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.
SOC: 29-2081.00
Common Job Titles
Dispensing Optician
Licensed Dispensing Optician (LDO)
Licensed Optician
Optician
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generated
Key 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
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
