Knowledge of the lens and eye care services
Opticians must have knowledge of different types of lens and eye care services so they can recommend the products or solutions suit customers.
Opticians
Descriptions & Duties
- Opticians measure, fit and dispense optical lenses based on optical prescription or specification. They also help clients to select and adjust the most suitable frame and lens position to fit clients' needs. They also check and determine prescriptions for eyeglasses and lens, take facial and eye measurements of customers and educate them on taking care for their contact lenses, eyeglasses and frames.
Generic Competencies
Physical Abilities
Physical abilities
- Physical strength
- Eye hand coordination / precision / dexterity
Importance:1 (Max:5)
Skill is rarely required
Technology Skills
Technology skills
- Computer literacy
- Application of technology
Importance:3 (Max:5)
Skill is basically required
Cognitive Abilities
Cognitive abilities
- Creativity
- Visualisation
- Logical thinking
Importance:3 (Max:5)
Skill is basically required
Comprehension And Expression
Comprehension and expression skills
- Reading comprehension
- Oral / written expression
Importance:3 (Max:5)
Skill is basically required
Social Skills
Social skills
- Communication
- Negotiation
- Persuasion
Importance:3 (Max:5)
Skill is basically required
Organisation And Execution Skills
Organisation and execution skills
- Planning
- Organising
- Judgement
- Decision making
Importance:4 (Max:5)
Skill is frequently required
Problem Solving Skills
Problem solving skills
- Ability to solve simple and complex problems effectively and efficiently
Importance:3 (Max:5)
Skill is basically required
Management Skills
Management skills
- Leadership
- Management of finance / time / people / other resources
Importance:3 (Max:5)
Skill is basically required
Trade Specific Competencies
Good customer servicing skills
Opticians must be able to understand customers' needs and make the most appropriate recommendations such as materials/ styles of eyeglasses/ contact lens and adjustment levels applied to frames/ eyeglasses/ contact lenses to customers.
General Requirements
Academic qualification
Normally have a higher diploma in ophthalmic dispensing or a related field.
Experience
1-2 years' relevant experience in a related field
Career Path & Salary
Private Sector
Monthly Salary $15,000-$35,000
Monthly Salary $20,000-$50,000
Monthly Salary $30,000-$70,000
Related Education & Training
Higher Diploma
Work Environment
- Opticians usually work in stores that sell eyeglasses, contact lenses, visual aids, and other optical goods.
Tools
- Lens measuring equipment - Contact lens thickness gauges; Lens analysers; Lens clocks
- Ophthalmic lensometers - Focimeters; Optometric lensometers
