UK Career Advice

Optometric Technician: Key Skills, Qualifications and Career Path

Career Overview
Interview Questions

What is a Optometric Technician?

As an optometric technician in the UK, you would assist in providing eyewear and lens options to customers based on the prescriptions given by eye specialists like ophthalmologists or optometrists. Your job would involve fitting and servicing glasses, contact lenses, and other vision aids while ensuring a comfortable and stylish fit for each client.

How do I become a Optometric Technician?

As an optometric technician in the UK, you would assist in providing eyewear and lens options to customers based on the prescriptions given by eye specialists like ophthalmologists or optometrists. Your job would involve fitting and servicing glasses, contact lenses, and other vision aids while ensuring a comfortable and stylish fit for each client.

What would you like to know?

What does it take to become an Optometric Technician?

Skills, education, personality, career progression

Job demand for an Optometric Technician

Job ads, popular location, season to apply



Skills

  • Knowledge of optical equipment and tools
  • Ability to perform basic eye exams and tests
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills
  • Attention to detail and accuracy in measurements
  • Ability to interpret prescriptions and recommend appropriate eyewear
  • Knowledge of different types of lenses and frames
  • Sales and customer service skills
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment
  • Basic computer skills for record keeping and inventory management
  • Understanding of health and safety regulations in the workplace

Qualifications & Education

  • Entry with GCSEs/S grades or equivalent qualifications or experience
  • Up to three years of training approved by the Association of British Dispensing Opticians (ABDO)
  • Full-time, day-release or distance-learning options available

Career Path

Optometric Technician
Optometrist
Ophthalmologist
Eye Surgeon
Optical Dispenser
Optical Store Manager
Ophthalmic Photographer
Medical Photographer
Low Vision Specialist
Vision Rehabilitation Therapist
Contact Lens Fitter
Contact Lens Specialist

Frequently Asked Questions

What does an optometric technician do on a resume?

An optometric technician should include their specific work responsibilities such as testing visual acuity, checking reflexes and pressure inside the eye, keeping exam rooms clean and organized, maintaining equipment, helping to make and repair eyeglasses, and updating patient records on their resume.

What is a career in optometry like?

A career in optometry involves working as an optometrist in various settings such as hospitals, high street optometrists, research, teaching, and other health settings. Optometrists may see and treat patients in need of urgent attention in hospitals or clinics, or work in local health centers and community clinics.

What is the main role of an optical technician?

The main role of an optical technician is to manufacture eyeglasses and contact lenses based on prescriptions given by ophthalmologists and optometrists, ensuring that the lenses refract light at the proper angle for clear vision.

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