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Opticians order and design eyeglasses
and contact lenses according to the prescriptions that Optometrists and
Ophthalmologists have provided. They start by analyzing and interpreting
the written optical prescription to determine the correct lens
specifications. They do not examine patients, however, but do help them
select the style and color of eyeglass fames and lenses by advising them
of the size and shape best suited to both their facial features and their
optical prescription. Although they are trained to operate machinery that
grinds and polishes eyeglass lenses, most opticians have an ophthalmic
laboratory technician that performs this portion of the work. Opticians
may be trained to verify the power and surface quality of the finished
lenses by use sophisticated optical equipment. Another important aspect of
their job is to make sure that the finished eyeglasses fit the customer.
They make adjustments by heating and shaping plastic frames, or by bending
metal frames using pliers. Opticians might be called upon to perform
follow-up services such as fixing broken frames, replacing temple screws,
or refitting a pair of glasses. They also advise customers on the special
care that is required to maintain the condition of eyeglasses and contact
lenses. Individuals interested in this eye health care specialty should
have excellent communication skills, be highly organized, and have good
business sense.
Work Environment:
Opticians may operate their own
business, work for optometrists or ophthalmologists, or work for owners of
retail optical outlets. The typical workweek is 40 hours long and may
include evenings or weekend depending on the patients needs.
High School Preparation:
High school students interested in
becoming an optician should take courses in biology, physics, health
occupations/medical professions education, computer skills, algebra,
mechanical drawing, trigonometry, English, literature, geometry, and
social studies.
College Requirements:
Individuals
interested in this optical specialty should have a high school diploma or
equivalent. Programs in optical technology are usually offered at
community colleges and technical schools. Some employers require
completion of an optician program, while others may provide on-the-job
training to individuals with no formal background in opticianry.
Certification is available through the American Board of Opticianry and
the National Contact Lens Examiners.
Students should
contact schools for information on admission and course of study.
For educational institutions in
Mississippi
offering this course of study click here.
Career Outlook:
Employment opportunities for opticians
should be very good over the next decade. There is an expected 10%-20%
increase in the number of new job openings through the year 2012. The
demand will continue to increase because of the growing middle-age and
elderly population in this country. As the baby boom generation grows
older, more vision care specialists will be needed to keep up with demand
created by this surge. Employment opportunities will also become available
as people within the profession retire or leave the workplace for other
reasons.
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Salary:
Average Annual Salary
$30,700
Salary Range
$22,700 - $40,100
Professional Organizations:
American Board of Opticianry
6506 Loisdale Rd., Suite 209
Springfield, VA 22150
Phone: (703) 719-5800
Fax: (703) 719-9144
www.abo.org
Opticians Association of America
411 Carlisle Dr.
Herdon, Virginia 20170
Phone: (703) 437-8780
Fax: (703) 437-0727
www.oaa.org
Commission on Opticianry Accreditation
P.O. Box 3073
Merrifield, Virginia 22116-3073
Phone: (703) 940-9134
www.coaccredi
tation.com
Mississippi Association of Dispensing
Opticians
16383 South Swan Road
Gulfport, MS 39503
Phone: (228) 860-1825
www.mado.org |
