Ophthalmic Laboratory Technician
Cut, grind, and polish eyeglasses, contact lenses, or other precision optical elements. Assemble and mount lenses into frames or process other optical elements. Includes precision lens polishers or grinders, centerer-edgers, and lens mounters.
Annual openings
81
BLS median wage
$48,540
Typical education
The position usually requires an Associate's Degree, though some employers substitute work experience (such as in the military) for that degree.
10-year growth
+4%
Career requirements
What does this career require?
The education, credentials, and on-the-job competencies Colorado employers expect for this role.
Typical education
The position usually requires an Associate's Degree, though some employers substitute work experience (such as in the military) for that degree.
Credential requirement
No specific credential listed yet
Work experience
This can be an entry-level job, but previous work experience is usually expected.
Employer competency information
- Feedback from employers identifies the following competencies as being critical to success: mechanical aptitude, attention to detail (including the ability to build something to specifications and tolerance), diagnosing and problem solving, basic computer skills, teamwork, a focus on safety, and accountability.
Is this work a fit?
What the work actually feels like
How people in this career tend to spend their time, the interests it draws on, and a look at a typical day.
Automation exposure
High exposure
Many tasks are repeatable, so technology could reshape the day-to-day over time.
A typical day
- Shape lenses appropriately so that they can be inserted into frames.
- Clean finished lenses and eyeglasses, using cloths and solvents.
- Inspect lens blanks to detect flaws, verify smoothness of surface, and ensure thickness of coating on lenses.
- Mount, secure, and align finished lenses in frames or optical assemblies, using precision hand tools.
- Adjust lenses and frames to correct alignment.
- Assemble eyeglass frames and attach shields, nose pads, and temple pieces, using pliers, screwdrivers, and drills.