Optician apprenticeship Training

An Optician helps to find lifestyle solutions for patients when it comes to selecting the right prescription eyewear. It is the Optician's responsibility to ensure the frames selected for the patient fits properly and to make the appropriate lens recommendation to patients when analyzing the patient's prescription. In some Optical settings, an Optician is also responsible for dispensing contact lenses.

An Optician is a key member in the overall patient experience. The Optometrist is an expert in everything pertaining to eye health. Opticians are experts in optical lens technology, technical troubleshooting, fitting and adjustments.

An Optician's job duties may vary depending on where they choose to be employed.

In an Optometric practice, some Opticians are expected to perform receptionist or optometric assistant tasks in addition to the Optician responsibilities listed below.

In a smaller Optical Shop, Opticians are responsible for general upkeeping, inventory management, custom lenses, and more in addition to the duties listed below.

In a Retail Optical or Health or Medical Facility setting, Opticians are responsible for some or all of the following duties:

-Fitting eyeglasses and contact lenses
-Interpreting valid prescriptions
-Make lens and frame recommendations
-Taking Optical Measurements
-Dispensing Prescription Eyewear and Contact Lenses
-Troubleshooting Lens Issues
-Eyeglass Repair
-Frame and Lens Adjustments

Oftentimes, a Retail Optical is subleasing the space within a Health or Medical Facility, so they typically perform the same job duties as Opticians in Retail Opticals.

With the Optical and Optometric Industry constantly changing, there will never be a shortage of jobs. Technology is continuously advancing. Optometric Practices are constantly investing in new medical equipment that can help to diagnose ocular diseases even earlier.

Optical Lens Manufacturers are constantly looking to improve their lens designs to create a better patient wearer experience.

Put this into perspective, even during the big recession, Employers were continuing to hire because there is a constant need for skilled Opticians.

Registered Dispensing Opticians (RDO) aka Opticals
Medical Facilities
Health Facilities
Optical Labs
Optometric Practices
Eyewear Companies
Lens Manufacturers
Vision Insurance Companies

Technical Positions:
Licensed Optician
Dual Licensed Optician
Lab Technician
Lab Manager

Medical Positions
Optometric Assistant
Optometrist (with additional education)

Management Positions
Optical Manager
Store Manager
Office Manager
Regional Manager

Sales Positions
Sales Associate, Frame Stylist, or Eyewear Stylist
Sales Consultant
Sales Manager
Territory Manager

Registered Dispensing Optician (RDO)
For PLACES of business including legal entities under a Corporation or Sole Proprietor.

Registered Spectacle Lens Dispenser (RSLD) - For individuals who have obtained their ABO Certification.

Registered Contact Lens Dispenser (RCLD) - For Individuals who have completed their NCLE Certification.

Did you know that many consumers do not know where to file a complaint? It's important to provide resources to our consumers for their own protection.

The Department of Consumer Affairs California State Board of Optometry takes complaints seriously and so should you if you plan on entering into the field of Opticianry.