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Opticians Assistant Jobs in Alberta (NOW HIRING)

About the role As a Retail Assistant you will be a fundamental part of our Boots Opticians store team, being the first and last person that our customers interact with. Working on the shopfloor you ...

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Opticians Assistant information

What qualifications do I need to be an optical assistant?

Opticians assistants typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and may pursue relevant certifications such as a dispensing optician qualification. Strong customer service skills, attention to detail, and basic knowledge of optical products and tools are also important for the role.

Do you need a degree to be an optician assistant?

Optician assistants typically do not need a college degree but must complete on-the-job training or certification programs. Strong communication skills and knowledge of optical equipment are important, and some states may require specific licensing or certification. Formal education requirements vary by employer and location.

How much does an optical assistant get paid?

Opticians assistants typically earn between $25,000 and $40,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and employer. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced assistants or those with specialized skills can earn higher wages. The role often requires basic knowledge of optical equipment and customer service skills.

What is the difference between Opticians Assistant vs Optometrists Assistant?

AspectOpticians AssistantOptometrists Assistant
CredentialsUsually no formal certification required, but some certifications like Certified Paraoptometric may helpOften requires similar certifications or training, depending on state regulations
Work EnvironmentOptical stores, eyewear retailers, optician officesOptometry clinics, eye care centers
Job DutiesAssisting with frame selection, lens measurements, customer service, basic optical repairsAssisting with patient intake, preliminary eye tests, scheduling, and administrative tasks

While both roles support eye care professionals, Opticians Assistants focus on eyewear fitting and customer service, whereas Optometrists Assistants support eye exams and patient management. Both roles require knowledge of optical products and customer interaction, but their specific duties and work settings differ.

What are some common challenges faced by an Opticians Assistant, and how can they be managed effectively?

Opticians Assistants often juggle multiple responsibilities, from assisting customers with frame selection to handling administrative tasks and maintaining inventory. A common challenge is balancing customer service with the technical aspects of the role, such as understanding prescription details and ensuring accurate record-keeping. Effective communication, time management, and a willingness to learn from senior opticians can help manage these challenges. Building strong product knowledge and staying organized also contribute to a smoother workflow and better customer experiences.

What are Opticians Assistants?

Opticians Assistants are professionals who support opticians in providing eye care services to customers. They help with tasks such as scheduling appointments, fitting and adjusting eyeglasses, managing inventory, and assisting customers in selecting frames and lenses. Opticians Assistants also handle administrative duties and ensure that the optical practice runs smoothly. Their role is important in delivering quality service and ensuring customer satisfaction within an optical retail environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Opticians Assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Opticians Assistant, you need a basic understanding of optical products, attention to detail, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with practice management software, lens measurement tools, and insurance processing systems is typically required. Strong interpersonal skills, patience, and effective communication help build rapport with customers and support the optometrist. These skills and qualities are essential for ensuring accurate prescriptions, efficient service, and positive patient experiences.

What does an opticians assistant do?

An opticians assistant supports opticians by helping customers select eyewear, taking measurements, and adjusting glasses. They may also handle administrative tasks, maintain equipment, and ensure the optical shop runs smoothly. Good communication skills and basic knowledge of eye care are important for this role.
What are the most commonly searched types of Opticians jobs in Alberta? The most popular types of Opticians jobs in Alberta are:
What cities in Alberta are hiring for Opticians Assistant jobs? Cities in Alberta with the most Opticians Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Opticians Assistant job openings in Alberta as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution.
Optician / Contact Lens Practitioner (Licensed)

Optician / Contact Lens Practitioner (Licensed)

Costco Wholesale

Calgary, AB

Other

Re-posted 12 days ago


Costco rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 1,900 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

2nd of 39 rated national retailers


Job description

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Job Description 

Description of position: 
Assists members in selecting and ordering eyewear including frames, lenses, contact lenses and sunglasses. Measures member's cornea base curve and determines correct contact lens for member.  Uses computer to process orders, dispenses eyeglasses and contact lenses and oversees apprentices. Provides prompt, accurate and courteous member service.

Daily tasks and responsibilities:

  • Assists members to choose eyeglass frames, sunglasses, contact lens and ophthalmic lens options appropriate to the lens prescription. Provides and ensures prompt, accurate and courteous member service.
  • Assists in providing members with support in booking Dr appointments.
  • Accurately measures members for pupilary distance (PD) using pupilometer or ruler.
  • Is proficient in determining placement of multi-focal heights and bifocal heights.
  • Examines member's eye using a slit lamp to assess the general ocular health and assist in the fitting of contact lenses.
  • Keys member order into computer. Places special orders to outside vendors by telephone.
  • Rings up orders and over-the-counter optical merchandise. Receives accurate payment, makes change, processes cheques, credit and debit charges according to proper procedures for paperwork, cash handling and performance of duties.
  • Checks contact lenses and completed eyeglasses against prescription prior to dispensing to member. Fits and adjusts eyeglasses to member using frame warmer and bending with fingers.
  • Orders equipment, merchandise and supplies by keying into computer. Keys receipt of special orders from outside vendors.  Follows safety and security procedures.
  • Stocks optical merchandise and supplies. Follows department procedures and standards for production, record keeping, sales, eye health merchandising and product storage.
  • Maintains proper levels of Contact llens trials.
  • Maintains a safe and high level of health care cleanliness at all times.  
  • Cleans department displays and merchandise by spraying and wiping.
  • Oversees apprentices/students as required for certification qualification.
  • Maintains licensing requirements to ensure membership in provincial order is in good-standing.


Qualifications (Costco-specific or industry-specific skills that candidates must possess):

  • Education/Training: Relevant/applicable Provincial Ophthalmic Dispenser accreditation. 
  • Licenses/Certifications: Provincial License as Dispensing Optician; Certified Contact lens Fitter required.
  • Experience:  Licensed Optician/Contact lens Fitter experience preferred.
  • Knowledge/Skills: Computer, math and member service skills preferred.
  • Other:  Opticians who do not have certification/accreditation as a Contact Lens Fitter must enroll in the Contact Lens Fitter course within a year to maintain their position.  


Knowledge and talents recommended for job success:
NOTE:For postings in Quebec locations, candidates must be able to communicate in French (oral and written).

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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