Ophthalmic Laboratory Technicians

Ophthalmic laboratory technicians transform eye care prescriptions into finished eyeglasses and contact lenses that people wear every day. Working in optical laboratories, they use precision equipment to cut, grind, and polish lenses according to exact specifications provided by optometrists and ophthalmologists. They measure and mark lens blanks, then operate automated edging machines and traditional grinding tools to shape lenses to fit specific frames. The work involves carefully examining lenses for imperfections, applying coatings for scratch resistance or UV protection, and using specialized instruments to verify that each lens meets prescription requirements down to the millimeter.