optician Salary
The actual salary of the dispensing optician can vary substantially depending on region, job description and employer expectations. Most recent data shown.
National average per year: $36,250*
National average per hour: $17.43*
- $31,782 per year, $15.28 per hour**
- $29,702 per year, $14.28 per hour***
- $42,220 to $55,100 per year****
- $27,864 per year, $13.40 per hour*****
* Bureau of Labor Statics
** Indeed.com
*** Payscale.com
**** Salary.com
***** Glassdoor.com
Dispensing Optician Career Pros and Cons
What are the ups and downs of being a dispensing optician? Here are a few items to keep in mind.
Pros
- Strong job growth
- Minimal education required
- Variety of work environments
- Potential to work part-time
Cons
- Irregular work hours
- Working with the public can be stressful
- Some states require licensure
- Potential for exposure to infectious diseases
- May have to work evenings and weekends
CAREER PATH AND TRAINING
How Do I Become a Dispensing Optician?
If you are considering a career as a dispensing optician, here are the steps you will need to complete.
- Obtain your high school diploma/GED
- Some employers prefer some college coursework
- Obtaining a certification is highly recommended.
Suggested Career Path
The position of the dispensing is at the beginning of the medical career pathway.
Dispensing Optician > Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) > Registered Nurse (RN)
Typical Minimum Education
Actual requirements may vary by state. Please check with your state government.
- High school diploma / GED
- Some employers prefer some college coursework
Typical Work Experience Required
None
Typical Skills Required
Common skills listed. Actual skills required may vary by job and location.
- Math and technical skills
- Excellent customer service skills
- Strong written and verbal communication abilities
- Problem-solving skills
- Attention to detail
- Dexterity
Dispensing Optician Certifications
Although not required, many employers prefer certification. These are the certifications that are available:
- ABOC, American Board of Opticianry Basic Certification (ABO)
- ABO-AC, American Board of Opticianry Advanced Certification (ABO)
- ABOM, American Board of Opticianry Master Certification (ABO)
- NCLEC, National Contact Lens Basic Certification (NCLE)
- NCLE-AC, National Contact Lens Advanced Certification (NCLE)
- NCLEM, National Contact Lens Master Certification (NCLE)
Click on the certifications to find out more.
Dispensing Optician Licenses
Some states require licensure. Visit the American Board of Opticianry website to learn about the requirements for your state.
Dispensing Optician Training and Preparation
Once you have received your high school diploma or GED, you may choose to enroll in a certificate or associate degree program. These programs are offered through community colleges, vocational schools or technical schools and usually take 1-2 years to complete. Although these programs are not required, many employers do prefer this further education.
Certification is optional, but highly recommended and makes you more competitive in the job market. There are traditional classroom and online courses available to help you prepare for these exams. Review and test prep books are also great tools.
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