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Opticians or Dispensing Opticians adjust eyeglass lenses according to prescriptions and fit them into frames. Some opticians may manufacture lenses for optical instruments such as telescopes or microscopes.
Opticians usually work in the retail trade such as optical goods stores selling lenses and frames. Others are employed by eyewear manufacturer laboratories, or by optometrists or ophthalmologists. Opticians fill prescriptions, make recommendations for frames and lenses, and fix or replace broken lenses. Although they are trained to operate machinery that grinds and polishes eyeglass lenses, some opticians have an ophthalmic laboratory technician perform this portion of the work. Some opticians specialize in fitting contact lenses. They can work part or full-time and may work evenings and weekends.
High school students should study mathematics, physics, basic anatomy or even mechanical drawing. A high school diploma or equivalent is preferred. Programs in optical technology are usually offered at community colleges. Some employers require completion of an optician program, while others may hire an individual with no formal background in opticianry. Individuals may get on-the-job training or training in the form of an apprenticeship. Certification, which must be renewed every 3 years, can be applied for through the American Board of Opticianry and the National Contact Lens Examiners.
Milwaukee Area Technical College
Average $26,700
American Board of Opticianry/National Contact Lens Examiners
6506 Loisdale Rd., Suite 209
Springfield, VA, 22150
703/719-5800
www.abo-ncle.org
American Optometric Association
243 N. Lindbergh Blvd.
St. Louis, MO, 63141
800/365-2219 or 314/991-4100
www.aoanet.org
Commission on Opticianry Accreditation
One Dupont Circle NW, Suite 510
Washington, DC, 20036-1135
202/955-6126
www.coaccreditation.com
National Academy of Opticianry
8401 Corporate Dr., Suite 605
Landover, MD, 20785
800/229-4828 or 301/577-4828
www.nao.org/
Wisconsin Optometric Association
6510 Grand Teton Plaza, Suite 312
Madison, WI, 53719
800/678-5357 or 608/824-2200
www.woa-eyes.org
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