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HomeFieldsAllied Health ProfessionsOphthalmic Laboratory Technician

Career Profile

ExploreHealthCareers.org/ophthalmiclaboratorytechnician

Ophthalmic Laboratory Technician

Overview

Ophthalmic laboratory technicians—also known as manufacturing opticians, optical mechanics, or optical goods workers—make prescription eyeglass or contact lenses. Prescription lenses are curved in such a way that light is correctly focused onto the retina of the patient's eye, improving vision. Some ophthalmic laboratory technicians manufacture lenses for other optical instruments, such as telescopes and binoculars. Ophthalmic laboratory technicians cut, grind, edge, and finish lenses according to specifications provided by dispensing opticians, optometrists, or ophthalmologists. They also may insert lenses into frames to produce finished glasses. Although some lenses still are produced by hand, technicians increasingly use automated equipment to make lenses.

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Ophthalmic Lab Tech 14 May 2008 [pdf, 164 KB]

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redheaded boy being fitted for glasses (Photo: Getty Images)

Average Salary: $21,757 - $0 [*]

Years in school: 0 - 0 after high school graduation

Job outlook: Excellent

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