|
Optical Laboratory Technicians,
sometimes referred to as optical mechanics, create eyeglass lenses
according to prescriptions and fit them into frames. They are trained to
set up and operate the machines that cut, grind, and polish the lenses
that are prescribed for each patient. They may also manufacture lenses
that are used in sophisticated optical instruments such as telescopes and
microscopes. Optical laboratory technicians must pay close attention to
detail in order to correctly identify the lens and frame specifications
from the prescription. They select and mark proper lens blanks according
to specifications using lens-measuring equipment. They are also
responsible for mounting the finished lenses in metal, plastic, or rimless
frames. Once the finished product is assembled, the technician inspects
the eyeglasses to make sure that they conform to the specifications given
by the doctor, as well as make any necessary modifications. Their training
also allows them to examine broken lenses to determine the original
prescription and make a duplicate pair if necessary. Optical laboratory
technicians may specialize in one specific phase or operation depending on
the size and type of establishment where they work. Individuals interested
in this line of work should have excellent communication skills, be able
to work well with their hands, be highly organized, and be able to rely on
their own judgment.
Work Environment:
Most optical laboratory technicians
work in optical laboratories or in a retail store under the direction of a
lab supervisor. They may also work for dispensing opticians,
ophthalmologists, or optometrists. They do not have much contact with the
general public and perform much of their work independently.
High School Preparation:
Students interested in becoming an
optical laboratory technician should take high school courses in algebra,
chemistry, geometry, biology, mechanical drawing, industrial arts,
computer skills, English, and health occupations/medical professions
education.
College Requirements:
Individuals interested in optical
laboratory technology should have a high school diploma or equivalent.
Most optical laboratory technicians learn their skills on the job by
starting out as a trainee in a laboratory. There are, however, programs
that are offered through technical schools and the Armed Forces. There are
no certification requirements for optical laboratory personnel.
For educational institutions in
Mississippi
offering this course of study click here.
Career Outlook:
Employment opportunities for optical
laboratory technicians should be fair over the next decade. Employment is
expected to grow slowly in manufacturing as firms invest in automated
machinery that can do the same job as a technician. On the other hand,
demand will increase because of the growing middle-age and elderly
population that will need more vision care than other groups of the
population. Because of the relatively small size of this occupation, only
a small number of job openings will be created each year.
|
|
Salary:
Average Annual Salary
$26,300
Salary Range
$21,300 - $34,800
Professional Organizations:
Opticians Association of America
411 Carlisle Dr.
Herdon, Virginia 20170
Phone: (703) 437-8780
Fax: (703) 437-0727
www.oaa.org
Association of Technical Personnel in
Ophthalmology
2025 Woodlane Drive
St. Paul, MN
55125-2995
Phone: (651) 731-7239
Fax: (651) 731-0410
www.atpo.org
Commission on Opticianry Accreditation
P.O. Box 3073
Merrifield, Virginia 22116-3073
Phone: (703) 940-9134
www.coaccredit
ation.com |
