Optical Laboratory Technician

Duties and Responsibilities: An optical technician is an eye wear specialist whose job it is to make prescription eyeglasses and contact lenses. While many steps in the production process have been automated, there are some tasks that still require the expertise of a technician. The most fundamental role in manufacturing eyeglasses is the cutting of lenses to match the prescription written by the ophthalmologist or an optometrist following an eye exam. Secondary tasks include shaping of the lenses so that they fit into frames properly, customization of lenses to include dyes and coatings, polishing of lenses, the assembly of lenses and frames, and ensuring that the end product meets the highest standards of quality. An optical technician must be skilled in all of these tasks in order to be successful.

Salary: $15,000 - $20,000

Education: There are very few educational requirements for becoming an optical technician. Most technicians learn the required skills through hands-on training. Employers generally expect technicians to have at least a high school diploma. Most businesses will start the training process with basic tasks such as marking and blocking lenses followed by more advanced skills like edging, grinding, and cutting lenses. Throughout the training process, employers will be assessing a technician’s ability to notice minor imperfections as well as their ability to work with their hands. A technician must be able to ensure precision in all finished products.

Reflection: I would not like to be an Optical Laboratory Technician because I am not good at noticing minor imperfections nor am I good with my hands.