1

Dispensing Optician Apprentice Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Applied Science degree in Ophthalmic Dispensing; American Board of Opticianry Certification. Experience: Minimum of two years' experience in an optical setting as an optician apprentice or optician.

Be Seen First

Apprentice Optician with skills in frame selection, taking all optical measurement, dispensing of glasses and contact lenses, reception and front office duties, verifying insurances... Company ...

Apply Early

Optician - Optical - Per Diem

Bath, NY · On-site

$21.89 - $35.16/hr

Applied Science degree in Ophthalmic Dispensing; American Board of Opticianry Certification. Experience: Minimum of two years' experience in an optical setting as an optician apprentice or optician.

Be Seen First

Apprentice Optician with skills in frame selection, taking all optical measurement, dispensing of glasses and contact lenses, reception and front office duties, verifying insurances... Company ...

Apply Early

Optician

Seattle, WA · On-site

$25/hr

Completion of an accredited opticianry program, completion of an apprenticeship program in Washington, or having practiced as a dispensing optician outside of Washington for at least five years.

Apply Early

Register as Dispensing Optician Apprentice within 3 months of hire. * Clinical Competency required within 3 months of hireand every three years Experience Required * 2 years of Medical Assistant or ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Dispensing Optician Apprentice information

See salary details

$12

$19

$26

How much do dispensing optician apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for dispensing optician apprentice in the United States is $19.31, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.59 and $21.39 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is it hard to become a dispensing optician?

Becoming a dispensing optician typically requires completing a formal training program or apprenticeship, passing licensing exams, and gaining practical experience. The process involves developing skills in optical theory, customer service, and using optical tools, which can take several years of education and hands-on work.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Dispensing Optician Apprentice, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Dispensing Optician Apprentice, you need a foundational knowledge of optical principles, attention to detail, and a willingness to work toward relevant qualifications such as a Level 3 Diploma in Dispensing Optics. Familiarity with lens measuring tools, optical dispensing software, and basic vision testing equipment is typically required. Strong interpersonal skills, customer service orientation, and the ability to communicate clearly with clients and colleagues are invaluable. These skills and qualities ensure accurate vision solutions, customer satisfaction, and effective collaboration within optical practices.

What is the highest paid apprenticeship job?

The highest paid apprenticeship jobs are often in skilled trades such as electrical, plumbing, or HVAC technician roles, which can offer high starting wages and earning potential after completing apprenticeships. Some specialized technical fields like aerospace or industrial maintenance also provide high-paying apprenticeship opportunities, especially with certifications and experience.

What is the difference between Dispensing Optician Apprentice vs Dispensing Optician?

AspectDispensing Optician ApprenticeDispensing Optician
CredentialsOn-the-job training, may require certificationLicensed or certified, with completed training
Work EnvironmentTraining setting, supervised by licensed opticiansIndependent or team-based optical retail or clinical setting
Job RoleAssists in dispensing, learns product knowledge, shadowing licensed opticiansPrepares and dispenses eyewear, advises patients, performs measurements

In summary, a Dispensing Optician Apprentice is in training and gaining experience under supervision, while a Dispensing Optician is fully qualified to independently dispense eyewear and provide patient care.

What are Dispensing Optician Apprentices?

Dispensing Optician Apprentices are individuals who are learning to become qualified dispensing opticians through a structured apprenticeship program. They work under the supervision of experienced opticians to gain practical skills in fitting and dispensing eyeglasses and contact lenses, as well as advising patients on lens choices and frame styles. The apprenticeship combines on-the-job training with classroom-based learning and typically leads to a recognized qualification in optical dispensing. Apprentices develop a strong understanding of optical products, customer service, and relevant health and safety regulations during their training.

What are some common challenges faced by Dispensing Optician Apprentices during their training period?

Dispensing Optician Apprentices often encounter challenges such as mastering complex optical measurements, learning to interpret prescriptions accurately, and keeping up with the fast pace of a retail or clinical environment. Balancing hands-on customer service with technical training can also be demanding, as apprentices must quickly develop both their interpersonal and practical skills. Additionally, adapting to new technologies and understanding a wide range of eyewear products requires ongoing learning and teamwork with experienced opticians and optical assistants.

How long is a dispensing optician apprenticeship?

A dispensing optician apprenticeship typically lasts around 2 to 3 years, combining on-the-job training with classroom instruction. Apprentices often work under supervision while gaining skills in eyewear fitting, lens selection, and customer service, and may need to pass certification exams to become fully qualified.

Can you be an optical assistant with no experience?

An optical assistant role typically requires some knowledge of optical products and customer service skills, but prior experience is not always necessary. Employers often provide on-the-job training to new hires, especially for entry-level positions, and relevant certifications or courses can be beneficial. As a dispensing optician apprentice, gaining practical experience and training is essential for career development in the optical industry.
What cities are hiring for Dispensing Optician Apprentice jobs? Cities with the most Dispensing Optician Apprentice job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Dispensing Optician jobs? The most popular types of Dispensing Optician jobs are:
What states have the most Dispensing Optician Apprentice jobs? States with the most job openings for Dispensing Optician Apprentice jobs include:
Licensed Optician - Lihue, HI - Costco

Licensed Optician - Lihue, HI - Costco

Costco

Lihue, HI

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 13 days ago


Costco rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 1,889 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

2nd of 39 rated national retailers


Job description

Licensed Optician  - Lihue, HI  Costco

Costco Optical is seeking a dedicated, punctual, and professional Licensed Optician to join our practice in Lihue, HI on a Full-Time basis! Contact Stephan Macdonald at stephanmacdonald@costco.com if you are interested.

About the Optician Position 

Our new dispensing Optician will be a welcome addition to our team and family, who is both personable and welcoming to our patients. A passion for eyecare and member services is essential to providing the best experience we can! Previous experience is welcome but not required. 

As an optician in our practice, your regular duties will include: 

  • Receive customers' prescriptions for eyeglasses or contact lenses from our Doctors of Optometry
  • Take eyewear measurements and adjust eyewear to ensure a good fit
  • Educate customers about eyewear and help customers choose eyeglass frames and lenses 
  • Repair or replace broken eyeglass frames
  • Frame selection, adjustments, ordering, dispensing
  • Perform business and administrative tasks, such as Patient check-in and check-outs and answering and placing phone calls
  • Use computer to process orders, dispenses eyeglasses and contacts and oversees apprentices
  • Provides prompt and courteous member service.

Requirements & Qualifications

  • Licensed Optician 
  • Team player with strong interpersonal and communication skills
  • Detail-oriented, efficient, and accurate multi-tasker
  • Passionate about providing exceptional customer service
  • Fast learner and interested in learning additional skills

Why You’ll Love this Opportunity

Environment - You will love coming to work in our friendly and upbeat environment! As a member-only warehouse, Costco has unbeatable prices and selection!

Opportunity - This is a great chance to learn and grow with an industry leader who will provide you with training and wants to invest in your long-term career

Compensation & Benefits

We reward our staff well and provide a competitive salary, commensurate with experience and benefits, including: 

  • Competitive compensation, commensurate with experience
  • Medical Insurance
  • Vision Insurance
  • Dental Insurance
  • 401k
  • Stock Purchase
  • & more!

If you’re an experienced Optician looking to take the next step in your career, we look forward to welcoming you to our team! Apply today!


What Costco employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Costco logo

About Costco

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Costco is a membership warehouse club, dedicated to bringing our members the best possible prices on quality brand-name merchandise. With more than 800 locations worldwide, Costco provides a wide selection of merchandise, plus the convenience of specialty departments and exclusive member services, all designed to make your shopping experience a pleasurable one. Today, as the company evolves, it stays true to the qualities that helped attract and retain millions of loyal members around the globe: Commitment to quality. Costco warehouses carry about 4,000 SKUs (stock keeping units) compared to the 30,000 found at most supermarkets. By carefully choosing products based on quality, price, brand, and features, the company can offer the best value to members.

Industry

Retail

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Issaquah, WA, US

Year founded

1983