ROLE: Trainee Dispensing Optician l LOCATION: Southampton
Vacancy closes: 2/5/26
JOB PURPOSE:
* To contribute to the achievement of the highest standards of customer service and professional advice by offering first class dispensing practices and customer care at all times.
* To achieve qualification as a G.O.C. registered dispensing optician via blended learning, which is a combination of distance learning, block release, and practice-based learning.
PRINCIPLE DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
* Perform all dispensing requirements in line with supervisors instructions, which can include prescription analysis, advise on lens type, styling frames, and taking frame, facial, and lens measurements.
* Carry out repairs, adjustments, and fittings in line with supervisory instruction.
* Check new jobs into the branch as required.
* Process all invoices and credit notes as received.
* Chase outstanding orders and advise customers of delays.
* Provide administrative back-up where necessary to the branch team, including cashing up, processing vouchers, overseeing daily envelope and contact lens ordering.
* Enter stock when received on the computer system.
* Promote products and services and maximise the opportunity to sell sunglasses and accessories.
* Perform stocktaking, including the preparation of information and accurately recording branch stock.
* Order stock as required, using accurate forms and procedures.
* Deal with all other tasks as directed, including assisting other members of the practice team.
* Complete the required study materials and attend college as directed by ABDO.
* Process all marked coursework and send it to the training manager.
* Act as a keyholder.
* Work within professional guidelines, legal requirements, and G.O.C. (General Optical Council) regulations.
* in own time, supervised practical experience in the work environment, and attending vocational training as selected by the company, some of which will be on a residential basis.
KEY ATTRIBUTES:
* Keen interest in Ophthalmic Dispensing
* Confident about working within a team.
* Commercially aware, and happy to offer the customer what they need.
* Dedicated to exemplary patient service to ensure patient satisfaction.
* Excellent communication skills, with empathy and patience.
* Desire to do, see and enjoy a job well done.
* Ability to commit to 10-15 hours per week for distance learning coursework
* Ability to attend two block release periods per year at ABDO College in Godmersham, Kent
* Ability to undertake full-time training while completing the programme.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
* 5 GCSEs at Grades 49 (AC) including English, Mathematics, and Science OR 5 years optical experience with A-C in Maths & English
* A keen interest in Ophthalmic Dispensing
Please attach your GCSE certificates below if applicable.
SPECIAL WORKING CONDITIONS:
* Off site/training
* Distance learning (32 assignment units of coursework per academic year) requires 1015 hours of your own time per week.
* Regularly attend practice meetings outside of working hours
* Stocktaking outside working hours, if appropriate
* Late finishes and Saturday working when appropriate
* To work at locations as directed by the company