Opticians

Example job titles

• contact lens fitter
• contact lens practitioner
• dispensing optician
• licensed optician
• optician

Main duties

• This group performs some or all of the following duties:
• Obtain specifications for eyeglasses or contact lenses from a prescription prepared by an ophthalmologist or optometrist or by analyzing the client's eyeglasses or contact lenses and take necessary measurements including the curvature of the eyes, the accurate position of the pupils and bridge width, using optical measuring devices
• Advice clients on eyeglasses selection by informing them of different products such as lens materials, frames, tints and anti-reflection coating
• Adjust contact lenses and inform client on use and care
• Grind, polish, cut and edge lenses or have them made by a laboratory before inserting them into the frame
• Adjust finished eyeglasses to fit client
• May supervise or manage the activities of other opticians or student opticians.

Employment requirements

• Completion of a two- or three-year college program in ophthalmic dispensing or optical sciences is required.
• Licensing by a regulatory body for opticians is required in all provinces.
• Licensing requirements for scope of practice and protected titles related to the sale or dispensing and fitting of contact lenses vary by province.

Approved positions by year

All work permits by year

New permanent residents by year