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Dispensing optician : Salary and conditions

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  1. Job description
  2. Salary and conditions
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  4. Training
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  • Range of typical salaries: £15,000 - 25,000.
  • Typical salaries for specialist and managers: £28,000 and £35,000.
  • There is no set pay scale for dispensing opticians, and salaries vary enormously between employers.
  • Working hours are usually 9am to 5.30pm.
  • Dispensing opticians generally work between 35 and 39 hours a week, Mondays to Saturdays, with one day off in the week. Many practices are also open on Sundays and bank holidays, so weekend work is common.
  • Large, multiple-chain stores are sometimes open during the evenings and dispensing opticians may then work alternative shifts (e.g. four ten-hour days with three days off).
  • Part-time and temporary locum work is sometimes available after qualification.
  • Self-employment through franchise, partnerships or sole trader operations is possible for qualified dispensing opticians with some years' experience. Earnings can then be significantly higher.
  • Jobs are available in most parts of the UK, primarily in towns and cities.
  • There are currently roughly equal numbers of male and female dispensing opticians in the UK.
  • Dispensing opticians are expected to dress smartly and maintain a high level of courtesy and professionalism with customers.
  • Most work is undertaken in one location, but there may be some travel to other practice premises in the local area.
  • Overnight absences from home due to work are very rare.
  • Dispensing opticians registered in the UK may be able to find work abroad. Registration with the General Optical Council (GOC) is recognised in some overseas countries. For more information, check with the GOC or the Association of British Dispensing Opticians .
 
AGCAS
Written by AGCAS editors
Date: 
September 2010
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