In our optician job fact sheet, we set out the importance of this healthcare professional in correcting visual deficiencies. With an aging population and an increase in screen-related visual disorders, the demand for qualified opticians is constantly on the rise. This article details all the steps required to become an optician.
Why choose the optician profession?
The optician profession offers a unique opportunity to combine technical and interpersonal skills for the visual well-being of patients. Working as an optician allows you to play an active role in correcting vision problems, while advising on the choice of corrective lenses and frames to suit each individual's needs.
Training to become an optician
The BTS Opticien-Lunetier (BTS OL) is the only way to become an optician in France. This Bac+2-level diploma combines theory and practice. It enables you to acquire all the skills you need to work as an optician straight from school, by applying for optician job vacancies.
To enter the BTS Opticien-Lunetier program, students are advised to follow a scientific course of study at high school, in particular a general baccalaureate with a scientific bent, or a technological baccalaureate STL (sciences and laboratory technologies) with a biotechnology or SPCL (physical and chemical sciences in the laboratory) option. If they want to succeed and flourish in this field, candidates must show an interest in scientific subjects.
The BTS OL program is dense and covers a wide range of subjects. It includes courses in physics applied to optics, optical sciences, professional communication and management. Students also learn to handle measuring instruments, cut and mount lenses, and fit contact lenses. In addition, in-company internships enable students to familiarize themselves with the realities of the profession.
Within this curriculum, students can choose between two methods: full-time or apprenticeship. In the former, BTS OL students follow theoretical courses supplemented by internships, while in the latter they divide their training time between classes and work experience.
Alternatives and complementary training
After the BTS, students can continue their training with a professional license in optics. This one-year diploma enables further specialization, particularly in sales techniques, optical store management or visual refraction. This opens the way to higher responsibilities and easier access to management positions.
For opticians wishing to deepen their expertise, there are also masters degrees specializing in optometry or contactology. These courses, at bac+5 level, enable opticians to develop cutting-edge skills in visual health, particularly in carrying out in-depth visual assessments and prescribing complex lenses. These masters courses offer career prospects in research centers or in collaboration with ophthalmologists.
Finally, continuing education is essential to keep abreast of new technologies and the latest advances. Practicing opticians can take courses in myopia management, low vision or the care of patients with specific pathologies. This enables them to enhance their expertise and meet the needs of their customers.
Career opportunities after optician training
Once they have completed their opticianry studies , graduates have a number of options open to them. Whether they wish to concentrate on the core of the profession or gain independence by taking on peripheral roles, they will have many ways of fulfilling their potential:
- Working in an optical store : the majority of opticians start their career by working in an optical store, whether independent or part of a chain. This work environment enables them to put their acquired skills into practice, advise customers and familiarize themselves with day-to-day management.
- Becoming an independent optician: with a few years' experience under their belt, many opticians choose to go independent and open their own store. This choice requires management and entrepreneurial skills, but offers the opportunity to create a space that reflects one's image, and to develop a loyal clientele. Being your own boss is an attractive prospect for many professionals in the sector.
- Opportunities in the visual health sector: apart from stores, opticians can work in lens manufacturing laboratories, in optical research, or in specialized centers for the visually impaired. There is no shortage of opportunities for opticians wishing to diversify their careers and explore new horizons in the field of visual health.
In short, studying to become an optician opens the door to a rewarding and challenging career. With the right training, these professionals can evolve throughout their career, whether they choose to work in a store, specialize or set up their own business.
Enjoyed reading this and want to learn more? Check out our optician salary sheet.
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Optician (M/F) - L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue 84
Employee
2300 - 2700 per month
l'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue
An optical store in L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, in the Vaucluse department, is looking for a new optician (M/F) for a permanent position. JobRequirements - Permanent contract - Full-time - 35 or 39 hours per week - 2 consecutive days off, including Sunday - Store open Monday through Saturday The Company You’ll be joining a family-owned, independent business with multiple locations that has been a local fixture for over 20 years. The company prioritizes a people-first approach, quality service, daily innovation, and recognized expertise in low vision. Its team consists of a frame fitter/sales associate, a licensed optician, and an experienced manager, with an organizational structure that values versatility across the workshop, sales, administration, and eye exams. Compensation - €2,300 to €2,700 gross per month - Monthly bonus system Responsibilities - Greeting and advising customers - Proposing tailored solutions for eyeglasses, contact lenses, and low vision - Fitting of lenses - Eye exams - Taking measurements - Comprehensive management of customer records - Production and adjustments in the workshop - Quality control and compliance checks for devices - Administrative management of third-party payment quotes, orders, and inventory - Participation in the selection of collections - Showcasing the sales floor - Involvement in store operations and contribution to business development Benefits - Monthly bonus system - Parking and nearby amenities - Premises located in a shopping center, making it easy to welcome customers - Small team with a family-like atmosphere - Expertise and support in low vision - Versatile role with a variety of responsibilities Equipment - Assembly workshop - Essilor lenses That little something extra L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue is renowned for its canals and its antique market; it is often nicknamed the “Venice of the Comtat,” which makes lunch breaks and weekends particularly enjoyable. Qualifications Optician licensed in France. Contact us at: 06.30.19.54.06 or by email at [email protected] Job Posting ID: 12749 Find over 4,000 healthcare job listings on our Jober Group website and mobile app. Take advantage of a network of 1,000 partners throughout France, a team of recruitment experts ready to assist you, and a completely free service that 99% of our candidates are satisfied with.
Optician M/F - Arras 62
Employee
2500 - 3000 per month
Arras
An optical store in Arras, Pas-de-Calais, is looking for its new optician M/F on a permanent contract. Terms and conditions - CDI - Full time (39h) - From 10am to 7pm The structure You will be joining an optical store in Arras that is part of a franchise network. The sales environment is structured and the induction of new employees is organized to facilitate the integration of new arrivals. Your salary - From €2,500 to €3,000 gross/month Missions - Welcome and advise customers - Carry out eye examinations - Participate in the day-to-day running of the store - Help achieve sales targets Benefits - Luncheon vouchers - Company mutual insurance - Annual bonus A little something extra Arras offers a pleasant living environment with its two Baroque squares, its citadel designed by Vauban and its UNESCO World Heritage-listed belfry, ideal for enjoying restaurants and local markets at weekends. Profile required - Graduate optician in France - BTS Opticien Lunetier diploma - Commercial skills Contact us on: 06 30 19 54 06 or by e-mail at [email protected]. Ad reference: 12742 Find over 4,000 healthcare job offers on our Jober Group website and mobile application. Take advantage of a network of 1,000 partners throughout France, a team of recruitment experts at your service, and a totally free service that 99% of our candidates are satisfied with.
Optician M/F - Monéteau 89470
Employee
2400 - 2700 per month
Monéteau
Optician Job - Monéteau 89 An optical store in Monéteau, in the Yonne department, is actively looking for a full-time optician. Store DNA This large optical store is well established and recognized locally, with strong sales and a solid reputation throughout the region. It is part of a network of five establishments, benefiting from active communication and regular meetings between managers, which guarantees real cohesion across the group. What's more, the on-site team is made up of eight stable, close-knit employees, working in a friendly, caring atmosphere. Monéteau is a dynamic commune in the Yonne department, ideally located on the outskirts of Auxerre, offering a pleasant and accessible living environment. Description and duties In this position, you will be responsible for the following tasks: - Carry out eye examinations - Advise and support customers in their choice of optical equipment - Participate in the day-to-day running of the store Compensation For this position, you will be paid between €2,400 and €2,700 gross per month, plus bonuses based on sales targets. Benefits - Close-knit, stable team of eight employees - Employee benefits - Bonuses based on sales targets - Annual seminar with trip to Europe Profile sought Optician qualified in France or the European Union, holder of a validated BTS Opticien-lunetier, registered or eligible for registration with the Ordre. Contact us on: 06 30 19 54 06 or by e-mail at [email protected] Ad reference: 9891 Find over 4,000 healthcare job offers on our Jober Group website and mobile application. Take advantage of a network of 1,000 partners throughout France, a team of recruitment experts at your service, and a totally free service that 99% of our candidates are satisfied with.
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