Apprentice Optical Assistant

The successful applicant will gain experience in all aspects of being an optical assistant in an optometrist practice. As a well respected independent opticians, we would be delighted to help the candidate grow in the industry and develop their skills to become a valued member of our team.

An optical assistant works under supervision in an optical practice to assist people with choosing frames and lenses. They will also carry out initial assessments before an eye examination such as autorefraction and checking eye pressures as well some supplementary checks, such as Ocular Coherence Tomography, visual field analysis and ultra wide fundus imaging. They will also help in the day to day running of the practice by making appointments and helping patients with queries.

This is a fantastic and unique opportunity to embark on a journey towards a great career.

Starting as an Optical Assistant apprentice with future opportunities for career progression, you will be supported with loads of great, fun, and interactive training. You will use these exciting new skills in your day-to-day job, where you will gain customer service skills, knowledge in optical support, and develop behaviour suitable for working in an optical practice.

Those with a flair for fashion will love the new frames coming in, and if it's your forte, you may even get involved in meeting frame reps and helping choose the new ranges. If you are more technical, you will get to learn lots of information about lenses and measurements, then transform that information into jargon-free, easy-to-understand, customer-friendly language.

It's all about teamwork in an optician's practice. There are many roles, but you support each other to ensure your customers get the best experience possible. Optical assistants are a very important part of any optical practice and crucial to the customer journey. Individuals with a real passion for both healthcare and retail thrive in this role, as its perfect for those who love to make a real difference in other people's lives.

The duties within this role include:

Greeting customers in a professional and friendly manner as they enter the practice Interpreting and understanding a clinically issued prescription, its effects on the eye, and the customer's vision Helping customer's select spectacle frame(s) that are suitable in terms of comfort, looks good and fits lifestyle requirements Be able to explain the features and benefits of particular frames, using non-technical customer friendly language Measuring the frames and ensure they are a suitable size for a customer and can accommodate their lenses Making adjustments to customers spectacle frames using the correct tools to ensure stability and comfort Basic frame repairs Have a good knowledge of Ophthalmic lenses, tints and coatings to be able to meet visual / lifestyle requirements  Ordering prescription glasses and contact lenses in for the customer Correct completion of NHS paperwork and written records in-line with company procedures Making follow up appointments for customers Use a focimetre to find the prescription from spectacles Communicate contact lenses suitability, features and benefits Carrying out pre-screening tests such as retinal imaging and pressure and visual field testing Explaining offers and products to customers Taking payments from customers Being able to problem solve with basic optical concerns Understanding business KPIs and how they affect the practices profitability

Training:
Level 3 Optical Assistant Apprenticeship Functional Skills Level 2 maths and English can be obtained on the course if you don't already hold these qualifications

Training Outcome:

The successful candidate will work towards achieving a Level 3 qualification in optical and gain experience in a busy optical practice.

Upon completion of the Level 3 qualification, you will be an experienced and qualified optical assistant, and as such, you can continue building up skills that will always be in demand. Career breaks and part time working are often possible.

You could go on to acquire higher level optical qualifications such as:

Ophthalmic Dispensing- Become a qualified Dispensing Optician Contact lens Optician - fit Contact lenses Low vision specialist - help people where traditional spectacles will not suffice. Supply low vision aids, magnifiers, advice on improving contrast and on other non Optical aids such as bump-ons Optometry courses - carry out full eye examinations and issue prescriptions Clinical representative- visiting practices introducing new frame ranges and Ophthalmic lenses In-practice trainer - You could use your knowledge to train others

Other non-clinical roles:

Practice Management you could complete a management course Practice ownership you could go into business yourself, partnership or franchise

Employer Description:
Youngs Opticians has provided exceptional vision care to the people of Stanley for over 50 years. We provide excellent eye care to all ages, with comprehensive vision and eye health exams as well as supplying a wide range of designer eyewear. We are experienced, professional Optometrists and take pride in offering an excellent service to all of our customers whether they are looking for glasses, contact lenses or simply just an eye test.

Working Hours :
Monday- Friday 9am- 5pm Saturday 9am- 12:30pm (Can be flexible)

Skills:
Communication skills,Attention to detail,Organisation skills,Customer care skills,Team working,Initiative