Job Summary

The Optician provides comprehensive optical services while delivering an excellent patient experience.  This position assists patients with selecting eyewear, recommends lens options based on prescription and lifestyle needs, obtains accurate measurements, processes optical orders, fits and dispenses eyewear, and troubleshoots vision or fit concerns. 

The Optician also supports the overall success of the optical department through eyewear and contact lens sales, payment processing, order management, inventory support, and collaboration with providers and other members of the optical team.

Core Behavioral Values

CLEAR ID: Collaborate, Learn, Empathy, Accountable, Respect, Integrity, Dedication

These behaviors are based on Eyesight’s culture and values critical to support the organization’s mission of providing uncompromising care to patients. 

Essential Functions

Patient Care & Eyewear Selection

• Provide a welcoming, professional, and patient-focused optical experience.
• Interpret prescriptions and assist patients in selecting frames and lenses based on their visual needs, lifestyle, and preferences.
• Recommend appropriate lens materials, designs, coatings, and treatments, clearly explaining options and pricing.

Measurements, Fitting & Dispensing

• Obtain accurate optical measurements necessary for proper lens fabrication and fitting.
• Fit, adjust, and dispense eyewear to ensure comfort, proper alignment, and visual performance.
• Verify completed eyewear for accuracy and quality before dispensing.
• Perform eyewear adjustments, repairs, and troubleshooting, addressing patient concerns and involving providers when appropriate.
• Educate patients on proper eyewear use and care.

Optical Sales 

• Contribute to optical sales and departmental goals while maintaining a patient-first approach.
• Recommend appropriate eyewear upgrades, additional pairs, prescription sunwear, and related products.
• Maintain current knowledge of optical products, lens technologies, and promotions.

Contact Lenses

• Assist patients with contact lens orders, pricing, rebates, and available supply options.
• Process and follow up on contact lens orders, directing clinical or fitting concerns to the appropriate provider.

Order Processing & Lab Coordination

• Accurately enter and process optical orders, including prescriptions, measurements, frame information, and lens specifications.
• Coordinate with laboratories to monitor orders, resolve discrepancies, and address delays or remakes.
• Inspect complete eyewear for accuracy and quality.

Payment Processing

• Communicate pricing, discounts, and patient financial responsibility.
• Accurately process payments and maintain appropriate records in optical and electronic medical record systems.

Inventory & Merchandising

• Assist with receiving, organizing, displaying, and maintaining optical inventory.
• Maintain clean, organized, and visually appealing optical displays.
• Participate in inventory counts and report stock needs, damaged products, or discrepancies.

Team & Operational Responsibilities

• Collaborate with providers, colleagues, and other departments to support efficient patient care and daily operations.
• Assist with departmental coverage, including working at other optical locations as needed.
• Participate in meetings, training, and continuing education.
• Follow established departmental procedures, organizational policies, safety standards, and patient confidentiality requirements.

 Minimum Requirements (education and experience)

• High school diploma or equivalent. 
• Optical experience or completion of an approved opticianry training or apprenticeship program. 
• Strong customer service and communication skills. 
• Ability to accurately interpret optical prescriptions and obtain required measurements. 
• Ability to work effectively in a patient-facing healthcare and retail environment. 

Preferred

• Licensed Optician. 
• ABO and/or NCLE certification. 
• Experience working within an ophthalmology or optometry practice. 
• Experience with optical ordering, laboratory ordering systems, point-of-sale processes, and electronic      medical record systems. 
• Experience selling and supporting both eyewear and contact lenses. 

Work Conditions

• Fast-paced professional healthcare setting, including clinics, administrative areas, and patient-facing environments 
• Dynamic environment with frequent multitasking and physical activity throughout the workday
• Noise level ranges from quiet to moderate depending on activity and location
• Possible exposure to infectious diseases, bodily fluids, or cleaning agents in accordance with standard safety protocols

Physical Requirements

• Ability to sit, stand, and walk for extended periods 
• Frequent use of hands and fingers to operate medical or office equipment
• Effective verbal and written communication; ability to hear and understand speech in person and by phone
• Visual acuity required for reading small print, computer screens, and performing clinical tasks
• Occasional lifting or moving of items up to 25 pounds
• Reaching, bending, stooping, kneeling, and other physical movements may be required