What is a Licensed Optician Job?
Licensed Optician jobs are a type of healthcare profession that specializes in helping patients select and fit eyeglasses and contact lenses. Opticians work closely with ophthalmologists and optometrists to ensure patients receive the best eye care possible. Opticians are licensed by the state in which they work, and they must pass a rigorous exam to obtain their license.
What Do Opticians Usually Do in This Position?
Licensed Opticians work in a variety of settings, including retail stores, eye care practices, and hospitals. Opticians typically perform the following tasks:
- Interpret prescriptions from ophthalmologists and optometrists
- Advise patients on lens types, frames, and coatings that meet their needs
- Measure patients' face and eye dimensions to ensure proper fit of eyeglasses and contact lenses
- Adjust and repair eyeglasses and contact lenses as needed
- Provide education to patients on proper care and maintenance of their eyeglasses and contact lenses
Top 5 Skills for Optician Positions
- Attention to detail
- Excellent customer service skills
- Strong communication skills
- Ability to work in a fast-paced environment
- Technical knowledge of eyewear and contact lenses
How to Become a Licensed Optician
To become a Licensed Optician, one must complete a training program and pass a licensing exam. The training program usually takes about two years to complete and includes both classroom and hands-on training. After completing the training program, one must pass the licensing exam to obtain their license. The licensing exam covers topics such as eyewear and contact lens fitting, eye anatomy, and optics.
Average Salary for Optician Positions
The average salary for a Licensed Optician is around $45,000 per year. However, salaries can vary depending on location, experience, and education. Opticians who work in larger cities tend to earn more than those who work in rural areas.
Roles and Types of Opticians
There are several types of Opticians, including Dispensing Opticians, Contact Lens Opticians, and Ophthalmic Medical Technicians. Dispensing Opticians work in retail settings, such as eyewear stores and optical shops, while Contact Lens Opticians specialize in fitting and dispensing contact lenses. Ophthalmic Medical Technicians work in ophthalmologists' offices and assist with patient care.
Locations with the Most Popular Optician Jobs in the USA
The states with the most job opportunities for Opticians include California, Florida, Texas, New York, and Pennsylvania. However, job opportunities can be found throughout the country, and demand for Opticians is expected to increase in the coming years.
What Are the Typical Tools Used by Opticians?
Opticians use a variety of tools to perform their job duties, including:
- Pupilometers to measure the distance between pupils
- Frame warmers to adjust plastic frames
- Frame benders to adjust metal frames
- Slit lamps to examine eyes
- Retinoscopes to measure eye refraction
In Conclusion
Licensed Optician jobs are an essential part of the healthcare industry, and demand for these professionals is expected to increase in the coming years. Opticians must have strong technical knowledge, excellent customer service skills, and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment. If you're interested in pursuing a career as a Licensed Optician, completing a training program and obtaining your license is the first step towards success.