Optometrist
Optometrists test vision, identify eye health problems, prescribe glasses and fit contact lenses.
Day-to-day tasks
As an optometrist you could:
- use precision instruments and vision measuring and testing tools
- diagnose and give advice
- prescribe, fit and supply glasses or contact lenses
- discuss the suitability and shape of glasses frames
- refer clients to specialists or ophthalmologists (eye surgeons)
Skills and knowledge
You'll need:
- knowledge of medicine and health conditions that can affect sight
- customer service skills
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- thinking and reasoning skills
- excellent verbal communication skills
- knowledge of biology
- sensitivity and understanding
- analytical thinking skills
- to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently
Industry Qualifications
To become an optometrist you'll need to get a degree in optometry, approved by the General Optical Council (GOC).
Then complete a pre-registration work placement which takes 1 year and you'll be supervised by a registered optometrist