How to Become an Optician
Opticians work closely with ophthalmologist and optometrist to help people deal with everything from prescribing glasses to performing eye surgery. Opticians work specifically on providing corrective eyewear to patients, generally following prescriptions or recommendations from optometrists or ophthalmologists. It's usually up to opticians to decide what type of eyewear is better for a person, including choosing among contact lenses, regular glasses, or even ophthalmic prosthetics. Depending on their place of employment, they may also be in charge of deciding the specifications of the eyewear, taking into consideration the needs of the patient, his facial features, and his lifestyle.
The educational requirements for an optician vary greatly from state to state. In some areas licenses and specific educational courses are required, while in others you can become an optician with on-the-job training. Places like the Opticians Association of America offer more detailed, state-by-state on specific requirements. The website is also a great resource for learning about online education (some shorter programs can be completed long-distance), National Opticians Conventions, state societies, and job opportunities.
Aside from the final qualifications required, all opticians should obtain a series of basic skills to ensure their success in the field. Associate degrees in ophthalmic dispensing are available and should be enough in any area of the country to obtain the required license and certification. There are also independent classes or coursework involving formal training programs covering topics such as math, optical physics, basic anatomy, and equipment use. Biology, algebra, and geometrical optics are often also part of the program. An apprenticeship may also be used as a replacement for some of the coursework, especially if the goal is to work in a retail position.
Most states require opticians to be accredited by the Commission on Opticianry Accreditation, the National Contact Lens Examiners (NCLE) or the American Board of Opticianry (ABO). This means taking an exam and then renewing certifications every three years by taking continuing education classes. Even in states where a certification is not required, having one will make it easier to obtain a job, especially if your goal is to work in large hospitals or a medical office. If you plan on taking a job at a retail location, you may not need more than just practical knowledge to do so, as most positions of this kind offer on-the-job training.
If no licensing is required in your state, taking one will still greatly improve your career, especially from the financial point of view. According to the Occupational Handbook, published by the U.S. Department of Labor, opticians make between $35,800 and $45,600 per year, which the highest numbers going to those who have a license and who work at medical locations. Even with no certification, having an associate degree in the field bears better financially and career-wise than completing just an apprenticeship program or a one-year certificate. According to PayScale.com, average salaries for opticians also depend on the place of employment. For example, optical laboratory technicians make an average of $12 an hour, while retail store managers of optician's offices can make up to $21. The average optician job, however, pays $16 an hour regardless of location and experience.
