Optical assistants are the first point of contact for customers. They welcome customers into the store, carry out pre-screening tests and help customers select the correct frames and lenses for their prescription.

The Work

You could be:

• greeting customers, taking and making phone calls
• helping customers select the correct frame for their lenses
• measuring the frames and ensure they fit perfectly
• ordering prescription glasses and contact lenses in for the customer
• making follow up appointments for customers
• making adjustments to the frames when the customer collects their glasses
• carrying out pre-screening tests such as retinal imaging and pressure and visual field testing
• explaining offers and products to customers
• taking payments from customers.

Pay

Pay rates vary, depending on:

• where you work
• the size of company or organisation you work for
• the demand for the job.

Salaries for optical assistants can start around £22,000 a year. With experience this can rise to around £30,000 a year. Some larger chain stores offer bonuses for meeting sales targets. You can also get employee benefits such as staff discounts and pension schemes.

Conditions

• You would work in a shop.
• You may spend a lot of the day on your feet.
• You would usually work 5 days out of 7 including some late evenings and weekends.
• You would wear a uniform.

Useful Subjects

• Biology
• Science

Getting In

• A good general education is required. Most employers ask for at least English and Maths at National 5.
• Basic IT skills will be required.
• Relevant experience in a customer service or retail role would be an advantage, and sometimes, necessary.
• Experience working in a retail environment would be useful.

Job Outlook Scotland

Job Outlook Scotland and UK

  Scotland

2026

6698

0.6 %

FALL

2031

6658

  United Kingdom

2026

75544

0.4 %

RISE

2031

75827

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What Does it Take?

You should be:

• able to communicate with people of all ages and from different backgrounds
• able to work well as part of a team
• enthusiastic and willing to learn
• friendly, courteous and approachable
• able to provide excellent customer service
• able to sell products and services
• tactful and diplomatic.

Training

• Training is on the job.

Getting On

With experience you could progress to become an Optical Dispenser.

Video

Contacts

The following organisations may be able to provide further information.