Optical Assistant

Ballina Optometry; Ballina Shire; On-site; AUD 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Staff discounts on optical products

Positive workplace culture

Meaningful impact on patients' lives

Job summary

Ballina Optometry in Ballina, NSW is seeking a career‑oriented Optical Assistant or Dispenser to join our team on a part‑time or full‑time basis. You will translate optical prescriptions into fitted eyewear and serve as the essential link between our optometrists and patients.

Key duties include assisting with pre-testing and billing, dispensing spectacles and contact lenses, taking measurements, and advising on frame and lens options.

Qualifications

• A qualification in optical dispensing or equivalent; willingness to study further.
• Knowledge of spectacle and contact lens dispensing practices preferred.
• Strong understanding of lens types, coatings and frame materials.
• Excellent measurement and fitting skills with attention to detail.
• Clear, professional communication with customers.

Responsibilities

• Assist the Optometrist with pre-testing and administration, including billing.
• Dispense and fit spectacles and contact lenses per prescriptions.
• Take accurate measurements for lens fitting, including PD and frame sizing.
• Demonstrate product knowledge to help customers choose eyewear.
• Advise on frame selection, lens options and care instructions.
• Manage frame inventory, stock levels and ordering.
• Process orders, payments and maintain patient records.
• Perform quality checks on finished eyewear before dispensing.
• Provide excellent customer service and build patient relationships.
• Support the optometry team and keep the dispensary organized.
• Educate patients on eyewear care and usage.

Skills

Measurement and fitting skills

Customer service excellence

Team collaboration

Numeracy and literacy

Communication with patients

Education

Optical dispensing qualification or equivalent

Tools

Optical dispensing software

Point‑of‑sale systems

Job description

Ballina Optometry is dedicated to providing comprehensive eye care services and high-quality eyewear solutions to the Ballina community. We are committed to delivering exceptional customer service, maintaining the highest standards of clinical excellence, and creating a welcoming environment for all our patients. Our team is passionate about helping people see their best and improving their quality of life through quality optical care.

About the role

We are seeking a career-orientated, dedicated and professional Optical Assistant or Dispenser to join our team on a part-time or full-time basis at our practice in Ballina, NSW 2478. As an Optical Assistant or Dispenser, you will play a crucial role in translating optical prescriptions into perfectly fitted eyewear. This position is essential to our operations, as you will be the bridge between our optometrists and our patients, ensuring that every patient receives eyewear that not only meets their visual needs but also enhances their appearance and comfort. Your expertise and attention to detail will directly impact patient satisfaction and the overall success of our practice.

Key responsibilities

• Assist the Optometrist with pre-testing and administration, including billing procedures.
• Dispensing and fitting spectacles and contact lenses in accordance with optical prescriptions from qualified optometrists
• Taking accurate measurements and assessments for lens fitting, including pupillary distance and frame measurements
• Demonstrating expert product knowledge of frames, lenses, and lens coatings to assist customers in selecting appropriate eyewear
• Providing professional advice on frame selection, lens options, and care instructions to ensure optimal patient outcomes
• Managing frame inventory, stock levels, and ordering processes to ensure availability of products
• Processing orders, payments, and maintaining accurate patient records and transaction documentation
• Performing quality checks on finished eyewear before dispensing to patients
• Providing excellent customer service and building positive relationships with patients
• Supporting the optometry team and maintaining a clean, organised, and professional dispensary environment
• Educating patients on proper eyewear care, maintenance, and usage

What we're looking for

• A qualification in optical dispensing or equivalent relevant experience in an optical environment or be willing to undertake further relevant study
• Ideally a demonstrated knowledge of spectacle and contact lens dispensing practices
• Strong understanding of lens types, coatings, and frame materials
• Excellent measurement and fitting skills with meticulous attention to detail
• Outstanding customer service skills with the ability to communicate clearly and professionally
• Proficiency in optical dispensing software and point-of-sale systems
• Strong numeracy and literacy skills
• Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team
• A genuine passion for helping people and improving their vision
• Professional presentation and a commitment to maintaining high standards of hygiene and safety

What we offer

Ballina Optometry is a passionate team dedicated to excellence in eye care. You will have access to staff discounts on optical products, a positive workplace culture, and the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in patients' lives.