Opticians, Dispensing
Design, measure, fit, and adapt lenses and frames for client according to written optical prescription or specification. Assist client with inserting, removing, and caring for contact lenses. Assist client with selecting frames. Measure customer for size of eyeglasses and coordinate frames with facial and eye measurements and optical prescription. Prepare work order for optical laboratory containing instructions for grinding and mounting lenses in frames. Verify exactness of finished lens spectacles. Adjust frame and lens position to fit client. May shape or reshape frames. Includes contact lens opticians.
Common Job Titles
- Dispensing Optician
- Licensed Dispensing Optician (LDO)
- Licensed Optician
- Optician
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generatedKey competencies for this occupation at a glance
- Hands-onPerform precise lens and frame adjustments using optical hand tools and specialized pliers to fit eyeglasses according to facial measurements and prescriptions.Proficient
- KnowledgeInterpret written optical prescriptions and specifications to determine lens grinding parameters and frame selection requirements for clients.Proficient
- Hands-onOperate optical measurement instruments including lensometers, pupillometers, and autorefractors to verify lens specifications and measure client facial dimensions with precision.Proficient
- MindsetEngage clients in frame selection and eyewear care consultations demonstrating active listening and service orientation in retail optical settings.Proficient
- KnowledgeEvaluate finished lens spectacles for accuracy and compliance with optical standards using quality control procedures and precision measurement tools independently.Proficient
- Hands-onDemonstrate mastery contact lens insertion, removal, and care instruction techniques providing direct client assistance and education in proper lens handling.Proficient
- MindsetAdvocate for appropriate eyewear solutions balancing client preferences with optical requirements through persuasive consultation and negotiation in sales interactions.Proficient
- MindsetIntegrate customer service principles with product knowledge and technical expertise when managing multiple client interactions and maintaining professional relationships in retail optical environments.Proficient
- KnowledgeApply mathematical calculations for lens measurements and frame coordinates when preparing laboratory work orders and ensuring proper optical alignment.Developing
- KnowledgeAnalyze client facial features, eye measurements, and lifestyle needs to recommend optimal frame styles, lens materials, and optical enhancements.Developing
- KnowledgePrepare detailed optical laboratory work orders documenting lens grinding specifications, frame dimensions, and mounting instructions using specialized software systems.Developing
- Hands-onManipulate frame materials through heating, reshaping, and mechanical adjustment using frame warmers and specialized optical tools to achieve proper fit and comfort.Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Opticians, Dispensing (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
79,690
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $34,470. 25th percentile: U.S. $37,900. 50th percentile: U.S. $46,560. 75th percentile: U.S. $59,680. 90th percentile: U.S. $73,240. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
- U.S.
| Metric | U.S. |
|---|---|
| 10% of workers earn the following or less | $34,470 |
| 10% of workers earn the following or more | $73,240 |
| Workers on average earn | $49,970 |
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
- Customer and Personal Service4.9/5
- Sales and Marketing4.3/5
- Mathematics3.9/5
- Production and Processing3.8/5
- Administrative3.8/5
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
- Intuit QuickBooks
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Office software
- Microsoft Word
Technology Skills
- Compulink Eyecare Advantage
- Cygnet Infotech Optifocus
- Database software
- Diversified Ophthalmics Practice Maximus
- EMRlogic Systems ENTERPRISE Visions
- EZ-Zone Optizone Enterprise
- First Insight MaximEyes
- HealthLine Systems Eyecom
Tools & Equipment
- Angling pliers
- Autorefractors
- Bracing pliers
- Bushing pullers
- Cash registers
- Chain nose pliers
- Cold-bend pliers
- Contact lens thickness gauges