Eyewear Assembly Technician in Hawaii Career Overview

As an Eyewear Assembly Technician, you play a vital role in the eyewear manufacturing process. Your contributions ensure that glasses and lenses meet industry standards for quality, durability, and performance.

Key aspects of the role include:

  • Assembly Process: You are responsible for assembling various components of eyewear, which includes frames, lenses, and any additional features, such as coatings or adjustments.

  • Quality Control: Your keen attention to detail helps maintain high-quality standards. You inspect the finished products to ensure they are free from defects and perform well according to specifications.

  • Collaboration: You work closely with other technicians and team members to streamline processes, troubleshoot issues, and implement improvements in the assembly line.

  • Adherence to Safety Standards: Ensuring a safe working environment is essential. You comply with all safety regulations while using machinery and handling materials, contributing to overall employee welfare.

  • Adaptability: As eyewear design trends evolve and consumer demands change, you may need to adapt assembly techniques and workflows to accommodate new products and technologies in the industry.

Your role as an Eyewear Assembly Technician supports the broader eyewear industry by ensuring that customers receive high-quality, reliable products that enhance vision and style. Through your expertise and diligence, you contribute to the reputation and success of the brand you represent.

Required Education To Become an Eyewear Assembly Technician in Hawaii

To become an Eyewear Assembly Technician in Hawaii, you will need specific educational qualifications and training. Below are the relevant college degree programs and associated training:

  • Optical Sciences

    • Focuses on the principles of optics, lens design, and technologies used in eyewear production.
  • Opticianry and Ophthalmic Dispensing Optician

    • Covers the skills required to fit, adjust, and dispense corrective eyewear to patients, providing a strong foundation for assembly roles.
  • Ophthalmic and Optometric Support Services and Allied Professions

    • Provides training in support roles within the optometric field, emphasizing the importance of eyewear in patient care.
  • Ophthalmic Laboratory Technology

    • Offers in-depth knowledge of the machinery and processes involved in lens fabrication and eyewear assembly.
  • Optometry

    • While primarily focused on eye health and vision care, an understanding of optics and patient needs can be beneficial in an assembly role.

Additionally, on-the-job training is commonly provided to ensure familiarity with specific assembly techniques, tools, and quality control standards relevant to each production environment.

Best Schools to become a Eyewear Assembly Technician in Hawaii 2024

Salus University

Elkins Park, PA

In-State Tuition:$N/A
Out-of-State Tuition:$N/A
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:N/A
Total Enrollment:1,165

Illinois College of Optometry

Chicago, IL

In-State Tuition:$N/A
Out-of-State Tuition:$N/A
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:N/A
Total Enrollment:481

Southern College of Optometry

Memphis, TN

In-State Tuition:$N/A
Out-of-State Tuition:$N/A
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:N/A
Total Enrollment:532

University of Arizona

Tucson, AZ

In-State Tuition:$11,210
Out-of-State Tuition:$35,628
Admission Rate:87%
Graduation Rate:68%
Total Enrollment:49,403

New England College of Optometry

Boston, MA

In-State Tuition:$N/A
Out-of-State Tuition:$N/A
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:N/A
Total Enrollment:536

Marshall B Ketchum University

Fullerton, CA

In-State Tuition:$N/A
Out-of-State Tuition:$N/A
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:N/A
Total Enrollment:685
Eyewear Assembly Technician Job Description:
  • 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.

Eyewear Assembly Technician Required Skills and Competencies in Hawaii

  • Attention to Detail: You must be able to focus on small components and ensure that each piece of eyewear is assembled correctly to meet quality standards.

  • Manual Dexterity: Proficiency in using hand tools and equipment is essential. Strong hand-eye coordination allows for precise movements in assembling delicate eyewear parts.

  • Technical Proficiency: Familiarity with assembly techniques and tools used in eyewear production enables you to work efficiently and effectively.

  • Problem-solving Skills: The ability to identify assembly issues and implement practical solutions is necessary to maintain production flow and quality.

  • Basic Mathematics Skills: You may need to perform basic calculations for measurements and adjustments during the assembly process.

  • Communication Skills: Clear communication with team members and supervisors helps ensure seamless operations and adherence to production protocols.

  • Time Management: Managing your time effectively is crucial to meet production deadlines while maintaining quality.

  • Team Collaboration: Working well with others fosters a productive environment, as you will often collaborate with colleagues during the assembly process.

  • Adaptability: Being open to learning new techniques and adapting to changes in production methods or materials is important in a dynamic work environment.

  • Quality Control Awareness: Understanding the importance of quality assurance and being able to identify defects in the assembly process helps maintain high standards.

Job Duties for Eyewear Assembly Technicians

  • Inspect lens blanks to detect flaws, verify smoothness of surface, and ensure thickness of coating on lenses.

  • Mount and secure lens blanks or optical lenses in holding tools or chucks of cutting, polishing, grinding, or coating machines.

  • Set up machines to polish, bevel, edge, or grind lenses, flats, blanks, or other precision optical elements.

Technologies and Skills Used by Eyewear Assembly Technicians

Medical software

  • Electronic medical record EMR software

Presentation software

  • Microsoft PowerPoint

Spreadsheet software

  • Microsoft Excel

Basic Skills

  • Keeping track of how well people and/or groups are doing in order to make improvements
  • Reading work related information

Problem Solving

  • Noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it

Job Market and Opportunities for Eyewear Assembly Technician in Hawaii

The current job market for Eyewear Assembly Technicians in Hawaii reflects a growing demand linked to the overall expansion in the eyewear industry. As vision correction and fashion eyewear continue to remain in high demand, the need for skilled technicians who can assemble, repair, and customize eyewear is increasing.

  • Demand: Many optical companies and retailers are actively seeking trained technicians to meet the steady growth in consumer interest. The rise in vision-related health issues and the popularity of eyewear as a fashion accessory are primary factors driving this demand.

  • Growth Potential: Opportunities in this role are expected to grow, fueled by advancements in eyewear technology and the introduction of new materials and designs. The continuous innovation in lens manufacturing and frame assembly processes will create a sustained need for proficient technicians.

  • Geographical Hotspots: Certain areas in Hawaii have become focal points for employment opportunities in eyewear assembly:

    • Honolulu: As the largest city and economic hub, Honolulu houses a range of optical retailers and manufacturers, making it a prime location for technicians seeking job opportunities.
    • Hilo and Kailua-Kona: These locations have smaller but growing markets that employ eyewear assembly technicians, especially in local optometry clinics and specialty eyewear shops.
    • Maui: The island features several eye care practices and eyewear boutiques that contribute to job openings in this field.

    The job market for Eyewear Assembly Technicians is not only promising but also offers varied settings in which you can build your career, whether in retail, clinical, or manufacturing environments. As the industry continues to evolve, staying informed about technological advancements will position you favorably in this expanding job market.

Additional Resources To Help You Become an Eyewear Assembly Technician in Hawaii

  • National Eye Institute (NEI)

    • Website: nei.nih.gov
    • Description: The NEI provides valuable information about eye health, vision disorders, and the importance of eyewear. This is a reliable source for understanding the industry standards related to eyewear.
  • American Optometric Association (AOA)

    • Website: aoa.org
    • Description: The AOA offers resources related to optometry and eyewear, including guidelines on fitting, materials, and technology used in eyewear assembly.
  • Vision Council

    • Website: thevisioncouncil.org
    • Description: This organization focuses on the optical industry and provides research, trends, and educational materials relevant to eyewear product assembly.
  • Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)

    • Website: osha.gov
    • Description: OSHA provides guidelines to ensure workplace safety, including standards that might pertain to assembly technicians working with eyewear components.
  • American National Standards Institute (ANSI)

    • Website: ansi.org
    • Description: ANSI publishes safety standards relevant to the design and assembly of eyewear products, offering guidance on compliance and best practices.
  • Hawaii Department of Labor and Industrial Relations

    • Website: dolir.hawaii.gov
    • Description: This department offers resources related to employment laws, safety regulations, and workforce development in Hawaii, which can be useful for understanding the local job market.
  • Eyewear Education and Training Programs

    • Vision Source Online Course: vision-source.com
    • Description: This platform offers various continuing education courses relevant to eyewear assembly and fitting.
  • Books on Eyewear and Optics

    • Suggested Title: Optical Technician's Handbook
    • Description: This book provides insights into the technical aspects of eyewear assembly and fitting techniques.
  • LinkedIn Learning

    • Website: linkedin.com/learning
    • Description: Explore online courses that can enhance your skills related to eyewear assembly, including courses on quality control and eye care technology.
  • Hawaii Optical Manufacturers Association

    • Website: Often found through local business directories or contact through the Hawaii Chamber of Commerce
    • Description: A local organization that might provide networking opportunities and resources specifically tailored to the optical manufacturing sector in Hawaii.

These resources will enhance your understanding of the eyewear industry and assist you in developing your career as an Eyewear Assembly Technician in Hawaii.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Eyewear Assembly Technician in Hawaii

  • What are the primary responsibilities of an Eyewear Assembly Technician?
    As an Eyewear Assembly Technician, your main responsibilities include assembling eyeglasses and sunglasses by fitting lenses into frames, adjusting hinges and components, and performing quality control checks to ensure the finished product meets specifications.

  • What skills are necessary for success in this role?
    Important skills for an Eyewear Assembly Technician include attention to detail, manual dexterity, basic mechanical skills, and the ability to work with precision tools. Good communication skills also help in working effectively with team members and suppliers.

  • Is there a specific educational requirement for this position?
    Typically, a high school diploma or equivalent is required. Some employers may prefer candidates with additional training or coursework related to optical technology or manufacturing processes.

  • Where can I find job opportunities for Eyewear Assembly Technicians in Hawaii?
    Job opportunities can be found through online job boards, local optical shops, and eyewear manufacturing companies. Networking within the optical industry and attending local career fairs can also be beneficial.

  • What is the typical salary for an Eyewear Assembly Technician in Hawaii?
    Salaries can vary based on experience and the employer, but the average salary for Eyewear Assembly Technicians in Hawaii ranges from $30,000 to $50,000 annually.

  • What are the typical working hours for this position?
    Most Eyewear Assembly Technicians work full-time, with standard hours typically being 40 hours per week. Some positions may require shift work, including nights or weekends, especially in larger manufacturing facilities.

  • Are there opportunities for advancement within this career?
    Yes, there are opportunities for advancement. With experience and additional training, you may move into supervisory or quality assurance roles, or even specialize in areas such as lens crafting or optical design.

  • What kind of work environment can I expect?
    You can expect to work in a clean, indoor environment, such as a laboratory or manufacturing facility. The work can be repetitive and requires a focus on precision but typically has a steady pace.

  • Are there any physical demands for this job?
    Yes, the job requires prolonged periods of standing or sitting, as well as fine motor skills for assembly tasks. You may also need to lift light materials or equipment occasionally.

  • Is training provided for new Eyewear Assembly Technicians?
    Many employers provide on-the-job training where you will learn specific assembly techniques, safety practices, and machinery operation. Some may also offer training programs that cover broader aspects of optical technology.