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 - Vierzon 18
Employee
1900 - 2300 per month
Vierzon
We are recruiting an optician to join a facility in Vierzon, in the Cher department, on a full-time permanent contract. Terms and conditions - CDI - Full-time 39h per week, spread over the month - 4/5 day work week - Monday to Friday, 09h30 to 19h00 - Saturday, from 09:00 to 18:30 - Sundays off The structure You will join an optical store ideally located in Vierzon. The team currently comprises 2 opticians, 2 sales staff and 1 manager. The atmosphere is friendly and focused on customer satisfaction. Remuneration - From 1900 to 2300€ net/month - 8€ luncheon vouchers paid at 50% - Profit-sharing bonus according to results - Equivalent of a 13th and 14th month depending on results Missions - Reception and personalized advice to customers - Sell optical equipment - Analysis of visual needs - Helping customers choose frames and lenses - Customer follow-up and loyalty - Workshop and fitting according to skills - Administrative management of customer files - Management of direct billing - Compliance with the store's internal processes The advantages - Store established 20 years ago - Loyal customers and well-established local business - Stable, structured team - Alternating 4-day and 5-day week schedules - Approximately one Saturday off per month - Luncheon vouchers and profit-sharing bonus - Equivalent 13th / 14th month depending on results The little extra Vierzon benefits from convenient access to regional transport links and is located close to a larger city like Bourges, making it easy to get around and offering numerous leisure and nature opportunities for weekends out. Profile required Qualified optician in France. BTS Opticien-Lunetier required. Dynamic profile, taste for advice and sales, sense of customer service and interest in visual health. Contact us on: 06 30 19 54 06 or by e-mail at [email protected] Ad reference: 12509 Find over 4,000 healthcare job offers on our Jober Group website and mobile application. Benefit from 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 - Le Plessis-Trévise 94
Employee
2000 - 2200 per month
le Plessis-Trévise
We are recruiting an optician M/F to join an optical store located in Plessis-Trévise in the Val-de-Marne, on a permanent contract. Terms and conditions - OPEN-ENDED CONTRACT - 35h over 4 days (ideally Tuesday to Saturday, with the possibility of 2 Saturdays off) or 39h over 5 days - Immediate start The structure This independent, luxury-oriented optical store has been in business for 20 years, with a sales area of around 160 m². The store is organized in pairs to ensure a personalized welcome and service. What's more, the store boasts significant sales and a well-established clientele, favoring sustained business activity. Your salary - 2,000 to 2,200€ net/month for 35h/week Responsibilities - Welcome and advise high-end customers - Sell and fit frames and corrective lenses - Setting, adjusting and repairing frames - Manage orders and stock - Participate in store merchandising and sales promotion - Customer follow-up and loyalty The benefits - Spacious 160 m² premises - Independent, luxury-oriented environment - Two-person team to encourage mutual support - Strong customer flow with stable sales figures - 4-day working hours for a better work/life balance - Immediate start The little extra Le Plessis-Trévise is a commune in the eastern suburbs of Paris, offering a residential environment with local shops and good connections to the capital, ideal for combining work and quality of life. Profile required - Optician with a BTS Optique diploma in France - Experience in the luxury sector desirable - Good presentation and customer service skills - Autonomy and ability to work in a team Contact us on: 06 30 19 54 06 or by e-mail at [email protected] Ad reference : 12371 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 assistant manager - Cahors 46
Employee
2500 - 2900 per month
Cahors
Job Optician Assistant Manager - Cahors 46 We are recruiting an assistant optician manager M/F for an optical boutique in the heart of Cahors. You'll join an experienced, dynamic team and enjoy excellent working conditions with no overbooking. You'll be responsible for a large patient base and earn €2,500 to €3,000 gross. Position benefits: - Full-time salaried status. - A dynamic, friendly team- Quality equipment- Full service - Quality equipment - Variety of assignments Location: Cahors 46 The aim is also to give you something to compare by proposing other full-time or part-time opportunities in different structures throughout France matching your search criteria. Your missions: - Advise customers on their needs and ensure their satisfaction. - Make adjustments and assemblies in the workshop. - Perform eye examinations. - Compile the customer's administrative file. - Carry out invoicing and collections, and implement third-party payment. - Upon medical prescription, fit eyewear. - Perform all fitting activities. - Follow up every step of the process to guarantee quality service. Social benefits: Health insurance, mutual insurance, luncheon vouchers, transport expenses... Profiles sought: BTS opticien lunetier and/or optical license desired or proven experience in this type of position Type of contract: CDI, full-time Contact us at: 06 30 19 54 06
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