HOW TO GET THERE
Typical pathway
A Canadian secondary-school student interested in becoming an optician often starts by taking math, science and communication courses, along with any classes that build customer service and problem-solving skills. After graduation, many people enter a postsecondary opticianry or dispensing program, with program names and length varying by province and school. Training usually includes learning to interpret prescriptions, measure eye features, fit frames and lenses, and advise clients on eyewear and contact lenses. Some students also gain early experience through retail, customer service, or related eye-care settings before starting formal training.
THE WORK
What you may do
Legacy duties
- Obtain specifications for eyeglasses or contact lenses from a prescription prepared by an ophthalmologist or optometrist or by analyzing the client's eyeglasses or contact lenses and by measuring client's eye curvature, pupillary distance and bridge width, using optical measuring devices
- Assist clients in selecting eyeglasses by advising on lens materials, frames, tints and anti-reflection coating
- Advise on use and care of contact lenses
- Arrange for grinding and polishing of lenses or grind and polish lenses
- Cut and edge lenses and fit lenses into frames
- Adjust finished eyeglasses to fit client
- May supervise or manage the activities of other opticians or student opticians.
SKILLS TO BUILD
Skills used in this Career
Business ProceduresInterpersonal communication skillsMultidisciplinary teamwork