FACTORS THAT AFFECT THE

OPTICIAN SALARY

What is an Optician?

• Retail Optical Specialists

• Help Select Frames

• Collect Eye and Face Measurements

• Repair Damaged Eyewear

• Resolve Customer Complaints

• Make Lens Customizations

• Administrative Duties

Median Earning Potential

• Between $30,000 and $45,000 per year

• Varies Depending on…

1. Education

2. Training

3. Experience

4. Geographic Location

5. Type of Employer

6. Role Within the Establishment

7. Salary Structure

Education and Training

• Only About Half of All States Have Requirements

• May Include a Two-Year Degree

• Most Often Involves an Apprenticeship

• Supervised Training in Local Business

• Duration Depends on State Regulations

• Must Register Before Beginning

• Expectations Vary in Unregulated States

• May Only Involve In-House Training

• Could Include ABO Certification

Experience

• Preferred by Most Employers

• Results in Less Cost for the Employer

• Fewer Mistakes

• Familiar with the Profession

• May Benefit from Administrative Assignments

Geographic Location

• Coastal States Pay More

• Urban Areas Pay More

• Areas of High Demand May Pay More

• Midwest Pays Less

• Rural Areas Pay Less

• Areas of Low Demand Pay Less

Type of Employer

• Large National Chains

• Small Local Boutiques

• Pay Often Depends on Volume

• Highly Variable

• Should Match Personality

Salary Structure

• Commission May Pay Better

• Most Often Salaried

• Bonuses Based on Performance

• May be Influenced by Products

• Can be Negotiated

References

• http://www.opticiantraining.org/optician-salary/