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Also known as: Certified Optician, Contact Lens Fitter, Contact Lens Technician, Dispensing and Measuring Optician
Your workday begins as you unlock the optical shop, the scent of lens cleaner faintly lingering from last night. You power on the computers, loading the practice management software to review today’s appointments. After a quick scan, you tidy the frame displays, ensuring everything looks perfect. "Looks like a busy one," Maya, the front desk coordinator, says as she arrives, grabbing a coffee. You both discuss a complex progressive lens fitting scheduled for mid-morning, mentally preparing for the day's first clients.
Software and technologies flagged by O*NET as Hot or In-Demand for this role.
+4.2%
US average: +3.5%
5,600
per year (US)
74,300
in 2025 → 77,400 (2035)
High school diploma or equivalent
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Employment Projections; O*NET Bright Outlook. Read the BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook
How this work is typically performed, based on O*NET work context data.
Source: O*NET Work Context (v31.0)
This career has a stable outlook, with about 5,600 job openings expected each year through 2035. Employment is projected to grow by 4.2% over the next decade. The median annual wage is around $47,260. With experience, you can move into roles like a contact lens specialist or manage an optical store.
Career ladder
Often before this role
Where it can lead
$47,260
Median annual wage, BLS 2025
Bachelor's Degree
Minimum educational requirement for this position
Based on job level & field
Opticianry/Ophthalmic Dispensing Optician
Bachelor • Healthcare & Life Sciences • 4 years
Ophthalmic Technician/Technologist
Bachelor • Healthcare & Life Sciences • 4 years
Optometric Technician/Assistant
Bachelor • Healthcare & Life Sciences • 4 years
Ophthalmic Laboratory Technology/Technician
Bachelor • Healthcare & Life Sciences • 4 years
Healthcare Assistance
Vocational • Healthcare & Life Sciences • 1 year
Medical Assistance
Vocational • Healthcare & Life Sciences • 2 years