Dispensing optician
As a dispensing optician, you would make up prescriptions created by an optometrist (who examines and tests eyes) or an ophthalmologist (eye surgeon). You would also fit and supply spectacles and contact lenses.
If you are interested in visual health, have good communication skills, and can work with precision, then this career could be for you.
To get started in this role you will need to be registered with the General Optical Council (GOC). To join the register you will need to complete an approved training course which will take three years
Job Responsibilities:
As a dispensing optician, your duties would usually include:
• using equipment to measure clients for spectacles or contact lenses
• calculating distances and angles in relation to client measurements and types of lens
• providing advice and information on lens options, such as single vision or bifocal
• advising people on the style, weight and colour of frames
• fitting, adjusting and repairing frames.
You would be based in a retail setting, so marketing and selling would form an important part of your work.
Employment Opportunities for Dispensing optician:
As a dispensing optician, your duties would usually include:
• using equipment to measure clients for spectacles or contact lenses
• calculating distances and angles in relation to client measurements and types of lens
• providing advice and information on lens options, such as single vision or bifocal
• advising people on the style, weight and colour of frames
• fitting, adjusting and repairing frames.
You would be based in a retail setting, so marketing and selling would form an important part of your work.
How to become Dispensing optician?
You must be registered with the General Optical Council (GOC) before you can work as a dispensing optician.
You can qualify by taking
• a two-year, full-time diploma course, followed by one year working under supervision
• a three-year day release course (if you are in suitable employment)
• a three-year distance learning course, including a four-week residential block, offered by the ABDO (if you are in suitable employment).
You will then have a final exam with the ABDO.
To get on to a course, you will usually need five GCSEs (A-C) including English, maths and science. Depending on your experience, some course providers will also want you to have two or three A levels, including biology, physics or maths.
To work as a dispensing optician you will need to have:
• the ability to deal with scientific and mathematical information
• accuracy and attention to detail
• practical skills with the ability to handle special equipment
• good communication skills
• patience and a pleasant and approachable manner
• the ability to promote and sell glasses and contact lenses
• an understanding of style and fashion.
Median Pay Scale/salary of Dispensing optician :
There is no set pay scale for dispensing opticians, so salary levels vary depending on your employer.
If you are self-employed, you may be able to earn a higher salary.
The average salary for an Optometrist is Rs 243,295 per year. Most people move on to other jobs if they have more than 10 years' experience in this field. Experience has a moderate effect on pay for this job.
To keep exploring, head on to our page on career banks and blogs on different careers, entrance exams, courses, colleges, jobs, etc.
