Optical Laboratory Technician Careers

• Most optical technicians participate in the making of eyeglasses. Emrah Turudu/Photodisc/Getty Images

  Optical laboratory technicians are also known as optical mechanics or ophthalmic technicians. It is their job to make lenses for eyeglasses that meet the specifications of a prescription and fit them into eyeglass frames. Some optical technicians work in laboratories that manufacture lenses for complex optical equipment such as microscopes, telescopes, binoculars and gun sights.

  The majority of optical technicians work filling optical prescriptions.

Educational Requirements

• A small number of people enter the optical technician field with formal training. writing image by Petro Feketa from Fotolia.com

  Many employers will train optical technicians on-the-job, however, some prefer to hire those who have had formal training in the field.

  For on-the-job training, individuals need at least a high school diploma and have preferably taken courses in mathematics and science as well as metal and wood shop, art, drafting, and computers.

  According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, "A few ophthalmic laboratory technicians learn their trade in the Armed Forces or in the few programs in optical technology offered by vocational-technical institutes or trade schools. In 2008, there were two programs in ophthalmic technology accredited by the Commission on Opticianry Accreditation (COA)."

  Generally, on-the-job training begins with marking or blocking lens material for grinding. The employee then learns grinding, cutting, edging, beveling lenses and fitting lenses into eyeglass frames. The work is not very difficult and the apprentice period is short compared to other healthcare technician jobs.

Working Conditions

• Optical technicians usually work in a good working environment. Set of stylish sunglasses for year round eye protection image by JoLin from Fotolia.com

  Usually, optical technicians work in well-organized, clean, well-ventilated and well-lit optical laboratories.

  The full-time work week is usually 40 hours, but some optical technicians work part-time. There is a small amount of contact with the public.

  If working with hazardous materials, the optical technician has to wear the appropriate personal protection equipment.

Earnings

• The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that as of May 2008 the mean annual earning of optical technicians is $27,210. Those in the 50th percentile earn between $21,580 and $34,810.

  The two industries that employ the majority of optical technicians are medical equipment and supplies manufacturing, where the mean salary was $25,250 in 2008, and health and personal-care stores where the mean salary was $25,580.

Career Growth

• The job outlook for optical technicians is good, with a 15-percent increase in demand expected by 2018.

  The career path for optical technicians is to become supervisors or managers. To advance any further usually requires additional schooling and training.