Salary Range
Below $25,000 to $75,000Overview
Ophthalmic laboratory technicians make prescription eyeglass lenses. Also known as manufacturing opticians, optical goods workers, or optical mechanics, they cut, grind, edge, and finish lenses according to instructions provided by dispensing opticians, optometrists, or ophthalmologists. Though some lenses still are produced by hand, technicians increasingly use computerized technology to manufacture lenses. There are approximately 29,400 ophthalmic laboratory technicians working in the United States.
Minimum Education Level
Some Postsecondary TrainingCertification/License
RequiredOutlook
Much Faster than the AveragePersonality Traits
Hands On
Problem-Solving
Technical
Career Ladder
Owner, Ophthalmic Laboratory or Opticianry Shop
Dispensing Optician
Manager of Ophthalmic Technicians
Ophthalmic Technician
Ophthalmic Assistant
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