Becoming an Ophthalmic Laboratory Technician

Ophthalmic Laboratory Technicians prescribe eyeglass and contact lenses. They make sure to curve the prescription lenses in such a way that light is correctly focused on the retina of the eyes. They are responsible for helping build lenses that improve vision in the patients. Some Ophthalmic Laboratory Technicians also manufacture lenses for other optical instruments, such as telescopes and binoculars.

Ophthalmic Laboratory Technicians cut, grind and finish lenses as per the specifications and requirements. They work on the prescriptions provided by Opticians, Optometrists and Ophthalmologists.

Employment Opportunities: Ophthalmic Laboratory Technicians get employment in laboratories or workshops or in large eyeglass stores. They work behind the scene and hardly come in contact with the public. They mostly live in the world of machinery.

Education Requirements: Ophthalmic Laboratory Technicians do not require a bachelor’s degree, which remains optional for them. However, they must complete a High School Diploma with coursework in science and mathematics with additional knowledge in optical field. They must be proficient in computer knowledge.

They require on the job training to gain knowledge as well as experience. There are some certification programs available for Ophthalmic Laboratory Technicians, which can be availed by satisfying the conditions etc.

Salary & Job Outlook: The projected job growth for Ophthalmic Laboratory Technicians remains excellent and will grow at 12% during the period of 2012-22. The average salary for them was $29,030 in 2013.