Careers · Opticians, Dispensing · California
Opticians, Dispensing in California
Dispensing opticians design, measure, and fit eyeglasses and contact lenses based on prescriptions from eye care professionals. They help customers select frames, take measurements, and teach proper lens care and insertion techniques In California the median pay is $57,990 a year, 23% above the national median of $47,260.
$57,990median pay in California, per year
$47,050–$77,460middle half earn
7,840employed in California
$47,260U.S. median, for comparison
Are you suited for this?
Four short assessments and your background, scored against opticians, dispensing and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against opticians, dispensing and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
What it takes
Preparation: Medium preparation (vocational training, an associate degree, or related experience). Most hold a certificate or training program.
Skills that matter most
SpeakingActive ListeningReading ComprehensionCritical ThinkingService OrientationWritingSocial PerceptivenessCoordination
Knowledge areas
Customer and Personal ServiceSales and MarketingMathematics (knowledge)Production and ProcessingAdministrativeEnglish Language
Full profile, interests that fit, certifications and training: Opticians, Dispensing.
Licenses and training in California
Opticians, Dispensing pay in other states
Connecticut · $75,300Hawaii · $75,300New Jersey · $72,460Massachusetts · $67,210New York · $63,880District of Columbia · $61,310Florida · $58,850Alaska · $58,250Vermont · $57,350Virginia · $55,820
Related occupations
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Are you suited for this?
Four short assessments and your background, scored against opticians, dispensing and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against opticians, dispensing and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 29-2081.00. Pay: BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2025, California, annual.