Ophthalmic Laboratory Technician Programs
Search For Schools
When you click on a sponsoring school or program advertised on our site, or fill out a form to request information from a sponsoring school, we may earn a commission. View our advertising disclosure for more details.
“The eye care industry is a billion-dollar industry, making an eyecare lab tech a viable career. Lab techs work behind the scenes fabricating prescription eyeglasses, which requires expertise.”
Nina Mckie, DHSc, Licensed Optician, Associate Professor and Program Director at Broward College
Ophthalmic laboratory technicians play a vital role in eye care by crafting and assembling prescription eyeglasses and contact lenses. They work closely with opticians and optometrists to ensure accurate and precise lens fabrication, improving patients’ vision and eye health. With their technical expertise and attention to detail, ophthalmic laboratory technicians play a crucial part in helping individuals see the world more clearly.
To get started in this field, most professionals only need on-the-job training. However, aspiring ophthalmic laboratory technicians can pursue specialized training programs offered by vocational schools, community colleges, or technical institutes if they want more formal education. These programs typically cover lens fabrication techniques, frame selection and adjustment, lens finishing and edging, optical mathematics, and basic laboratory procedures. Hands-on experience and practical training provide students with the necessary skills to work in ophthalmic laboratories and optical clinics.
Once trained and certified, ophthalmic laboratory technicians can explore various career opportunities in the eye care industry. Many technicians find positions in optical laboratories, where they assist in the production of lenses and eyewear on a larger scale. Others may work in retail optical stores, collaborating directly with opticians and customers to ensure accurate lens preparation and optimal frame fitting. Hospitals and private eye clinics also employ ophthalmic laboratory technicians, who play a key role in meeting the needs of patients requiring specialized eyewear or lens solutions. Additionally, experienced technicians may advance to supervisory or management roles within laboratories or even start their own optical businesses.
Ophthalmic technicians and ophthalmic laboratory technicians play essential but distinct roles in optometry. Ophthalmic technicians work directly with optometrists or ophthalmologists in clinical settings, performing tasks like eye exams, diagnostic tests, contact lens fittings, and patient education, focusing on patient care. In contrast, ophthalmic laboratory technicians specialize in fabricating and preparing eyeglasses and optical devices in labs or retail settings, using equipment to grind, shape, and polish lenses, handle frame fitting, and perform repairs. While their skills may overlap, ophthalmic technicians focus on patient interaction, while laboratory technicians concentrate on producing high-quality eyewear.
Discover how to enter this field with expert advice from Dr. Nina Mckie, a licensed optician and associate professor at Broward College.
| Ophthalmic Laboratory Technician fast facts | |
|---|---|
| Projected Jobs Created | 300 |
| Projected Job Growth | 2% |
| Average Salary | $41,280 |
| Low Salary | $30,030 |
| High Salary | $55,580 |
| Entry-Level EDU | On-the-job training or a certificate program |
| Sourced from BLS 2024 | |
Meet the Expert: Nina Mckie, DHSc
Dr. Nina Mckie is a licensed optician, associate professor, and program director at Broward College. She has 31 years of experience in the eyecare industry and has taught in higher education for the past 20 years.
Dr. Mckie is a graduate of Nova Southeastern University. She is a Licensed Dispensing Optician (LDO) and holds a doctor of healthcare science (DHSc) degree.
MedicalTechnologySchools.com: What is something you wish the public understood about ophthalmic laboratory technicians?
Dr. McKie: The eye care industry is a billion-dollar industry, making an eyecare lab tech a viable career. Lab techs work behind the scenes fabricating prescription eyeglasses, which requires expertise.
Eyeglasses for medical use need a doctor’s prescription, requiring skilled technicians. Rx glasses are fabricated in a lab and must meet American National Standards Institute (ANSI) industry standard requirements before dispensing to a patient.
The Broward College vision care program offers an 18-month associate in science (AS) degree that prepares students to work as a licensed optician with training to include lab tech and optometric tech. Licensed opticians can own their own optical/ eye care practice or work in private or corporate settings.
MedicalTechnologySchools.com: What advice would you give to aspiring ophthalmic laboratory technician students?
Dr. McKie: For students looking for a sustainable career that they can get started with immediately with a few months of training, this could be the career for them. The eyecare industry offers different career paths of advancement to becoming a licensed optician, business owner, optical lab manager, general optical manager, optometric tech, and ophthalmic medical tech, just to name a few.
Ophthalmic Laboratory Technician Certificate & Degree Programs
Aspiring ophthalmic laboratory technicians can complete a certification program that can provide them with the necessary training and knowledge. These programs equip students with the skills to excel and pursue a rewarding career in the eyecare industry. Here are some ophthalmic laboratory technician degree and certification programs available to aspiring professionals.
Raritan Valley Community College
The ophthalmic laboratory technician certificate of completion at Raritan Valley Community College is a 15-credit program designed as an introduction to the field. It includes a one-year apprenticeship sponsored by the New Jersey State Board of Ophthalmic Dispensers and Ophthalmic Technicians. Upon completing the apprenticeship and coursework, students are eligible for the licensure exam to become licensed ophthalmic technicians.
The curriculum covers lens design, prescription analysis, basic eye anatomy, and spectacle fabrication. It also includes an introductory English course. This certificate can be integrated into further studies in ophthalmic science, leading to an associate of applied science degree.
- Location: Branchburg, NJ
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
- Expected Time to Completion: Two semesters
Georgia Piedmont Technical College
The optical laboratory technician technical certiciate at Georgia Piedmont Technical College is a short-term program aimed at equipping students with the fundamental knowledge and skills required for employment as optical laboratory technicians. It also offers individuals already in the optical field the chance to gain formal education in this specialized area. Students only need to complete 18 credit hours to earn this certificate.
- Location: Clarkston, GA
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- Expected Time to Completion: 18 credit-hours
The ophthalmic technology program at the College of Southern Nevada prepares students to become professional opticians. It offers comprehensive instruction and lab training in eyeglasses, contact lenses, low vision aids, and ophthalmic physician assisting skills. Within this program, or as a stand-alone, students can complete an ophthalmic laboratory technician skills certificate. This certificate is just ten credit-hours and includes instruction on how to craft lenses as well as two hands-on labs.
- Location: Las Vegas, NV
- Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
- Expected Time to Completion: Ten credit-hours
Hillsborough Community College
The ophthalmic laboratory technician certificate at Hillsborough Community College is a 24-credit program that provides hands-on training in surfacing, finishing, and other skills necessary for fabricating prescription eyewear. It prepares students to work in wholesale or retail optical laboratories. The program includes courses in ophthalmic orientation, lens and dispensing techniques, anatomy and physiology of the eye, and contact lens theory. This certificate can be applied towards an associate of science degree, which further prepares students for supervisory roles in the ophthalmic industry.
- Location: Plant City, FL
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- Expected Time to Completion: Two semesters
Students can earn an ophthalmic eyecare technician technical certificate at Broward College. This 24-credit program is designed to prepare students for employment as ophthalmic laboratory technicians. The program requires a high school diploma or GED for entry. It includes courses in mathematical thinking, computer literacy, anatomy and physiology of the eye, optics, ophthalmic lenses, and eyewear fabrication. It combines theoretical instruction with practical lab work to equip students with the necessary skills for the field.
- Location: Weston, FL
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- Expected Time to Completion: 24 credit hours
Hybrid & Online Ophthalmic Laboratory Technician Certificate
Due to the hands-on nature of this career, as well as the short duration of the majority of the degree programs, there are no online or hybrid options for pursuing an ophthalmic laboratory technician certificate.
Core & Elective Courses in Ophthalmic Laboratory Technician Programs
The required classes in ophthalmic laboratory technician programs may vary depending on the specific program and institution. However, due to the concentrated nature of these certifications, electives are rarely included in the curriculum. The focus is primarily on providing students with fundamental knowledge and practical skills directly related to the ophthalmic laboratory technician profession. Typical classes for an ophthalmic laboratory technician program can include:
- Introduction to Ophthalmic Optics
- Eye Anatomy and Physiology
- Optical Laboratory Techniques
- Laboratory practicum
- Ophthalmic Lens
- Anatomy and Physiology of the Eye
- Contact Lens Theory
- Eyewear Fabrication
Ophthalmic Laboratory Technician Program Accreditation
The Commission on Opticianry Accreditation (COA) accredits ophthalmic laboratory technician programs. As a recognized accrediting agency, COA evaluates and ensures that these programs meet the highest standards of quality and excellence in education. Accreditation from COA signifies that a program provides a comprehensive and up-to-date curriculum, faculty expertise, and resources necessary for students to succeed in the field of ophthalmic laboratory technology.
However, there are not many certificate programs that have COA accreditation. Therefore, students must ensure that the institution they choose holds regional accreditation. Regional accreditation ensures that the school meets certain quality standards and that employers and other educational institutions recognize and respect the education provided. Accreditation also plays a vital role in determining eligibility for financial aid and transfer of credits. It assures students that they are receiving a reputable education and that their hard work and dedication will be recognized in the professional world.
The Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) recognizes seven regional accrediting bodies in the United States. These accrediting bodies are responsible for evaluating and accrediting institutions within their respective regions. The regional accrediting bodies recognized by CHEA are:
- Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
- New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
- Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
- Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges (ACCJC)
Career Outlook for Ophthalmic Laboratory Technicians
According to the BLS (2024), the demand for ophthalmic laboratory technicians is expected to grow by 2 percent from 2023 to 2033. This job growth is slower than the national average (4 percent) and is expected to create 300 additional positions nationally.
The slow growth in job demand for ophthalmic laboratory technicians can primarily be attributed to the increasing automation of manufacturing processes. Technological advancements have led to the development of sophisticated machinery and equipment that can perform tasks traditionally carried out by technicians. Automation allows for higher efficiency, precision, and cost-effectiveness in producing ophthalmic products and medical appliances. As a result, the need for manual labor in certain areas of ophthalmic laboratory work has diminished, leading to a slower growth rate in job opportunities for technicians.
However, it is important to note that automation also brings new opportunities for technicians to specialize in operating and maintaining advanced machinery, ensuring the quality and accuracy of manufactured products.
How Much Do Ophthalmic Lab Techs Make?
Here are the salary percentiles for ophthalmic laboratory technicians according to the BLS (May 2023)—the latest data available as of January 2025:
- Number of ophthalmic laboratory technicians in the U.S.: 18,240
- Average annual salary: $41,280
- 10th percentile: $30,030
- 25th percentile: $34,630
- 50th percentile (median): $37,720
- 75th percentile: $45,540
- 90th percentile: $55,580
| Career Facts | Ophthalmic Laboratory Technician |
|---|---|
| Related Careers | Ophthalmic technician |
| Common Job Titles | Ophthalmic Laboratory Technician Ophthalmic Manufacturing Technician Ophthalmic Production Technician Ophthalmic Lens Technician Eyewear Manufacturing Technician Optical Assembly Technician |
| Technology & Equipment | Lens edgers, lensometers, frame tracers, blocking systems, tinting machines, ultrasonic cleaners, lens coating machines, and calibration tools. |
| Sourced from BLS 2024 | |
Licensing & Certification of Ophthalmic Laboratory Technicians
Currently, there are no state licensing or certification requirements for ophthalmic laboratory technicians. However, this can change at any time, so professionals pursuing this career should contact their state’s licensing board to ensure they have the qualifications necessary to perform their job duties.
