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Optical Dispenser Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

... map) Optical department is seeking an experienced Dispenser and/or Lab Technician for full time employment at the East Bay locations. Candidate must have a minimum of 2 years' experience and must ...

... map) Optical department is seeking an experienced Dispenser and/or Lab Technician for full time employment at the East Bay locations. Candidate must have a minimum of 2 years' experience and must ...

Dispensing Optician

Oakland, CA · On-site

$22 - $25.50/hr

... map) Optical department is seeking an experienced Dispenser and/or Lab Technician for full time employment at the East Bay locations. Candidate must have a minimum of 2 years' experience and must ...

Optician

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$23.55 - $28.11/hr

Optical dispensing experience required. REQUIRED FOR CERTIFIED OPTICIAN: * Certified Optician by State of California through certification examination. Certification must be maintained. Proof of ...

Optician

Santa Rosa, CA

$23.55 - $28.11/hr

Optical dispensing experience required. REQUIRED FOR CERTIFIED OPTICIAN: * Certified Optician by State of California through certification examination. Certification must be maintained. Proof of ...

Optician

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$23.55 - $28.11/hr

Optical dispensing experience required. REQUIRED FOR CERTIFIED OPTICIAN: * Certified Optician by State of California through certification examination. Certification must be maintained. Proof of ...

The optometry OT is also responsible for helping assist patients in the optical area with the fitting, ordering and dispensing of eyeglasses or contact lenses as directed by the optometrist. The OT ...

Optical Consultant

Alpine, CA · On-site

$17.25 - $22.25/hr

Certified Dispensing Optician (a plus) KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/ABILITIES/TALENTS: * Ability to use a lensometer. * Superior customer service and sales skills. * Results Oriented (Energetic self-starter ...

Optical Consultant

Alpine, CA · On-site

$17.25 - $22.25/hr

Certified Dispensing Optician (a plus) KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/ABILITIES/TALENTS: * Ability to use a lensometer. * Superior customer service and sales skills. * Results Oriented (Energetic self-starter ...

Optical Consultant

Alpine, CA · On-site

$17.25 - $22.25/hr

Certified Dispensing Optician (a plus) KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/ABILITIES/TALENTS: * Ability to use a lensometer. * Superior customer service and sales skills. * Results Oriented (Energetic self-starter ...

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Optical Dispenser information

See California salary details

$14

$19

$27

How much do optical dispenser jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical dispenser in California is $19.79, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $21.35 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an optical dispenser?

Optical Dispensers are professionals who help customers select and fit eyeglasses and contact lenses according to prescriptions from optometrists and ophthalmologists. They advise on frame styles, lens types, and coatings, and ensure that eyewear fits comfortably and meets vision correction needs. Optical Dispensers also make adjustments and repairs to eyewear, and educate clients on proper eyewear care. Their role is essential in ensuring patients receive the correct vision aids tailored to their specific requirements.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an optical dispenser?

To thrive as an Optical Dispenser, you need a solid understanding of optics, lens fitting, and frame selection, often supported by a certificate or diploma in optical dispensing. Familiarity with lens-cutting equipment, optical measurement tools, and practice management software is typically required. Excellent customer service, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for success in this role. These competencies ensure accurate prescriptions, satisfied clients, and efficient daily operations in optical retail environments.

What are some common challenges optical dispensers face when working with patients, and how can these be effectively managed?

Optical Dispensers often encounter challenges such as interpreting complex prescriptions, addressing patient concerns about frame fit and lens choices, and managing expectations regarding vision correction outcomes. To effectively manage these challenges, strong communication skills are essential for educating patients about their options and ensuring they feel comfortable with their selections. Additionally, staying updated on the latest eyewear technologies and maintaining strong collaboration with optometrists can help Optical Dispensers provide the best possible service and solutions to their clients.

What is the difference between Optical Dispenser vs Optician?

AspectOptical DispenserOptician
CertificationsOften requires state-specific licensing or certificationTypically requires certification or licensing, such as NCLE or ABO
Work EnvironmentWorks mainly in retail optical stores, assisting customers with eyewear selection and adjustmentsWorks in similar settings, providing comprehensive eye care services including fittings and patient education
Job ResponsibilitiesDispenses eyewear, measures for fit, and assists customersIncludes dispensing, fitting, and sometimes basic eye exams or patient consultations

Optical Dispensers and Opticians often share similar work environments and certification requirements. However, Opticians typically have broader responsibilities, including patient care and eye health assessments, making their role more comprehensive in the optical industry.

Is dispensing opticians a good career?

Dispensing opticians play a key role in fitting and adjusting eyewear, often working in retail or clinical settings. The profession typically requires certification or licensing, offers steady employment, and involves customer service skills. It can be a stable career with opportunities for advancement in the optical industry.

What are popular job titles related to Optical Dispenser jobs in California?

For Optical Dispenser jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Optical Dispenser jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Optical Dispenser jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Optical Dispenser jobs?

Cities in California with the most Optical Dispenser job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Optical Dispenser jobs in CA?

For Optical Dispenser jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Optical Dispenser job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 88% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,159 per year, or $19.8 per hour.

Dispensing Optician Eye Care, Full Time, Days

PIH Health

La Mirada, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago


PIH Health rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 65 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

8th of 893 rated healthcare providers


Job description

This position provides expert professional optical care; assesses, plans, implements and evaluates the eye care needs of the patients, following prescriptions written by the ophthalmologist or optometrist; utilizes knowledge of basic eye care principles, practices, ethics, and concepts; participates in the organization and management of the practitioner’s practice; maintains positive relationships with patients, family members and other visitors, and fellow employees.

PIH Health is a nonprofit, regional healthcare network that serves approximately 3 million residents in the Los Angeles County, Orange County and San Gabriel Valley region. The fully integrated network is comprised of PIH Health Downey Hospital, PIH Health Good Samaritan Hospital, PIH Health Whittier Hospital, 37 outpatient medical office buildings, a multispecialty medical (physician) group, home healthcare services and hospice care, as well as heart, cancer, digestive health, orthopedics, women’s health, urgent care and emergency services. The organization is nationally recognized for excellence in patient care and patient experience, and the College of Healthcare Information Management Executives (CHIME) has identified PIH Health as one of the nation’s top hospital systems for best practices, cutting-edge advancements, quality of care and healthcare technology. For more information, visit PIHHealth.org or follow us on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.


Required Skills
  • Strong verbal and written skills.
  • Knowledge of medical terminology, infection control and safety.
  • Adaptability.
  • With consideration of age, occupation, facial characteristics & prescription, make recommendations on
  • frames, lenses and coatings when administering optical service and care to patients
  • Accuracy in maintaining medical records.
  • Strong computer skills.
  • Management skills that emphasize mentoring, training, and team.

Required Experience

Required:

  • High school diploma or GED.
  • Diploma in Optical Dispensing or work experience for a minimum of 2 years in lieu of diploma
  • Minimum 2 years of experience working under an optometrist or ophthalmologist.

Preferred:

  • Current A.B.O.C. certification from the American Board of Opticianry

What PIH Health employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


PIH Health logo

About PIH Health

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

* PIH Health is a nonprofit health and wellness network serving Los Angeles and Orange Counties. Our integrated system consists of 747 beds at two acute care hospitals and a multi-specialty medical group. * Strong community reputation * 2014, 2015 Favorite Workplace * Innovative, transparent, family-like culture

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Whittier, CA, US

Year founded

1959