Optical Assistant Apprentice

 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 Adjusting 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 focimeter 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 KPI's and how they affect the practices profitability

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:

Eyecare Specialists are led by multi-award winning therapeutic optometrist, Andrew Matheson, who has delivered high quality eyecare in both hospital eye units and in his own practices for over 40 years.

Working Hours :
Monday - Saturday, 8.45am - 5.45pm

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