Position Summary
The Experienced Optician serves as the clinical and operational leader of the optical department, setting the standard for exceptional patient care, technical excellence, and teamwork. This role combines advanced optical knowledge with a passion for mentoring others, improving processes, and ensuring the optical dispensary operates efficiently each day.
A successful Experienced Optician leads by example. They are a trusted resource for patients and teammates, confidently handling complex optical situations while helping develop the skills of the entire optical team. Working closely with providers and practice leadership, the Experienced Optician helps ensure patients receive an outstanding experience from start to finish.
What You'll Do
Patient Care & Optical Expertise
- Provide expert guidance to patients in selecting frames and lenses that best meet their prescription, lifestyle, and visual needs.
- Interpret complex prescriptions and recommend advanced lens designs and specialty products when appropriate.
- Perform accurate optical measurements, fittings, adjustments, repairs, and troubleshooting.
- Resolve difficult optical issues and patient concerns with professionalism and confidence.
- Ensure every pair of eyewear meets quality standards before dispensing.
Team Leadership
- Lead by example by demonstrating outstanding patient service and professionalism.
- Serve as the primary resource for optical questions, product knowledge, and best practices.
- Train and mentor new opticians while supporting the continued development of existing team members.
- Help reinforce company standards, workflows, and optical procedures.
- Foster a positive, collaborative environment where team members feel supported and encouraged to grow.
Operational Excellence
- Help oversee the daily workflow of the optical department to ensure patients are served efficiently.
- Monitor eyewear orders and follow up on delays or issues with laboratories and vendors.
- Assist with inventory management, merchandising, frame buying, and product displays.
- Help maintain accurate pricing, product knowledge, and inventory organization.
- Identify opportunities to improve workflows, patient experience, and department efficiency.
Collaboration
- Partner closely with doctors, technicians, front desk staff, and practice leadership to provide seamless patient care.
- Assist with implementing new products, promotions, and optical initiatives.
- Support the achievement of departmental goals while maintaining a patient-first approach.
What We're Looking For
- Several years of experience as an Optician.
- ABO certification preferred.
- Advanced knowledge of ophthalmic lenses, frame materials, specialty products, and optical dispensing.
- Strong problem-solving and troubleshooting abilities.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Natural ability to mentor, teach, and encourage others.
- Strong organizational skills with the ability to balance patient care and operational responsibilities.
- Positive attitude, professionalism, and commitment to continuous improvement.
Our Core Values
Everything we do is grounded in the values that define Illinois Eye Associates.
Communication
We communicate openly, respectfully, and professionally with patients and one another. As an Experienced Optician, you help create an environment where expectations are clear, questions are welcomed, and everyone feels heard.
Collaborative Teamwork
Great patient care is never accomplished alone. We work together, share knowledge, and support one another while recognizing that our collective success is greater than individual achievement.
Continued Education
Learning never stops. We embrace new technology, industry advancements, and ongoing education while encouraging others to grow alongside us.
Comprehensive Quality
We believe excellence is found in the details. Every measurement, adjustment, recommendation, and patient interaction reflects our commitment to delivering the highest quality care.
Compassionate Community
We treat every patient and teammate with kindness, empathy, and respect. We strive to create an environment where people feel valued, supported, and genuinely cared for.
Pay: $25.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- Bereavement leave
- Dental insurance
- Employee discount
- Health insurance
- Health savings account
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Professional development assistance
- Retirement plan
- Tuition reimbursement
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person