Are you someone with a great sense of style and attention to detail? Do you enjoy helping others find the perfect pair of glasses? If so, a career as an optician might be a perfect fit for you. Opticians are professionals who fit and adjust eyeglasses, contact lenses, and other eyewear based on prescriptions. This article will provide insight into the role of an optician and the skills required to succeed in this field.
Optician Duties and Responsibilities
Opticians have various duties that include supplying eyeglasses, contact lenses, low-vision aids, and prosthetics. They use written prescriptions or match existing optical products to ensure the correct fit for their customers.
These duties may involve studying and interpreting prescriptions, assisting customers in choosing frames that suit their prescription and facial structure, advising on lens and frame types, and referring customers to other healthcare providers when necessary.
Optician Skills and Qualifications
Additionally, opticians are responsible for taking measurements to determine the size, shape, and specifications of lenses, frames, and lens forms. They prepare work orders for optical lab technicians, who then grind lenses.
Opticians also assemble and repair eyeglasses, ensuring that the completed eyeglasses meet the required specifications and adjusting them for customer comfort. They may also fit and supply low-vision aids, promote good eye health, and participate in optical-related research.
Optician Working Environment and Traits
Opticians typically work on their feet for a significant portion of the day. Those employed in retail stores might be required to work evenings and weekends. Therefore, it's essential for opticians to possess certain traits and skills to succeed in this profession.
These include having a courteous and pleasant manner, effective communication skills, critical thinking abilities, conflict resolution skills, and the ability to understand and interpret customer needs.
Opticians must also pay careful attention to detail, have good spatial awareness, and possess fine motor skills necessary for manipulating small objects and instruments.
Furthermore, opticians should genuinely enjoy working with people, utilizing optical tools and equipment, and gathering, interpreting, and confirming information.
Opticians in the Job Market
If you're considering a career as an optician, it's worth noting that the National Occupational Classification (NOC) includes various categories for this profession. Opticians fall under the 2006 NOC, 2006 NOC-S, 2011 NOC, 2016 NOC, and 2021 NOC classifications.
In conclusion, a career as an optician offers opportunities to utilize your sense of style, attention to detail, and interpersonal skills to help others find the perfect eyewear. If you're interested in becoming an optician, pursue the necessary education, develop the required skills, and prepare to contribute to the field of optical care.
