Optical Technician in Oklahoma Career Overview
As an Optical Technician, you play a vital role in the vision care industry. Your responsibilities primarily include:
- Assisting eye care professionals by preparing and processing optical prescriptions
- Fabricating, fitting, and repairing glasses and contact lenses
- Conducting preliminary tests and assessments to ensure the best visual outcomes for patients
- Providing guidance on lens options and frame selection to meet individual vision needs and preferences
- Maintaining and calibrating equipment used in the optical laboratory
Your contributions are essential in ensuring that patients receive the highest standard of care while navigating their vision correction options. By facilitating smooth operations in an optical setting, you help enhance the overall patient experience and satisfaction. Optical Technicians serve as a bridge between eye care professionals and patients, emphasizing the importance of quality vision and eye health.
Optical Technician Salary in Oklahoma
Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.
Required Education To Become an Optical Technician in Oklahoma
To become an Optical Technician in Oklahoma, you will need to pursue specific educational qualifications and training programs. Here are the key degree programs that can prepare you for this career:
Optical Sciences: This program focuses on the science behind optics and vision. It typically includes coursework in the principles of light, lenses, and vision correction, equipping you with the foundational knowledge necessary for a career in the optical field.
Ophthalmic and Optometric Support Services and Allied Professions: This program prepares you to support eye care professionals in various settings. It covers topics such as eye anatomy, patient care, and the administrative aspects of running an optometry practice.
Opticianry and Ophthalmic Dispensing Optician: This degree involves the study of fitting and dispensing eyewear and other optical devices. You will learn how to interpret prescriptions, select appropriate eyewear, and provide customer service in optical settings.
Optometric Technology Assistant: This program trains you to assist optometrists in clinical settings. You will gain knowledge about patient care, eye examination procedures, and the use of optical instruments.
Completion of one of these programs not only provides you with essential theoretical knowledge but often includes hands-on training opportunities that are critical for developing practical skills in the optical field. Consider enrolling in accredited programs that meet the educational standards for this profession.
Best Schools to become a Optical Technician in Oklahoma 2024
University of Arizona
College of Southern Nevada
Hillsborough Community College
San Jacinto Community College
University of Rochester
American Career College-Los Angeles
- Design, measure, fit, and adapt lenses and frames for client according to written optical prescription or specification.
- Assist client with inserting, removing, and caring for contact lenses.
- Assist client with selecting frames.
- Measure customer for size of eyeglasses and coordinate frames with facial and eye measurements and optical prescription.
- Prepare work order for optical laboratory containing instructions for grinding and mounting lenses in frames.
- Verify exactness of finished lens spectacles.
- Adjust frame and lens position to fit client.
- May shape or reshape frames.
- Includes contact lens opticians.
Optical Technician Required Skills and Competencies in Oklahoma
Technical Proficiency: You should have a solid understanding of optical equipment and the ability to operate tools such as lensometers, phoropters, and optical measuring devices.
Attention to Detail: Precision is vital in this role. You will need to ensure that prescriptions are filled accurately and that fittings are performed correctly.
Problem-Solving Skills: You must be able to troubleshoot technical issues with eyewear or equipment, offering practical solutions efficiently.
Communication Skills: You will work closely with patients and other healthcare professionals. Clear communication is essential for explaining procedures, answering questions, and providing instructions.
Customer Service Orientation: You should be able to empathize with patients, addressing their needs and concerns while providing a positive experience.
Manual Dexterity: Fine motor skills are important for tasks such as assembling eyewear, adjusting frames, and handling delicate optical instruments.
Organization Skills: You are likely to manage multiple tasks simultaneously, so being detail-oriented and organized will help you maintain efficiency.
Basic Mathematical Skills: You should be comfortable with measurements and calculations involved in lens crafting and adjustments.
Knowledge of Optical Products: Familiarity with different types of lenses, frames, and coatings will help you make informed recommendations to patients.
Teamwork: Being able to collaborate effectively with optometrists and other staff is essential for delivering comprehensive patient care.
Adaptability: The ability to adjust to new technologies and procedures in the optical field is necessary as innovations continue to emerge.
Regulatory Awareness: Understanding relevant regulations and standards in the optical industry will ensure you practice safely and ethically.
Job Duties for Optical Technicians
Evaluate prescriptions in conjunction with clients' vocational and avocational visual requirements.
Measure clients' bridge and eye size, temple length, vertex distance, pupillary distance, and optical centers of eyes, using measuring devices.
Verify that finished lenses are ground to specifications.
Data base user interface and query software
- Database software
- EZ-Zone Optizone Enterprise
Medical software
- First Insight MaximEyes
- Specialist Data Solutions OctoPlus
Spreadsheet software
- Microsoft Excel
Basic Skills
- Listening to others, not interrupting, and asking good questions
- Talking to others
Problem Solving
- Noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it
Social
- Changing what is done based on other people's actions
- Looking for ways to help people
Job Market and Opportunities for Optical Technician in Oklahoma
The demand for Optical Technicians in Oklahoma is on the rise, largely driven by an aging population that increasingly requires vision care services. With a growing number of eye care facilities and private practices, job openings are becoming more accessible.
As healthcare facilities expand and the trend toward preventative eye care continues, Optical Technicians are seeing increased opportunities in both urban and rural areas. This trend is supported by advancements in technology that foster the need for specialized roles within the optical field.
The projected growth rate for Optical Technicians in Oklahoma is promising. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and local workforce development agencies indicate that this profession is expected to grow significantly in the coming years, surpassing the average growth rate of other occupations.
Geographical hotspots in Oklahoma for Optical Technician positions include major cities such as:
- Oklahoma City: Home to a variety of healthcare providers, including ophthalmology clinics and optical retail chains, offering a wide range of career opportunities.
- Tulsa: Known for its dynamic healthcare sector, Tulsa also features multiple optometry practices that are expanding their services.
- Norman and Edmond: These nearby cities are experiencing growth in medical facilities, creating a high demand for skilled Optical Technicians.
Rural areas of Oklahoma are also presenting opportunities as healthcare facilities aim to serve more comprehensive patient populations. Small-town optometry practices are increasingly seeking skilled technicians to maintain quality service amid workforce shortages.
Networking and connection with local optical practices, hospitals, and healthcare institutions may enhance your job search and increase your visibility in the job market. Participation in local optical associations can provide additional resources and job leads.
With the establishment of new training programs and increased focus on eye health, you might find that opportunities to enter the optical workforce are more abundant than ever, providing a solid foundation for a rewarding career.
Top Related Careers to Optical Technician 2024
Additional Resources To Help You Become an Optical Technician in Oklahoma
American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO)
Website: aao.org
Explore resources on eye health, patient care, and educational materials relevant to optical technicians.American Optometric Association (AOA)
Website: aoa.org
Provides education, advocacy, and resources for optometry professionals, including guidelines for optical technicians.Opticians Association of America (OAA)
Website: oaa.org
Offers training resources, certification information, and networking opportunities specifically for optical technicians and opticians.National Federation of Opticianry Schools (NFOS)
Website: nfos.org
This organization provides information on opticianry education programs and standards, crucial for those seeking formal training.American National Standards Institute (ANSI)
Website: ansi.org
Access industry standards related to optical products, which is essential for understanding compliance and safety.National Board of Examiners in Optometry (NBEO)
Website: optometry.org
Offers certification and examination resources, important for optical technicians looking to further their professional credentials.Oklahoma Optometric Association
Website: oklahomaoptometricassociation.org
A state-specific association that provides updates on local laws, regulations, and continuing education resources for optical technicians in Oklahoma.Oklahoma State University Institute of Technology
Website: osuit.edu
Explore training programs and courses for aspiring optical technicians, providing essential education and skills training.Vision Source
Website: visionsource.com
A network offering resources for eyecare professionals, including optical technicians, with information on career development and practice management.U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) - Optical Technicians
Website: bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/opticians-and-optometry-technicians.htm
Provides occupational outlook, salary information, and job market statistics for optical technicians.
Utilizing these resources will enhance your understanding of the optical technician profession, provide networking opportunities, and help you stay informed about the latest developments in the field.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Optical Technician in Oklahoma
What is an Optical Technician?
An Optical Technician is responsible for assisting in the fabrication, fitting, and maintenance of eyewear and optical devices. They work closely with optometrists and ophthalmologists to ensure that patients receive proper vision care.What qualifications do I need to become an Optical Technician in Oklahoma?
Typically, you will need a high school diploma or equivalent. While formal post-secondary education is not always required, completing a certification program in optical technology can enhance your job prospects and skills.Do I need a license to work as an Optical Technician in Oklahoma?
Oklahoma does not require Optical Technicians to have a state license. However, obtaining certification from a recognized organization, such as the American Board of Opticianry (ABO) or the National Contact Lens Examiners (NCLE), can improve your employability.What skills are important for an Optical Technician?
Key skills include:- Attention to detail
- Technical skills for working with tools and equipment
- Strong customer service abilities
- Good manual dexterity
- Basic knowledge of optics and vision care
What are my job prospects as an Optical Technician in Oklahoma?
Job prospects for Optical Technicians are generally positive due to the increasing demand for vision care services. As the population ages and awareness of eye health grows, opportunities in the field are expected to expand.What is the typical salary for an Optical Technician in Oklahoma?
Salaries can vary based on factors like experience, location, and work setting, but the average salary for an Optical Technician in Oklahoma ranges from $30,000 to $45,000 per year.What work settings can I expect as an Optical Technician?
Optical Technicians commonly work in:- Optometry and ophthalmology offices
- Retail optical shops
- Hospitals and clinics
- Optical laboratories
What are the advancement opportunities in this career?
With experience and further education, you might advance to roles such as optical manager, optical sales representative, or even optician. Certification can also provide opportunities to specialize in areas like contact lenses or advanced optical technology.What does a typical day look like for an Optical Technician?
Your typical day may include tasks such as:- Measuring and fitting eyeglass frames
- Assisting customers with selecting lenses and frames
- Using optical equipment to prepare lenses
- Conducting basic repairs on eyewear
- Updating patient records and managing inventory
Are there specific continuing education requirements for Optical Technicians?
While there are no mandated continuing education requirements in Oklahoma, pursuing ongoing training and certification renewal is beneficial to stay current with industry advancements and improve your career opportunities.