How to Become an Optician in Maine

If you’ve come across this article, you’re likely aspiring to pursue a career as an optician in Maine!

This profession is ideal for individuals who have a passion for aiding others, enjoy working with people, and are interested in the healthcare sector.

Without delay, let’s delve into the intricacies of what this occupation entails!

Optician Job Duties

Residing in a consumer-driven society underscores the vital need for businesses to attract a consistent and daily stream of clientele.

The pivotal role of a proficient optician is indispensable for achieving this objective.

A competent optician excels not only in retaining loyal customers but also in expanding the client base.

In addition to fostering client relationships, these professionals diligently execute their daily responsibilities, including:

• Preparing eyewear
• Fitting and adjusting eyewear
• Educating customers about eyewear issues and maintenance
• Keeping sales records
• Determining insurance co-pays
• Keeping the inventory
• Interacting with the labs that make lenses

While these tasks represent a significant portion of an optician’s duties, they are by no means exhaustive.

It’s crucial to note that obtaining a specialized diploma is imperative for those dispensing contact lenses in this dynamic field.

Optician Training in Maine

Opting for an apprenticeship under the guidance of a certified professional is a good first step.

Future apprentices need to fulfill the following requirements:

• Possession of a high school diploma or equivalent.
• Successfully passing a comprehensive background check.
• Submission of essential information about the sponsoring optician.
• Completion of a thorough application process.
• Providing a comprehensive health history.
• Furnishing relevant references.
• Detailing past work history.

Engaging in these hands-on apprenticeship programs is a commitment that spans approximately two years, offering invaluable real-world experiences.

While apprenticeships provide a good foundation, it’s worth considering the advantages of earning a degree.

For those inclined towards a more structured academic pursuit, here are some institutions in Maine to consider for pursuing a degree in opticianry.

Borough of Manhattan Community College

While Maine may not have in-person training programs for opticians, there is an opportunity for online study.

This community college provides a 100% online course with no fixed start dates, and enrollment has no specific requirements.

Students can enroll without meeting any prerequisites.

Upon completion of the course, students will be well-prepared to take ABO’s certification exam.

The course covers various topics, including:

• Simple math and algebra
• Soft contact lenses
• Gas-permeable contact lenses
• Legal responsibilities and ethics
• The parts of the eye
• Refractive errors
• Strabismus and amblyopia
• Other common ocular conditions
• Prism basics

Certification or Licensure for an Optician in Maine

Maine State Board of Optometry oversees the licensing process in this state.

There are a few stages to complete.

Candidates are expected to first pass the following exams:

• American Board of Opticianry (ABO) exam
• National Contact Lens Examiner’s (NCLE) exam

The scores then need to be sent to the National Board of Examiners in Optometry (NBEO).

The test organized by ABO is for vision correction glasses and the one organized by NCLE is for contact lenses.

These exams have national recognition.

Every exam comprises 125 questions and has a duration of 2.5 hours.

Participation is restricted to individuals aged 18 and above.

Candidates are also required to remit a $225 exam fee for each test.

The ABO exam encompasses the following topics:

• Analyzing and interpreting prescriptions
• Fitting and dispensing spectacles
• Utilizing standard ophthalmic equipment

On the other hand, the NCLE includes the following areas:

• Pre-fit, preparation, and evaluation
• Diagnostic fit and evaluation
• Educating the patients
• Lens dispensing
• Delivery procedures
• Follow-up visits
• Administrative issues

It’s noteworthy that the NCLE exam is also available in Spanish.

Optician Certification Renewal

Those with a Beginner certification are obligated to undergo renewal every three years, which involves:

• Finishing 25 continuing education hours
• Pay the renewal fee.

Upon successfully renewing your credential at least once, you become eligible to advance to the status of an Advanced Optician.

To achieve this, you must fulfill the following requirements:

• Accumulate three years of practical experience.
• Maintain the basic certification.

Optician Salary in Maine

If you’re curious about potential earnings, consider that various factors play a role in determining this aspect:

• Job title
• Geographic location
• Specific job responsibilities
• Certification(s) held
• Management positions
• Distinctions between sales and technician roles
• Professional experience

In Maine, opticians earn on average $51,200 annually.

The following table illustrates which urban areas of Maine offer higher salaries.

Regional Salary in Maine

Optician Schools by State