Ophthalmic opticians

£51,621

Average salary

Average annual salary UK 2020 | Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings

26 hours

Average weekly hours

Average weekly hours UK 2019 | Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings

0.75%

Unemployment rate

Unemployment rate UK 2020 | Labour Force Survey

Definition: Ophthalmic opticians

*SOC Code (Standard Occupational Classification): 2214

Ophthalmic opticians test patients’ vision, diagnose defects and disorders and prescribe glasses or contact lenses as required.

Common tasks include:

examines eyes and tests vision of patient, identifies problems, defects, injuries and ill health;
prescribes, supplies and fits appropriate spectacle lenses, contact lenses and other aids;
advises patient on proper use of glasses, contact lenses and other aids, and on appropriate lighting conditions for reading and working;
refers patient to a specialist, where necessary;
carries out research with glass and lens manufacturers.

Qualifications

Entrants require a degree in Optometry, must have passed the Professional Qualifying Examination of the General Optical Council, and have completed a pre-registration year. Advanced training in specialised areas is available.

*Introduced in 1990, SOC is a multi-purpose common classification of occupations in UK. Jobs are defined in terms of skill level and skill content, including qualifications, training and work experience.

Employment status: Ophthalmic opticians

Regional employment: Ophthalmic opticians

Future employment: Ophthalmic opticians

Top 12 industries: Ophthalmic opticians

Alternative & related job titles: Ophthalmic opticians

Optician Optometrist Optician, ophthalmic Optologist

Equality focus: Ophthalmic opticians

Breaking down the official government big data sources by gender, age and region. Hours and pay data based on full time equlivalent roles.