attractive up-to-date glasses

or contact lenses

give people a new look

—and, even better—

help them see the world more clearly.

Opticians help customers

choose eyeglass frames or contact lenses,

following prescriptions from

ophthalmologists and optometrists.

After measuring customers' eyes and faces,

opticians create work orders

to have the glasses and lenses made…

when the glasses come in

from the manufacturer,

opticians adjust them to fit the customer

and teach customers how to care

for their eyewear.

Opticians working in small shops

or preparing custom orders

may sometimes cut lenses

and prepare frames…

many repair broken frames.

They also maintain sales records,

keep track of customers' prescriptions,

and order inventory.

Opticians generally work full time,

although part-time schedules

are not uncommon.

Most opticians work in optometrist offices

and in retail stores—

which may include evening

and weekend hours.

Opticians typically have

a high school diploma or equivalent

and receive on-the-job training.

Some opticians earn an associate's degree

or a certificate.

Many states require licensure.