Trainee Dispensing Optician - Southampton

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 supervisor’s 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 4–9 (A–C) 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 10–15 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