Apprentice Optical Assistant

Training 2000; Stanley; On-site; GBP 20,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is offering a unique opportunity for aspiring Optical Assistants in Stanley. This role provides valuable on-the-job training while supporting day-to-day operations in an optical practice. You will gain hands-on experience in customer service, optical support, and teamwork, all while learning about the latest eyewear trends and technologies. This apprenticeship not only sets the foundation for a rewarding career in optics but also allows you to make a real difference in customers' lives. If you have a passion for both healthcare and retail, this is the perfect stepping stone towards a fulfilling career.

Qualifications

• Seeking individuals with a passion for healthcare and retail.
• Must possess strong customer service and optical knowledge.

Responsibilities

• Greet customers and assist with frame selection and adjustments.
• Carry out pre-screening tests and explain products to customers.
• Maintain accurate records and manage appointments.

Skills

Customer Service Skills

Optical Knowledge

Problem Solving

Teamwork

Education

Level 3 Optical Assistant Apprenticeship

Functional Skills Level 2 in Maths and English

Tools

Focimeter

Optical Tools for Frame Adjustments

Job description

This vacancy is for an Apprentice Optical Assistant based in Stanley.

The successful applicant will have the opportunity to undertake valuable work experience within Youngs Opticians supporting day-to-day tasks whilst gaining on-the-job qualifications.

The successful applicant will gain experience in all aspects of being an optical assistant in an optometrist practice.
As a well-respected independent opticians, we would be delighted to help the candidate grow in the industry and develop their skills to become a valued member of our team.

An optical assistant works under supervision in an optical practice to assist people with choosing frames and lenses. They will also carry out initial assessments before an eye examination such as autorefraction and checking eye pressures as well as some supplementary checks, such as Ocular Coherence Tomography, visual field analysis, and ultra-wide fundus imaging. They will also help in the day-to-day running of the practice by making appointments and helping patients with queries.

This is a fantastic and unique opportunity to embark on a journey towards a great career.

Starting as an Optical Assistant apprentice with future opportunities for career progression, you will be supported with loads of great, fun, and interactive training. You will use these exciting new skills in your day-to-day job, where you will gain customer service skills, knowledge in optical support, and develop behavior suitable for working in an optical practice.

Those with a flair for fashion will love the new frames coming in, and if it’s your forte, you may even get involved in meeting frame reps and helping choose the new ranges. If you are more technical, you will get to learn lots of information about lenses and measurements, then transform that information into jargon-free, easy-to-understand, customer-friendly language.

It’s all about teamwork in an optician’s practice. There are many roles, but you support each other to ensure your customers get the best experience possible. Optical assistants are a very important part of any optical practice and crucial to the customer journey. Individuals with a real passion for both healthcare and retail thrive in this role, as it's perfect for those who love to make a real difference in other people’s lives.

The duties within this role include:

1. Greeting customers in a professional and friendly manner as they enter the practice.
2. Interpreting and understanding a clinically issued prescription, its effects on the eye, and the customer’s vision.
3. Helping customers select spectacle frame(s) that are suitable in terms of comfort, looks good and fits lifestyle requirements.
4. Be able to explain the features and benefits of particular frames, using non-technical customer-friendly language.
5. Measuring the frames and ensuring they are a suitable size for a customer and can accommodate their lenses.
6. Making adjustments to customers' spectacle frames using the correct tools to ensure stability and comfort.
7. Basic frame repairs.
8. Have a good knowledge of Ophthalmic lenses, tints, and coatings to be able to meet visual/lifestyle requirements.
9. Ordering prescription glasses and contact lenses in for the customer.
10. Correct completion of NHS paperwork and written records in-line with company procedures.
11. Making follow-up appointments for customers.
12. Use a focimeter to find the prescription from spectacles.
13. Communicate contact lenses suitability, features, and benefits.
14. Carrying out pre-screening tests such as retinal imaging and pressure and visual field testing.
15. Explaining offers and products to customers.
16. Taking payments from customers.
17. Being able to problem solve with basic optical concerns.
18. Understanding business KPIs and how they affect the practice's profitability.

Training to be provided

Level 3 Optical Assistant Apprenticeship.

Functional Skills Level 2 maths and English can be obtained on the course if you don't already hold these qualifications.

About FICS Optical Ltd t/a Youngs Opticians

Youngs Opticians has provided exceptional vision care to the people of Stanley for over 50 years. We provide excellent eye care to all ages, with comprehensive vision and eye health exams as well as supplying a wide range of designer eyewear. We are experienced, professional Optometrists and take pride in offering an excellent service to all of our customers whether they are looking for glasses, contact lenses, or simply just an eye test.