Optical laboratory technicians generally work in laboratories that fill orders from dispensing opticians. In general, they grind, polish, measure, surface, finish, inspect, and mount the lenses into frames, and make sure that the lenses and frames fit properly. An optical laboratory technician is not required to be a licensed optician. Most dispensing opticians work in stores that sell eyeglasses, while optical laboratory technicians work in laboratories and have limited contact with the public. Some retail stores have laboratories on their premises, therefore these stores employ both kinds of opticians.
Opticians also work for optometrists or ophthalmologists.
Most opticians work 40-hour weeks which may include evenings and weekends. Approximately 140 job openings are expected each year until 2005 for opticians in Florida. Advancement With experience, dispensing opticians can become managers or open up their own businesses. The optical laboratory technician may advance to a supervisor. However, you cannot become a licensed optician through a one-year certificate program.