What does a dispensing optician do?

Opticians can be either dispensing opticians or optical laboratory technicians. Most dispensing opticians work in stores or in practices that sell eyeglasses, while optical laboratory technicians work in laboratories. If the practice has its own laboratories, it may employ both categories of opticians, or the practice may have opticians who are trained to both assist patients and work in the laboratory to manufacture lenses. A dispensing optician interprets your prescription from an eye doctor and then helps you select frames, lenses, and lens coatings that fit your particular lifestyle. When the frame selection and fitting is complete, the optician orders the necessary ophthalmic laboratory work and, when the glasses are delivered, adjusts the finished eyeglasses. An optician is also responsible for adjusting, replacing, and repairing frames and other ophthalmic devices. In some states, opticians may also fit and dispense contact lenses under the supervision of an optometrist or ...  more