Do you want to be an...
Optical Dispenser
Optical dispensers interpret optical prescriptions and fit and service optical appliances such as spectacle frames and lenses.
An optical dispenser works as part of an eye care team alongside optometrists or ophthalmologists (who issue the optical prescription) and optical mechanics (who make the visual aid or optical appliance).
TASKS
- discuss the client's eyewear needs
- choose the appropriate frame to satisfy the client's comfort, appearance and prescription requirements
- discuss and recommend types of lenses and lens enhancements
- ensure lenses conform to the prescription of the ophthalmologist (eye specialist) or optometrist
- shape lenses and fit them to frames, ensuring they meet quality standards
- ensure the new eyewear fits correctly and comfortably
- carry out minor repairs to damaged frames
Optical dispensers may perform the following tasks:
PERSONAL REQUIREMENTS
- good communication skills
- sales ability
- technical ability
- good hand-eye coordination
- aptitude for mathematics
- enjoy helping people
- patient and attention to detail
Interest Area
EDUCATION & TRAINING
To become an optical dispenser you usually have to complete a VOC qualification in optical dispensing. Some courses may also require relevant employment, or include a supervised practical work placement. As subjects and prerequisites can vary between institutions, you should contact your chosen institution for further information. You may be able to study through distance education.
You can also become an optical dispenser through a traineeship in Optical Dispensing.
Entry requirements may vary, but employers generally require Year 10.
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES
Optical dispensers are employed by optical dispensing firms or optometrists. They may also run their own dispensing businesses. They operate throughout metropolitan areas and larger country towns.
Shifts in fashion tend to influence popular styles of glasses and therefore also impact upon the work of, and demand for, optical dispensers. There is also a demand for specialised glasses, such as no-line bifocals, half glasses for reading, glasses made of thinner and lighter lens materials, sunglasses and glasses with other enhancements such as cosmetic tints and reflection-free coatings.
Similar Jobs
COL's Job Guide Help
JOB INFORMATION
Each job description in COL's Job Guide contains:
- A detailed DESCRIPTION of the job.
- Some of the main TASKS a person might normally do.
- Areas of SPECIALISATION within that occupation.
- The PERSONAL REQUIREMENTS or skills which may be needed.
- The level of EDUCATION and TRAINING to get started in the job.
- The EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES for that occupation
with links to the Job Outlook page for that job. - ADDITIONAL information about the job may also be provided.
- Links to other RELATED JOBS here at COL.
- Links to current JOB VACANCIES in that occupation.
- And further web contacts for FURTHER information.
ICONS
Several icons are used to represent:- the level of education required to gain entry - eg
and
- other jobs by similar Interest Area
Just move your mouse over each icon to see what they mean/link to.
There's also...
- An alphabetical list of jobs to view.
- Lists of Australian jobs which have a bright future outlook
SEARCH
You can SEARCH through the database by using the search form at the bottom of every job description page 🙂
SUGGESTIONS?
If you spot an error, or have any suggestions to improve COL's Job Guide, then please contact us.
More Information - External Links
Other Jobs by Interest Areas...
Job Search? Look for and press ENTER.
Remember: This is an EXACT match, so please use whole words only
This search looks for a match with the WHOLE keyword/s you enter. In other words, abbreviations like vet won't find veterinarian. Slang terms like brickie won't locate bricklayer 🙂
Please contact us to notify errors or suggest improvements.
Home