Optician

Opticians dispense eyeglasses, contact lenses, low vision aids and prosthetics from written prescriptions or by duplicating existing optical products. Duties vary from one position to another but, in general, opticians:

• analyze and interpret prescriptions
• help customers select frames of the most suitable size and shape based on prescriptions and anatomical considerations 
• advise customers regarding lens and frame types
• refer to appropriate health care professionals when necessary
• take measurements to determine the size, shape and specifications for lenses, frames and lens forms
• prepare work orders for optical laboratory technicians who grind lenses
• assemble eyeglasses
• verify that completed eye glasses or lenses fit and are manufactured to the required specifications
• make appropriate adjustments to ensure customer comfort
• fit and dispense low vision appliances
• promote eye health and the correct use of ophthalmic appliances by educating consumers
• conduct or collaborate in optical related research.

In Alberta, opticians may provide refractions (measures of required eyeglass lens power) when remotely supervised by a physician or optometrist. 

Opticians who have advanced practice certification as contact lens practitioners may design, dispense and evaluate contact lenses:

• from optical prescriptions
• for patients who have had a traumatic injury or corneal surgery
• for reshaping conrneas to correct near sightedness.

They also may dispense and follow up contact lenses for patients who have eye disease.

In addition to the duties described above, opticians may:

• arrange and maintain displays of optical merchandise
• supervise the training of student opticians
• purchase supplies or have related accounting duties.

Opticians are on their feet for much of their working day. Those working in retail stores may be required to work some evenings and weekends.

Opticians need the following characteristics:

• a courteous, pleasant manner
• good communication skills
• critical thinking and conflict resolution skills
• the ability to analyze and interpret customer issues
• the ability to pay close attention to details
• a good sense of spatial relationships
• the finger dexterity required to manipulate small objects and instruments.

They should enjoy dealing with people, operating optical devices, and compiling and checking information.

Opticians work in:

• retail dispensaries
• teaching environments
• refractive surgery clinics
• low vision practices
• contact lens specialty practices.

They may be employees or independent owners of optical services. Some opticians work in association with ophthalmologists, optometrists or a group of optical practitioners.

In Alberta, 99% of opticians work in the following industries:

• Retail Trade (PDF)
• Health Care and Social Assistance (PDF)

The employment outlook in this occupation will be influenced by a wide variety of factors including:

• trends and events affecting overall employment (especially in the industries listed above)
• location in Alberta
• employment turnover (work opportunities generated by people leaving existing positions)
• occupational growth (work opportunities resulting from the creation of new positions that never existed before)
• size of the occupation.

This occupation generally has a high turnover rate and employment turnover is expected to increase as members of the baby boom generation retire over the next few years.

Alberta Opticians Association (AOA) website: www.opticians.ab.ca

Opticians Association of Canada (OAC) website: www.opticians.ca

For more information on career planning, education and jobs, visit the Alberta Learning Information Service (ALIS) website, call the Alberta Career Information Hotline toll-free at 1-800-661-3753 or 780-422-4266 in Edmonton, or visit an Alberta Works Centre near you.