Ophthalmic optician - overview

What does an ophthalmic optician do?

As an optician, you’ll be responsible for testing clients’ eyes, prescribing glasses, and lenses, and referring them on to other healthcare professionals. Optician’s tests will often show the first signs of eye related conditions like glaucoma or macular degeneration.

As an optician you’ll work alongside other healthcare professionals and store assistants. Like any healthcare role, being an ophthalmic optician can be massively rewarding, but requires dedication and an eye for detail to be successful.

What will your days involve?

Daily tasks will vary but could involve:

• Using specialist instruments as well as testing and measuring tools
• Diagnosing and advice giving
• Training and managing ophthalmic assistants and other colleagues
• Prescription, supply, and adjustment of glasses and contact lenses
• Advising suitability, fit, and shape of glasses frames and contact lenses
• Referring people to other healthcare specialists or ophthalmologists (surgeons)

FAQs

How much can you earn as an ophthalmic optician?

The average salary for an ophthalmic optician in the UK is £36,920.

Does an ophthalmic optician role involve travel in the UK or overseas?

Some opticians will work from multiple locations within one area, though typically opticians don’t travel much for their work.

Can you work from home as an ophthalmic optician?

Generally, no. Opticians use specialist equipment and meet with many clients throughout the day, so they’ll typically work from a shop or a hospital.