Opticians, Dispensing
O*NET 29-2081.00 · SOC 29-2081
Optician is a solid career choice. Median pay is $47k a year with +4.2% projected growth through 2035 (about as fast as average) and about 5,600 openings a year. AI exposure: Moderate.
Bureau of Labor Statistics projections 2025–2035 · Data updated 2026-07-27
What You'd Actually Do
- →Interpret eyeglass prescriptions written by optometrists or ophthalmologists
- →Help patients select frames that fit their face and lifestyle
- →Measure patients' pupillary distance for proper lens placement
- →Adjust and repair eyeglass frames for proper fit
- →Order lenses and frames from optical laboratories
Education & How to Get In
Most Optician positions require an associate degree or vocational training. Many community colleges and technical schools offer relevant programs that can be completed in 1–2 years, often with hands-on clinical or lab experience built in.
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Work Environment
Structured, offices, data centers, or remote
Independent, focused deep work with periodic team check-ins
A Day in the Life
While every role varies by employer and specialization, a typical day as an Optician involves a mix of core responsibilities:
Personality Fit (RIASEC)
Who Thrives as Optician?
Based on the interests and work style this role actually demands, these personality types tend to fit it best. Salary and growth tell you if a career is worth entering; personality fit tells you whether you'll still want it in five years.
Not sure which you are? Take the 7-minute quiz →
See Open Optician Roles
Browse live openings to get a feel for requirements and pay in your area.
Similar Careers
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Job Outlook
Employment of Opticians, Dispensing is projected to grow 4.2% from 2025 to 2035, about as fast as average for all occupations.
Will AI Replace This Job?
- ·43% routine cognitive tasks, high automation target
- ·Industry sector with low automation exposure
Scored from the mix of routine, creative, physical and social tasks the role involves, adjusted for sector and projected growth. An estimate, not a forecast.
Common Questions
How much does an Optician make?
The median Optician earns $47k a year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' May 2025 wage data. Half earn more than that and half earn less, and pay varies considerably by state, industry and experience.
Will AI replace Optician jobs?
Our model puts Optician at 34 out of 100 for automation exposure, which is moderate, likely AI-complementary. The main drivers: 43% routine cognitive tasks, high automation target; industry sector with low automation exposure.
Is Optician a growing field?
Employment is projected to grow 4.2% between 2025 and 2035, which is about as fast as average. That works out to roughly 5,600 openings a year, counting both new positions and people leaving the occupation.
What degree do you need to be an Optician?
Most Optician roles expect an associate degree, apprenticeship or vocational certificate rather than a four-year degree.
How long does it take to become an Optician?
Typically one to two years, typically an associate degree, apprenticeship or vocational program. O*NET classes this role as Job Zone 3 of 5, which describes how much preparation people in it usually have.
Is an Optician career right for you?
Your personality, values, and strengths matter as much as the job market. Take the quiz to see your personalized Future-Fit Score for this career and hundreds more.
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