Ophthalmic Laboratory Technician
Alt Names: Optical Mechanic, Precision Optical Fabrication Technician, Optical Goods Worker, Surfacing Technician
Career Description
Ophthalmic Laboratory Technicians are responsible for the making of prescription glasses as well as contact lenses. These professionals also have the luxury of transcending their expertise in creating lenses for binoculars, microscopes, and other optical instruments.
Job Responsibilities
Cut and grind lenses
Prepare cutting equipment
Edge and coat lenses
Mount lenses into specified frames
Examine broken lenses
Measure and shape lenses
Education & Training
High school diploma is minimum requirement
No post-secondary program/school required
Important Courses & Info:
Training and skills are learned on the job
To better understand this occupation, it is recommended (but not necessary) to take high school courses in design and industrial arts
License and/or Certification
No license and/or Certifications required
Salary
2010 Median Salary: $27,970 per year [Source:BLS.Gov]
Valuable Skills & Qualities
This occupation is good for people who are:
Organized
Visionary
Quick learners
Self motivated
Patient
Dexterous
Work Environment/Setting
Laboratories, offices of Optometrists, health stores and pharmacies, Ophthalmologist offices
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