A career in Optics is often not a chosen path; it’s hardly as high profile as being a Vet or a Doctor. If the current job market has made you re-think your career, then why not take a look at Optics? Here are the job descriptions of a typical optical team:

Ophthalmic Optician – Optometrist – This is the person qualified to test eyes and fit and dispense contact lenses. Daily routine involves testing sight, analysing results, referrals to the Hospital eye service, dispensing glasses and contact lenses. Some opticians are involved in fields like Sports Vision, work with Dyslexics, or therapeutic contact lenses. Three year degree course, one year pre-registration in practice, then professional exams. Continuing education training throughout career.

Dispensing Optician – this is the person qualified in the technical aspects of dispensing glasses. Daily routine involves dispensing consultations with clients, ordering spectacle lenses, fitting and advising on glasses and lenses. Three year part time study to Diploma level in practice, Continuing education training throughout career. Colleges do different formats of dispensing/marketing degrees, check websites for details.

Contact Lens Dispenser – A qualified Dispensing optician who is also qualified to fit contact lenses. Daly routine involves initial fitting and aftercare of all aspects of contact lens wear. One year study part time while working in practice. Continuing education training throughout career.

Optical Assistant – may or may not be qualified, there are part time study courses and in house training. Daily routine involves pre-screening patients before they see the Optometrist, dispensing, fitting, and adjusting specs.

Spectacle Technician – Usually trained in house. Daily routine involves ordering lenses, cutting lenses into frames, repairing and altering spectacles.

Trained staff also fulfils other roles – company Reps for lenses, frames and contact lenses, advisory positions for traders, technicians and advisors for wholesale and manufacture. Fancy giving it a go? Try sending your CV to individual practices or offering your services for work experience. Apply direct to the colleges for courses. Entry levels vary.