Opticians perform some or all of the following duties:

• Obtain specifications for eyeglasses or contact lenses from prescriptions
• Take measurements including pupil distance, eye curvature, and bridge width
• Advise clients on lens materials, frames, coatings, and tints
• Adjust and fit contact lenses and instruct clients on proper care
• Grind, polish, cut, and edge lenses or coordinate laboratory production
• Insert lenses into frames and adjust finished eyeglasses
• May supervise student or junior opticians

These are the typical employment requirements and benefits associated with this occupation in Canada:

• Completion of a two- or three-year college program in ophthalmic dispensing or optical sciences is required.
• Licensing by a provincial regulatory body is required in all provinces.
• Licensing scope and protected titles related to contact lens fitting vary by province.
• Internationally trained opticians must complete credential assessment and provincial licensing prior to practice.
• Many employers offer healthcare benefits, commission incentives, and career advancement opportunities.